9 Kayak Fishing Tips All Yak Anglers Need To Know
Nowadays, kayak fishing is becoming increasingly popular all over the world, due to its vast benefits over the conventional boats mounted with motors. For bass fishing beginners, kayak fishing is very nature-friendly as it doesn't cause noise and air pollution.Are you experienced in kayaking and fishing, but poor in kayak fishing? Do you have a problem in moving through small waterways due to a large and loud boat? Here are some kayaks fishing tips that you must read as a beginner.
1. Decide on a Location
Before going out on a kayak fishing trip, an excellent location should be chosen. Having a suitable location ensures that you get good results and save your time. This is because kayak fishing is versatile and does not limit the kind of places to go for a fishing adventure.Also, have a proper knowledge of the right track to get you in and out of the lake or river. This can prove invaluable since you won’t be wasting time getting into or leaving the kayak fishing location.
2. Picking a Kayak and Paddles
Always consider your setting and pick the best fishing kayaks that suit your water body. For example, fishing on a steady lake will require you to pick a regular kayak. However, if you are aiming for kayak fishing on big waters, like oceans, you will need a more robust kayak.Another thing to carry along with you when going kayak fishing is the right paddle. The paddle you intend to choose, to guide your kayak through fishing waters, must be light and easy to use. The paddle should also have the right shape. For example, high angle paddles are best suited for calm water or surf zones. There are also low angle and wing paddles, each having their own specific use.
3. Know Your Fish
Do some research to find out the kind of species that exist in a place where you intend to fish. Also, study their reproductive and life cycles. This will help you know their flourishing time and when their population is at their peak season. Try to expand your horizons by not targeting only one species of fish. The thrill of the chase is fun, even when chasing multiple species!
4. Kayak Sight Fishing
This is a valuable tip for a beginner who wants to drastically improve their fishing skills. Sight fishing is very crucial in kayak fishing. The kayak is always quite in nature; hence you don't have to spook the fish, and your approach will not alarm them.This entails being in a high vantage point and looking into the water. You will be required to stand up or to perch yourself using heightened seating. To avoid any danger, just do this after some practice or under supervision during your first time.
5. Use Kayak Fishing Anchors
This is another important tip for our fellow kayak fishermen. Anchors are an essential tool to include in your kayak fishing gear. For kayak fishing on relatively shallow rivers or lakes, a claw anchor, or even a D.I.Y. anchor weighing between 2-4 pounds is acceptable.Anchors are normally overlooked in many kayak fishing trips, so don’t forget yours. The anchors help when waters are windy, and the kayak needs some balance. Rather than fighting current and paddling back and forth to your spot, just drop anchor and work your spot thoroughly.
6. Length of Line
This is another good tip for beginners. The length of your fishing rod should be equal to the duration of the fishing line. This will lessen your work when you hook a fish, or in case some weeds get stuck. Too much length makes it tedious to reel the line in with the fish stuck to the hook and can even lead to losing the fish.
7. Kayak Fishing Safety
Whenever you go fishing anywhere, ensure that you take proper safety precautions. Always carry a first aid kit with you just in case of any minor accidents. And, don’t forget to carry a life jacket, even if you are an expert in swimming. A freak undercurrent, toppled yak, or savage bird is never out of the question.Additionally, protect yourself from direct sunlight. Kayak fishing (obviously) requires spending time in the sun. Always wear sunscreen to avoid any burns and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
8. One Hand Paddling
This is the hardest but most useful kayak fishing technique, but you can master it with practice. This method is used when you need to steer and keep the kayak in a particular position while handling the fish with your other hand.One handed paddling is useful when your catch is at stake, and you can’t use both hands to move your kayak. You can further anchor the handle of your kayak using your forearm, while steering with the paddle part immersed in water.
9. Mount A Camera
Don’t forget to include a mounted camera on your kayak. Always make your kayak fishing escapades memorable by having a camera capture all the fun moments, and adding them to the ever-growing Fishing YouTube Community. The only requirement for your camera is that it’s waterproof.
Updated February 8th, 2019 at 4:39 AM CT