Kayak Fishing
September 8, 2008
Being “boat-less” does not have to be a handicap. Fishing from a kayak is not hard and I’ve found that “slow-down bassing” kayak style can provide lessons in angling that you can 
take to the bank…literally. One of the all world pro fishermen, Gary Klein, started out fishing four to five days a week from shore – as you are no doubt aware, Klein parlayed the knowledge gained into a career.
In this day and time some of us (maybe many of us) aren’t lucky enough to own a boat, or maybe we can’t afford the gas at four bucks a copy. Don’t despair - catching fish is easy when you have a Kayak, and my favorites are the models from Ocean Kayak.
I offer the following as arguments for gel coat-free fishing:
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California’s Gil Rowe holds the world record (9.4) for spotted bass. That record bass was just one of the 60 spots weighing five-plus pounds that Rowe landed from shore.
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By wading, kayaking, or utilizing a float tube, the low profile will allow an angler to make casts well beneath overhanging tree limbs, or under and past otherwise impenetrable walls of trees – spots inaccessible from the deck of a boat.
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When fishing from shore, the lack of mobility can force you to fish each cove and pocket more thoroughly.
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Of the three methods kayaks are the stealthiest way I have found to catch more fish. I personally favor the Ocean Kayak Big Game Prowler and have enjoyed playing a part in bringing a whole line of custom bassin’ accessories to the industry (www.kayak-charters.com).
Take careful note of the clues the shoreline yields - type of baitfish or terrestrials that are present. Compensate for your lack of mobility by forcing yourself to be a more efficient and thorough angler. Since kayak fishing places a premium on being able to see what lays beneath the surface, I also emphasize the need for quality-polarized sunglasses.
Newcomers should remember that fishing from a kayak means being 100% exposed to the elements - dress for success! I suggest wearing light or camouflage-colored, quick drying clothing to keep cool and to avoid detection.
Kayaks have limited space, so carry a light load and use quality gear since kayak fishing limits the amount of tackle you can have on hand. Take only the most essential tackle and lures. With a little forethought you’ll discover that the Ocean Kayak line-up has ample storage areas and more than enough room for fishing gear.
Most kayak anglers benefit from using 6½ to 7-foot rods and I’ve found reels with either a wide or a long-cast spool for maximum casting distance to be most effective. When fishing from a kayak, the length of your cast can be a hindrance. The farther you can cast in certain situations will dictate your success in finding fish.