Kayak fishing allows you to enjoy the complete experience of stalking your piscatorial prey. You are now on the fishes level, with all the excitement and satisfaction that it entails, coupled with the fact that you are creating a negligible impact on the environment. It really doesn’t take that much investment in time or money, and the returns are more than worth it. There is something incredibly satisfying about catching fish using nothing but your own muscles and mind. No expensive motors to fool with, no need for a trailer which needs to be licensed, and no polluting the water with non-degradable petroleum products.
What are fishing kayaks?
Fishing kayaks are designed a little differently from the standard formula of regular kayaks. Fishing kayaks are usually a bit wider for more stability. They have fittings for tie-downs, paddle holders, rod holders, and some even have a live box compartment. Other accessories like fish-finders can be attached on mounting points. Although fishing kayaks are made both as Sit On Top (SOT) and Sit Inside Kayak (SIK) models, the sit on top is the preferred style for most anglers. Sit on top kayaks offer easy entry and exit from the water, most gear is easily reached, and you sit a little higher in the water than in with sit-in kayaks.
Dangers associated with Kayak Fishing
Generally, kayak fishing is relatively safe, but there are some immediate risks which might be not in your mind when you hit the water at first. These risks have a wide range and need to be considered before pushing off the river bank.
Study the environment where you will be Fishing
You should have complete knowledge of the waters where you are going to kayak fishing. In case there are some deadly creatures in the water, you might end up being in the hospital.
What kind of insects will I be dealing with?
Insects like mosquitoes carry all kind of nasty diseases, not only that but they tend to creep people out, yikes! Bug spray may be one of the most essentials for kayakers.
Presence of deadly animals in the area
Sharks, snakes, beavers, alligators and some other mysterious creatures might be present in the environment where you are going to kayak. They might creep into kayaks in the worst case scenario. Learn to deal with these fearless animals and don’t let a good memory turn sour.
Presence of large boats or vessels in the area
Large lakes or open bodies of water tend to attract boaters. They create waves which are strong enough to capsize your kayak. It is paramount that you learn how to handle waves, not only lake but ocean waves as well, otherwise you will be swimming and your gear is more likely to go overboard. Before going to fish on a kayak, you must know how to handle the kayak.
Encountering rapids and rocks
Rough rapids are terrifying, mostly encountered in fast flowing rivers. Small rapids are manageable and downright fun if you are experienced. However, if you are inexperienced, even small rapids can be disastrous. These patches of swift water can dump you out of your kayak and put you against a rock. Stay away from rapids altogether when you start kayak fishing.
Check the weather
Before going out for kayak fishing, do check the weather. A sudden wind from either direction can putt you off target and you might end up getting lost at sea. Unexpected showers, hail storms, and massive waves are other weather-related dangers when you go for kayak fishing.
If you plan ahead and plan well, kayak fishing is safe. Now, go get outside on the water and enjoy!
