Are you wondering why some anglers are abandoning the traditional boat-and-motor fishing for kayak finishing? Or are you interested in knowing the benefits before venturing into the sport?
Every kayak angler has unique reasons to start kayak fishing. But, most of them agree that the sport is beneficial in one way or the other.
Below, I will give you the 5 main reasons to take up kayak fishing that many anglers agree on.
5 reasons to take up kayak fishing
1. Kayaks are easier to transport and store
Motorboats are large and heavy, requiring big trailers and vehicles to transport. On the other hand, some kayaks are smaller, and you can easily transport them on a car roof rack. Even for bigger kayaks, the stress of towing them cannot match the stress of transporting a boat. You can even find portable fishing kayaks that eliminate the pain of towing.
The small size of kayaks also makes them easy to store as they won’t take up much space in your garage. Again, you can store the kayak anywhere: the ceiling, leaning it against the wall, or in the basement. Consider purchasing an inflatable fishing kayak if you live in an apartment or want to reduce the hassle of storing the kayak.
2. Kayaks are easy to customize with fishing accessories
As an angler, you may not be completely satisfied with your fishing boat or kayak. Fortunately, you can personalize a kayak. You can add an anchor trolley, light kits, fishing rod lashes, and kayak crates to your purchase. The more kayak fishing accessories you have, the more enjoyable your fishing experience will be.
3. More economical
A good quality fishing kayak can cost between $1,000 and $1,500, which may seem pricey for a beginner. However, it is significantly less expensive than a mid-range motorboat. Do not be tempted to buy the cheapest ones because they may be difficult to use in the water and will not last as long. If you are willing to make a few additional financial sacrifices, you will be able to enjoy cost-effective kayaking for a long time. A good entry-level fishing kayak costs between $600 and $1000.
When you buy a quality fishing kayak, you won’t have to worry about the high maintenance costs, storage fees, high insurance premiums, or fuel expenses that come with motorboats.
4. It allows you to fish anywhere
Kayak fishing takes you to places where anglers with motorboats only dream about. You can fish from your favorite river, small ponds, large reservoirs, and every corner along the shore.
Apart from catching the fish, you can steer the kayak to remote and isolated places to enjoy some quietness and serene nature. Plus, the quiet places give you access to rarely pressured fish.
Kayak fishing also lets you fish closer to the waters. This gives you a sense of connection to nature and a better angle to fish.
5. Kayak fishing is healthy
Kayak fishing is healthy. Not only does it get you outside, but it is a way of getting good quality exercise. Unlike the boat steered by a motor, most kayaks are paddled. Paddling a kayak means using your power to direct it accordingly. As a result, your core muscles are challenged; you work on your stabilizers and shape your shoulders.
So, apart from catching the fish, you burn some calories, get better sleep, increase your natural energy levels and reduce your normal day-to-day stress levels.
Below is how kayak fishing helps you stay healthier:
● Lower blood pressure
Kayak fishing lets you spend time in nature which is mentally and physically relieving. As a result, your blood pressure will normalize as you forget the anxieties and worries of everyday life. Normal blood pressure ensures you are safe from fatal heart problems.
● It keeps you mentally alert
Kayak fishing keeps you focused on steering the vessel and catching the fish, which brings a sense of mental calmness. This helps the body release endorphins known to help people with depression.
Again as you engage in kayak fishing, several thoughts would be racing in your brain, which helps you forget the stress of everyday life. Stress is detrimental to your health as it can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, and diabetes. So, going outdoors for kayak fishing calms your brain to help you stay healthy mentally.
● It keeps you physically fit
Kayak fishing is physically involving. Steering the vessel, casting the rod, and reeling in the catch are physical activities that help keep your body fit. You will work your shoulder and arm muscles together with your core and legs. However, it is low-impact cardio that helps you exercise without straining your joints.
● Meet new people
As you venture into kayak fishing, you increase your social circle as kayak anglers form a one-of-a-kind and interesting community. You get to meet people with similar interests as you take kayak fishing lessons or join clubs. As a result, you improve your social wellbeing, which will make you happy.
Again kayak fishing makes you feel good about yourself and what you do, boosting your confidence. Confidence gives you a sense of positivity, which helps you stay happier.
Key Insights & Takeaways
Kayak fishing is a sport I will recommend to every angler for the reasons I have highlighted above. Yes, it might be challenging at first, but it will become easier to paddle your kayak and cast from it with practice. Before you know it, you will be reaching remote waters and hooking up big catches like never before.
But, for a great and fun experience, start by investing in a quality fishing kayak, paddling leashes, and angling gear. You can also get a tandem fishing kayak so that both you and your loved ones can share this wonderful experience.
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!