Fishing offshore from a kayak is fun and exciting. Landing a large game fish from a 13 foot kayak is what dreams are made of, but launching and landing in the surf or paddling through an inlet can be a nightmare. âWe had a guy walk in the shop, soaking wet, and looking like he had just lost his best friend. He told us he was fishing offshore, and on his way in he flipped. He lost 2 rods, reels and the rest of his gear,â Mike Beck owner of Kayaks etc. recalls.
Most anglers taking to kayaks these days arenât surf kayakers, but a little instruction can make your day of offshore kayak fishing much more enjoyable, and youâll go out more than just on those glassy days. Here are a few tips to get you offshore safely:
- At the inlets watch your tides- slack is best because waves will be minimal; if you have to launch with an out going tide, then return on an incoming tide.
- On the beach, know the local wave patterns- talk to locals.
- Hit the waves straight and paddle hard into them; donât get sideways to the waves.
- Always wear a proper fitting PFD.
- Carry signaling devices, a whistle (required) and a mirror as minimum. Flares are a good idea in case of an emergency.
- Keep an eye on the sky â weather changes quickly around here, and you do not want to be caught off shore in a thunder storm.
- Properly secure you gear just in case you do flip â paddle/rod leashes can keep your gear safe.
- If launching directly from the beach, store your rods inside your boat.
- Keep it simple â carry what you need, not everything you have.
- Know your limits â donât pull an old man and the sea. A fish could tow you pretty far and tire you out; remember you still need to paddle back to shore.
- Donât forget hydration and nutrition- for every hour on the water plan 1 quart of fluid with electrolyte replacements, and about a 100 calorie snack.
- Take a lesson from an experienced and qualified instructor.
Qualified instructors have years of experience, and are happy to share this knowledge with their students. Call your area kayak shops and ask if they give lessons on launching in the surf.
Watch the footage of Captain Alex Gorichky, Coastal Angler Magazine contributor, paddling out of Port Canaveral, FL, on a rough day. It gets rough out there, even for an experienced pro!
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