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Yaktivities

I, like most Americans, pretty much have the attention span of a puppy in a race car. Yakking is my favorite outdoor activity(or yaktivity), but I like to change it up with new locations, different yaks, and different herds.  One of my favorite things to do is combine my love of wetting a line with yakking.  For a first timer, I recommend trying it out on the slower moving streams and lakes. There you will be traveling mostly at a snail’s pace.  Without being rushed, you can focus on your casting technique and learn how land a fish while staying balanced in your yak.  Even if you are a seasoned fisherman, combining a moving vessel while sitting and casting can make a for a challenging experience.  

Kayaks and Fishing

You can fish out of any yak, but some are better equipped than others.  Most brands of yaks, whether it’s a sit-on-top or a sit-in, usually have an angler edition model.  Even the cheaper angler edition yaks usually come standard with rod holders and small anchors.  The more expensive models may even come with built in line cutters, fish finder mounts, paddle drives, tackle boxes, and even compartments for rod storage.  While these kayaks can easily exceed $1000, it may be the perfect investment for you!  Though they are more expensive than a standard yak, they are still much cheaper than a boat, motor, battery, etc.  A good marine battery by itself can easily exceed $100.  If you plan on using a yak primarily for fishing, a sit-on-top yak may be the right choice for you.  They have increased stability and most allow you stand up and that lends to better and more accurate casting.  You may even find yourself on saltwater throwing a cast net and catching your own bait!  How accessorized your yak can be just depends on your wallet.   

Kayak Fishing Gear

No matter what yak you decide to take fishing, you’re not going to catch anything without a hook in the water.  In order to make that happen, you will need to have the right gear to ensure success.  One bit of advice is to wear a PFD that lends itself to fishing.  You want one that has multiple pockets to hold your tackle. When the fish are biting more than a angry two year old on the playground, there’s nothing more aggravating than trying to find a sinker rolling around in your yak. You can find a few great ones in the area to the right of the article. It’s a good idea to carry a fishing net because landing a fish may turn out to be quite a challenge in a seated position.  Also, consider the length of your rods.  When you are carrying multiple rods, they will be sticking straight up in your yak causing them to be easily snagged on tree limbs or whatever brush you find on the water.   This can be a problem particularly on small and fast moving streams.  Personally, I like to use small rods that are normally used for ice fishing. You will also want to use good sealable and floatable containers if you’re using live bait… otherwise you may find crickets somewhere you don’t want to.  There are endless options when it comes to gear and fishing, but over time you will figure out what is best for you!