Kayak Fishing: Everything You Need to Know as a Beginner
by Eric, Flip to Outdoor | 14 March 2022 | Kayak Fishing Guide
Using a kayak is a great way for beginners to start learning how to fish in open water!
If you're new to kayak fishing, this guide will teach you everything you need to know to get started.
In this article we will be looking at:
What you'll need to bring on your first trip.
How to choose the right Kayak for your needs.
The most useful gear for kayak fishing.
How to catch and release fish from a kayak successfully.
We'll go through some common mistakes that kayak fishers make, and how you can stay safe while fishing from a kayak.
So, whether you're just starting or have been fishing from a kayak for years, this guide is sure to be useful to everyone!
# Choosing the best fishing kayak and gear.
Kayaks
The very first step in kayak fishing success is making sure you have the most suitable gear for your trip.
When selecting a kayak, you'll need to consider:
Your budget.
The type of fishing you plan on doing.
Where you will be fishing.
If you’ll only be fishing in small streams and ponds, then an inflatable kayak will be a good option.
If you plan on doing any ocean or saltwater fishing, however, an inflatable kayak will only be fine if you don’t plan on going to far from shore and if there are no reefs. Otherwise you’ll need a more durable kayak with a solid hull that can handle rough waters and impacts.
Ideally, choose a kayak with a comfortable seat, ventilated padding and extra support. The more comfortable it is, the more time you’ll be able to spend on the water!
Kayaks can be expensive, but several affordable options are available for those who are just getting started.
Check out Flip To Outdoor’s article for a great list of 6 kayaks under $1000!
Gear
Once you've chosen your kayak, it’s time to get your hands on the rest of your gear!
Of course, the most essential piece of equipment for kayak fishing is a good-quality rod and reel.
If you're using lures or bait, remember that you'll need to choose a rod that is rated for the weight of the fish you plan on catching.
Additionally, you’ll need to have a variety of tackle, such as:
Hooks
Lines
Sinkers
Bobbers.
So, how should you get started?
Once you have your gear sorted out, it's time to actually learn how to use it!
One of the great things about kayak fishing is that it can be done in any body of water - from small streams and ponds to large lakes and oceans.
This versatility also means that there is no "right" way of fishing from a kayak.
For example, some anglers prefer to use a sit-on-top kayak for fly-fishing, while others stand up and cast.
The best thing to do as a beginner is to experiment with different techniques until you find one that works best for you.
# Catching and releasing from your kayak.
Catching and releasing fish from a kayak can be tricky, but it becomes easy with a bit of practice!
The key is to keep the kayak as still as possible to maintain your balance, and use your fishing net to scoop the fish out of the water.
Pro Tip:
If you intend on catching & releasing, be sure to wet your hands before handling the fish - this will help reduce its stress levels and make it easier to release it back into the water.
# Common mistakes & safety.
Common mistakes
There are some things that kayak fishers commonly do wrong but, with a bit of practice, preparation and knowledge, they can easily be avoided.
Some of the most common mistakes are:
Not wearing a life jacket.
Kayaking in rough water conditions without proper safety gear.
Reeling in fish too quickly, which can lead to damaging their mouths or breaking the line.
Failing to wet hands before handling fish properly.
Casting into trees or other obstacles.
Kayaking in unfamiliar areas without a map or GPS.
Check out this video on kayak fishing mistakes to learn more about this subject in detail:
Safety
Kayaking can be a safe and enjoyable activity, but it's essential to take basic safety precautions when fishing from a kayak.
Here are some of the tips you should keep in mind:
Use a quality rod and reel with a heavy line to land fish quickly and safely.
Keep your gear organised and stowed away while paddling.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times and watch out for other boats, logs, rocks, etc.
# A few extra tips!
Now that you know the basics, it's time to start fishing.
The best way to catch fish from a kayak is to use light tackle and lures that resemble the natural prey of the fish you're targeting.
When casting your lure, try to position yourself so that the current will carry your bait downstream past likely spots for fish.
Be patient and keep watch for any signs of activity - when a fish strikes, set the hook quickly and reel in!
Kayak Fishing can be an excellent way for beginners to get started in the sport of fishing.
With some practice and preparation, anyone can learn to catch fish from a kayak but, as a beginner, you must take some basic safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing experience.
So, before you go out and start fishing with a Kayak, remember to follow all the kayaking guides we mentioned above!
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Thank you so much for reading, and we’ll see you on the road!
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