“Professional” anglers always have the best, latest and greatest fishing equipment available. If you browse any retail outlet for fishing gear you will find tons of items ranging from inexpensive (cheap) to OMG are you kidding! The question is how much should I spend on gear. I personally use the KISS theory, “Keep It Simple Stupid”. Here I am talking about bay and back water fishing for redfish, snook, trout, flounder etc. When outfitting your kayak with basic rod holders, three is plenty, two to hold rods behind you while paddling and one forward, to place your rod in while fishing are typically enough. Rear rod holders can be PVC pipe zip tied to a milk crate or flush mounted on the kayak. A forward rod holder can be mounted in whatever manner and location your kayak allows and you choose. Visit your local kayak shop and the people there are happy to show you what is available.
Anchor methods include anchor trolleys, stick pins, drift socks or just simply a small 3-5 pound anchor and 15 feet of 1/4 inch rope. A small tackle bag is all you really need. I see folks carry enough tackle on a kayak to fish for a month and often wonder why. Choose the minimum tackle, pair of pliers (multi tool works great), fish grabber and a rag. If you are going to keep fish a cooler in the summer months is a must, a stringer will work when the water temp is less than 70. Carry a small trash bag to put your fish in then put them in your cooler. Less fish smell in the bag and your sandwich or snacks don’t stink.
What rod and reel outfit is best? The one that you can afford is the answer. I will not attempt to debate brand names or models. Adescent spinning outfit can be purchased for under $100.00. Yes, there are the 10 stainless ball bearing reels and the graphite rods that cost hundreds and work very well. Just a note about purchasing used equipment. Unless you know the seller or have a good grasp on the condition/quality I would steer away from used equipment. I have never had a fish complain that it was caught on a less expensive rig. Maintain your gear by gently spraying off your equipment and keep it lubricated.
As to what tackle is needed depends on how you want to fish. Good stainless steel hooks are a must have for bait fishing. 1/8 or 1/4 ounce split shot weights are good to hold bait down in flowing water. I make my own leaders out of 20# fluorocarbon or monofilament line, about 2 feet long. A couple of rattle floats to work bait near the surface. Twist lock hooks are perfect for weedless use of soft plastic baits. As for lures a couple of floating top water baits for the early morning or late evening fishing. A couple of spoons, silver and gold, are go to type lures. Keep your tackle in a small waterproof tackle bag or Plano boxes. Ask around for types of bait, there are hundreds to choose from. I have found that if several fishermen mention the same bait it’s a good bet that it works.
Good luck on the fishing. Safe and happy paddling.
Todd Terrill is a pro staff Native kayak guide for West Wall Boatworks and owner of FishnFunKayaks. You can reach Todd at FishnFunKayaks.com or WestWallBoatworks.com
[easy-social-share]