These days, kayak fishing is popular, and for good reason. Kayaks are cheaper than regular gas burners, they permit anglers accessibility to the most remote and under-fished waters; and they may become rigged with virtually any feature a bass-head might imagine.What has been missing though is any detailed discourse on the method of fishing out of the kayak, because here’s the bottom line – it differs from fishing from a boat. You are nearer to water, somewhat less stable, sitting down, as well as at the mercy of the water’s current and wind – all factors requiring a different approach than boat angling.
In order to address some of these challenges, we gathered this guide to kayak fishing:
Casting One-Handed
Learning how to cast one-handed might be the most challenging adjustment for anglers accustomed to fishing from the bank, or a boat’s front deck. Even the most stable of kayaks do not have a lot of room between the water and the sitting area – which makes the regular two-handed wind-up cast a dicey proposition. Skilled anglers cast one-handed most of the time, using either spinning tackle or baitcasting; therefore, it is vital to gear up properly. Rather than the ultra-heavy stick and 1 oz. jig, perhaps choose to fish with more finesse tactics and lighter combinations.
Become Experienced at the One-Handed Paddle
As with becoming experienced with the one-handed cast, effective kayak angling will require experience in handling the paddle using one hand. Kayak paddling is simple using two hands, because its rhythm comes easily to even the least skilled of anglers. However, what will you do when you are fighting a fish using one hand, and you must steer the boat back upstream to get on the other part of the laydown or avoid overhanging branches? Practice locking a paddle’s shaft along a forearm that anchors it alongside your arm and permits you to utilize it more similarly to a canoe paddle.
Utilize the Feet
It may seem unusual, yet you would be shocked by how often skilled kayak anglers utilize their feet within some way when fishing. If a boat is narrow enough, it’s possible to use them as rudders to steer the drift upon rivers, and they’ll work as good anchors while fishing rip rap, laydowns, as well as other shallow spaces – just stick your foot out then hold on to the log until you are finished fishing the hole. Also, feet are excellent for re-directing a boat from a log, stump, or additional obstacle while the hands are busy battling a fish.
Cast to Steer
Baits offering resistance such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and chatterbaits actually can be utilized to assist in steering the boat. If you are fishing a crankbait from a light kayak, you quickly will recognize that the simplistic resistance of reeling in bait actually will pull the boat in the direction you are casting. Use it to your advantage then do casts in certain directions in order to subtly change the position of the boat.
Stay Safe in the Water
Fishing from a kayak can be a bit tricky for beginners. Learning techniques to keep you safe and dry is a must and should be practiced in shallow water. You should also wear the proper safety equipment. Take a look at one of our recent posts which lists the best kayak fishing life vest. You’ll also want to check out some of the must-have accessories for your kayak adventure.