Choosing A Kayak When it comes to kayak fishing there are many different kayaks to choose from. There are basically two designs. Sit on top (SOT) or sit in Kayak (SIK). Sit on top kayaks dominate the kayak fishing market.
Kayaks come in many different sizes, styles and colors. There are kayaks that are propelled by paddle, peddle or electric motors. When choosing a kayak take the time to demo as many as possible. You will find that all kayaks are different from one another. A very important consideration when choosing your kayak is a short, wide kayak may be more stable and easier to maneuver but will not track straight or have the speed that a longer, narrower kayak will offer. Stability, comfort, speed, weight, and storage space are other things to consider before you settle on a kayak. For more info on different kayak brands, check out kayak fishing forums to get an idea on what others think about a specific kayak.
Kayak Rigging: There are endless options when it comes to kayak gear and rigging. Rudders, rod holders, camera mounts to name a few. If you can think it, it can be rigged on a kayak.
Some kayak anglers keep things simple with just a rod holder or two and then there are anglers which will take rigging to the extreme. The milk crate seems to be one of the most commonly used items for kayak rigging. This simple crate can be used to attach rod holders, hold tackle boxes, safety equipment etc. The Anchor trolley is another important tool. The anchor trolley gives the angler the ability adjust the kayak 360 Degrees while being anchored. In addition to the trolley you will need a good anchor or stake out pole to go with it. The new floating ParkNPole by YakAttack is a great option. At 6ft in length this stake out pole can be used as a push pole while stalking the shallow flats as well. The ParkNPole is also the first and only floating stake out pole. You will find that floating equipment is a must have when on the water in a kayak. If it doesn’t float you can attach a leash to it. Rod and paddle leashes are very inexpensive ways to save your gear from floating away or sinking to the bottom.
Safety Gear: Safety is most important on the water. A few items you may consider carrying would be life jackets, small basic first aid kit, VHF radio, compass or GPS, signaling device’s (whistle/ mirror), flash light and a safety flag. These are all great safety items. Remember that one of the greatest ways to be seen on the water is to have a bright colored kayak or paddle. When choosing a paddle, look for one with bright colored blades. A paddle with bright colored blades can be seen waving in the air from a great distance.
~Steve Gibson
*
This article was originally written and posted by Steve Gibson on www.bayareaanglers.com
Steve is an avid outdoorsman and Kayak Fishing Guide in the Tampa Bay area.Contact Steve: shallowpocketsfishing.com
