[dropcap]W[/dropcap]ell, after the January and February we have had, with up and down temperatures, snow and ice and missed days of school, all I have been thinking about is getting back on the water with more consistency. It has been hit or miss all winter, with some good days and some bad days on the water. But better times are coming…spring is getting ready to happen!
This time of year, I like to take one of those nasty days and hunker down in the garage and go through my kayak fishing gear. Since I can’t get out when I want, this time of year is always good to check your stuff, so when the better time comes you can be out catching fish.
I start from the bow and work my way back to the stern. Are my rod holders in good condition with all their parts? Does my anchor trolley need tightening? How is the rope on my anchor? Are my foot pegs still in good working order? I have a rudder on my fishing kayak, so I will make sure the action is smooth and check the stainless steel cables for any frays that might cause it not to work properly or even break when I need it. As you all know, nothing breaks unless you need it…that’s just the way things go.
With a little TLC and early season maintenance you can set yourself up for a great start to the kayak fishing season. One thing I think a lot of people overlook when they go over their gear for the upcoming season is checking over their life jacket. I feel that this is my most important piece of gear while I am fishing from my kayak. After you check, if it is time for a new one, replace and be safe.
A great replacement option is the new Ronny Fisher from Astral Buoyancy. This is their breakout PFD that takes them into the fishing world. This is a company owned and run by kayakers, so a lot of thought went into this PFD. The two main pockets are designed to serve as work platforms when unzipped, allowing you to get what you need without fumbling around with all the other stuff coming out of the pocket. There is also a knife tab sewn on the front for easy access.
The Ronny Fisher has a thin foam back with breathable mesh for those hot summer days on the water and, for more added comfort, the inside of the lifejacket is lined with mesh to help it breathe better while fishing in warmer conditions. There is a small tool holster located on the side of the jacket for easy storage of some of the smaller things you might want to have at the ready while fishing.
For added safety, the jacket has IR reflective piping, so in lower light conditions you are still visible. One of the coolest things about this new lifejacket is the built-in rain hood in the top collar. When stowed away you would never know it is there. But around the coast with those unpredictable showers that come up in the summertime, having a hood is essential. Another use for the hood could be sun protection for your head and neck.
The start of spring is a great time to look over your kayak fishing gear to make sure you are ready for the start of the fishing season. Just a little preventive maintenance now can save you from missing fishable days on the water. Don’t forget that the most important piece of gear you should make sure is in good repair is your lifejacket. If it is time to replace yours or you are looking to move up into a nicer fishing lifejacket, the Ronny Fishing is a great choice.
Stay safe on the water and catch some fish.