You must rig your kayak correctly if you’re planning on kayak fishing.
The best way to rig your kayak for fishing is to focus on the equipment that directly affects your success and eliminate unnecessary add-ons.
This article will cover setting up a grab-and-go kayak, installing a vertical rod holder, and adding a fish finder.
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Setting up a grab-and-go kayak
The first step in setting up a grab-and-go kayak is to ensure that you have a sturdy anchor line. This will keep your kayak anchored and close to your target.
It will also save you from getting bogged down in deep water. You can get an anchor trolley that has a lockable cleat that keeps your anchor line from getting loose.
Once your anchor line is ready, you can set up your kayak for fishing. You’ll want to install an anchor line reel, which keeps it tidy and prevents tangles.
The reel should be able to wind itself around a simple winder, or you can use an empty rope spool.
When setting up your grab-and-go kayak for fishing, keep in mind the conditions on the lake. Small, light boats are vulnerable to current and wind, so they should be anchored properly.
Be sure to check the shoreline for any powerboats. You can also put your cell phone and GPS in a waterproof bag to ensure you can access them in an emergency.
After setting up the anchor, you can store your fishing gear in the back of your kayak. You can use an anchor pole if you plan to fish in shallow water.
This can be found for less than $10 in hardware stores. You can also purchase an anchor trolley if you’d prefer.
Setting up your kayak is an essential step in getting into kayak fishing. It will increase the safety of your kayak and help you catch more fish.
It is also important to get the proper fishing gear, so check out your options when setting up your kayak.
There are many different pieces of equipment that you’ll need to set up your kayak.
Once you’ve set up your kayak, you need to know the conditions and the type of fish you’re targeting.
This will help you adjust your fishing tactics and minimize energy consumption. Also, make sure you choose a spot with clear water. Fishing from a kayak will help you relax and have fun.
Adding accessories
Adding accessories to your kayak can make fishing easier. Whether you’re fishing in calm waters or braving the strong currents, there are kayak accessories to suit your needs.
There are several options for mounting your gear, from rod holders to tackle boxes. Most of these accessories have mounting bases that attach to the kayak’s deck with bolts.
The mounting bases often come with backing plates that make swapping out your gear for fishing easier.
The first thing you should know about kayak fishing accessories is that they vary in price and quality. Some are relatively inexpensive, while others cost hundreds of dollars.
It’s best to wait until you’ve had a couple of trips to use your kayak before adding accessories. That way, you can test your gear to make sure it fits before attempting to weld it to the kayak.
Another important kayak fishing accessory is a paddle leash. These leashes are inexpensive and can secure your paddle while in the water.
Paddles should be secure to prevent them from floating around the boat and being accidentally dropped. Also, you should invest in outdoor-ready storage to keep all your essentials dry and safe.
For example, a small dry bag can hold your cell phone, and a Visicarbon pole with a flag can help you be seen. If you’re planning on paddling at night, you can also invest in a flag with a lighted top.
You can also add a GPS unit to your kayak. GPS units help you locate the location of fish while you’re on the water.
Besides a GPS unit, a fish finder can help you find the best fishing spots in the water. And, if you want to add a GPS unit to help you navigate, you can buy one that works with your kayak’s gear track.
Rod holders are another great kayak accessory. These accessories can be flush-mounted or swivel-mounted. Besides holding your fishing rods, they can also hold your other fishing equipment.
A fishing net and a fish ruler can also be mounted in these holders.
Setting up a vertical rod holder
A rod holder can make fishing easier by ensuring that your fishing rods are secure and organized. It also helps preserve the performance and life of your rods by reducing rod breakage.
Various rod holders are available, including those attached to live wells. But you should use them with care and caution.
If you leave your rods inside, they will break easily, costing you additional money to repair.
The best way to install a rod holder is to first measure the depth of the kayak’s seat well.
Typically, you’ll need about four to six inches of clearance. You can use bungees or leashes to attach the rods to the holder.
Be careful when installing vertical rod holders, as they can break or be pulled over by fish.
If you’re not experienced with drilling, you can buy a molded plastic rod holder or a two-inch PVC cable to mount your rods.
Once you’ve attached the rod holders, you need to use RTV to seal the hole.
Vertical rod holders are great for fishing because they provide an easy way to carry your rods.
They typically fit four to six rods and can be mounted in front of or behind the seat.
Rod holders should be attached with rust-proof lock nuts or pop rivets, and the holder’s base should be coated with silicone to prevent rust.
If you’re using a kayak for fishing, you might consider using flush-mounted rod holders. However, the kayak must have a stern storage compartment to use this rod holder.
If it doesn’t have a stern storage compartment, you can try installing an extra kayak tackle box or cooler bag on top of the rod holder.
Alternatively, you can build your kayak rod holder from PVC. These rod holders are cheaper than pre-made versions and can be made in multiples.
This way, you can have several rod holders on your kayak for fishing without spending much money. Furthermore, you can use them as backups if your kayak gets damaged.
Adding a fish finder
Adding a fish finder to your kayak is relatively simple. The device consists of a transducer that sends a signal through the water.
Many kayaks have thin hulls to allow the transducer to sit flush with the kayak’s bottom. They may also have hatches or scuppers that make connecting the device easier.
A fish finder may not be necessary for all situations, but it can help you identify where to look for fish.
The device will allow you to see how deep the bait fish are and where structures are located. Fish finders can even help you avoid snags.
A fish finder is a great way to make fishing in a kayak more enjoyable. However, it is essential to know which features are most beneficial for you.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the options, so choose a fish finder that’s easy to use and meets your fishing style.
The first step in adding a fish finder to a kayak is deciding where to mount it. You can either mount it on the gear track or a factory-installed bracket.
Center console kayaks may allow flush mounting, which is a good option because it doesn’t take up much space and protects the display from moisture.
If you decide to use a flush mount, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that the transducer is flush with the water level for the best signal.
After you have done this, you can start installing the fish finder.
A fish finder with preloaded maps is an essential tool when exploring new waters. With an accurate depth measurement, you can easily find the presence of fish and other animals.
The device will also provide you with a clear picture of underwater structures. It’s also helpful if you plan on fishing in areas that have contour maps.
Most fish finders come with a mount. If you plan to use a fish finder in a kayak for fishing, you should choose a mount that fits your kayak’s deck.
Some kayaks may not have enough room for the supplied mount, so consider buying an aftermarket mount.