Kayak fishing: Pre fish prep
Been a bank fisherman all my life and am about to dip my toes into new territory. I am expecting to receive my kayak soon. Just wondering if anyone had a basic checklist to go along with the kayak. Or any helpful tips that have helped them. I know that I need to get a pfd first and foremost.
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by ContagiousJ
A good sharp knife, and keep it where you can get to it quickly.Some kind of device to extract hooks from deep inside a fish, a fish stringer, wouldn't hurt to have a spare flash light just in case when you get caught in the dark. Just Sayin...RJS
I mounted a paddle holder for while I am fishing fish basket came in handy mine had built in rod holders already on it. Good luck happy casting
Paddle leash. If I need to get the paddle out of the way I just drop it in the water. Leash keeps it close. If a sit on top goes turtle it will throw you. Hang on to the paddle and keep it leashed.
Langer
Loc: Lake Havasu City, Arizona
My wife and I have been kayak fishing the past few months and I just bought a $45 Lucky fishfinder. Tried it last week and was very impressed watching depth which is always important plus it tracked fish below me constantly. Just floated the transducer next to me and it was great. Still working on an anchoring system that I'm comfortable with.
Langer, use an anchor trolley and rig the anchor for quick release with a float on the line. I have had to toss my anchor line and get out of the way of idiots.
I have been fishing in my kayak for over 10 years. A few helpful ideas to pass on: buy a fiberglass paddle. Clean it to get all of the debris which can build up with twigs leaves and soap and water fix any leaks promptly. Wear a pair of fishing gloves. Wear a hat with a large brim. Secure all your tackle.
Buy a comfortable life jacket, they do get awkward if you get a bulky one. Try it on before you buy it. Don't forget a whistle too for safety. I have a sit on top kayak and I bought a couple skupper plugs for the holes under my seat pad. My kayak doesn't have raised seat, this keeps my butt dry.
I put little floats on my rods. I have lost more than one to many. A small landing net , like one used by river trout fishermen. Water! Paddle leash or or paddle retainer . Life jacket , the make less bulky ones for a kayak . I always wear long pants and long sleeve shirts. Fish hooks , pike etc are not a good mix for bare skin. Also protects against the sun. I prefer spinning reels in the Yak Easier to feel with
Use the most compact pfd you can afford
Paddle leash
Scupper plugs
Milk crate to hold tackle boxes/ bags
Some sort of anchoring system ( I also use a bicycle inner tube covered piece of chain attached to a rope when I’m drift fishing, attached to my crate. )
Stake out stick, if you have the room
Bungee cords
That’s some practical items you can start with that will help
My 2cents.
Make sure you have two fishing rod holders in your kayak. Fiberglass paddle, drinking water, pliers, whistle.bring a change of clothes, first aid kit, anchor, food.
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