New To Kayak Fishing.

[cdunlapb12]

Just started fishing out of a sit on top kayak. It's not made for fishing, but I've repurposed it. I'm finding that getting to tackle and using multiple rods is difficult. Also fighting a paddle while trying to fish is a hassle. Any tips or accessories you guys know of that would help?

[Darren.]

A paddle holder of some sort would probably 

be of help. But most have to fight a paddle if

there's wind while you're fishing. Part of the game.

For me, I don't use my paddle much as I've 

motorized my yak.

 

Also maybe some rod-holders or if you have 

space for a milk crate you can make some

holders out of 1.5" PVC pieces and affix them

with zip ties to the crate.

 

It will take time for you to get used to fishing 

out of the yak. 

 

Consider posting a picture for us, too, so we 

can give you some ideas based on that.

[inrll]

The best thing is just to make sure you are using the wind to your advantage whenever possible. I will usually try to start on the up wind side of any bank I am working and let the wind be my trolling motor as I drift parallel to the bank. Even in a pedal kayak I do this because equates to more time fishing and less time positioning.

[DogBone_384]

Look at photos of dedicated fishing kayaks & just model your kayak like it, to your specifications. I have a FeelFree Lure 11.5 with anchor trolleys on both sides (1 x 3 pound claw anchor from BPS), a Lowrance Elite 4X, and an extra rod holder. Works great.

[KayakBasser]

As far as rod management the milk crate is a great start, but the more serious you get you may want to upgrade to a YakAttack Blackpack, it's defiantly worth the$$$.

[the reel ess]

I have fashioned an anchor system and bought an anchor. I never even take it. You get used to the wind. If it's bad enough, you have to use a heavier anchor anyway, which makes the experience a chore. As for the paddle, I just lay it across my lap. Sometimes I'll use the paddle with one hand to correct my position. My yak has a bungee on the side for holding the paddle, but it's not convenient to put in and take out. I made a milk crate/rod holder using PVC holders and zip ties to stow 3 rods , one small tackle box, etc. I have another flush-mount that I keep a rod in that's a little easier to get to. So I put the rod I think I'll need in there.

 

You just need to take advantage of your opportunity to cast to a target when you can. If you mess up that cast, you are already blown past it and have to do some work to get back. You could screw up your chances of getting a fish there by thrashing around. But you can use the wind like a trolling motor or you can go against it. Fighting against it gives you longer to cast to a particular target.

[kikstand454]

Attattching rod holders to a milk crate solves your tackle/rod issues.

For your paddle. ... I personally set mine across my lap most of the time. I have a big enough belly to hold it firmly. Another thing I do though, is my kayak has bungees on the bow, and I slide the blade of my paddle under them and it holds it securely down the length of my kayak. I do this as a more "long term" solution such as getting out, retying/ changing lures, unhooking a difficult fish, etc... Anytime I need to have both hands and not worry about where my paddle is.

Some people add a bungee across their bow and drill a hole through a foam golf ball to do this same thing.

[Rhino68W]

The biggest lesson I learned fishing from a kayak is How to use the wind as an advantage, instead of a nuisance. Imagine the wind is coming from the south, and you have many.coves and pockets. Look on a map and see what banks run north to south. Paddle to the southern tip of it and let the wind push you to the north. You'll find yourself fighting the wind less and simply adjusting your kayak slightly.

Also, eagle claw speed snaps helped me a lot. I only use them to switch out cranks, lipless cranks, and some topwater quickly. Be sure to remove the O-ring on crankbaits though.

[BASSIN IN OHIO]

This is my new Ride 115x with a cheap custom motor installation, Speed control is next to my  seat and steering is done with 2 retractable dog leashes. The cooler up front is modified to a bait holder with an airator. My lowrance is next to my seat and my crate is ready to go.My next step is electric steering, waiting for my motor and pulleys to come. Everything was easy but time consuming. First trip on the lake will be saturday. I hear it takes time to get your sea legs in a kayak.

[flyfisher]

Time out there will help but the advice given is right on.  Being in a kayak you are at a disadvantage in certain situations for sure but you learn to use them to your advantage.  Depending on the nature of the places you fish, I have found that a stakeout pole is the best investment I have bought for my kayak.  It allows me to hold position in water up to about 5' deep and doesn't take up much space in the kayak either.  I want to get an 8 or 10' one though as that will open up more areas I can use it.

 

As far as paddle management goes I just set it across my lap and never had any issues.  I do have a raised seat though which does make this a little more manageable in my opinion.  When i had my first kayak with a more traditional height seat on the floor of the kayak, keeping the paddle under control was a little more problematic.

[cdunlapb12]

Where did you get your stakeout pole? Or did you make it?

[flyfisher]

Yakattak park n pole.  I know people make them on their own and it is cheaper, allegedly, but i haven't found or seen a homemade version that would hold up to the abuse i put mine through.  It is also nice that they float.  They make 3.5', 6' & 8' versions.  I have also heard good things about the stick-it pins