It’s time to fall back in love with kayaking
There is no doubt that sales of new kayaks are down. However, that does not mean that interest in the sport is waning or that there are no new folks getting in. Many factors play into the current slump, with none being more prevalent than the after-effects of the Covid pandemic. In early 2020, people were searching for ways to escape the depressing constraints of mandates for mask-wearing and social-distancing. Turning to outdoor activities was a natural fit. Kayak fishing became a popular choice as it provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, solitude and exercise. This combined as a safe and fun outdoor experience. Kayak sales went through the roof and depleted inventories across the nation. Sales would have been even higher but for the manufacturing shutdowns and other supply chain issues.
Fishing kayaks were a major growth trend in recreational fishing over the last decade, the sales surge seen in 2020 was also buoyed by the unfortunate resurgence of the virus in 2021. Now, a few years later, sales have fallen because so many bought their new kayak during the pandemic, and if taken care of, a quality kayak has a long life span. Many folks purchased a new kayak for fishing but may find they are not using it as much as they thought. There is no better time than now to get back on the water and experience the thrill and excitement that is inherent in kayak fishing.
Keep it simple
Once considered a minimalist sport, many kayaks today are a far cry from a basic plastic boat and a paddle. Many are tricked out with the latest electronics, pedal systems, livewells and an arsenal of rods and lures. The latest trend for many is the addition of motors. Electric trolling motors specifically designed for kayaks can be as simple as a twist grip tiller all the way up to Spot-Lock GPS technology.
This is not a bad thing, but not necessary to have a productive and exciting day of fishing. Embrace the “keep it simple” philosophy as you build your kayak fishing experience. Over time, you can figure out what you want to enhance your personal style of fishing.
Get a quality PFD that provides both safety and comfort. Wearing an ill-fitting, cumbersome PFD while sitting in a kayak can make you miserable. Get one that doesn’t inhibit sitting or casting.
Bring one or two rods, a single box of your favorite lures, a pliers for cutting lines and unhooking fish, and a landing net. With these basics, you are set to bring some fish to your kayak. A cooler is also a necessity if you plan to take any home for dinner.
Stay close
For most people, there is no need to make long paddle trips to find successful fishing spots. Necessarily limited by their human-powered propulsion, kayak fishermen have learned that excellent fishing can often be found near and even within sight of many launches. Without the ability to travel long distances, kayak fishermen concentrate on waters with easy access and, usually, little fishing pressure. Remember, fish do not know where the boat launch is.
Increase your odds
If you are an experienced fisherman, but just not from a kayak, there is not a lot you have to change. Casting and fighting a fish from a seated position is a bit different, but easy to master. Your favorite lures still do the trick. If you are a new angler, pick lures that do not require technical presentations to be effective. Spoons and spinnerbaits are some of the simplest to use. Literally casting and retrieving oftentimes catches fish. Weedless varieties are great if you are fishing areas with lots of submerged vegetation. Simple twitches of the rod or changes in retrieve speeds enhance presentation and often induce a strike.
A popping cork with a jighead/plastic tail combination is one of the simplest ways to catch a fish. Similar to a topwater chug lure — cast, pop, repeat. This is a great search bait to locate fish. Be sure to cast in every direction around the kayak before moving on.
Bass certainly are one of the easiest fish to catch. Common across the state, they provide great opportunities for kayak anglers of all skill levels. Virtually any coastal fish encountered will eat a dead shrimp. Whether under a popping cork or on a bottom rig, if the goal is to catch something, dead shrimp is the ticket.
Find a friend (or two)
One of the exciting factors of kayak fishing is that you are the captain, deckhand and angler all rolled into one. However, kayak fishing allows anglers to fish together, but apart. What’s the fun of catching your personal best if there is no one there to share the excitement with?
Kayak anglers are generally a different breed. Passionate about the sport, they work hard to let others know how much fun it is. They regularly share fishing tips, rigging advice and, yes, some even share fishing locations. Fishing together is also good safety practice. Though you are literally not in the same boat, help is usually close by in case it is needed.
Social media is a big part of the kayaking community. Through Facebook and a multitude of internet forums and websites, kayak anglers meet and stay connected with others in their immediate area, around the country — even around the world. They often meet up with other ’yakers to share fishing adventures.
Many areas have local kayak fishing clubs. Whether it is for organized tournaments or friendly get-togethers, joining a club is one of the best ways to get the most out of your kayak fishing adventures. Most clubs are especially accommodating to newbie kayak anglers. The most rewarding aspect of joining a kayak club is the friends you are sure to make.
Now is the time to dust of your kayak and get out there. The weather is warming and great springtime fishing is here.
