FS Digest

I've been looking it up a bit and am finding conflicting information on the topic. It seems the general consensus is it doesn't matter much, but I did read that a white hull may spook fish since many fish have white bellies and they may think a big fish is above them. Then I read that white is the least likely to scare fish because clouds are white lol.

The hull of my kayak is white, and I had considered painting it to something more neutral like grey or green.

Am I overthinking this or is it a legitimate concern? If it makes a difference I basically exclusively fish in freshwater, mainly for trout but occasionally bass and perch.

Thanks in advance.

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by MamboNumber5Guy

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

MamboNumber5Guy: Here is a possible solution for your white bottom boat. Get you some fish decals of various sizes, and place them all over the bottom of your boat. That way, all the other fish swimming around below you will see them and either think they are a suitable meal, or that they aren't afraid of the large white fish right above them, so it is all right to get closer! Just an idea, don't know if it will work. Just Sayin...RJS

Chuck56 Loc: Texas

My nucanoe frontier is lime green. It is a big heavy wide kayak. I chose the color for visibility. MY visibility on the water. I can assure you that the noise you make in your yak ( dropping a pair of pliers ,etc ) will affect the fish more that hull color. The primary color of my 20’ nitro is white . I have drifted up ( trolling motor off ) to many areas holding fish without them spooking in the nitro . I have also noticed if I stepped down from the casting deck and made too much noise ( I’m old ) and got back on the deck the fish were gone. So, the hull color of your yak should not matter in my opinion. How stealthy you are with your paddle or propulsion system, and how well you handle your rods , etc. matter more. Less noise equals more catching ......My 2cents.

Bob F

I use an ocean kayak that is sunrise orange and have caught plenty of fish. The reason I like brighter colors is it is more visible if I am stranded and need help.

USAF Major Loc: Sea Bright, NJ

I see many kayaks on the salt water river I live on. Most visible are the 'unnatural colors" (international orange and yellowish lime) or an orange flag is displayed about 3 feet up from the stern. No neutral colors as you may not be seen! Red does not stand out very well.