Kayaking is loads of fun–but fishing from your kayak is loads more fun! Why not combine your two favorite pastimes and do it all at once? Plenty of people are already kayak fishing. But you’ll need a “fishing” kayak if you want to truly enjoy your experience. Don’t know where to start? I’ll give you a hand.

Size Matters

The size of a kayak makes a great difference in how it performs in the water. Know that bigger isn’t always better. If you’re concerned with maneuverability and control, you’ll want an 11-footer or less. The compact kayaks are more suitable for streams and ponds. Larger kayaks give you the advantage of higher top speed, but they often prove too clumsy in smaller bodies of water. Bigger kayaks are ideal for lakes and the open ocean.

I believe width is just as important as length for a fishing kayak. Wider kayaks provide much greater stability and ease of handling, especially for newbies. If you can’t confidently navigate your kayak, you’ll have a hard time catching any fish.

Cargo Room Is Key

If you have any experience fishing at all, you know that there is quite a bit of gear to bring along. From line and lures to reels and rods, there’s much to pack for a serious fishing trip. You also need adequate space for your catch as well. A large cooler could easily max out your storage alone, so choose a kayak that will provide you with sufficient space for your needs.

How Do You Feel About Keel?

Known as the underside fin on the back of a kayak, the keel enhances maneuverability and agility. This option can make navigating large bodies of water much more efficient. However, keels have little use in a tiny pond or narrow river. How do you feel about keel?

Go With The Flow?

For open water kayak fishing, an anchor system provides many benefits. After finding a great fishing spot, you’d be able to stay put and focus on the actual fishing. On the other hand, many people prefer to drift with the current to see where it takes them. 

Paddle Or Pedal?

Prolonged paddling can be exhausting. That’s where pedal kayaks shine for fishing. Your arms and hands won’t be fatigued by paddling because your legs do all the work. Pedal kayaks would likely improve your fishing performance to some degree.

Sit In Or Sit On Top?

For easier access to your gear, a sit-on-top kayak comes out on top. Everything you need is basically within arm’s reach, and jumping out of the vessel when you need to would be far quicker. On the flipside, both you and your gear can fall out much more easily with sit-on-tops. Sit-ins provide dedicated storage in the cockpit area and a more secure and protected sitting space.

If you love kayaking on a hot summer afternoon, give kayak fishing a shot. It could either be one of the most serene or exhilarating experiences of your life. With the right kayak for your needs, you’re bound to have a good time while staying safe.