On average, 16.5% of Americans go on a fishing trip each year. That’s about 54 million people.
Fishing from a kayak allows both healthy exercise and close contact with nature, making this activity increasingly popular.
Kayak fishing can be quite different from other types of fishing activities. Tips can then come in handy at all levels of expertise. Although only 7% of kayak fishermen are beginners, an outstanding 48 percent have reached an intermediate level.
I’ve listed the top 27 tips and tricks I wished I knew from the beginning. It would have helped me a bunch!
#1. Learn Single-Hand Cast
Are you used to fishing from a deck or bank, using your two hands? Before heading out to your first kayak fishing trip, practice your cast with one hand.
The space within a kayak and the proximity with the water makes a two-hand cast quite challenging. If your rod is on the heavy side, it might be useful to replace it with a lighter one.
#2. Learn One-Hand Paddle
While kayak fishing, having an empty hand is considered a luxury. Using two hands to accomplish any task can be a handicap.
You might need to reposition your boat or change direction unexpectedly while fighting a fish. Learning to paddle with one hand will help you become more versatile and handle all situations that arise.
#3. Use Your Feet as Backup
Kayak fishing is a sport needing multiple talents. Use every tool at your disposal, which includes your legs.
Your hands are likely to be constantly busy while kayaking. On shallow water, use your feet to either steer your kayak or immobilize it. Kick a passing wooden log to redirect your kayak in the right direction.
#4. Use Your Cast to Steer
If your kayak is lightweight, you’ll soon realize that casting creates a resistance, changing the position of your kayak.
Use this to your advantage. Throw your cast in specific directions to effortlessly adjust your kayak positioning.
#5. Dealing With Current and Wind
If this is the first time anchoring your kayak, avoid high currents. Anchoring in rough water can actually sink your watercraft.
Paddling against a strong current or wind can be a challenging task. Avoid paddling in the middle of a river, where the current is often the strongest. Instead, stay close to the shore.
In shallow water, the current won’t be as strong and you’ll advance faster. The wind also weakens when entering into contact with trees and other water vegetation.
#6. Buying Your Kayak
Budget and Quality
When it comes to buying your first kayak, don’t underestimate the quality of your craft. An inexpensive kayak might seem appealing and lower your initial investment, but it will also impact your kayak fishing experience.
If a kayak is too heavy, too large or difficult to manoeuver, you likely won’t use it again. You may even give up on kayak fishing altogether.
Buy the best kayak your budget can afford. You don’t need a professional kayak straight away; you’ll always have the chance to upgrade down the road. And it’s best to start with a more basic kayak and build from there.
Purchase your boat from a reputable company. Not only will they often back up their products with generous warranties, but their crafts are also often more durable.
Try First
Try your kayak before committing. Local shops organize demonstration events where you’ll be able to try the boat directly on the water.
Sometimes, the most meaningful feedback comes from other users. Spend some time online reading reviews from experienced kayakers.
Read Our Ultimate Kayak Fishing Guide
Educate yourself on the different types of kayak available, and which one might best fit your needs.
You’ll also need to consider which type of fish you’d like to catch and how you’ll be transporting and storing your kayak. To avoid unpleasant surprises and additional costs, planning ahead is key.
#7. Invest in Your Paddle
Kayaks and most fishing equipment can be upgraded as you gain in experience.
When it comes to paddles, you’ll likely keep your first set for years. They also play a large role in making your trip enjoyable.
Invest in a light, high-quality paddle from the start. Choose a well-known brand with quality-control standards.
To learn about selecting the best paddle for you, read our article here.
#8. Always Wear Your Life Jacket
Wearing your personal floatation device (PFD) might seem useless to many, especially if you’re able to swim.
Wearing it at all times is not an option. You can never predict the water conditions you’ll be paddling into. Strong currents can even take the best swimmers.
Fishing kayaks often carry many different types of gear. If you capsize, the equipment will end up in the water with you and can cause a hazard. A fishing rope wrapped around your legs can make the way back to the surface challenging, even for experienced swimmers.
#9. Keep a Knife Handy
If your anchor or fishing rope gets stuck, you’ll need to react fast and cut the rope before it flips your kayak.
Most PFDs and seats have pockets built-in, designed for this purpose. When purchasing your knife, ensure that it has an easy and fast opening.
#10. Make Yourself Visible
Ensure that you’re being seen by other boats, large or small.
Your visibility starts with the color of your kayak and paddles. It’s recommended to choose bright colors. You can even add reflective straps to your kayak’s edges.
Your life jacket might also come with reflective straps and even a whistle if needed.
Are you planning to kayak at dawn, dusk or at night? You might want to consider installing a set of LED lights directly on the bow of your kayak for situations where visibility is poor.
#11. Ask for Help
Some of us might need some assistance or hand-holding to get started. With so many elements to consider while going kayak fishing, this is fully understandable.
Most clubs will have guides or teachers available to take you on your first trip. They can introduce you to the most important paddling movements. They can also teach you the importance of your boat position or the proper safety measures to take.
Some clubs even offer kayak fishing training over several days. This should get you off to a good start!
#12. Reach out to the Fishing Community
The fishing community can create tight friendships. You might find a mentor or even a fishing buddy to join you on your kayak fishing adventures.
The fishing community is often happy to help beginners and share their experience.
#13. Keep Bugs Away
Some of the best fishing spots are also often the ideal breeding places for mosquitoes. Getting bit while waiting for your fish to bite might be a very unpleasant experience.
Keep a bottle of bug spray handy in your kayak. You won’t regret it.
#14. Protect Yourself From the Sun
Sitting under the sun surrounded by water provides no protection between the sun and your skin. You’ll most likely come home dehydrated and sunburned. You only need to make this mistake once to learn a lesson, but it’s a mistake to avoid.
It’s recommended to wear SPF-protective clothes. Choose ones that will dry quickly. This avoids having to apply sunscreen regularly. A hat should protect your head, neck and ears.
Sunscreen will avoid burns on your face. Waterproof sunscreens containing zinc oxide are often the best ones. Don’t forget to bring a pair of polarized sunglasses.
#15. Keep Yourself Fed and Hydrated
Bring plenty of water with you. There isn’t such a thing as bringing too much water. Just like protecting yourself from the sun, keeping yourself hydrated isn’t an option.
If you’re going fishing with a partner, ensure that they bring enough liquid as well. There are different types of coolers available on the market. Whether you choose a bag or box, they’ll keep your drinks cool and fresh.
Make your trip as enjoyable as possible. Pack your favorite snacks and a good lunch. Dried fruits and energy bars make for good and healthy snacks.
#16. Safety First
Before heading to the water, always inform someone of your ‘float plan’. This includes where you’re going, where you’ll be launching your boat from and when they should expect you back.
Make sure you also have the following items with you:
- A life vest. To know more about life jackets and PFDs, read our article here.
- If you’re going far off the shore, bring a VHF radio.
- Attach a whistle to your PFD.
- Lights and a headlamp.
- Knife.
- Waterproof first aid kit.
- Water weld can repair any damage to your kayak. A sharp rock can do more damage than one can think.
- Paddle and fishing rod leash. Often sold together, a paddle leash is highly recommended; it prevents your paddle from drifting away.
#17. Make a Plan
Don’t head out to the unknown. Plan your trajectory, where you’ll be fishing and also what kind of fish you’re aiming for.
Start by consulting the local weather forecast. Look up tides schedules, water levels and currents.
Reports are often available to know what can be fished in the area. They’ll also help you bring the appropriate fishing gear.
#18. Keep Your Balance
Keep your head towards the center axis of your kayak. Leaning towards one side or another could make your boat tilt and capsize.
#19. Expect to Get Wet
Whether receiving a few splashes or capsizing in open water, you might get wet one way or another.
Make sure that you’re wearing clothes that’ll dry quickly. Consider keeping a set of dry clothes in your storage space or crate.
Rainstorms aren’t uncommon. Keeping a rain jacket handy might make your adventure more enjoyable.
#20. Invest in Proper Footwear
Regular running shoes can become extremely slippery over a wet surface. To avoid slipping and injuring yourself, invest in a pair of water shoes.
You don’t need a fancy pair. A regular pair will be enough, as long as it features a strong grip and a sturdy sole.
#21. Secure Your Equipment
Whether your boat flips or you inadvertently drop an item in the water, you’ll be happy having your gear tied down.
Use ropes or bungee cords to safely secure your equipment to your kayak. A leash can be used to attach the rod and paddle.
#22. Beware of the Fog
Fog can be more dangerous than you think. You’ll likely lose track of your position and direction. Getting lost might be the worst fear of many kayakers.
Investing in a fish finder device might be a good idea. Most of them come with built-in GPS functionality. You’ll also be able to track fish and see what’s happening underwater.
#23. Stay Quiet
Fish can detect sounds and vibrations. Moving quietly and avoid knocking gear, the rod, and paddles against your kayak will be key to a successful fishing trip.
#24. Watch Before Crossing
Crossing a river or a large body of water can often take longer than you first think. Before crossing, watch out for large boats. They often move faster than expected.
If you spot large waves from a nearby vessel, paddle towards the waves. Paddling parallel to the waves could cause your kayak to capsize.
#25. Lightning
If you find yourself caught in a storm with thunder and lightning, head back to the shore immediately.
Take your fishing rod down and lay it flat inside your kayak.
#26. Bring a Waterproof Camera
If documenting your fishing adventures is important to you, don’t forget to bring a camera.
You’ll want to make sure it’s waterproof and comes with a sturdy case. A mounted device will help you stabilize the camera while taking the picture.
#27. Invest in a Waterproof Container
Small waterproof containers, such as a bag or case, can be helpful in keeping your valuables dry. This includes phone, keys, cards and more.
In case the container falls into the water, ensure you choose one that floats. You’ll be more likely to spot and retrieve it.
Summary
Kayak fishing requires a fair deal of research and preparation. Sometimes a small tip can prevent you from making an important mistake. It can also make your fishing experience incredibly easier.
It’s easy to underestimate how versatile and varied kayak fishing equipment can be. Most of us learn through the process of trial and error to get it right, but it can be much simpler than this by following some simple kayak fishing tips.
These tips should make your kayaking adventure smoother and more enjoyable. Feeling prepared sometimes takes a lot of the worry away.