@@wendellfishingalso, know the rules of stupid! You can break one and possibly get away with it, start combining factors and you get yourself in real trouble!
Awesome advice! Safety is so important. I always like when there are other folks fishing (or at least somewhere on the shore) rather than me being all alone on the water. Nice to be secluded, but it poses a greater risk.
My mistake was floating down a river with the current while fishing with 35 pound test line. I had only kayaked a couple of times, I was alone, and it was November in Minnesota. It did not take long to get a snag, and there was no way I could break the line. I'd pull with all my might and the kayak just moved closer to the snag. Soon I was broadside to the current and capsized when I hit a partially sunken tree AKA a strainer. Luckily, I did not get caught in the strainer, but the first time I got up on the kayak I was shivering so badly it capsized again. I was more careful the second time, and then I paddled like crazy to keep warm. Many mistakes made, and I'm lucky to be alive. Should have had a knife handy to cut the line.
Your last sentence says it all, I keep a small blunt tip scissors in the top pocket of my PFD for easy access. Came in handy when I snagged a 30" wide Stingray in the Gulf of Mexico on my maiden kayak fishing excursion. Pulled me for 30 minutes and over half a mile in a big circle until I could see what it was. Snip. Glad you were ok.
Thanks. 80 y/0 In good health and looking forward to first time on my Hobie Mirage Itrek 9 ultralite. Your presentation here is really welcomed. This is exactly the information I've needed to have the confidence I used to have in my little Hobie cat 50 years ago. Currently living in WA with a lot of small lakes in the NWPacific to explore.
Welcome to a fun sport. Remember that like all sports, kayaking has a learning curve. Start small, get some basic skills and confidence and move forward
Thanks homie all great advice and practicing on our small lake Abiquiu in NM water's like glass until 11:00 and then it turns into white cap swells so I always make sure I'm out in the middle of the lake so that I can ride the waves back. The wind always comes from the far side of the lake and blows towards the dock which was lucky because on my first time if it had been the opposite I would have been 12 mi from the only pier on the lake
I have a Stealth Pro 118 and a Feel free moken 10 lite V2. I enjoy them and can go wherever I want. Thanks for incentive the people to continue using kayaks for fishing.
I fish in West Texas and what you mentioned about drinking water is very true. I fished for about 6 hours last weekend and used 92oz of water. I almost ran out of water. The heat is no joke on a kayak.
I flipped my Lure 11 by reaching out for a bag of tubes, I just bought them and they fell over board, I think I totally forgot I was on a kayak, I reached out to grab them and over I went. It was the beginning of May in Ontario Canada, the water was freezing, it took me six hours of throwing my anchor to get my rods back. It was a humbling experience, it scared the hell out of me, luckily I was fairly close to shore, my jacket definitely saved my life.
All really good tips. Another... know that water in just the 50s can be really dangerous if you capsize and can't get back into your kayak within 10 minutes. WIsh there were more vids from experienced kayakers mentioning this and the use of drysuits, not just PFDs. Maybe not a problem where they kayak. But can effect those of us just getting into the sport, who live in colder climates. Despite watching MANY vids before deciding on buying fishing kayaks, my husband and I remained pretty ignorant to the danger of cold water, not thinking it was all that "cold" when we went kayak fishing in the spring and fall. Outside temps were still comfortable on nice days. But didn't even think about the water temps being in the "50s". It wasn't until recently I found out that, had we capsized during those times, we may have been in very serious trouble. Maybe not so much a danger for those capable of very quickly righting and getting back on their kayak. But that is definitely not us. Alhough we considered ourselves still physically fit enough to self-rescue, given time, being able to do so within 10 minutes, before the cold starts getting to you, would be unlikely. And probably the same could be said for a lot of kayakers, especially newbies, and those older ones like us. Needless to say, we now have drysuits and will be practicing self-rescue with them the next time we go out. If you should happen to read this, hope you might mention drysuits at times, even if you have no need for them. Thanks!
Bringing water is a big one for me. I worked as a biologist with Indiana DNR on the rivers for a few years. It was part of the safety policy that you cannot go on the boat for the day unless you have a PFD, a gallon of water, and a rainsuit.
just get a sawyer filter and you dont have to lug a bunch of water around. got a whole river or lake to drink lmao. UNLESS your going in saltwater that is
Hey man I just wanted to give one tip on water I would highly recommend having a life straw with you in your life jacket vest or something but highly recommended unlimited water remember water is way more important than food in a survival situation
Thank you for this video. This is very good information and people tend to watch the "latest and greatest" for tackle but don't spend nearly the same amount of time on safety. Hoping the algorithm picks this to show up on people's feed and saves some lives.
Many people see folks on yaks holding big fish. And think it's easy. They don't know how much they don't know. Getting comfortable, competent, and conditioned in the yak comes, or should come, before fishing
Great info and vid bro. I now have my pdl drive 120, my PP-768 Bixpy, and my paddle is always leashed, on a roto grip mount. Everything is tearhered. And all emerg gear is stored. The NRS PFD, never comes off, and its light. 💯 🌊 🎣
I'll like to add something for the new kayakers... I learned with the hard way today.... When you use your fishing kayak (or "top seat" type) put out the taps!!! Are for water drainage!!!! Have good time every time!!! Best regards from Hellas (Greece)
FYI - Always read all of the local laws concerning Kayaks. In Missouri, if the water is below 50 degrees, you are required to wear a full body wet suit. It saves lives.
I took an involuntary swim while wading on the Lehigh River in PA on an unseasonably warm January day. I had waders on which kept me from getting my whole body wet. I told my buddy I was ok and wanted to keep fishing because I felt fine, but he took charge and got me to walk with him back to the truck. About halfway there ( a 1/4 mile or so) he had to assist me because I was barely awake and could hardly walk. If I had been by myself I likely wouldn't be writing this. Cold water ain't no joke.
Great video. I started 'kayak' fishing here in San Diego CA 30 years ago on a big old wind surfing board. Upgraded to a kayak 25 years ago. At that time kayak fishing wasnt really a thing and seeing another yakker on the water was unusual. So I was already very experienced when the whole yak fishing thing got cool and took off. In that time I've experienced and seen virtually every thing mentioned in this video. I'll share a couple things I've seen frequently. Most beginners don't know how much they don't know. And videos and advice only go so far. So when some thing happens (or multiple things) they are not mentally or physically prepared. Like all activities and sports, kayaking involves a learning curve. Start small. Going out in lakes or bays on calm days with little or no gear. Get to know your kayak. Find it's tipping point by tipping it over. Practice righting and re-entering. Way too many beginners and even novice yakkers have stories of tipping their yaks, losing a $1000 worth of gear, not knowing how to get back on their yaks, and needing help. Here in So Cal those disaster often happen in the surf. Tipping over in your kayak sucks. But it's worse in the shallow surf zone. You can hit the bottom or be hit by your yak. ( No doubt moving water in rivers and streams poses the same danger) Reading waves and surf knowledge only comes from experience. So before you load up your big expensive yak and go for it, again, get in some practice. Actually in the surf. And having a peddle yak doesn't mean you shouldn't know how to paddle. Especially during surf launches and landings. And I don't mean dipping your paddle in and out of the water. I call that 'stirring coffee'. I'm taking giving 100% and moving the kayak. Big wide heavy peddle yak don't paddle well. But you can learn how to best get em moving. . Boats and boat wakes can be things you'll need to deal with in many places. Always wear your PFD. Always. And a piece of equipment not mentioned that you absolutely need to carry is a hand piston style bilge pump. I've pumped out my own yak twice and others' yaks 5 times. Damn, I rambled. Hope this helped.
Kokanee fisherman here, wind is a big one for us. Made the mistake a few times of doing another loop past 10AM, wind kicks up, white caps. That's a long wet travel back to the launch, even under power. What are your thoughts on the auto-inflate PFDs? Picked one of them up by Addicted's take on them.
I like em for hot weather climates like 90+ degree fishing days, however, I can't tell you how many times I have seen them not open when they are set to auto-inflate. If they are not auto inflate.. then I think they are completely worthless. When you need a PFD... it's usually not when you are in full control of yourself (unconscious, shock, etc.)
Too many think accidents happen to others and/or think if they’re healthy they can’t drown. Down here in the gulf, 9 people lost their lives to rip currents including one NFL football player. Just yesterday, I saw several boats out on the water in a huge thunderstorm with lightening…can’t fix stupid. Good point on beavers…didn’t know they were so hazardous:) we have a lot of gators !Be safe out there!
I always check the weather before I go out. Never plan to go on a set date; unless it’s in warm weather condition. Respecting the water even though it looks calm. One thing is let people know where you are going to be in case anything happens.
Was on he bayou one day in my jonboat. While sitting there I watched a sit on top kayakers paddling my way. About thirty feet behind him was a gator following. It was about eight feet long. Cured me of the desire to kayak the bayous.
Superb video you undoubtedly saved a few lives. I would NEVER go kayaking WO wearing my PFD specifically designed for a kayak fisherman at all times. What are your thoghts on how much harder it would be to capsize if you have some outriggers with a very significant degree of flotation? And More importantly if you have outriggers and still capsize can the outriggers make righting your kayak to difficult to do?
Great video. I pretty much exclusively fish solo. It is higher risk but can be safe through heightened awareness of all the potential risks that you outline. I'll add to your "know your ability point": If the option is there, I will head out against the wind and at the end of the day have the wind bring me back in. I'd rather fight the wind to stay on the water rather than the alternative. Thanks again for taking the time to put this together.
I like to fish solo as well. That makes it particularly important to check wind n weather, know your capabilities, and have your self rescue skill down. Another thing you don't hear mentioned much is knowing when to say when. Having enough experience to see trouble coming in advance and abandon you plans can save your life.
Subscribing to your channel because of all the great knowledge and the fact that I see your replies to almost every comment. Makes me feel that if I had a question I would get an answer. Thank you for the work you are doing.
Overall for the money this is a very nice beginner fishing kayak. Stable and sturdy. Handles for carrying are placed very well. The seat cushion could use a thicker pad. Overall very nice. The fishing rod holder is a nice added touch.
To number question 9,I am buying a kayak soon,so I’m getting a backup oar to paddle back in case my pedal motor gets stuck,breaks or I’m in heavy vegetation
I live in a Peninsula and there are a lot of mangroves here but I am afraid to go in the water because there are a lot of big crocodiles around and I'm not sure if that's going to be a problem. So I mostly kayak in the front where there's a open ocean but then again there's more wind and waves on that side as opposed to the calm waters of the mangroves
I had a waterspout form 75 yards from me. It only lasted about a minute but it grew a few hundred feet tall and roared like a waterfall. Pretty awesome.
@@wendellfishing no, I was in a Cobra Navigator with my Golden Retriever drift fishing on the Mullica River NJ where the Batsto river joins (The Forks) It formed in less than 5 acres of shallow water. It’s been about 25 years ago. Pretty awesome sight.
IDK Ive been kayaking for decades, I get it but all it takes is being smart but accidents are called accidents for a reason. I have been blessed many times. Nearly struck by lighting, attacked by swans/gooses and muskrats, almost ran over at the launch, got out to pee and got stuck in knee deep mud and couldnt get back on the yak, hooked in the neck, etc.
I wasn’t in much real danger because the water was warm and I was near a shore, but I was out on my kayak on a medium sized lake that was like glass testing out my GoPro setup but all of the sudden the wind picked up to like 20+ mph with huge gusts. I didn’t feel comfortable so I paddled along the shore back to my truck. It didn’t help that I was downwind. I made it back then decided to go take a hike instead.
Just found your Channel and didn't realise that *B Real from Cypress Hill* was a Kayak Fisher!, seriously though, thank you for a great video and great channel!
Man, about that wind... I was on the Potomac River down by Aquia Creek. I was >3miles from launch directly down river. Weather was nice and no wind on the pedal out to Potomac Creek, but a few hours in out of no where I noticed the main river looking rough. Decided to head back and when I hit the main Potomac river, I shit you not, there were 4 to 6ft swells and a 20-30mph sustained wind with gusts up to 60mph. The wind was coming at me from my 12:30-1 o'clock (basically headwind) and I felt like a big ship trying to cross the north sea in the middle of a big storm. I thought I was going to have to call the coast guard to come pick me up, or something; but, I kept pedalling my little Radar 115 as hard as I could, manning the rutter as waves crashed over the bow and drenching me. It was 3.01 miles of that according to Google earth and by the time I got to the landing my legs felt like wet spaghetti. Learn your lakes because certain wind directions are far more serious than others (depends how much time swells have to build and etc). My rule these days is
WIND.. Glad he mentioned it... Lake michigan.. even with an anchor down.. 10 mph..& your swept out to sea Great Video.. !! in hawaii you can freeze to death before they find you..
Wonderful vid. Great❤ everyone talks about PFD, and I can't dooms 1 that explains how to size and cut properly. They All this and that, but where should the shoulder pad be? The chest, the back, the stomach???? I bought one today, brought it home, and zi hated it ! Wasn't cheap.... but uncomfortable and all afternoon, in between filling spools, I've searcher for the, "proper fit guide" and so far no one has really good clarification
No one like you said in my book is learning how to reright and get back into the kayak when you fall out off it it will save your life!! and i don't even have one haha always thought about it though, i use to help teach 6 to 60 year olds how to dingy sail and every time there was no wind to actualy sail it was capsize drills all round, and it will make you more confedent in the water too!! always good to take a throwline as well.
I have fished Kayak, Canoe, and out of my innertube from a jet airplane. Kayak has the advantage of being able to get into small areas with low water, but if you have to do a gator roll you know it is not easy if you are engaged. The canoe is the easiest and I like it the most, and tubing you need deep water and if you get snakes they can come right up your middle.
9 was me. 😂 Luckily I'm a pretty fit person and was able to fight through the fatigue, but kayaking is a different movement and no matter how fit you are, if you are not used to it you will get tired.
I've had no problems from rarely going canoeing to straight kayaking 10 miles in foot n half white caps, guess I got a good ride or built different because I went 17 miles and only complaint was the heat and wet feet as the sun went down
Just over this weekend my brother in/law when to this nice small lake it was hot.. I had to keep him to drink water.. I just how people get excited about a new place and forget to drink water or something
Always wear your pfd. The first time I took my kayak out I flipped it trying to pick up garbage that blew out of my box. I was able to right it and get back on in less than a minute but if the water hadn’t been so warm, I have no doubt that I could have been in a dangerous situation. Considering it took an hour to return to my launch I’m lucky it was warm. Only thing I lost was the center piece of my fly rod 😂
One of my buddies unfortunately watched a guy drown 2 years ago on a lake in Omaha. He was on the shore fishing too far away and water was 40ish degrees. Guy was in a canoe, but almost same thing. No jacket and the water was freezing cold. People really underestimate early season fishing and cold water here in the Midwest. I'm up in MN now and there's only a few months of fishing where the water won't kill you in a few minutes. Maybe you can survive 30-60 minutes, but good luck swimming in clothes and staying calm and collected while getting to shore. Wear PFD's guys, get an auto inflatable if you don't like the bulk.
There are so many quality, thin, lightweight high back PFDs that "bulk" really isn't an excuse anymore. Plus a PFD provides extra easily accessible pockets and clips.
Same! Fishing a buddies 16 acre private lake, coasting banks and coves, got up onto the bank to relieve myself not realizing I was 10 feet from the dam. Spooked a big beaver and didn’t realize he was following shortly after, MAN those tail-slaps!
The one thing I'm not sure of is in the bays and stuff and realizing down there where I can't see are some really big fish I don't wanna see(sharks). I want a fishing kayak that sits up a little bit off the water.
Here in Australia where I live two teenagers went kayaking at midnight NYE probably intoxicated the wind was strong the waves where 2 foot one tipped over the other tried to save him both drowned both where around 21 y old and we have heaps of bull sharks here in our lakes and rivers and pleanty more sharks in the ocean also wacth out for flash flooding on rivers always check before you go on rivers
Man this is true. I am fairly experienced but not on rivers. Without going into the full story let’s just say I recently came very close to disaster on a creek when I got too close to a laydown. I lost a LOT of gear, including my phone, swallowed plenty of water, and spent an hour in the water trying to get back to the kayak & flip it back over. Then two weeks later discovered a crack in my kayak! If not for my PFD, I would not be here today.
@@wendellfishing you sure can. Some more details: I originally learned to kayak in the 90s on the Ocoee River in TN which has class III and IV rapids. I know much better. I made a split second bad judgement call, getting just slightly too close (within a boat length). The only reason was that there was a little sit inside caught in the tree branches & I was worried someone needed help.
I’ve been kayaking for 3 years in mostly in shore tidal salt water areas of Florida. I think rule number 1 should be go with a buddy (like scuba diving).
@@wendellfishing not much is known about it about at the moment other than he was alone. I just kept getting calls from family asking if I was alright cause I was kayaking around the area at the time.
Overloading the kayak. An empty kayak is stable, maneuverable and nearly self righting. Everything you add makes it want to flip and stay flipped. If you have a battery,motor,fish finder,anchor,live well,rods,cooler and ez boy recliner all aboard you may not be able to flip it back over. Raft guides carry web strap to attach,throw across and pull the boat upright. Be careful of all lines and attached things that can tangle you in rivers. Don't tie anything to your body. Stay upstream of the kayak to avoid getting pinned by rocks or shore. In the ocean if you feel tired battling wind or current if there's kelp paddle in and tie up or grab a strand. Then try to stay on the lee side. You can Eddy out behind channel marker buoys or bridge pilings. If there's no kelp reduce resistance by placing rods flat and paddle for the nearest safe shore. Once near shore look for glassy areas to rest. One scary situation is pulling hard on heavy tackle. When a large bonito got in the kelp I was really bending the rod when I remembered I was on a kayak not a big boat. Started thinking how bad did I really need this particular fish. I gave him some slack and still got him. If you're snagged and the line breaks you can flip or if the fish throws it you can end up with a face full of hooks.
Sounds like you're in So Cal. You need heavier tackle for yellow tail, white sea bass, and threshers. If I'm hung up I make sure to get right over the snag, line is vertical. Turn the kayak so the rod is pointing just off from the bow. So the force is pulling down on the bow, not side. Kayaks don't capsize bow to stearn. If you do need to really pull, like trying to break the line, take the line in your hand, right near your hip, and as close to the side of the yak as possible. You can even put your legs over each side and crouch down to increase stability. I have a long narrow kayak. This might not be needed on more stable ones
Like you said it's a combination of bad decisions. I can't remember who said it but they called it "counting lemons" or something like that. Little things like bad weather, being tired, unprepared are all little lemons. You get like 3 maybe 4 of those bad boys and maybe you should reconsider what you are planning or turn around. Also a little tip from pilots I have heard is don't get hyper focused on reaching a destination. That can distract you from those "lemons".
I can take a bit of experience to know when to say when. Show up at the launch, see the conditions, and know when to turn around n go home. Or when you're in the water and can recognize that trouble is coming. Like you said, give up on the destination. Change plans or run for it
Last year i was fishing standing on a huge fallen tree, was there maybe 10-15 minutes and i turn around and two huge moccasins are mating on the tree 10" behind me. Could've easily took a step back and got bitten several times. Another time i had a family of deers following me. Everytime i got to a new spot I'd look behind me and momma was laying down dad was standing in front of her locked on me and the kids were behind both of them playing. They followed me to 3-4 different spots.
I tether my paddle and net. Everything else i can go without. I probably should tether my rods. But i do lock them into the rod holders when not in my hand. A big seal scared me the other day and i went to shore straight away. I was alone in the ocean with strong currents.
Kayaking is new to me, so I was doing something I'm new at. I am a swimmer, so I am comfortable being in water. All that being said, I respect the water and studied boating safety before I took the native voyage. So, I have rules to protect myself from myself, and I can not break those rules! 1st rule, wear the PFD! 2nd rules, if the winds blow above 20 mph, and the waves are choppy, I do not go! I have more rules, but the 2 I mention, I do not waiver on!
Columbia River. All of this applies. Be careful. Stay close to shore. Use the land as a wind break and don't take chances. The weather can change quickly and you should error on the side of caution and get back before the wind and waves get you.
A neighbor of mine got a new kayak. It was a small tippy box store type. He wanted to go out yak fishing with me for his inaugural trip. The yak had a very uncomfortable looking seat and he asked me if it would be ok to sit on a throw cushion. I told him it would make his center of gravity higher which would affect the stability. He didn't listen. We hadn't been on the water more than 30 minutes (this was spring so water was in the low 60s air temp 75) when I heard a splash. He had fallen in about 50 yards from the ramp and was walking in the shallows back to the ramp. I asked if he was ok, he insisted on fishing some more. About 10 minutes later I had went around a point but didn't see him on the water anymore so I went directly back to the ramp and there he was on the dock shivering uncontrollably. I immediately went to shore, we got him in some warm clothes (I always carry an extra set) and got him in my warm truck. It was a wake up call for me. I didn't realize how quickly one can go from fine to hypothermia. And before anyone judges me, I really tried to convince him it was time to go and offered up my extra set of clothes after he went in but he insisted that he was fine.
I helped a guy who was on a kayak, and got caught in the wind. He was pushed into tall reeds and ended up capsizing trying to get back out onto the water. He lost ALL of his gear (about 6 feet of water). all he had when he came up was his kayak and his paddle. I helped get him turned over and back to shore, but he definantly had a bad day.
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#1 is not wearing a PFD... has to be the biggest fix for most kayak incidents.
Agreed... covers up a lot of the other sins
Absolutely. Being a great swimmer won't help you if you get hit n injured by a boat, bounce of a river rock, or suffer some sort of medical emergency
@@wendellfishingalso, know the rules of stupid! You can break one and possibly get away with it, start combining factors and you get yourself in real trouble!
Awesome advice! Safety is so important. I always like when there are other folks fishing (or at least somewhere on the shore) rather than me being all alone on the water. Nice to be secluded, but it poses a greater risk.
Big Facts Roger..
My mistake was floating down a river with the current while fishing with 35 pound test line. I had only kayaked a couple of times, I was alone, and it was November in Minnesota. It did not take long to get a snag, and there was no way I could break the line. I'd pull with all my might and the kayak just moved closer to the snag. Soon I was broadside to the current and capsized when I hit a partially sunken tree AKA a strainer. Luckily, I did not get caught in the strainer, but the first time I got up on the kayak I was shivering so badly it capsized again. I was more careful the second time, and then I paddled like crazy to keep warm. Many mistakes made, and I'm lucky to be alive. Should have had a knife handy to cut the line.
Whew... glad you are able to tell this story.. hope it helps someone!
Pp❤pp😊
Like Wendell said, multiple things can happen fast.
You learned a few things.
Your last sentence says it all, I keep a small blunt tip scissors in the top pocket of my PFD for easy access. Came in handy when I snagged a 30" wide Stingray in the Gulf of Mexico on my maiden kayak fishing excursion. Pulled me for 30 minutes and over half a mile in a big circle until I could see what it was. Snip. Glad you were ok.
I keep nail clippers attached to my pfd for this exact reason
Thanks. 80 y/0 In good health and looking forward to first time on my Hobie Mirage Itrek 9 ultralite. Your presentation here is really welcomed. This is exactly the information I've needed to have the confidence I used to have in my little Hobie cat 50 years ago. Currently living in WA with a lot of small lakes in the NWPacific to explore.
Right on brother! Stay safe out there and Slay em!!!
Great info! Know your limitations and file a float plan with somebody that gives 2 flips about you.
Absolutely! Solid add!
As a brand new kayak angler this vid is invaluable , thank you !!
Right on brother.. stay safe out there!
Welcome to a fun sport.
Remember that like all sports, kayaking has a learning curve. Start small, get some basic skills and confidence and move forward
@@michaelburk9171 I'm definitely in the starting small stage , getting confident every time I'm out , thanks for great advice
Great information. Get a dry suit for cold water days. It will save your life.
Right on brother! Solid add
Thanks homie all great advice and practicing on our small lake Abiquiu in NM water's like glass until 11:00 and then it turns into white cap swells so I always make sure I'm out in the middle of the lake so that I can ride the waves back. The wind always comes from the far side of the lake and blows towards the dock which was lucky because on my first time if it had been the opposite I would have been 12 mi from the only pier on the lake
Yeah.. crazy how things change fast! Glad you are staying safe out there!
I have a Stealth Pro 118 and a Feel free moken 10 lite V2. I enjoy them and can go wherever I want. Thanks for incentive the people to continue using kayaks for fishing.
I fish in West Texas and what you mentioned about drinking water is very true. I fished for about 6 hours last weekend and used 92oz of water. I almost ran out of water. The heat is no joke on a kayak.
I flipped my Lure 11 by reaching out for a bag of tubes, I just bought them and they fell over board, I think I totally forgot I was on a kayak, I reached out to grab them and over I went. It was the beginning of May in Ontario Canada, the water was freezing, it took me six hours of throwing my anchor to get my rods back. It was a humbling experience, it scared the hell out of me, luckily I was fairly close to shore, my jacket definitely saved my life.
Whew... that's scary stuff and six hours.. that's commitment
As an ACA certified Sea Kayak instructor, This is Great info! Good job, Kayak fishing isn't just fishing!!
Man.. means a lot.. thanks!
👍
Thanks for these all important reminders. I was impressed how you rattled the entire list off unscripted and with great detail. Subscribed!
Thanks Randy!
i nearly got heat exhaustion yesterday, but felt it coming on and was able to get off the water and rehydrate. then had a nice relaxing time after.
Nice! Glad you recovered brother!
I just moved to the VA Beach area and I want a kayak. This is great advice, thanks.
Right on brother! Stay safe out there
All really good tips. Another... know that water in just the 50s can be really dangerous if you capsize and can't get back into your kayak within 10 minutes. WIsh there were more vids from experienced kayakers mentioning this and the use of drysuits, not just PFDs. Maybe not a problem where they kayak. But can effect those of us just getting into the sport, who live in colder climates. Despite watching MANY vids before deciding on buying fishing kayaks, my husband and I remained pretty ignorant to the danger of cold water, not thinking it was all that "cold" when we went kayak fishing in the spring and fall. Outside temps were still comfortable on nice days. But didn't even think about the water temps being in the "50s". It wasn't until recently I found out that, had we capsized during those times, we may have been in very serious trouble. Maybe not so much a danger for those capable of very quickly righting and getting back on their kayak. But that is definitely not us. Alhough we considered ourselves still physically fit enough to self-rescue, given time, being able to do so within 10 minutes, before the cold starts getting to you, would be unlikely. And probably the same could be said for a lot of kayakers, especially newbies, and those older ones like us.
Needless to say, we now have drysuits and will be practicing self-rescue with them the next time we go out. If you should happen to read this, hope you might mention drysuits at times, even if you have no need for them. Thanks!
Bringing water is a big one for me. I worked as a biologist with Indiana DNR on the rivers for a few years. It was part of the safety policy that you cannot go on the boat for the day unless you have a PFD, a gallon of water, and a rainsuit.
Interesting.. thanks for sharing boss!
just get a sawyer filter and you dont have to lug a bunch of water around. got a whole river or lake to drink lmao. UNLESS your going in saltwater that is
@richyoung4051 yeah, I have a sawyer filter... Important to remember they won't remove chemical contaminants.
What is water for? Or a rain suit? I'm new to this. In Midwestern winter you can easily die from cold water without a wetsuit or drysuit.
@lightfeather9953 water is for drinking, rainsuit is for storms that pop up...
Hey man I just wanted to give one tip on water I would highly recommend having a life straw with you in your life jacket vest or something but highly recommended unlimited water remember water is way more important than food in a survival situation
Thank you for this video. This is very good information and people tend to watch the "latest and greatest" for tackle but don't spend nearly the same amount of time on safety. Hoping the algorithm picks this to show up on people's feed and saves some lives.
Thanks boss! Appreciate it!
Many people see folks on yaks holding big fish. And think it's easy. They don't know how much they don't know.
Getting comfortable, competent, and conditioned in the yak comes, or should come, before fishing
Great info and vid bro. I now have my pdl drive 120, my PP-768 Bixpy, and my paddle is always leashed, on a roto grip mount. Everything is tearhered. And all emerg gear is stored. The NRS PFD, never comes off, and its light. 💯 🌊 🎣
Sounds like you are ready to SLAAAAAAAAAAYYY!
I'll like to add something for the new kayakers... I learned with the hard way today.... When you use your fishing kayak (or "top seat" type) put out the taps!!! Are for water drainage!!!!
Have good time every time!!!
Best regards from Hellas (Greece)
FYI - Always read all of the local laws concerning Kayaks. In Missouri, if the water is below 50 degrees, you are required to wear a full body wet suit. It saves lives.
That I didn't know.. thanks for sharing!
Excellent presentation with the fact/examples to prove the points.
Thanks Richard!
Great advice. Thank you for actually explaining cold water reality.
You bet!
Great video. Most disasters are a combination of preventable errors. Luck won’t always be enough!
I took an involuntary swim while wading on the Lehigh River in PA on an unseasonably warm January day. I had waders on which kept me from getting my whole body wet. I told my buddy I was ok and wanted to keep fishing because I felt fine, but he took charge and got me to walk with him back to the truck. About halfway there ( a 1/4 mile or so) he had to assist me because I was barely awake and could hardly walk. If I had been by myself I likely wouldn't be writing this. Cold water ain't no joke.
Hey Everyone... read this.. it can happen to anyone!
Great video. I started 'kayak' fishing here in San Diego CA 30 years ago on a big old wind surfing board. Upgraded to a kayak 25 years ago. At that time kayak fishing wasnt really a thing and seeing another yakker on the water was unusual.
So I was already very experienced when the whole yak fishing thing got cool and took off.
In that time I've experienced and seen virtually every thing mentioned in this video.
I'll share a couple things I've seen frequently.
Most beginners don't know how much they don't know.
And videos and advice only go so far.
So when some thing happens (or multiple things) they are not mentally or physically prepared.
Like all activities and sports, kayaking involves a learning curve.
Start small. Going out in lakes or bays on calm days with little or no gear. Get to know your kayak. Find it's tipping point by tipping it over. Practice righting and re-entering.
Way too many beginners and even novice yakkers have stories of tipping their yaks, losing a $1000 worth of gear, not knowing how to get back on their yaks, and needing help.
Here in So Cal those disaster often happen in the surf.
Tipping over in your kayak sucks. But it's worse in the shallow surf zone. You can hit the bottom or be hit by your yak.
( No doubt moving water in rivers and streams poses the same danger)
Reading waves and surf knowledge only comes from experience. So before you load up your big expensive yak and go for it, again, get in some practice. Actually in the surf.
And having a peddle yak doesn't mean you shouldn't know how to paddle. Especially during surf launches and landings.
And I don't mean dipping your paddle in and out of the water. I call that 'stirring coffee'.
I'm taking giving 100% and moving the kayak. Big wide heavy peddle yak don't paddle well. But you can learn how to best get em moving. .
Boats and boat wakes can be things you'll need to deal with in many places.
Always wear your PFD. Always.
And a piece of equipment not mentioned that you absolutely need to carry is a hand piston style bilge pump. I've pumped out my own yak twice and others' yaks 5 times.
Damn, I rambled. Hope this helped.
Right on brother! This stuff definitely helps. Thanks for Sharing!
I’m lucky I worked as a life guard here in Australia so tipping boards over and rubber duckies while having to do rescues as well
Here in Michigan I only fish ponds and I paddle around the edges .
good job getting this out there, I was just down in Zihuantanejo kayaking around crocodiles
Daaaang!
Kokanee fisherman here, wind is a big one for us. Made the mistake a few times of doing another loop past 10AM, wind kicks up, white caps. That's a long wet travel back to the launch, even under power.
What are your thoughts on the auto-inflate PFDs? Picked one of them up by Addicted's take on them.
I like em for hot weather climates like 90+ degree fishing days, however, I can't tell you how many times I have seen them not open when they are set to auto-inflate. If they are not auto inflate.. then I think they are completely worthless. When you need a PFD... it's usually not when you are in full control of yourself (unconscious, shock, etc.)
Just bought my first kayak today. Can't wait to take it out.
Heck yeah.. what did you end up getting?
Too many think accidents happen to others and/or think if they’re healthy they can’t drown. Down here in the gulf, 9 people lost their lives to rip currents including one NFL football player. Just yesterday, I saw several boats out on the water in a huge thunderstorm with lightening…can’t fix stupid. Good point on beavers…didn’t know they were so hazardous:) we have a lot of gators !Be safe out there!
Yeah, overestimating ones ability is the root to many of these problems.
I always check the weather before I go out. Never plan to go on a set date; unless it’s in warm weather condition. Respecting the water even though it looks calm. One thing is let people know where you are going to be in case anything happens.
All great adds.. thanks boss!
Great video, you make a lot of really good points
Glad you enjoyed!
Was on he bayou one day in my jonboat. While sitting there I watched a sit on top kayakers paddling my way. About thirty feet behind him was a gator following. It was about eight feet long. Cured me of the desire to kayak the bayous.
Well.. Dang.. that's crazy
Superb video you undoubtedly saved a few lives.
I would NEVER go kayaking WO wearing my PFD specifically designed for a kayak fisherman at all times.
What are your thoghts on how much harder it would be to capsize if you have some outriggers with a very significant degree of flotation?
And
More importantly if you have outriggers and still capsize can the outriggers make righting your kayak to difficult to do?
Thanks boss! My thoughts is that if you have outriggers and capsize... then you should have never been out in what you have been out in.
If I go doing something I love much better than dying in a truck at some warehouse or truck stop
Ha! Well.. I can't disagree
Amen
Very informative video love it a lot, keep up the good works. Thank you
Appreciate you reaching out! thanks!
Great video brother!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thanks Boss, means a lot coming from you!
Very informative I've learned a lot in a short time thanks to you
Glad to hear it!
Wow. Thank you for this extremely important content!
Glad it was helpful!
Your best video yet, man!
😎👍🏻❤️
Thanks boss! 1% better every time is my goal! Glad I am not going backwards!
Great video. I pretty much exclusively fish solo. It is higher risk but can be safe through heightened awareness of all the potential risks that you outline. I'll add to your "know your ability point": If the option is there, I will head out against the wind and at the end of the day have the wind bring me back in. I'd rather fight the wind to stay on the water rather than the alternative. Thanks again for taking the time to put this together.
Glad it was helpful Marty! Appreciate it!
I like to fish solo as well.
That makes it particularly important to check wind n weather, know your capabilities, and have your self rescue skill down.
Another thing you don't hear mentioned much is knowing when to say when. Having enough experience to see trouble coming in advance and abandon you plans can save your life.
Subscribing to your channel because of all the great knowledge and the fact that I see your replies to almost every comment. Makes me feel that if I had a question I would get an answer. Thank you for the work you are doing.
Thanks boss! You are correct. I made a promise this year to respond to everyone. I wanted to honor your time with my time. Thanks!!!
Good information. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching George!
Great advice! Thank you! 🛶
You bet!
Overall for the money this is a very nice beginner fishing kayak. Stable and sturdy. Handles for carrying are placed very well. The seat cushion could use a thicker pad. Overall very nice. The fishing rod holder is a nice added touch.
Right on
To number question 9,I am buying a kayak soon,so I’m getting a backup oar to paddle back in case my pedal motor gets stuck,breaks or I’m in heavy vegetation
Awesome video thanks for sharing!!
Right on!
I live in a Peninsula and there are a lot of mangroves here but I am afraid to go in the water because there are a lot of big crocodiles around and I'm not sure if that's going to be a problem. So I mostly kayak in the front where there's a open ocean but then again there's more wind and waves on that side as opposed to the calm waters of the mangroves
I had a waterspout form 75 yards from me. It only lasted about a minute but it grew a few hundred feet tall and roared like a waterfall. Pretty awesome.
Holy crap.. did you get that on video?
@@wendellfishing no, I was in a Cobra Navigator with my Golden Retriever drift fishing on the Mullica River NJ where the Batsto river joins (The Forks) It formed in less than 5 acres of shallow water. It’s been about 25 years ago. Pretty awesome sight.
Good lookin' out my friend ! Thanks .
No problem 👍
IDK Ive been kayaking for decades, I get it but all it takes is being smart but accidents are called accidents for a reason. I have been blessed many times. Nearly struck by lighting, attacked by swans/gooses and muskrats, almost ran over at the launch, got out to pee and got stuck in knee deep mud and couldnt get back on the yak, hooked in the neck, etc.
Those are a whole other level.... almost a category of their own... Freak accidents
Great video and important information!
Glad it was helpful!
My main concern is log jams if I'm on a river and boats on busy lakes like eastfork or Caesars creek.
I wasn’t in much real danger because the water was warm and I was near a shore, but I was out on my kayak on a medium sized lake that was like glass testing out my GoPro setup but all of the sudden the wind picked up to like 20+ mph with huge gusts. I didn’t feel comfortable so I paddled along the shore back to my truck. It didn’t help that I was downwind. I made it back then decided to go take a hike instead.
Whew.. 20MPH is no joke. Glad you were okay!
Great video! Priceless advice!
Glad it was helpful!
Just found your Channel and didn't realise that *B Real from Cypress Hill* was a Kayak Fisher!,
seriously though, thank you for a great video and great channel!
Ha! I had to look him up. Thanks for stoppin by boss!
@@wendellfishing the voice, the beard, the hat!, there's your cosplay idea, Man!
thanks for the video and channel!
@@schiz0phren1c Right on brother!
Man, about that wind...
I was on the Potomac River down by Aquia Creek. I was >3miles from launch directly down river. Weather was nice and no wind on the pedal out to Potomac Creek, but a few hours in out of no where I noticed the main river looking rough.
Decided to head back and when I hit the main Potomac river, I shit you not, there were 4 to 6ft swells and a 20-30mph sustained wind with gusts up to 60mph. The wind was coming at me from my 12:30-1 o'clock (basically headwind) and I felt like a big ship trying to cross the north sea in the middle of a big storm.
I thought I was going to have to call the coast guard to come pick me up, or something; but, I kept pedalling my little Radar 115 as hard as I could, manning the rutter as waves crashed over the bow and drenching me. It was 3.01 miles of that according to Google earth and by the time I got to the landing my legs felt like wet spaghetti.
Learn your lakes because certain wind directions are far more serious than others (depends how much time swells have to build and etc).
My rule these days is
Yikes! Glad you were all right!
I have been on water my whole life but I found your video to be great reminders
Glad it was helpful!
WIND.. Glad he mentioned it... Lake michigan.. even with an anchor down.. 10 mph..& your swept out to sea Great Video.. !! in hawaii you can freeze to death before they find you..
I will be on Lake MI this week going after some KINGS! LEt's Go!
@@wendellfishing what baits should I try?
Where did you get that magnetic sheath on your pfd?
Ahhh.. thats the NRS Co-Pilot. It's not magnetic but it does lock in. Pretty Sweet. Here ya go: geni.us/NRSCoPilot
Wonderful vid. Great❤ everyone talks about PFD, and I can't dooms 1 that explains how to size and cut properly. They
All this and that, but where should the shoulder pad be? The chest, the back, the stomach???? I bought one today, brought it home, and zi hated it ! Wasn't cheap.... but uncomfortable and all afternoon, in between filling spools, I've searcher for the, "proper fit guide" and so far no one has really good clarification
Which one did you end up picking up?
@@wendellfishing Onyx Dynamic Movement PDF. Dynamicpfd. Nice, but bulky and no pockets..
Great vid! What vest is that??
I got you: geni.us/NRSRaku
No one like you said in my book is learning how to reright and get back into the kayak when you fall out off it it will save your life!! and i don't even have one haha always thought about it though, i use to help teach 6 to 60 year olds how to dingy sail and every time there was no wind to actualy sail it was capsize drills all round, and it will make you more confedent in the water too!! always good to take a throwline as well.
Right on!
I have fished Kayak, Canoe, and out of my innertube from a jet airplane. Kayak has the advantage of being able to get into small areas with low water, but if you have to do a gator roll you know it is not easy if you are engaged. The canoe is the easiest and I like it the most, and tubing you need deep water and if you get snakes they can come right up your middle.
Right on brother... I like float tubing as well.. but very much do not like snakes
Awesome tips man! Thank you so much!
Happy to help!
Living here in Texas luckily. Usually anyway. It’s too warm to get too cold in the water lol
I dream of Texas weather... especially in NE Ohio in January
9 was me. 😂 Luckily I'm a pretty fit person and was able to fight through the fatigue, but kayaking is a different movement and no matter how fit you are, if you are not used to it you will get tired.
Ha! I hear ya.. a whole different beast
Consider kayak to be a sport where conditioning is needed.
I've had no problems from rarely going canoeing to straight kayaking 10 miles in foot n half white caps, guess I got a good ride or built different because I went 17 miles and only complaint was the heat and wet feet as the sun went down
Just over this weekend my brother in/law when to this nice small lake it was hot.. I had to keep him to drink water.. I just how people get excited about a new place and forget to drink water or something
I call is the Bass Phenomenon
Always wear your pfd. The first time I took my kayak out I flipped it trying to pick up garbage that blew out of my box. I was able to right it and get back on in less than a minute but if the water hadn’t been so warm, I have no doubt that I could have been in a dangerous situation. Considering it took an hour to return to my launch I’m lucky it was warm. Only thing I lost was the center piece of my fly rod 😂
Whew... When it hits the fan.. it happens fast. Glad you were okay and thanks for sharing!
I used to canoe in class 1 rivers in Texas. Whitewater scares the hell out of me.
Nice healthy respect for whitewater is a good thing
Awesome video 👍
Thank you 👍
One of my buddies unfortunately watched a guy drown 2 years ago on a lake in Omaha. He was on the shore fishing too far away and water was 40ish degrees. Guy was in a canoe, but almost same thing. No jacket and the water was freezing cold. People really underestimate early season fishing and cold water here in the Midwest. I'm up in MN now and there's only a few months of fishing where the water won't kill you in a few minutes. Maybe you can survive 30-60 minutes, but good luck swimming in clothes and staying calm and collected while getting to shore. Wear PFD's guys, get an auto inflatable if you don't like the bulk.
That would have been horrible to experience. Read this folks!
There are so many quality, thin, lightweight high back PFDs that "bulk" really isn't an excuse anymore. Plus a PFD provides extra easily accessible pockets and clips.
Had a beaver harass me a few nights ago. I thought a 100 pound fish jumped next to me.
lol... There's literally no warning.. peace, calm, birds chirping.......... EXPLOSION!!!
Same! Fishing a buddies 16 acre private lake, coasting banks and coves, got up onto the bank to relieve myself not realizing I was 10 feet from the dam. Spooked a big beaver and didn’t realize he was following shortly after, MAN those tail-slaps!
@@XxHyJyNxX They will wake you up for sure!
Did he slap his tail on the water?
@@joeavelar2222 yup
The one thing I'm not sure of is in the bays and stuff and realizing down there where I can't see are some really big fish I don't wanna see(sharks). I want a fishing kayak that sits up a little bit off the water.
Here in Australia where I live two teenagers went kayaking at midnight NYE probably intoxicated the wind was strong the waves where 2 foot one tipped over the other tried to save him both drowned both where around 21 y old and we have heaps of bull sharks here in our lakes and rivers and pleanty more sharks in the ocean also wacth out for flash flooding on rivers always check before you go on rivers
Ugh.. painful to hear
Well said.
Thanks boss!
Man this is true. I am fairly experienced but not on rivers. Without going into the full story let’s just say I recently came very close to disaster on a creek when I got too close to a laydown. I lost a LOT of gear, including my phone, swallowed plenty of water, and spent an hour in the water trying to get back to the kayak & flip it back over. Then two weeks later discovered a crack in my kayak!
If not for my PFD, I would not be here today.
Do you mind if I share this as a reminder that this can happen to anyone?
@@wendellfishing you sure can. Some more details: I originally learned to kayak in the 90s on the Ocoee River in TN which has class III and IV rapids. I know much better. I made a split second bad judgement call, getting just slightly too close (within a boat length). The only reason was that there was a little sit inside caught in the tree branches & I was worried someone needed help.
I’ve been kayaking for 3 years in mostly in shore tidal salt water areas of Florida. I think rule number 1 should be go with a buddy (like scuba diving).
Great thumbnail, hahaha!
lol .. Thanks.. we will see how the CTR does on it.
Broooo that thumbnail is cold! Hahahah
LOL.....
We just had someone near me drown while they were kayaking. Kayaking is fun, but you need to respect the water and know your limits
Ugh.. happens more than it needs to. Do you know the story?
@@wendellfishing not much is known about it about at the moment other than he was alone. I just kept getting calls from family asking if I was alright cause I was kayaking around the area at the time.
Oh man.. heartbreaking
Overloading the kayak. An empty kayak is stable, maneuverable and nearly self righting. Everything you add makes it want to flip and stay flipped.
If you have a battery,motor,fish finder,anchor,live well,rods,cooler and ez boy recliner all aboard you may not be able to flip it back over.
Raft guides carry web strap to attach,throw across and pull the boat upright.
Be careful of all lines and attached things that can tangle you in rivers.
Don't tie anything to your body.
Stay upstream of the kayak to avoid getting pinned by rocks or shore.
In the ocean if you feel tired battling wind or current if there's kelp paddle in and tie up or grab a strand. Then try to stay on the lee side.
You can Eddy out behind channel marker buoys or bridge pilings.
If there's no kelp reduce resistance by placing rods flat and paddle for the nearest safe shore. Once near shore look for glassy areas to rest.
One scary situation is pulling hard on heavy tackle. When a large bonito got in the kelp I was really bending the rod when I remembered I was on a kayak not a big boat.
Started thinking how bad did I really need this particular fish. I gave him some slack and still got him.
If you're snagged and the line breaks you can flip or if the fish throws it you can end up with a face full of hooks.
Sounds like you're in So Cal.
You need heavier tackle for yellow tail, white sea bass, and threshers. If I'm hung up I make sure to get right over the snag, line is vertical.
Turn the kayak so the rod is pointing just off from the bow. So the force is pulling down on the bow, not side. Kayaks don't capsize bow to stearn.
If you do need to really pull, like trying to break the line, take the line in your hand, right near your hip, and as close to the side of the yak as possible.
You can even put your legs over each side and crouch down to increase stability.
I have a long narrow kayak. This might not be needed on more stable ones
Like you said it's a combination of bad decisions. I can't remember who said it but they called it "counting lemons" or something like that. Little things like bad weather, being tired, unprepared are all little lemons. You get like 3 maybe 4 of those bad boys and maybe you should reconsider what you are planning or turn around. Also a little tip from pilots I have heard is don't get hyper focused on reaching a destination. That can distract you from those "lemons".
Know your lemon count for sure!
I can take a bit of experience to know when to say when.
Show up at the launch, see the conditions, and know when to turn around n go home.
Or when you're in the water and can recognize that trouble is coming.
Like you said, give up on the destination. Change plans or run for it
Last year i was fishing standing on a huge fallen tree, was there maybe 10-15 minutes and i turn around and two huge moccasins are mating on the tree 10" behind me. Could've easily took a step back and got bitten several times. Another time i had a family of deers following me. Everytime i got to a new spot I'd look behind me and momma was laying down dad was standing in front of her locked on me and the kids were behind both of them playing. They followed me to 3-4 different spots.
Yikes!
What circumstance is okay to not wear a pfd?
When you are not kayak fishing :)
I tether my paddle and net. Everything else i can go without. I probably should tether my rods. But i do lock them into the rod holders when not in my hand. A big seal scared me the other day and i went to shore straight away. I was alone in the ocean with strong currents.
Right on brother! Stay safe out there
Kayaking is new to me, so I was doing something I'm new at. I am a swimmer, so I am comfortable being in water. All that being said, I respect the water and studied boating safety before I took the native voyage. So, I have rules to protect myself from myself, and I can not break those rules! 1st rule, wear the PFD! 2nd rules, if the winds blow above 20 mph, and the waves are choppy, I do not go! I have more rules, but the 2 I mention, I do not waiver on!
Rules to LIVE by for sure!
Wearing a PFD is like fastening you seat belt when you get in your car.
And like a seat belt, you hope you never need it
May I add one?? When in the Florida marsh have a flag so not to get ran over by airboat.. Its an issue here at times
Solid add! Thanks boss!
You got a link to the yak attack light I can use? I need one
This guy? geni.us/YakAttackFlag
Полезное видео, спасибо
Should ALWAYS wear a life vest, ALWAYS. Thanks again for the great info.
Right on brother !
You make a good point on PFDs, yet how many fishing PFDs keep an unconscious boaters head out of the water.
I don't know that number but I would rather not take my chances.
me as well, but like you, I end up wearing a Type 3 as well instead of a type 1, so here's to staying conscious@@wendellfishing
@@johnhubbard6262 Live to fish another day
Well don't need big beaver attacks getting old still on beaver party but my eyes aren't working so good
Columbia River. All of this applies. Be careful. Stay close to shore. Use the land as a wind break and don't take chances. The weather can change quickly and you should error on the side of caution and get back before the wind and waves get you.
Right on Larry!
Good stuff.
A neighbor of mine got a new kayak. It was a small tippy box store type. He wanted to go out yak fishing with me for his inaugural trip. The yak had a very uncomfortable looking seat and he asked me if it would be ok to sit on a throw cushion. I told him it would make his center of gravity higher which would affect the stability. He didn't listen. We hadn't been on the water more than 30 minutes (this was spring so water was in the low 60s air temp 75) when I heard a splash. He had fallen in about 50 yards from the ramp and was walking in the shallows back to the ramp. I asked if he was ok, he insisted on fishing some more. About 10 minutes later I had went around a point but didn't see him on the water anymore so I went directly back to the ramp and there he was on the dock shivering uncontrollably. I immediately went to shore, we got him in some warm clothes (I always carry an extra set) and got him in my warm truck. It was a wake up call for me. I didn't realize how quickly one can go from fine to hypothermia. And before anyone judges me, I really tried to convince him it was time to go and offered up my extra set of clothes after he went in but he insisted that he was fine.
Crazy story.. when it happens.. it happens fast! Live to fish another day folks!
I helped a guy who was on a kayak, and got caught in the wind. He was pushed into tall reeds and ended up capsizing trying to get back out onto the water. He lost ALL of his gear (about 6 feet of water). all he had when he came up was his kayak and his paddle. I helped get him turned over and back to shore, but he definantly had a bad day.
Oh man.. that is a bad day