A kayak is a vehicle to get off the shore or get to a place not accessible from shore, just like any other boat. Like every other boat, there are compromises. A kayak brings portability, lower expense, and a different, more connected type of fishing to the fold. They aren't for everyone, but for many they work well. I'll always have a few kayaks to fish from. The last ten years, models designed for fishing are quite good at it.