Going fishing is a relaxing pastime beloved by Australians that is not only fun but can also result in a tasty feed when you’re finished. A fishing kayak allows you to get out on the water quickly and quietly without scaring away any fish, but compared to a boat, kayaks don’t have the same storage and leg space as a fishing boat.
This is where fishing kayak customisation comes into play. Fishing kayaks are ripe for tailoring and modifying to suit your individual needs and desires, but how do you decide what you really need and what’s a luxury you can possibly go without?
Today, we’ll dive into some of our favourite tips and tricks for creating the ideal fishing kayak setup, with four useful alterations we think will take your fishing expedition to the next level.
What Is A Fishing Kayak?
If you love to fish or kayak but have never thought to combine the two, here is your chance! Fishing kayaks are designed with stability in mind, allowing you to stand in some models and cast your line, reel in your catch and store your fishing gear without worrying about capsizing.
Fishing kayaks can come in single or tandem designs in case you want to fish with family or a friend, and will be designed for long periods of sitting comfortably, with a comfortable seat and plenty of leg room, as well as gear storage and rod holders that’ll keep your hands free while you wait for fish to take your bait. You can use them with a paddle, leg pedal drive system or even a small motor to get around!
Now that you know the basic features of a fishing kayak, here are a few fun ways you can customise them to suit your personal kayaking and fishing style.
Tip 1: Maximise Your Storage
While fishing kayaks will come with more storage than your average kayak, maximising your onboard storage will allow you to carry all the little gadgets and accessories that can make fishing much more successful and satisfying.
Mesh covers over your storage spaces will allow you to store more gear without worrying about it all tipping into the water. These will function like a cockpit cover but allow you to see through and decide what you need without undoing the cover.
If your fishing kayak doesn’t have suitable rod holders, make sure you add some! It will free up a lot of space in your kayak and make it feel a lot less cluttered. If your fishing kayak doesn’t have rod holders, you’ll need to add them either as clamp-in or screw-in variety. You can also add a universal kayak track that can hold compatible rods and other accessories. Do not try to make holes in your kayak that your rods can sit in!
Paddle holders are another must-have to give yourself more room in your fishing kayak, as they will keep your paddle secure when not in use. Many can be clipped onto your kayak or may just be as simple as a cord you use to keep the paddle attached to the kayak as you float.
Tip 2: Use a Fish Finder
Fish finders are one of the most useful devices to have with you on the water, and do more than just help you locate fish. Fish finders usually scan either to the side of your fishing kayak or straight down below it, giving you clear images of the topography, vegetation and, most excitingly, the fish within! Knowing the topography can also help prevent you from running aground or damaging your kayak from any hidden debris or obstacles underwater.
When installing a fish finder onto your fishing kayak, make sure you place it somewhere that is easy for you to see but where it also won’t get in your way. You’ll need to attach a battery somewhere nearby so that the wires can reach it without tangling around your feet. Consider a waterproof case or coating for the battery to keep it safe from water damage. Your battery may be heavy too, so ensure it is installed in a section where it won’t unbalance your kayak!
Tip 3: Keep It Comfortable
You’ll be sitting in your fishing kayak for many hours at a time, so it’s imperative that you make it as ergonomically comfortable as possible. This involves the seat, but also creating potential support for your legs as well.
The in-built seats of fishing kayaks will be designed with your comfort in mind, but you can take it a step further by adding a framed seat to provide extra support and comfort. Whichever seating you choose, make sure it is at least slightly comfortable!
Knee or leg support can also make sitting down for extended periods in your fishing kayak more comfortable. These will let you rest your legs against a surface that is a little nicer than the cold, hard sides of your kayak, as well as support the natural bend in your legs at the knee, rather than having to support them yourself.
Ensure you are dressed for the weather conditions, have adequate UV protection and plenty of water and nourishment for your intended trip.
Need high-quality kayak seats? Check out the range of kayak seats at PaddleZone!
Tip 4: Anchor Yourself
You’ll want to install some sort of anchor system that will prevent you from drifting with the tide unless that’s what you intend, but how do you choose one that won’t also cause your kayak to flip?
The most common type of anchor is a grapple anchor, which is more like the more traditional anchors you’d see on a ship. Grapple anchors are shaped like grappling hooks and are best used in deeper water. If they come out of the side of your fishing kayak, there is a chance they’ll pull it over and capsize you, so it’s always best to attach them to either the front or the back of your vessel.
Find The Perfect Fishing Kayak At PaddleZone
Source: PaddleZone Viking Profish GT
Before you can start adding customisations, you’ll need to find the perfect fishing kayak–and at PaddleZone, our wide range of quality fishing kayaks makes it easy to find the ideal vessel for your next adventure!
If you have any further questions regarding fishing kayaks, please get in touch using our online message form. With over 23 years in the kayaking business, we are happy to put our extensive knowledge to good use to help you find the perfect kayak for your next adventure!
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