Kayak fishing is becoming increasingly popular among many people. And, once you’ve purchased the appropriate fishing kayak and accessories, the question becomes, “What else do you need to know before kayak fishing?”
The bottom line is that it will be distinct from shoreline fishing or boat angling. The majority of the time, you’ll be sitting down, slightly less stable, exposed to winds and currents, but closer to the water. As a result, advance planning is required.
Below is a detailed guide on what you should master and expect when going kayak fishing.
What you should master before going kayak fishing
1. Learn to cast with one hand
It will be difficult to adjust to one-handed casting if you are used to fishing from a stable boat or the bank. Because you have less room in the kayak, the two-handed windup cast is a bit risky. As a result, begin practicing one-handed casting, as this will be the primary technique used when spinning or baitcasting your tackle.
For starters, stick to lighter fishing combos and finesse tactics until you’re comfortable fishing from a kayak. Consider investing in a kayak fishing rod which will make your life much easier when fishing from a kayak.
2. Learn to paddle the kayak with one hand
If you want to go kayak fishing, you must first learn how to steer a kayak. Paddling a kayak with two hands, on the other hand, is simple even for inexperienced paddlers. Unfortunately, when kayak fishing, some situations will necessitate steering the vessel with one hand.
Before your first fishing trip, take your kayak out on the water and practice one-handed paddling. It will be useful when you need to steer your yak around overhanging branches or back upstream while fighting fish with the other hand.
Learn how to lock your fishing kayak paddle’s shaft along your forearm to anchor it along your arm. This allows you to paddle with one hand.
3. Learn how to utilize eddies when kayak fishing
If you’ve ever been in a kayak, you know that the winds and currents can be a nightmare. Kayak fishing is no exception. The only way to do so is to learn how to manipulate the currents to your advantage.
Kayak in current-prone water and learn how to tuck your vessel into an eddy with the help of an experienced kayaker. This skill will come in handy when you’re out fishing. You can fish all you want without paddling if you position your yak in a whirlpool.
4. You should always take along a kayak anchor
When kayaking, you may not need anchors because you will be paddling and stopping only at the shore. When kayak fishing, however, you will want to stay at a fishing spot for a longer period of time. This important kayak fishing accessory will keep you stable even in strong winds. In case of an emergency, consider using a quick-release clevis on your anchor.
5. Kayak transportation options
If you do not choose the best transportation option for your kayak, getting it to the shoreline can be a difficult task. Before you go out, think about the following options:
● Trailer
This is the most convenient way to transport your kayak without having to remove the fishing gear. Hands-on maneuverability is made possible by small, lightweight trailers. All you have to learn is how to properly strap your yak so that it does not slide off even on rough paths.
● Back of truck
A truck with an 8-foot bed can comfortably fit your fishing kayak. To avoid tipping, slide the vessel into the back and put a lot of weight on the front. To keep it from slipping off, secure it tightly.
● Roof racks
The majority of people transport their kayak on the roof of a truck or car. If you don’t have a trailer or a large truck, this is the least suitable option to consider. The only restriction is that you must remove the kayak seats and fishing equipment before loading the vessel. Furthermore, loading it will necessitate assistance.
If you plan on using your kayak on the roof, invest in a good set of kayak racks and learn how to attach the seats and accessories once you arrive at the beach.
6. Prepare well before you launch your kayak to fish
Take your time at the beach before launching your kayak into the water to fish. Before going fishing, paddle for at least 30 minutes along the shoreline. To test your vessel’s stability, practice using the paddles effectively and leaning side to side a little.
Also, to prepare for what you’ll have to do when fishing, practice standing and sitting back down on your kayak. Plan to fish while sitting if you find it difficult to get up and down while at the beach.
Before you launch your kayak, keep the following in mind:
- Before you go fishing, make sure you have all of your necessary equipment.
- Make sure you have your tackle, pliers, and drinks within easy reach.
- Become familiar with the location of everything.
- Place all of your valuables in a waterproof container.
- Keep your GoPro close at hand.
- Before you launch your kayak, stow or stage rods.
- Have a friend by your side to assist you in the event of an emergency.
7. Don’t be too excited about your first catch on a kayak
It’s exciting to catch your first fish, but don’t get carried away with it. Because the kayak can easily tip over, you should take your time reeling in the fish closer to the boat. You should be able to get there without having to stretch too far. When kayak fishing, it’s also a good idea to net the catch to avoid leaning too far to get it.
Final Thoughts & Takeaways
Kayak fishing is something that you need to master, no matter your level of experience. In our short article, we shared 7 things that every beginner needs to know before taking on the challenge of kayak fishing. These are things that you should expect, key things that you absolutely have to master and not many people know about.
About the author:
Name: Ally Mash
Bio: Ally is a wilderness explorer who has backpacked throughout South America, Iceland, and Europe. He loves sharing his adventures with others at Adventures Pursuit because he believes that everyone should be in the mindset of protecting our planet’s beauty as much they can!
