Few issues are as satisfying as catching large fish whereas paddling on stunning waters.
That mentioned, many newbie anglers go unprepared and endure the results.
If you wish to make your kayak fishing journeys pleasing, simply hold studying.
(P.S. Becoming a member of a fishing membership would even be an awesome concept! However you’ve in all probability thought of that already)
Table of Contents
1. Selecting the Greatest Fishing Kayak
It would sound apparent…
However many newbie anglers don’t take sufficient time to contemplate their choices – and find yourself regretting it.
How to decide on the very best fishing kayak?
Effectively, to start with, we suggest choosing the most steady fishing kayak you possibly can afford. The reality is that for kayak fishing, pace isn’t practically as essential as stability.
Not solely will you be capable of stand and forged… however for large guys, stability is paramount when you don’t wish to tip or fall overboard.
2. Follow One-Hand Kayaking (and Fishing!)
True – typically you’ll be capable of fish whereas staying stationary.
However when you communicate to kayak anglers, you’ll discover that most of the time, you need to chase the fish.
Except you might have a pedal kayak, this implies studying methods to paddle with one hand (and reel in with the opposite hand).
Good to know: this could additionally aid you keep away from obstacles as you realize fish have a tendency to attract you below bridges, round seaweeds, and so on.
3. Casting Sideways Or in Entrance?
Whereas it is likely to be tempting to throw your line on the aspect, that is really a horrible concept…
Not solely are you able to fall overboard, however you’ll additionally wrestle to reel within the fish.
What to do then?
Effectively, as you might need guessed… It’s best to throw your line in entrance of you. This fashion, you’ll go in the identical path because the fish making an attempt to flee. This offers you extra energy and stability.
A easy trick, however one which many newcomers overlook.
4. Do You Want Particular Fishing Gear?
By “particular” fishing gear, we imply electronics like a fish finder, a GPS, rod holders…
And the reality is – you don’t want any of those to catch large fish.
However they do assist quite a bit.
In our opinion, when you don’t have an enormous finances, spend money on rod holders at the beginning. They make life a lot simpler.
Then, a fish finder is an efficient choice – particularly when you fish in murky waters.
The GPS comes final until you’re paddling in an enormous lake the place you would get misplaced simply.
5. Clothes and Security Gear
I do know, I do know… no one needs to be patronized.
That’s why I gained’t inform you that you should put on a life jacket.
However fact be instructed, it is best to strongly contemplate it. (Particularly contemplating 80%+ of drownings are because of a scarcity of PFD or life jacket).
On the subject of fishing particularly, you’ll have to put on both waterproof boots or sandals (relying on how sizzling it will get).
Because you’ll in all probability be utilizing a sit-on-top kayak, you’ll be uncovered to the weather.
And sure – it does get fairly moist.
(Don’t neglect waterproof pants in case your kayak seat is low – I assure you’d have a moist bum in any other case).
And naturally, be ready when you plan to go kayak tenting.
6. Don’t Underestimate the Wind
This can be a crucial tip – so please concentrate.
If the wind is above 10 knots, we suggest staying very near your start line. Greater than that, attempt to begin with a headwind so that you’ll have a tailwind in your approach again.
Two issues occur with the wind whereas kayaking:
- A headwind clearly slows you down – and that shall be particularly exhausting on the way in which again as you gained’t have a lot energy left.
- It’s exhausting to go straight. If you happen to don’t have a rudder, or in case your rudder isn’t superb (which occurs on most inexpensive fishing kayaks), you’ll have a tricky time going straight. Most newcomers find yourself getting in circles, which is an actual nightmare. (To not point out the chance of getting a severe damage)
That’s why it is best to all the time examine the climate earlier than you exit – and err on the safer aspect.
7. Take It Sluggish
I do know, you’re excited and also you simply wish to catch the massive fish straight away.
But when I had been you, I’d take it sluggish at first. Go to lakes or ponds that you simply already know, and plan easy itineraries.
If you happen to’re a newbie, you may even wish to get a trolling motor to cowl lengthy distances with out an excessive amount of effort.
In any case, simply keep in mind that you’re on this for the long term – and going slowly will aid you construct energy and confidence.
Kayak Fishing Suggestions for Inexperienced persons – Wrapping Up
Kayak fishing is a lot of enjoyable as soon as you realize what you’re doing.
If you happen to’re a newbie, keep in mind to choose the suitable kayak for you, apply one-hand kayaking, and get the correct clothes and security gear.
Then, you possibly can dazzle all your pals on Instagram together with your large catch.
How does that sound?