Everything You Need To Get Started Kayak Fishing

Kayak fishing is quickly becoming one of the most popular methods of fishing for many anglers. Kayaks provide a ton of advantages compared to traditional boat fishing. They’re usually smaller, lighter, more stealthy, and often more affordable than a new standard fishing boat. 

However, with so many options and accessories on the market, it can be tough to figure out what exactly you need when getting started in kayak fishing. That’s why we put this guide together to help make it a bit easier for you. 

If you search for a fishing kayak, chances are you’re going to see tons of options and no clear way to figure out what’s best for you. In general, you’re going to want to pick one that is designed with fishing in mind, but also is the right size for you, your gear, and still allows you to transport it easily. 

Some are large enough that you’ll need a trailer, while others can be put in the bed of your pickup or on top of your vehicle.

If you know the water you’re going to be fishing is larger, rougher, and more open, you may want to opt for something that does a better job of handling these conditions. If you’re fishing in smaller, calm water, you may not need as much kayak to handle those situations.

Another thing to consider when picking your kayak is the propulsion system. The standard option is to use a paddle and move yourself around the water that way. While this works and is usually the cheapest option, the main problem you’ll have is that you can’t cast and paddle at the same time. 

That’s where kayaks with a pedal system come in. These kayaks are moved by pedaling, rather than paddling, allowing you to fish freely while moving. Similarly, some kayaks even come with the option to mount an electric motor, which can make getting around even easier and faster. 

There are tons of options out there for different pieces of gear and accessories designed specifically for kayak fishing. Some of the main things to consider adding to your kayak are rod holders, mounts for your fish finder, storage containers for your tackle, and a spare paddle just in case you end up needing it.

When fishing from a kayak, your space is going to be extremely limited when compared to fishing out of a boat. You need to make sure you’re taking everything you need to have, but not overdoing it and having too much with you.

Safety is a huge deal when kayak fishing as well. Even if you don’t always wear your lifejacket while on a normal boat, it’s a good idea to keep it on in a kayak, as your chance of going overboard or tipping the kayak entirely is increased. 

It’s also a good idea to keep your valuables and items you don’t want to get wet in a floating dry bag, just in case the kayak does end up tipping over.