2. The information highway can lead you to some pretty secluded waters too.
While cruising the Internet, if you phrase the questions properly when you
search, you can find enough information to quickly overwhelm you. Often
you'll find that kayak fishing clubs have already been established in your area,
kayak fishing guide services are available to take you to your target species,
and discussion forums are buzzing with curious folks like you, as well as
seasoned veterans sharing advice. All of these things are available to you
long before you ever buy a kayak.
3. Will you be fishing fresh water, salt water, farm ponds, huge lakes, slow
moving rivers, offshore, warm water, or cold water, launching through the
surf, or from a dock, or a tiny opening in the shoreline, or a combination of
all of these ? Will you be content with taking minimal gear, or will you
sometimes want to take a family camping ? Start your journey with the
end in mind, and that will help narrow the list of choices.
4. This is battle of good and evil, so to speak. Longer kayaks are
normally faster than shorter ones. Wider kayaks are normally more
stable than narrower ones. Kayaks that have some "rocker"
(upswept bow) do well in waves and current but not as well on flat
water. Don't blame the manufacturers. Blame the laws of physics
that pertain to all things that float. Often, new paddlers realize that
the boat that seemed stable in the beginning soon appears to be
slow.
5. Most kayak anglers prefer the sit-on-top variety of kayak. This
allows them to easily add accessories, and also enables them
to get out and wade. However, this can be a wet ride at
times. So, some choose to fish from "cockpit" style kayaks,
which are basically a traditional sit-inside kayak with a much
larger cockpit opening. The cockpit boats are great when
fishing cold water, and can be a much drier ride.
6. Seek out a kayak shop in your area, ask some questions and advice, and take
a test paddle in as many kayaks as you can, even ones that you don't think
you'd like. Many kayak dealers will allow you to rent a kayak and then apply
all or part of that fee toward a new kayak. It's hard to make an informed
decision about what fishing kayak is best for you based on a short paddle or
simply the opinions of others. These dealers can often provide a class about
paddling technique as well.
7. How To Choose Best Fishing Kayak
My Adventure Story
Waterproof Sounder
Camping In The Wilderness
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Dirigo 106