In recent years, a lot of people have shown a keen interest in kayak fishing. These days, kayaks can be easily bought at affordable prices. In fact, you can even buy them online. If you’re interested in kayak fishing, you need to know more about some must have kayak fishing supplies.
There are certain accessories which can enhance your overall fishing experience. In this post, we’ve discussed some of the most important kayak fishing supplies you need to own. We have divided this post into a Must Have list and good to have list.
Having those supplies will make sure you enjoy each and every moment of the kayak fishing experience.
Make Sure You always have a Life Jacket on.
Must Have Kayak Fishing Supplies
Fishing Rod & Bait
Without these two you will have to actually stand on the river bank and catch some fish by hand. Or If you are feeling more sporty take a pointed wooden stick and try hitting the fish :). Actually it should not have been mentioned as the first thing that comes to mind when you go fishing is a rod with a reel and something to attract fish.
Bait is something that attracts fish and hence can be natural or man made (commonly known as lures). You can check out popular baits / lures here.
Also Check out top fishing rods on amazon here.
Tackle Box
If you like to carry spare reels, baits etc. It makes sense to keep them at one place. This is where a typical Tackle Box comes in. A basic Tackle box is a great addition and must have for your fishing supplies.
Good to Have Supplies
Anchor
If you’re planning freshwater fishing in your kayak, an anchor is an important accessory. The ability to hold your position can make or break a fishing day. Kayak anchors are available in small collapsible styles. The rounded mushroom shape is most popular among kayak fishing enthusiasts. You can use a trolley system like the one used for a drift chute to position yourself according to the currents or winds.
It is worth mentioning that you should never drop an anchor in an ocean. It can quickly turn dangerous. In case the anchor gets trapped, wild ocean waves can pull the kayak under water. For open ocean water, drift chutes are a much better choice. An anchor should only be used in freshwater.
Drift Chute
A high quality drift chute can turn a frustrating fishing day into one of the most successful fishing trips. When winds are blowing very fast, you can deploy the drift chute to slow down the kayak. This gives you some time to present the baits any way you want.
Another excellent way to use a drift chute is to catch tidal movement, and propel the kayak on a drift. In case the winds aren’t moving a lot, but there’s a significant tidal change, you can fill the drift chute to move the kayak along.
Stake Out Pole
Unlike a drift chute or anchor, a stake out pole should be used in only shallow water. Stake out poles are available in a lot of different materials. However, the basics remain the same.
These poles have a pointed tip with a long shaft. This allows you to easily stick the pole into the sand or mud to hold the kayak in place. If you’re planning to fish in shallow water, the pole is more convenient for staying put.
Fish Gripper
In most cases, fish grippers are used for just catch and release. They allow you to safely grab the fish by its lower jaw. This allows you to properly control the fish without causing any harm. A fish gripper is one of the must have kayak fishing supplies.
Gaffs
Gaffs are quite easy to use and understand. These are giant hooks for sticking in the fish. You can use some tips for safe and accurate gaffing. It is always better to buy a gaff handle about 30 inches or more.
This allows you to create leverage and speed while striking the fish. Shorter can also work well, and some people even find them more preferable. But some extra reach is always better with stubborn or large fish.
Paddle Leash
When paddle leash is tied up to a basic ring on your seat or on a pad eye, it can prevent the paddle from getting away from you. Thus, even if you’re fighting a big fish, you won’t experience any major problems.
Fish Finders
As the name suggests, fish finders are perfect for catching the fish. These devices have been excellent improvements for kayak fishing. Fish finders can be bought at reasonable prices online. Your budget will determine the type and range of the fish finder. Although not a necessity but it sure helps you save that time :).
A Bait Tank
A bait tank is very important for big fish hunters to keep your bait alive and kicking. When it comes to kayak fishing tournaments, bait tanks are perfect to keep the fish and other bait alive for weighings.
Seat Cushions / Seats
A comfortable seat or a seat cushion is your best friends in a kayak. Sometimes, you may have to spend a lot of time in the kayak before you finally catch a fish. In such situations, a seat cushion can help you stay comfortable and keep your back strain free. You can even adjust it according to your height and weight. Just make sure you purchase a cushion made from a high quality, soft material.If you are looking for one, check out the seat cushions on amazon.
Rod Leash
A rod leash can be the perfect kayak fishing supply to keep your gear in your possession much longer. Fumbling or flipping over gear can be quite expensive if the rod leashes are unable to hold your fishing rods properly in place.
Game Clip
Last but not the least, game clips are one of the must have kayak fishing supplies. They are used to secure a fish to the kayak. When it comes to large fish like White Seabass, Yellowtail or Big Halibut, you can use the game clip to keep the fish restrained. The game clip can also act as a handy stringer. When you’re not holding the fish, a game clip can also act as an anchor.
What do you think ? Do let us know by commenting below.
