Taking The Easy Way Out
Kayak Fishing…
GETTING THERE IS HALF THE FUN - Kayaks can be the most relaxing way to fish without the noise and hassles of launching a powerboat.
KAYAK FISHING CAN GET YOU THERE
By: Capt. Derek A. Barber
Long after the throngs of tourists have left, as the days grow shorter and cooler, New England fishermen start preparing for the next fishing season. For some, it is planning out new fishing spots or maybe just reviewing what was learned this past year in order to better the results for the upcoming season. Most winters, for me, it is all about getting ready for kayak fishing.
Kayak fishing is the newest fishing trend; it’s exciting, relatively inexpensive, and it’s also healthy for you. It doesn’t matter what your age or ability, this is one sport almost anyone can do! Ponds, marshes, rivers, and even the ocean (for seasoned kayakers) are excellent kayaking locations. If you can get to the water’s edge, then you have a place to launch your kayak, and once you are on the water the kayaks silence makes sneaking up on a fish much easier .
A new fishing kayak can cost as little as $400. Old Town and Ocean Kayaks both make entry and expert level fishing kayaks. Longer and narrower kayaks are faster and easier to keep straight, while shorter and wider kayaks are more stable. The added stability of a wide set kayak is especially helpful to fishermen that would like to stand and cast.
Paddle selection is also an important part of any kayak setup. Bending Branches and Werner Fishing Paddles are two brands that I recommend. Some paddles can adjust in length to accommodate different size anglers and seat positions on a kayak. Other options on paddles include tape measures inlayed on the handles, or cutouts in the paddle to allow anglers to retrieve lures out of trees or bushes. Most importantly, the paddle needs to be comfortable and suit your needs.
Kayaks can float in a little as 6” of water while holding up to 350 lbs. of gear. Even though there are numerous accessories available to outfit a fishing kayak, it is usually best to travel light. Remember: Everything you put on or in your kayak has to be loaded and unloaded every time you launch. The most important items needed are a comfortable seat, rod holders, a paddle, an anchor, PFD (personal floatation device), and of course, your fishing rod.
If you want to spend more time casting and less time paddling, or you want to go to an offshore or upriver area difficult to reach with just a paddle, then a trolling motor may be the way to go. Old Town Kayak has teamed up with Minn Kota Motors to make a powered kayak, the Predator XL, which is also a great option for those with physical limitations. I recently purchased this kayak and the fish catch totals have gone up dramatically! With the throttle control right in front of me and the ability to steer the rudder with my feet, I can concentrate on casting my lure right where I want it. Forward and reverse gears help to navigate marshes and shorelines.
Kayak fishing’s popularity is growing fast. It can add a refreshing change to fishing habits, and challenges anglers to learn new ways to catch fish. Landing a big fish in a kayak is an extremely rewarding experience. The affordability, portability and launch-ability can’t be beat. Almost all of the styles of kayaks, be they sit on or sit in, now come with an angler option. With the many different models and options to choose from, I am sure you will be able to find something that suits your needs.
My name is Captain Derek A. Barber, and I am a kayak fisherman. Hope to see you on the water!