Any kayak fishermen out here?

[vermonsta]

Just picked up some kayaks for the family and my son and I plan on using ours for fishing and possibly hunting . First things first want to get set up for fishing. How do you have yours set up , did you buy everything or are you a DIYer? Any tips will be appreciated , waiting for the rain to stop so we can get out there and chase down some fish. Thanks, vermonstaa

[EvBouret]

What kind of fishing are you planning on? what kind of kayak do you have?

[BigDog]

Any kayak fishermen out here??? hmmmmmm

Does this answer your question?

[vermonsta]

Ev ,I've got a classic 13 from Wilderness systems. I havn't got in the water yet. There are a few small semi remote ponds that I'll be hitting this summer as well as the Dog river from Northfield to Montpelier and some of the Winnoski river as well primarily. Hope to get down to Mass. and hit the Merrimack/Parker river/Plum Island area as well as a few of the rivers in the Glouster (spelling) area for stripers. Not sure of the family vacation yet where or when but possibly on the coast of Maine . I've heard that the sit ons are better for fishing but figure I'll go with what I've got for now and if I get the bug upgrade in the future . Bigdog thats a good looking fish and a nice set up , how long have you been at it and are you on the left coast ? When I went to some sites most were located out west , saw a few in Fla and the Gulf coast but not too many on the upper East coast. I'm as green as green can be , I've kayaked on the ocean before and several lakes but never fished from one. I'm looking forward to giving it a shot so if you have any tips ,home built or recomendations of gear it will be appreciated. thanks, Vermonstaa

[BigDog]

Vermonsta, I have been fishing from kayaks for about 5 years now. Yes, I am on the west (left) coast, California. I fish up and down our coast, on inland lakes and in Baja. I have a feeling that up your way, there are a lot fewer of us. We think the water is cold over here and it is nothing like your water temps.
An excellent source for info is Kayak Fishing (http://www.kayakfishing.com) run by Dennis Spike who is one of the "odl timers" in kayak fishing.

I have my rig set up pretty good. I have sonar and GPS installed. I have 3 pole holders built into the boat and 2 more on the seat. I have an anchor system that will let me face either way in the current when anchored. When I get a good fish on, I can release the anchor. There is a float on the line so that I can find it when I come back.

Another good source for "how tos" is Kayaks tips (http://www.norcalkayakanlgers.com). Lots of good people use it and are more than willing to give you tips.

[SCREWLOOSE]

The best tip for yak fishing is clearly visible in BIGDOGS picture. THE VEST!!!!! Finding one that is comfortable when sitting for long periods of time. And allows casting from a sitting position are key.
The next best tip would be paddle tethers. These can be attached to you rod, tackle box, paddle or what ever you dont want to deep six. Wilderness systems has a line of SOTs that are very stable and designed for fishing. The 140 angler or the 160 angler. I bought one 140 each for my wife my son and myself. I do believe that I would have preferred a 160 for myself (more room for me and the choclate lab).
Your first trip out should be on still water. It is amazing how quickly you learn how far you can lean over the side of a yak. Usually the first time getting wet and losing you $150.00 graphite fishing pole will teach ya. Search for a good collapsible net. You may want to get two different sizes depending on what type of fish you are after. When fishing for crappie no net is needed, but a 12'' net is nice for trout and a 18" net or bigger for strippers is very helpfull.
When it comes to hunting a yak is the sleekest way to sneak up on ducks that are rafting up away from the shore. You can pick off birds as they come into or leave the raft. This is also a good reason to have WHITE paddles. When paddling they look like the underside of a ducks wing when they are taking off or landing. Also a white paddle is a good safety device. a boater may not see you in the water. But the flash of a white paddle may get his attention where as a dull colored or blue colored blade is not very visible.
Hope some of this helps.

[EvBouret]

Ive always used a milk crate with some pvc rod holders on the side, another pvc for a net. Keep all your fishing crap in the milk crate with a bungee net over the top. Paddle tether, small anchor with rope under the hatch. I've always thought the back rest is the most important item you buy. Dont skimp out and get a crappy one or you'll regret it. I've never used a vest, but I never go out farther than I could swim back in. This is in HAwaii too where they dont require life vests.