Top 9 Must have Accessories for Fishing Kayaks

Almost no equipment is necessary while fishing from the coast. You can cast with just a rod, reel, and bait. However, fishing from a boat necessitates a variety of fishing equipment, not the least of which is a boat. With cheap and entry-level kayaks starting at a few hundred dollars, kayak fishing is the ideal in-between activity that won't break the bank. To explore rivers and coastal areas, you may gallivant with a kayak more quickly, a few inches away from water.

Kayak fishing enables anglers to hunt for fish using a more compact, quieter vessel than traditional boats. A kayak's restricted size and capacity are among the most significant disadvantages of having one, even though they have several advantages over fishing boats.

Professional kayak anglers and seasoned competitors have discovered over time that some pieces of equipment are more crucial than others.

Here are a few pieces of the necessary equipment that should help newcomers choose which ones to take on their trip and which they should leave behind:

1.) Personal Flotation Devices Designed For Fishing

A suitable life jacket designed for fishing is the first thing any kayak angler needs. 

The expression "safety first" applies to many outdoor athletic pursuits, and kayak fishing is no exception. Because kayaks can turn over far more quickly than a traditional boats, kayak anglers are significantly more likely to drown.

A Personal Floational Device (PFD) made explicitly for fishing is essential for an unplanned swim and will keeping you afloat. Additionally, it will include numerous pockets to keep small items close at hand. An important thing to note, some fishing vests like the one shown here, are optional PDF. Make sure yours includes floatation material.

2.) Lightweight Paddle

Although using a paddle when using a pedal-driven kayak may seem intuitive, many people do. Paddles are occasionally considered unnecessary and will merely take up valuable space because some of the most sophisticated pedal systems are so effective. However, having a paddle will be a crucial tool for assisting anglers in being ready for the unforeseen.

The excellent kayak fishing paddles are adjustable, light, pleasant, and strong.

3.) Rod Holders

Most fishing kayaks will have one or more rod holders as standard equipment, but seasoned anglers will attest to the value of positioning rod holders correctly. The most coveted kayaks frequently have numerous gear tracks running along the kayak's sides, bow, and stern. Anglers can install these tracks with rod holders to serve various purposes on the water.

Rod holders are another straightforward but essential kayak fishing gear. As a bass angler, I know how crucial it is to have a variety of rod and reel configurations, each of which serves as a tool I can use when I'm out on the water.

4.) Landing Net

A landing net is the most convenient way to bring your catch on board once you've pulled it in. A sturdy landing net must be capable of holding a big fish without the net or handle breaking.

The landing net is a piece of necessary equipment for those who don't want to stress about fish slipping out of their hands while attempting to remove the hook. Additionally, it will provide a means of keeping fish safe and submerged while you set up your measurement tool.

5.) Kayak Cart

Your fishing kayak can reach the triple digits in weight once it is filled. You should invest in a high-quality kayak cart because carrying your kayak to and from the water will require you to maintain good back health.

Additionally, a kayak cart will increase your chances of getting to your launch sites where parking isn't close to the water.  You can transport your boat conveniently from the vehicle to the water using a small wheeled cart. 

Even the most durable kayaks could benefit from being carted rather than being dragged across the ground to the river.  Protect your investment folks.

6.) Rod and Paddle Leashes

There is a saying that terrible things tend to happen when you least expect them. The number of anglers who have lost rods and paddles in the water while trying to keep their kayak upright is higher than you would think.

Paddle leashes are a sure-fire way to secure your paddle and any rods you bring with you. It's a simple and inexpensive why to maintain control of your gear.  It is best to err on the side of caution since you never know when disaster will strike. Using a rod and paddle leash will come in handy.

7.) Anchor

Compared to other fishing-related watercraft, kayaks are substantially lighter. Although being so lightweight might occasionally be a significant advantage, anglers will quickly learn how important an anchor is on a windy day.

Undoubtedly, carrying an anchor with you might be a hassle, especially if your kayak isn't fitted with an anchor trolley. It is bulky, heavy, and prone to tangling with other equipment or fishing lines.

However, an anchor might mean the difference between staying in the right place and on the fish instead of getting tossed around a lake by the wind.

8.) Fishing Pliers and Snippers

Any kayak angler should own a pair of fishing pliers and snippers, regardless of the species they are pursuing. You can cut your line quickly and easily with a good pair of snippers and securely remove lures and hooks from fish you catch with pliers.

While you have tools like these explicitly made for fishing, carrying less gear and being more productive when changing out your tackle and lures and unhooking fish will be easier.

9.) Flag and Visibility Light

When the bite is good and there is little boat traffic, anglers like to go out fishing early in the morning and stay until late at night. After all, it is among the ideal times to go fishing.

It is advised you include a safety flag and a visibility light while setting up your kayak. The United States Coast Guard states that your kayak must have navigation lights visible between dusk and dawn and during times of limited visibility.

Conclusion

As we've covered throughout this blog post, you can add several extras and adjustments to the fishing kayak to keep you safe and enhance your fishing experience.

You can always do or buy things to optimize your setup and time on the water, regardless of how experienced you are with kayak fishing.