Ancient Origins of Fishing from a Kayak
Fishing from a kayak has deep historical roots. Russian Orthodox priests in Alaska, during the mid-to-late 18th century, documented native practices of fishing from kayaks, specifically targeting halibut. This wasn’t a recreational activity but a vital means of sustenance.
Recreational kayak fishing, as we know it today, likely began in the early 1990s along the West Coast of the US. Surfers started attaching fishing gear to their boards, blending sport and fishing in a new way.
Advantages of Fishing from a Kayak
Fishing from a kayak offers many benefits compared to traditional methods:
- Affordability: Kayaks are much less expensive to purchase and maintain than motor boats. There’s no need for fuel, maintenance costs, or the hassle of trailering.
- Access to Remote Waters: Kayaks can access places where motor boats can’t, including shallow waters, small lakes, and narrow rivers. They provide a greater range of fishing opportunities, often in areas less disturbed by anglers.
- Portability: Kayaks are lightweight and can easily be loaded onto a car, allowing you to explore different fishing locations without the need for a trailer.
- Low Maintenance: Kayaks are simple, requiring very little upkeep compared to motor boats. This makes them an appealing option for anglers who want to focus on fishing, not repairs.
- Excitement and Challenge: There’s no greater thrill than reeling in a big fish from a kayak. The low vantage point and the physical challenge of fishing from the water’s surface add an extra layer of excitement and engagement.
Whether for the affordable entry, the unparalleled access to secluded waters, or the pure joy of the experience, kayak fishing continues to grow in popularity among anglers of all skill levels.
Fishing From a Kayak: Choosing the Right One
Fishing kayaks come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for different types of anglers and fishing environments. Most fishing kayaks typically range from 10 to 14 feet in length and are made from durable plastic, though there are also composite material kayaks that are lighter and more responsive, often preferred for longer trips or those seeking more performance.
When choosing a kayak, it’s important to match the boat’s size and features to your specific needs:
- Length: Longer kayaks tend to move faster and track straighter, making them ideal for larger bodies of water like lakes or oceans. They offer more stability in open water and better efficiency over long distances. On the other hand, shorter kayaks are more maneuverable, allowing for quick turns and better control in smaller, more confined spaces like small ponds, rivers, or creeks.
- Versatility: A longer kayak is perfectly suited for larger water bodies like Fourth Lake, Stillwater Reservoir, or even Lake Ontario, but it can still be used in smaller areas. On the flip side, a small kayak might limit your ability to safely or effectively handle bigger water or tougher conditions, so consider your fishing environment when making a choice.
Ultimately, the right kayak depends on the fishing areas you plan to frequent. Bigger kayaks are great for all-around use, but if you mostly fish in tight, shallow spaces, a shorter, more agile kayak might be more suitable.
Kayak Fishing Accessories
Many fishing kayaks come either as basic models or already equipped with some fishing accessories, such as rod holders or tackle storage. However, for those looking to customize their setup, there are numerous accessories and add-ons available to make your kayak more fishing-friendly.
Kayak Setup for Fishing
Setting up your kayak for fishing is an important step in maximizing your comfort and efficiency on the water. Many kayaks allow you to mount additional gear like:
- Fish finders: To help you locate fish more efficiently.
- Anchor systems: Essential for holding your position in windy conditions or current.
- Bait wells: To keep live bait fresh and accessible.
- Fishing rod extensions: These can help extend your rods’ reach and create additional space for multiple rods.
- First aid kit and other safety gear: Always be prepared for emergencies.
Customizing your kayak setup for fishing is part of the fun and gives you the flexibility to create the ideal platform based on your needs. However, it’s essential to take your kayak out on the water first, before adding too many accessories. By spending time fishing from the kayak, you can determine where to place your gear for optimal reach and ease of access. For example, there’s nothing worse than being unable to grab your net or tackle because it’s in an inconvenient spot.
My First Experience Fishing from a Kayak
My first experience fishing from a kayak dates back to the early ’90s when I was using a whitewater kayak. At the time, it was the only type of kayak I had, and it worked surprisingly well for running rivers and fishing the spring walleye and white bass runs. Since then, I’ve learned a lot about the different types of kayaks available for fishing. Generally, fishing kayaks fall into three basic categories: sit-on-top (SOT), sit-inside, and hybrid.
Sit-On-Top (SOT) Kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks (SOT) are by far the most popular type of kayak used for fishing. As the name implies, these kayaks have a design where the angler sits on top of the kayak, rather than inside it. This elevated seating position provides several advantages, particularly when it comes to casting, visibility, and line management. Many SOT kayaks are also designed with standing in mind, which makes it even easier to cast, fish, and handle your gear.
One of the biggest benefits of SOT kayaks is their open deck design. This layout allows anglers to rig the kayak with a variety of accessories, such as rod holders, fish finders, bait wells, cameras, and GPS units. The flexibility in rigging options means you can set up the kayak to suit your exact needs. Plus, the open space makes it much easier to organize your gear and keep it accessible—whether it’s in a milk crate, a specialized tackle box, or any other storage solution.
However, many people in colder climates have concerns about getting wet in a sit-on-top kayak, especially when the weather is chilly. From my experience, though, I don’t find myself getting wetter in a SOT kayak than I would in a canoe. It’s all about how you position yourself and manage the boat in different conditions.
A potential drawback of SOT kayaks is their weight. Because they don’t have a cockpit (the cut-out area where you would typically sit), they tend to be heavier than other types of kayaks. Some manufacturers offer composite SOT kayaks, which are lighter but come with a higher price tag. It’s a trade-off that you’ll need to consider when choosing the best kayak for your needs.
Sit-Inside Kayaks (SIK)
Sit-inside kayaks (SIKs) offer a more traditional design, where you sit inside the kayak at the water level. These kayaks are known for their stability and ability to handle open waters, making them a popular choice for touring and long-distance paddling. While they’re not as commonly used for fishing as sit-on-top kayaks, SIKs can still be rigged for fishing with some creativity and modifications.
One of the main advantages of SIKs is their sleek, streamlined design, which tends to be faster and more efficient on the water. However, because the market for fishing-specific SIKs is smaller, anglers will often need to improvise to make them fishing-ready. Rod holders can be mounted to the cockpit or on the deck, but finding convenient places to store gear, like tackle boxes or bait wells, can require a bit more ingenuity.
Wiring for fish finders is another challenge with SIKs. Since the kayak’s interior space is more enclosed, running wires to the necessary locations can be tricky. That said, it’s definitely possible to make it work, especially with some thoughtful planning. Many anglers use waterproof containers for tackle and rig their kayaks with custom storage solutions to make sure everything stays organized and within reach.
Landing large fish from a SIK can also be more difficult due to the lower seating position and enclosed design. However, if the shore is close by, you can always paddle over and land the boat to finish fighting the fish safely. Despite these challenges, many anglers have successfully caught fish from a touring kayak with minimal modifications, making the sit-inside kayak a viable option for those who prefer its design and performance.
Hybrid Kayaks
Hybrid kayaks are a blend between traditional kayaks and canoes, designed to offer the best of both worlds. These kayaks typically feature a large open deck space, providing ample room for gear, tackle, and other fishing essentials. One of the key advantages of hybrid kayaks is their exceptional stability, making them an ideal choice for anglers who prioritize comfort and security on the water.
A great example of a hybrid kayak is the NuCanoe. These boats are known for their incredible stability, which is particularly beneficial for anglers who need a steady platform for casting, reeling in fish, or even standing while fishing. The added stability also makes hybrid kayaks popular for other outdoor activities, like hunting, where a steady craft is essential.
One of the biggest trade-offs with hybrid kayaks is that they tend to sacrifice some of the streamlined characteristics of a traditional kayak. This can make them slower and less agile in the water compared to more traditional designs. However, the increased stability and room for gear make them highly attractive to anglers who value comfort and stability over speed.
Another benefit of hybrid kayaks is the ability to add a trolling motor, providing extra power for longer trips or when you need to cover larger areas of water. Many hybrids also come with comfort-focused features like swivel seats, which are a game-changer for anglers who spend long hours on the water. These seats allow for greater mobility and a more comfortable fishing experience, especially for extended trips.
Useful Kayak Fishing Tips
If you’re thinking about getting started with fishing from a kayak, the first thing to consider is whether you actually enjoy kayaking. If you’re not keen on kayaking, then kayak fishing might not be the right fit for you. However, if you’re open to the idea or already enjoy paddling, kayak fishing can offer a unique and rewarding experience. Before jumping in, it’s a good idea to test paddle as many different boats as possible to find the one that suits you best.
Where Can You Get More Kayak Fishing Tips?
A great way to learn more about kayak fishing is by attending a demo day or visiting a local kayak shop. These events are perfect for getting hands-on experience with various kayak models and accessories. You can also talk to the sales staff, who are often experienced kayak anglers themselves. They can offer insights into the gear they use, how they set up their kayaks, and what works best for different types of fishing.
Additionally, many seasoned kayak anglers have unique setups and are eager to share their stories and experiences. Don’t hesitate to ask them about their favorite gear, the modifications they’ve made, or the fishing techniques they swear by. This real-world advice can help you avoid mistakes and optimize your kayak fishing setup.
Most Importantly: Have Fun!
At the end of the day, the most important aspect of kayak fishing is to have fun. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, fish in remote locations, and challenge yourself. Don’t worry too much about having the perfect kayak or all the latest accessories. If you prefer to keep it simple, that’s perfectly fine. But, if you enjoy customizing your kayak, go ahead and trick it out like a bass boat—just remember, it’s all about enjoying the experience! Whether you’re casting from a simple setup or a fully loaded kayak, the key is to have fun and embrace the adventure.
Original Article By Scott Locorini
About The Author
Scott Locorini has been a guide and paddle sports instructor for 20 years. He owns and operates Adirondack Exposure and Black River Valley Outdoors based in Old Forge, NY and Lyons Falls, NY. Stop by the Adirondack Exposure store in Old Forge for your kayak fishing needs and installations, and check out their website at www.adirondackexposure.com
