shootermcbob Posted October 10, 2009 Posted October 10, 2009 For those of you who fish from kayaks, would you mind posting some detailed photos of your rigs. I am interested in how you store your gear, how you mount your fishfinders, where you keep your batter, etc. Pics from cockpit to front and back and some from the side would help. I have been to some of the websites and looked at their pics, but I know how smart and resourceful you guys are, so I wanted to see how you guys have em rigged. Thanks to all. Quote
ArcticCat500 Posted October 10, 2009 Posted October 10, 2009 shooter check out the Hobie Pro Angler its a great rig, I'd say JFrancho will be here soon...he has an awsome set up Quote
whittler Posted October 10, 2009 Posted October 10, 2009 Although mine is not exactly a fishing kayak it works for my style of fishing. The primary thing I wanted was lightweight and easy to handle, the Ocean Kayak was my choice. Usually fish in waders and use the Kayak to travel between holes which makes the SOT a great choice. I do not carry a whole lot of tackle or equipment and most of my fishing is done on rivers, no fast water and very little deep water. I mounted my rod holder between my legs and if I carry a second rod it is tucked in behind me along with a small tackle bag. My paddle leash and paddle holders are homemade and just snap on, no holes to drill. Quote
VolFan Posted October 10, 2009 Posted October 10, 2009 My pics wouldn't tell you any more than it's a Dagger Delta sit-in. But above that, keep it simple in a kayak, one rodholder that's easy for you to get to, but out of the way when fighting fish, and maybe one or two more behind the seat for spare rigs/trolling. I carry my tackle and a camera in a small waterproof backpack between my knees or pushed up in the cockpit. I keep the stuff in the backpack light enough to float (trust me on that). I have a portable fish finder but don't use it unless it's deeper or unfamiliar water or I'm catfishing. Above all, keep it simple, my best trips have been floats down a small river with one spinning outfit and a small box of baits. More stuff in a small space like that just gets in the way and/or snags line. Quote
shootermcbob Posted October 14, 2009 Author Posted October 14, 2009 Thanks to everybody for sharing. That just looks like so much fun. I am probably a year away from purchase, but doing some research. Thanks again. Quote
ArcticCat500 Posted October 16, 2009 Posted October 16, 2009 J Francho, that set up is killer Bro, Lm seriously considering a kayak. SimonSays, how do you like the Mirage drive? Is that your 1st kayak? Quote
FuzzyGrub Posted October 17, 2009 Posted October 17, 2009 [edit]Removed self-promotional link. Please see the FAQs regarding self-promotion[/edit] Quote
ArcticCat500 Posted October 19, 2009 Posted October 19, 2009 Thanks to everybody for sharing. That just looks like so much fun. I am probably a year away from purchase, but doing some research. Thanks again. Hey shootermcbob, hows the process going? I took a ride down to the local yak dealer to check out the Ocean Kayak Prowler Big Game like JFrancho's its sweet. Quote
SimonSays Posted October 19, 2009 Posted October 19, 2009 J Francho, that set up is killer Bro, Lm seriously considering a kayak.SimonSays, how do you like the Mirage drive? Is that your 1st kayak? Heya Arctic, I've only ever had mirage drive kayaks, my first was the Mirage Sport and my second the Revolution. But I've fished out of a ton of SINKs and SOTs before I picked those up. I personally LOVE my drive system it allows for almost hands free fishing (hand still needed for a bit of rudder control, while other yaks are foot controlled). They're fast so if you're on a bit larger bodies of water you can cover more distance to get to that sweet spot. Some quick pros and cons off the top of my head are... Pros: -Almost hands free fishing -Faster than comparable sit-on-tops -Covers greater distance -Don't have to use the drive if you don't want to (for the River Raid 1 on KBF I didn't bring the drive and just put in the drive plug) -All mirage yaks come with rudder, seat, paddle standard. -Can hold my position in current if fishing moving water like underneath bridge channels etc. while other yaks will have to paddle back up every cast depending on current. Cons: -Price...for 1 revo you could probably buy 2-3 Tarpon 120's -Weedy water, the weeds can get caught on the drive fins even if they're up and against the yak -Submerged rocks close to the surface are nasty too, normal yaks can glide over it but with the drive if you don't see it you risk running a fin into it. Been there, and done that ;D (Drive mast = $10+shipping) -Drive maintenance, the drive alone is worth ~$500 -If you flyfish the drive can get in your way. Though I fly fish regularly off the revo with the drive in, it can be really annoying when your line gets caught on it. On KBF you mentioned you wanted a stable yak, I hadn't heard much of the OKPBG, but when anyone ever mentioned stability in a yak my mind thinks first of the Ride 135 like others have posted about. Hope this helps! Simon Quote
shootermcbob Posted October 19, 2009 Author Posted October 19, 2009 Things going well. I am a "value" shopper, and know I am at probably about a year from purchase.Just starting my research. Certainly like the new hobie pro angler. The drive system is intriguing, but price may be an issue. I like the ocean kayak prowler big game as well. Stability is a concern, as I am 5 ft 8 inches tall and currently tip the scales at about 240 or so. I have a terrible left knee that will not take me to my 55th birthday, according to my doctor. he hoped that I would make it to 45 so I guess I am now a medical marvel ;D ;D. Standing from a SOT would most likely be improbable. I can pedal a bike ok for a couple days, then I have problems with swelling, so that counts against the hobie mirage drive kayaks. As can be seen, I have lots of different things to consider, at least till I get this knee replaced. I do want to thank all the folks who contributed with knowledge or pictures. I am keeping my eyes on Craigslist and such for used kayaks, but so far nothing has caught my eye. Quote
Carmen J Bernardo Posted October 23, 2009 Posted October 23, 2009 SimonSays and J Francho, Those look very interesting to me. I've seen someone puttering around in Baltimore Harbor on something similar but he was a recreational boater out on a weekend cruise, not a fisherman (no way anything lives in that water, unless it's a Godzilla carp). I got a closer look at that type of model at the yacht show in Annapolis a couple of days later and thought that it'd be worth the thought. If the price isn't too steep, it might be worth picking up. The exercising would be a nice side benefit for someone like me who's been fighting a battle with the Bulge for a few years now (aiming to get back to holding a weight [ch8804] 200 lbs here). Quote
JKay Posted October 24, 2009 Posted October 24, 2009 Hey Shooter, I'd try to demo whatever boat you're thinking of before you buy it. There are companies out there that will let you try out the boats on the water before you commit. The Big Game is a wide stable boat, but compared to others it can be a bit of a barge in the water. Don't overlook the OK Prowler 13 or Trident 13 or 15. You give up a little bit on the stability, but you get a faster ride that's easier to paddle and built for fishing. I've got a Hobie Revolution that I use for freshwater bass and saltwater stripers and blues. Great kayak, but maybe not for you. We've got a OK Malibu 2XL for the family and I'll probably add a third boat in the spring. Leaning heavily towards the OK Prowler 13. Check out Kayak Fishing Stuff on the web. Great bunch of guys! I live about 40 minutes from their shop and have bought a ton of stuff from them. Ask for Craig. He'll give you some good advice without the hard sell. Good luck! Quote
shootermcbob Posted October 24, 2009 Author Posted October 24, 2009 Thanks JKay. I am kinda a wide fishing barge myself, so maybe thats a good fit. ;D I am looking, reading, talking to folks, looking at the forums on kayak fishing sites. Just kinda getting a feeling for what might work for me. Thanks for adding your advice. Quote
JKay Posted October 25, 2009 Posted October 25, 2009 Thanks JKay. I am kinda a wide fishing barge myself, so maybe thats a good fit. ;DI am looking, reading, talking to folks, looking at the forums on kayak fishing sites. Just kinda getting a feeling for what might work for me. Thanks for adding your advice. Hi Shooter, When I first started out, I wanted to make sure that I was getting into a boat that was very stable. I learned quickly that the a boat that may feel a bit tippy (initial stability), may still have great resistance to roll over (secondary stability). As I started making longer paddle journeys, I wanted something stable, but fast with decent glide. Some of the fishing spots are a few miles paddle/peddle to get out there. I wanted to be able to get out there quickly without killing myself. The big difference also comes with having to paddle in or against the wind. I've had to tow a buddy once or twice in heavy wind and/or chop. He was riding a Malibu 2 XL as a single You're on the right track with the investigating. I would haunt the KFS board for a while. You can get some good information about kayaks and it's a good community of guys. Even better fun when we all get together for the annual Jamaica Bay tournament. I've already started the countdown. We've just got to get through the pesky winter first :'( Quote
ArcticCat500 Posted October 25, 2009 Posted October 25, 2009 I too am looking into kayaks , I've opted out of the whole jonboat thing or such like it . I want ease, portability, fishibilty and of course stability. I want to toss it in the back of the truck and go, if it sits there for a couple days locked down then so beit, I dont need to concern my self with trailers, motors, registrations and everything involve in boating. I may be an avid fishermen but that doesnt necessarly mean I need a boat to do so. Im buying a Kayak for my 2010 season, I've come across a couple that caught my eye. J Francho's Ocean Kayak Big Game Prowler is one and the Wilderness Systems Ride 135 top my list. look at the Malibu Stealth 12, a beauty on the water as well. Quote
Super User roadwarrior Posted October 25, 2009 Super User Posted October 25, 2009 I have an Ocean Kayak. If anyone that is planning on coming to the Roadtrip at Pickwick and is interested in buying one cheap, I will make you a deal. I keep it at "The Secret Pond" so we can fish there too, if you like! -Kent a.k.a. roadwarrior Quote
ArcticCat500 Posted October 25, 2009 Posted October 25, 2009 I have an Ocean Kayak. If anyone that is planning on coming to the Roadtripat Pickwick and is interested in buying one cheap, I will make you a deal. I keep it at "The Secret Pond" so we can fish there too, if you like! -Kent a.k.a. roadwarrior is "The Secret Pond" a special place like a honey hole or is it actually a ponds name? And if its a great lil craft for that "secret" place why get rid of her? Quote
Super User roadwarrior Posted October 26, 2009 Super User Posted October 26, 2009 The Secret Pond was built about 15 years ago as the central feature in a failed resort community. It was built a short distance from the river, but is not connected to the Tennessee. Although the pond is overrun with stunted bass, a friend caught the biggest largemouth I have ever seen in person, fishing with me in the kayak. The reason I'm interested in selling the kayak is simply, I don't like it! The boat is uncomfortable for my old bones. However, it's probably perfect for some else. 8-) Quote
tyrius. Posted October 26, 2009 Posted October 26, 2009 I have an Ocean Kayak. If anyone that is planning on coming to the Roadtrip Hmm, maybe my next trip to memphis will be by car. What model kayak do you have? Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.