My number one reason of loving kayak fishing is you're out there in the middle of everything you feel exposed and when the fish jump they're right there in your face
I've had my Native Slayer Propel 13 for 7 yrs now - I'm almost 70 yrs old and as long as the old body can take it I will keep doing it! You did a great job of turning every negative into a positive - and I agree wholeheartedly! The 2 things that stand out for me are: (1) I get a workout every time I fish, and (2) kayak fishing makes you a better fisherman because it forces you to search for the fish without cranking up the motor and running 5 miles to the 2nd honey hole! The majority of my fishing is done in SE Louisiana brackish water for saltwater species and occasional marsh bass! Most trips I have to deal with huge sportfishermen boats, but there are safe ways to coexist with them. The addition of a small Lowrance fish finder about 8 yrs ago tremendously increased my success - not because I actually "see" the fish so often, but it allows me to locate the drop-offs and determine patterns of the bite. My round trip distances have been as long as 10 miles over the last 12 yrs, but these days I try to keep it down to 4 miles round trip.
I’m 70 and my best fishing came out of an old 18 ft. Canoe. One fishing pole and a lawn chair to sit in. Simple and effective; to say the least very affordable.
Kayaks are slowly replacing canoes as mini vans replace station wagons. If I still had that long low roof to load a canoe on I'd still be happy with a canoe
I love the freedom. Not stuck on the bank on a small lake when 30% is bank fishable. Or be just a passenger on a boat. I usually have game plan or start paddle against the current, find a point then drift back. I study maps during the week before I go out. I was always a good caster. I have no problem casting out of a sit on top kayak. Being on my feet on concrete floor all the time at the plant, it's good to relax, sit and paddle everywhere to find bass. Loading sucks especially J bars with 57lb kayak. Worth the freedom. Now having the aftermarket that we didn't have 15 years ago is great. Expensive? A basic Bass Tracker boat are running around $15,000! My "bass boat" was $400 and put $500 accessories which can transfer to an upgrade boat later on. It's all about freedom
lol, when he said $300 for a Sun dolphin I wondered if prices had gone up that much since I started. Back then Sun Dolphins were under $200. Currently looks like $199 at Dunham's. Holy smokes Walmart prices are way up. Dick's has a Pelican pretty similar to what we started out in for $199. That's what I paid for each of our Pelican's more than a decade ago. They were rec boats, we had to mod them for fishing; add rod holders, etc. Worked fine until we got the bigger purpose built yaks. My Ride 135 was $600 used, which was about half the new price at the time. My wife's Moken 12.5 was $800 new. The Ride has awesome seats. The Moken had the Kingfisher seat so we did the stadium seat mod for her. Have not seen a need to replace them, though we will probably upgrade her to one with a lawn chair seat in the next year or two. When we got those we already had rod holders, fish finder mounts, and a ton of other stuff from modding the Pelicans. We bought some track adapters and kept using the same stuff.
Almost every lake in my area has zero bank access except for a boat ramp. It is nearly impossible to go catch a fish without a boat of some kind. The yak has opened a whole new world of fishing to me.
I love the quiet of just gliding through the water, I can hear every single splash and I see a lot more birds and animals too. It's also really fun to hook a large fish and having it pull you across the lake. I spent a good couple of minutes fighting with a 20lb pike last summer and when I finally got it up to the kayak and could unhook it felt like a real accomplishment. 😁
I love to be able to just slide into a spot that is underfished. You see all the bank anglers casting from shore and your out there catching them from the other side of the lake that’s unreachable. It’s a great feeling.
Oh Heck Yeah.... When I used to bank fish a lot.. all I would be doing is scanning the lake thinking.. I wish I could fish that "only reachable by kayak" spot. It was maddening
To piggyback on that, I find bobbers and lures every time I take the yak out. Not only from shore fisherman but peeps on boats that cant get near them. I can thread my 10 foot Slayer between Cypress trees and stuff.
#1 reason I love kayak fishing is the peace and quiet you get all to yourself, no one to say hey watch how you cast, or hey you almost hooked me! Nope not on the kayak nothing but me myself and I, of course it’s exciting fishing with others but fishing solo you learn so much more at your own pace! Tight lines!
I love everything about yak fishing....even combating the 10mph wind Friday with my 3 lb anchor was not an issue. But what I love most is getting into fishing spots boats CAN'T get to! Bigger better fish!
I’ve been thinking about buying a kayak for two years now and can’t seem to pull the trigger. I guess I feel I might not use it enough to justify buying one even though I fish 2 to 3 times a week. I catch a lot of fish from the bank but can’t get to 70% of the lake. I also can’t decide if I should go inexpensive with something like a Seastream PDL or just go for it and get an Old Town autopilot. So darn many decisions but I’m thinking it’s time to pull the trigger this year and go have some fun since I’m 71 and time is of the essence. Thanks for all your great videos.
I love the no gas and noise. On many lakes the no motor rule doesn’t apply to pedal power . For me it’s access to smaller water and streams that have less fishing pressure.
Yeah one of our local lakes has that rule and it's always so pleasant to hike around it or fish the banks. No obnoxious loud polluting boats - can hear every fish splash, all the birds, etc.. The kayakers look so relaxed out there.
I am a kayak fishing rookie, as I bought my first kayak this summer. The thing I love about it most so far is that even if the fish aren't biting, I can still go kayaking and have a great time being alone with nature. I went fishing a few days ago and saw a bald eagle atop a tree. It was worth the trip to see this magnificent bird take off and swoop down to try and catch dinner.
I'm new to kayak fishing. Like so new, I haven't gone yet. Picked up a Catch 120 Classic, just finished rigging it up (most ideas from your channel. Even the fishing crate). Was gonna go out this weekend but pouring rain all weekend here in Connecticut. Hopefully next wkend!!!!! Thanks for all the videos and info. This channel has helped a lot with ideas and tips.
I love the closeness you feel to the water and the fish when you catch them. Nothing like having a 22” bass come up next to the kayak and wallow and shake its big ole head right there in front of you.
Being able to pick up and go anywhere is the best. Of course the worst is both the wind and loading. Still putting an 82# kayak on an old Buick at my age? In the summer I just leave it on Was that a hummingbird
I get asked a lot on why I don’t just get a canoe. I have a canoe and it has its time and place. But I feel it’ll be a disadvantage to fish from it. My kayak, my baby, was designed to fish and the ability to customize it to fit my needs. Many of the points you brought up about cons for it (back pain, etc) I’ve been able to find simple remedies. That wind though…I have an anchor trolley but I avoid big water like the plague when it’s windy. When it’s that bad I’ll stick to ponds and reservoirs.
I've fished lot's from canoes but a kayak is SO much better. It's like night and day for boat control and stealthyness. I totally love my Hobie PA12 and use it 5 or 6 days a week during the season here in Ontario, Canada.
I definitely think kayak fishing has made me a better and smarter fisherman like you said that you have to study the lake and know where the bass are and it makes me plan better and know what I need to throw and when I need to throw it. Love your videos man and keep up the good work.
You definitely get a smaller but much more detailed view of what's around you. A couple kayak trips and you realize how much you weren't seeing from a boat
I love going to small lakes that everyone is shore fishing on and catching fish they wouldn’t be able to get to. I enjoy the freedom to just paddle and float around. I enjoy the experience of landing a fish and how it can move you around on a kayak it makes a smaller fish seem like a bigger fish. Thanks for the great content
I love everything about kayak fishing!! Well, except about 10% of the big boats cutting you off or hitting you with their wake because you may be in a spot that they wanted to fish. Oh and sweet hat
I love kayak fishing, but I seriously considered buying a boat because of the wind . But I decided to buy a old town autopilot instead to help out with this . Super excited. Going to try trolling lake Erie this year for walleye! Love fishing the bay for bass and crappie. Kayak fishing brings you closer to nature imo. Great channel by the way! Really good content! I also enjoy your podcast! I have a long commute to work and podcasts help with the drive. Keep up the good work! Thanks
@@wendellfishing you helped me decide on the autopilot. I was considering a pedal drive, but a discussion on one of your podcasts changed my mind. You where talking about lake size and kayak choice based on acreage. I mainly fish a 8300 acre bay. Tight lines cheers!
You angered the Murder Birds! LoL. Kayak fishing has made me a more organized and methodical fisherman. Going where boats and banklers can't go is my favorite thing. Every time someone tells me "ain't no fish over there" that's where I go. I almost always catch those fish that Cletus the Slack-Jawed Yokel says aren't there. Pro Tip: put a Ziploc bag full of TP somewhere on your kayak. Good video 👌
Cletus told you that BECAUSE he knows there are fish there. Pro tip: If you get stranded in the woods or swamp, make sure you have Cletus instead of Bob from accounting. He'll be a damn sight more useful.
Thankyou for this informative INTRODUCTION TO KAYAK fishing. I am moving from a house to a condominium, so I have down-sized EVERYTHING. There are lots of lakes, ponds and creeks near my new home, that I am certain harbor game fish. I do not drive motor vehicles anymore, but I am hoping that I can buy or make a trailer for my kayak, that I can pull behind my SCHWINN Meridian trike.
The wind can definitely be annoying. But the thing I love about it, is fighting big fish from a little piece of plastic. Hauling in a 30# + catfish is a pretty cool feeling.
Im brand new to kayak fishing, today was the first day on my brand new kayak. The only thing I truly hated is the extremely painful sunburn I now have. I think the best part about it is you can have alot of fun in groups, and you can easily get onto old abandoned docks.
i made that mistake on my first trip as well i got 3rd degree burn that left scars and i was out of work for a week i could not wear shoes and could barley walk.
I did the same thing last year the first time I tried kayak fishing in Northern California , caught allot of trout but also had third degree burns on the top of my feet and lower legs, couldn't wear shoes for about 10 days and could barley walk , the flight home to Arizona was the worst. Rookie mistake to say the least.
Ouch. The sitting position in a yak exposes your legs like nothing else. People put sunscreen on arms shoulders n face but don't think about their legs. Or possibly worse, the tops of their feet. When it's warm I wear a pair of thin dark colored surgical scrubs and dark socks.
I kayak fish 5 or 6 days a week May - October in Ontario, Canada in my Hobie PA12. I'm 63 and car top it without any problems. Wind is definitely an issue so I generally troll on the really windy days and find laying my rods and net down in the kayak instead of upright in the rod holders helps. Last season I added a 10 color leadcore setup to my arsenal of rods and reels. It let's me troll as deep as 40 or 50 ft for Lake Trout (along with the regular walleye, pike, bass I catch). The leadcore takes a bit of management but really adds a new dimension to kayak fishing. Some weekdays I'm the only boat on a lake and I choose the lakes I fish on weekends carefully to avoid heavy traffic. If I somehow lost my Hobie , I'd go buy another the next day. Life can be sweet and kayak fishing makes it that much sweeter!!
Fell off my yak one time 12ft water hookset caught me off guard had to swim back to shore but the fish was still on! I keep my paddles too, nothing like the challenge of paddling against 20mph winds to make it back. Keeps the arms strong.
Great vid Darren. I'm in my 3rd season in my Oldtown Sportsman 120 pdl. And running the new J2 Bixpy PP-768. I've Fished all my life on my dad's boat, and from the bank. But what I love is, I can back it into my garage, on my $300 trailer from harbor freight. Add all my own additional accessories, add-ons, and electronics, etc. To me it's a one man boat, without all the headaches. Plus the therapy, exercise, and launching between two trees, on large lakes, or the ocean. And my favorite is doing 5 day camp/fish trips with my friends, on our kayaks. 🌊 🎣 😎
My wife and I love kayak fishing, the fact that we can move around independently, is awesome. The other part is, it's quiet, so quiet I had a loon surface next to me👍
I have an idea that might help in a kayak. Old fashioned window sash weights are iron bars with a loop for a rope at one end. If you drop one to the bottom it should make a good anchor but in a strong wind or current it should slow you down a lot. And if you live around old houses you can probably find some for free. You could also weld on some rebar and make a cheap but effective anchor that won't get stuck easily. I assume a stuck anchor would be a problem in a yak. I've seen the weights in 12 and 8 lb for sure and some smaller ones but I don't know their weight. An 8 pounder would probably be a good kayak anchor.
Those could would. But any anchor with out flukes, blades, or a plough tends to drag. I've had success with a 3lb folding 4 fluke anchor. To slow your drift in heavier wind a drift sock/sea anchor is easier and safer than a bottom anchor
The biggest disadvantage for me is the wind when I'm pitching in 10-15 feet of water. When it's calm, I can really pick those grass mats and submerged trees apart. When it's blowing, most times, I don't even bother because it's a pain in the ass raising and dropping an anchor repeatedly in deeper water. And I really don't want the extra hassle of having a spotlock trolling motor on my kayak. All the other times, the wind doesn't bother me. Like you, I've figured out ways to be productive, even in 25 mph winds. On the other hand, one of the biggest advantages a kayak has around where I live (CA) is vessel inspections for invasive species. It's a real pain for boat guys to pass these inspections, making sure there's not one drop of water anywhere, so they usually stay on one lake. It's a cinch for us kayak guys, so I'm constantly hopping from one place to another. It's a huge advantage, imo.
It's a problem in parts of the Midwest too. Invasive species are seriously damaging the environment. I see big warning signs at every boat launch in my area.
Great video thanks for sharing my wife and I both have Jackson Kilroy kayaks I’m like 5’5 with a F150 loading them is a tad tough on my roof racks I use the method where I rest the front of the kayak on the truck tailgate when it’s down then end up pushing from the back so they get on the roof rack, side note remember to put both straps , front and back for each kayak on the cross bars before you load them, we use the Yakamia round bars, with their baseline towers so they are transported upside down we really do like the Kilroys they are approximately 75 or so pounds and are very stable
I fish the coastal waters of Maine. I have a 20' Robalo boat and I have a 12' Old Town pedal kayak. I catch a lot more fish on my kayak than on my boat. On the kayak, you are more like a floating log and more stealth, thus one reason why I catch more fish out of my kayak. Love every minute I am out there. You are spot right on with all you said. Great video!
I love being out on lakes and sections of lakes that nobody else can get too, wether it’s too shallow or too small of an area to get into without a kayak or canoe. It’s peaceful and great for your mind and soul. Especially when you’re surrounded by nature and wildlife you typically won’t see otherwise! I fish out of a 2020 PA12 360 and it’s an absolute dream. You can maneuver into and out of anything and I love to be able to stand and fish, and it’s unbelievably stable for that
I love the stability of my fishing kayak. It's a Lifetime Tamarack 103. I also use a canoe loader that is adequate by Reese, that slides into my hitch receiver and allows me to load and unload my yak with zero drama.
Went kayak fishing yesterday. Got a nice rainbow and my buddy (in his own kayak) got two. Sinker and garlic Power Eggs on a 3' leader. We both tried new anchors we welded up from lightweight scrap materials using RUclips DYI vids for ideas (I had 50' of line, but I'll take 100 next time and spray paint 25' increments on it). Total game changer just fishing without having to monitor drift and keep maneuvering. Pro Tip: take only what you need for hooks/bait/weights. A wide-access kayak cockpit gets cramped in a hurry even with a small tackle box or bag. Sunscreen UNDER the nose and chin is good too for reflected glare.
Number one reason is the adventure! Getting out enjoying the outdoors and most importantly fishing! Yes ups and downs but beats a bad day at work lol. In this group I kayak fish with we always say "fishing is a plus" we are they're for the company! Tight lines!
I love just about everything about kayaking. Just upgraded to two crescent kayaks from my old wilderness systems. One thing I noticed is the more minimal i became the more fun it was. Less rods to tangle in. Less stuff to worry about dropping over etc. Typically now 2 rods, 1 370 box if not a smaller one and a few packs of soft plastics. Took the fish finder off and haven't looked back. Another tip is if your using a lot of crankbaits use quick connects (not snap swivels). This saves uou anlot of time. One other hreat thing is witht the same boat i can go bass (freshwater fishing), stiper fishing, catfishing and even make it out in the ocean all wirh one craft.
Great observation about taking less gear. Takes some experience to know what you actually need. You can about sink your yak with the "Just in case" mentality.
My number one reason for kayak fishing is getting into those places that many people just will never see! That makes it an awesome adventure for me! Great video!🌞🌴
I personally love fishing out of my kayaks. I have an Evoke Battleship 120 and an Old Town Autopilot 136. The evoke is not really a 'fishing' kayak but more a touring kayak that already had rod holders and rails. I used it for a while and was happy with it but I also always wanted an actual fishing kayak that you can stand up in without flipping. I also wanted a motor. I was stoked when I learned about the Autopilot series from Old Town. I can take more with me and I can do a lot more in it. They are both great kayaks and both have their ups and downs. I live on a canal that leads out to a good size lake. That lake is also connected to another good size lake with another canal too. I like kayaks because I can get out where I need to be and I don't need a truck or trailer. I can also load them into the canal right off of my seawall. I do think a Hobbie with that pedal drive they make with the fins might be easier to get through the crazy weeds on my lake.
I love being able to get away from the boats on my home lake. Yeah, the backwater area has a "Barrier" on it. The kayaks can get past no problem. You would rip the bottom off a boat though.
I’ve been looking at kayak’s and pricing them out with everything I’d want and for the money, I could get a used 12-14’ aluminum boat totally decked out with front and back casting deck’s, 9hp outboard, front trolling motor, some electronics, storage, battery, rod holder’s, and a trailer for the same price more or less! I’ve definitely changed my mind on getting a kayak for sure!
Regarding sitting down too much. As a avid wade fisher, I bring my boots and socks during swimming season and find a place to get out and stand in the water for a bit, or if it's too cold I will wear my waders (and wading belt). That way I can always stretch my legs for a half hour and bank fish. It also make entry and exit easier because I no longer care about getting wet.
I love kayak fishing because it makes me feel immersed in nature. It's pretty cool seeing all the wildlife that lives in the Metro lakes I usually fish. I bought a Perception Pescador 10 in 2014 and learned to deal with a lot of these little issues over time. I now have a SS127 with an Xi3 and wind is no longer an issue. At the point where I'm at currently if I had the money to get a bass boat I would just hold onto the money and use it to go on epic kayak fishing trips.
It is a lot of fun getting pulled around by crappies. I can also get to places that larger boats can't even think about getting. I only have about $600 stuck into my kayak right now. That includes all my attachments. Still working on getting a fish locator.
I just got a pelican catch mode 110 for myself and a pelican escape 120x for the wife and we go out on the weekend. This weekend will be my first time kayak fishing. I live in the Yukon in northern canada and just recently subscribed to your channel! looking foreward to this.
In Kansas, and I would assume many other states, we have State Fishing Lakes. Just lakes that are constantly maintained and stocked for fishing. Normally they will have trails, facilities, and sometimes campgrounds around them, as well as they will have a lot of Jetties, docks, and a boat ramp or two made for easy access to the water. By far the best advantage though is the entire lake, which they normally are not that big, are no wake zones. You can take your big million dollar speed fishing pontoon canoe deluxe yachte into it, but it will be going just as slow as all of the kayaks and jon boats out there. They are great places to fish, bar the occasional teens or 20 year olds drinking beer and having a good time, but hey, live and let live.
@@wendellfishing Thank you Sir! I'm still researching but also considering the Hobie kayaks, Mirage Outback perhaps. I let my wife know what I want for Christmas, so I've got lots of time to figure it out and watch great informative videos like your channel! I've been missing out all these years that's for sure, but better late than never, hah
Of all the things you listed the only one that really irks me and will send me home is getting blown around. All my kayaks are paddle kayaks so it's almost impossible in higher winds. I have anchor trolly's on them, but some days even the anchor doesn't hold me and I just give up and leave. The thing I love best is I get into ponds where nobody can. I have to ponds nobody knows how to get onto unless you live on them. And the people who live on them don't fish much. I've talked to most of them from time to time and they mostly just boat around or sit on their docks. Another pond only has access for a small boat or kayak you can carry and the spot is hidden at the back of a church parking lot. They let me park their and ask me about the fishing all the time.
I got a 3 Waters Big Fish 108 kayak. It is big, it is heavy, but it is a tank. I’m not into speed anyways, but it will handle some big boat waves or coastal salt water conditions. White caps are no problem at any angle. I use it to explore, fish, and magnet fish from.
Spot on, dude! Great video! the most I like from kayak fishing is that I am able to be more mobile, couse if it is very windy, and it is too hard to fish, I can drive to other side of the lake where wind is much slower or other lake to fish :)
Great Video. As far as the standing, I have a really stable kayak (Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL) and there are some great stable yaks out there if you aren't looking for speed. I can stand and cast for Bass on and off throughout the day.
I grew up in canoes, and whenever I've tried kayaks I've never liked them quite as much. The canoe solves some of those problems, there are other problems, but I feel like it comes out ahead. Honestly, if you learn to pick your battles right, and learn how to focus your efforts properly, fishing from shore can be hugely productive. Even to the point where most seasons my biggest fish are usually caught from shore, even though I have a boat and several canoes.
I'm glad I ran into your channel, because I ordered those P127 seat risers, and they are awesome! Bonafide should have raised the seat, even Chad Hoover said that, but the risers are solid.
My Feelfree Lure 10 V2 lives on top of my GMC Jimmy so, it's always securely locked and ready to deploy ...perfect for my usual backwater cypress swamp trips
Great video! When considering a new purchase, I'll look at reviews and complaints. Bad news first. Lol I love how you give a good comparison across the board of the most common issues. Great video! New sub here :)
I absolutely love my NuCanoe. It’s a bit of a barge but I can into water in the bays that boats can’t. Plus no fuel, licensing or insurance costs. Easy to store as well.
Don't be afraid of an old 2 stroke! This Old Outboard and Dangar Marine on YT can basically walk you through any repair. Probably the easiest engines you can gain experience with. Just buy a $30 compression test tool! Most important thing to start with is strong compression. Good idea to stay with Johnson or Evinrude IMO. Parts are extremely available and cheap. Yamaha and merc made a lot of changes through the model years.
I’m new at this but being able to throw it in the bed of my truck and go is the major plus! Yes my PDL120 is heavy and awkward, guess I need to get in shape! I fished a lake in Wyoming a couple days ago that’s closed to ALL motor traffic, we put our Yaks on the carts and launched…Smallmouth were biting for about 5 hours and a couple Muskies gave follow, that lake is going to be a great spot for years to come!
Most injuries for me on a kayak is checking my trout line and jug lines, wind and waves hit different on a kayak and sometimes causes me to hook myself wich isn't pretty and hurts to unhook but also hurts to leave hooked as it's usually still attached to line unless I cut it off thus I have to use my legs to keep steady on line while unhooking myself all while it's windy and wavy.
I definitely have a love/hate relationship with my kayak....and that's mostly just because of the wind. But the thing that I love the most, is that it gets me off the bank.
Mainly the ability to access lots of places bigger rigs can't go...Typically I'm vertical jigging for crappie and all my productive spots are within an easy pedal. I rigged it with the small Helix 5, a lithium battery with solar backup, safety lighting and a good ole lumbar support for the seat. Wilderness Systems Recon 120HD. I've really enjoyed it...
My husband and I got fishing kayaks during the drought when the lakes were so low we couldn’t launch our boat. Absolutely love them. Selling our boat, will never go back!
I was just thinking about all of the wakes caused by big boats darting around the lake when you mentioned it lol I need to find a smaller lake to fish.
I feel closer to nature on a yak. To catch fish, going to a no boat ramp pond is best. Sightseeing on shallow streams is great. Boat motor noise bothers me a lot more than it used to. Good exercise. Mostly maintenance free. Negatives... At 73 it is hard to get out of my fin drive sit on top boat. Getting in the water helps. Not enough rudder to get turned into the wind. Getting fishing line caught up on something, especially another rod. Never thought of using the drive well as a restroom, good idea. Pelican style pontoon boat? Weighs 50# more, wind, boat motor and battery to deal with.
Just got my Kayak one thing I hate so far is figuring out how to get in and out of the water with no boat ramp. I have learned I can detach my little trailer and roll it to the waters edge raise the tongue and let the kayak slide in the water but cannot reverse that procedure if there's any uphill involved too heavy for me alone. So I bought 2 sets of portable wheels installed a trailer crank in my car with 100ft reach . 2nd wheels arriving tomorrow hope it works. The one thing I'll mention that I love is after 50 years of fishing from my boat for the first time I'm fishing from a very comfortable chair instead of standing up and loving it, takes a long time to get tired
I learned one tip worth sharing. If you buy bait and put it in a 5 gallon bucket with a aerator to keep your bait alive, buy a second 5 gallon bucket and buy a bag of ice in it, then put your bait bucket in the one with the ice. Your bait will last all day. I saw a video on YT saying that warm warm loses oxygen, so you can aerate it, keep it cold or pour fresh water in the bucket (and maybe take some water out first) bc just pouring water in the bucket is aeratoring the water.
I was thinking the same, if I ever spend that much money I'll get a boat. Then I think about paying to register the boat, trailer and all that u mentioned(take up 1 parking spot, gotta pay for gas, a bit of a challenge going solo{I solo a lot n don't mind}, I like the exercise(great excuse also😂), love the freedom, and much more. Once you get used to loading/unloading the kayak, setting up everything, basically your whole routine and you know where to park and launch from it's awesome! Plus I can park anywhere and pull my kayak in places where there's no others launching from little docks. I don't need a truck to haul it, just load onto my small midsized car and go!
I've a lot of your RUclips videos. I appreciate your unbiased un-sponsored reviews. I'm researching to buy my first one. I live in the PNW and they're not as popular or common here. I'm looking at two used ones for $900. One cascade pro pedal 10'.5", and a Lost Creek Angler 10' with an electric motor thrown in. The reviews look like there supposedly good. I've noticed the pedal drive is the same design, so I'm thinking they're made by the same manufacture. My car is a Subaru outback wagon with convertible/fold away cross bars and no tow hitch, so I need to car top it, not trailer it, at least for now. Any ideas or comments on either would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Thanks Darrel for reaching out.. When it comes to the 2 you mentioned... I really can't give any advice as I have never had my eyes on one of them before. Are they made my BKC?
Enjoyed this vid on a very debatable topic! Lack of storage is a downside but on the flipside, once setup to efficiently, everything you need is at arms length! Just subscribed...so let's go down your rabbit hole to see what else you got..lol
One of the big things that I like about kayak fishing, is it seems like I can sneak up on bigger bass with the low profile quieter , kayak..I will use a motor to go from spot to spot.. But I get close, the motor gets shut off and I paddle into the spot.. The Frye Guy..
I fished from a kayak for a year. Pedal drive. Nice and stable. Got a boat to do more tournament fishing. Haven't gotten my kayak out once ever since. That was 2 years ago.
I have 3 kayaks now and have been kayaking/fishing since the late 60s with a Folbot kit my dad and i built. I have a tandem sit inside, a sit on top and a Hurricane 125 Prima i just purchased and i've found my perfect fishing kayak. It's 35 pounds, acrylic sit inside but has a very comfortable removable beach style chair that's elevated off the hull. It's very slick and the most effortless, quietest paddeling kayak i've experienced to date. It's not for someone who wants a ton of equipment on board but with 350 lb capability, mounting rail and large dry hatch It's perfect for me. I perfer minimalistic that i can load/unload very easy any time i see an interesting fishing spot. I took a fishing pole with broken tip and removed all the ferrels, cut the cork handle off so it will fit in a 3/8" drill and mounted a trolling motor prop on the end with a piece of rubber hose that fits in the prop with the skinny end of the pole pushed into that. In fwd the prop pushes itself tighter in that hose so it doesn't slip. I tried it with a 1/2 drill first and i'm guessing it was pushing around 25 pounds. That's way more than i need to push the Hurricane so went to the much smaller and lighter 3/8" that pushes around 15 pounds. I just hold it in the water by hand now pretty easy but i'm working on a mount. I'm only using that set up to get me to the spots where i then swap over to the quiter paddle.
Loved the fact it was pretty stable I'm 6' 185 and it moved thru the water like a champ, I did flip over one and I did break my paddle in half , so definitely get a better paddle , other than that , can't wait for my next adventure.
As a longtime and passionate fisherman I’ll never say that boat fishing isn’t superior as it always will be. I boat fish regularly but have always wanted a kayak just for those cottage trips where I’m in a swampy area that boats can’t reach and I know for a fact tanks are in, and those camping trips where for most of the time motor boats aren’t permitted in provincial parks so it’s nice to have a means of getting out there on your own terms. It’s a completely different world than boat-fishing. Pros and cons with both, I think both are 100% worth it to have if you love fishing
I am looking at kayaks, because it might free up my hands while fishing, but i'm concerned you can't really stand in it. Pike fishing is mainly standing, the heavy lures makes you hold rods tip down and casting a 170g lure isn't a viable option while seated. Correct me if i'm wrong, but i'm fishing from an by-design-overstabilised canoe, which is about 27kg, less gadgety and less manoeuvrable, but I do fish standing and turning in it A LOT. I do hate the single paddle tho and might opt for a small electric motor.
Check out the Advanced Elements Ultralite. 17lbs, 10.5' long, very stable. Not as luxurious as yours, but is easy to setup, folds up to fit into the trunk of your car in its own backpack. It's a real "go anywhere" stable, easy-to-handle craft. Yeah, I have to do without a motor and a lot of other extras, but it's great fun nonetheless. ...I definitely love slow and quiet! I've learned that minimal works, too!!
I have fished in lots of ways. from noodling to full on jet boat runs up the snake for steelhead to multi day excursions on the puget sound to sneaking up on trout on small creeks I am also coming from a whitewater kayaking background so these boats are stable and roomie to me when I have fished on lakes on small rivers I go for a minimalist way to fish, small tackle box just the rod and tackle you need for the fish you're targeting subbed and gunna check some of your other stuff
@@wendellfishing holy cow I have scratched the surface of a deep hole there is a lot of info just on your page I am sure you will have questions from me looking forward to more vids
When I started fishing I had to find a way off the banks, a kayak was an option for me, I respect anyone who kayak fishes. Not easy! I ended up grabbing a pelican bass raider. Allows me to stand and fish as i hate sitting while fishing…I have a bit more room and I don’t halfto worry about flipping over…I would be terrified to flip a kayak and loose my gear. Love your videos buddy. Just subscribed.
Loading and unloading sometimes makes me not want to go at all. I also have a 12 foot fishing kayak and a 2014 Dodge Avenger...so I'm on the verge of cracking my back window every time I load. I put a hallway runner rug over the back of my car to load/unload.
I have an Ascend 12t and it's affordable (under a grand new if you get on sale), it's durable, you can stand up in and it has lots of options for storage and modifications. It's not overly heavy so I can slide it up on my roof racks no problem. Seats are comfy but I bought some seat cushions off Amazon and I can stay out 8-12 hours at a time. I get my exercise I need, I can get into spots boaters can't and I'm just having a great time for a fraction of the price of a boat. $1100 with basic upgrades vs $20k-$100k+ for a new bass boat.
Great video and a lot of good points and I am a hardcore Kayak Fisherman. Its a great way to get my lazy butt some exercise and its forced me to be a lot more attentive to details when fishing a spot and I catch more fish and bigger fish typically as a result. I can also access areas a boat just cant get into!
I use tackle bags instead of Boxes. It allows me to organize my gear just the same but I can carry a on of tackle in a very compact package thats easy to use even when out at night fishing. Its the best thing I have learned from 25 years of Kayak fishing!
You said it, no costly maintenance. Sure mine was expensive but I know when I go on the water my paddle will always work lol I keep my kayak simple, I use to run a motor but I find paddling is just a nicer experience. Less to worry about. I think overall ease of use? If that makes sense lol My brother just got a boat and he always tells me to get one. He got out in his boat maybe 5 times? ( motor trouble) I go out just about every weekend In my yak
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
⭐⭐ If You Liked This.. You Will Love This: "The Fishing Lure Colors Bass ACTUALLY See…" ----------> ruclips.net/video/vIY7p7EfDC8/видео.html ⭐⭐
Never had anyone ask to go out on my kayak with me . Rarely got to fish alone on my boat , solitude is one of my most treasured outdoor assets ..
Solid angle brother
My number one reason of loving kayak fishing is you're out there in the middle of everything you feel exposed and when the fish jump they're right there in your face
Oh heck yeah Chad! Get some!
Bonus when I lived in South Florida fishing the Everglades, the gators were right in your face too!
@@HomesteadOnThePreserve yea was dealing with that yesterday
@@HomesteadOnThePreserve i cant say id count that as a bonus lol
Kinda like riding a bike along a road that you have only ever driven down - being part of it vs being outside of it
I've had my Native Slayer Propel 13 for 7 yrs now - I'm almost 70 yrs old and as long as the old body can take it I will keep doing it! You did a great job of turning every negative into a positive - and I agree wholeheartedly! The 2 things that stand out for me are: (1) I get a workout every time I fish, and (2) kayak fishing makes you a better fisherman because it forces you to search for the fish without cranking up the motor and running 5 miles to the 2nd honey hole! The majority of my fishing is done in SE Louisiana brackish water for saltwater species and occasional marsh bass! Most trips I have to deal with huge sportfishermen boats, but there are safe ways to coexist with them. The addition of a small Lowrance fish finder about 8 yrs ago tremendously increased my success - not because I actually "see" the fish so often, but it allows me to locate the drop-offs and determine patterns of the bite. My round trip distances have been as long as 10 miles over the last 12 yrs, but these days I try to keep it down to 4 miles round trip.
Right on Michael! Appreciate your comment brother. Stay safe out there!
I’m 70 and my best fishing came out of an old 18 ft. Canoe. One fishing pole and a lawn chair to sit in. Simple and effective; to say the least very affordable.
lawn chair hack... love it
Kayaks are slowly replacing canoes as mini vans replace station wagons.
If I still had that long low roof to load a canoe on I'd still be happy with a canoe
@@jameslindahl3024 Hey... You like what you like.
@@jameslindahl3024 and stand up paddles boards are slowly taking kayaking over like SUVs did to mini vans.
Yeah these kids are over the top today. Canoes , pirougues , simple kayaks . Minimalistic pleasures not $6,000.00 techno tubs.
I love the freedom. Not stuck on the bank on a small lake when 30% is bank fishable. Or be just a passenger on a boat.
I usually have game plan or start paddle against the current, find a point then drift back. I study maps during the week before I go out.
I was always a good caster. I have no problem casting out of a sit on top kayak. Being on my feet on concrete floor all the time at the plant, it's good to relax, sit and paddle everywhere to find bass.
Loading sucks especially J bars with 57lb kayak. Worth the freedom.
Now having the aftermarket that we didn't have 15 years ago is great. Expensive? A basic Bass Tracker boat are running around $15,000! My "bass boat" was $400 and put $500 accessories which can transfer to an upgrade boat later on. It's all about freedom
FREEEEEEEEEEEEEEDOOOOOMMMMMM!
lol, when he said $300 for a Sun dolphin I wondered if prices had gone up that much since I started. Back then Sun Dolphins were under $200. Currently looks like $199 at Dunham's. Holy smokes Walmart prices are way up. Dick's has a Pelican pretty similar to what we started out in for $199. That's what I paid for each of our Pelican's more than a decade ago.
They were rec boats, we had to mod them for fishing; add rod holders, etc. Worked fine until we got the bigger purpose built yaks. My Ride 135 was $600 used, which was about half the new price at the time. My wife's Moken 12.5 was $800 new. The Ride has awesome seats. The Moken had the Kingfisher seat so we did the stadium seat mod for her.
Have not seen a need to replace them, though we will probably upgrade her to one with a lawn chair seat in the next year or two. When we got those we already had rod holders, fish finder mounts, and a ton of other stuff from modding the Pelicans. We bought some track adapters and kept using the same stuff.
Almost every lake in my area has zero bank access except for a boat ramp. It is nearly impossible to go catch a fish without a boat of some kind. The yak has opened a whole new world of fishing to me.
I love the quiet of just gliding through the water, I can hear every single splash and I see a lot more birds and animals too. It's also really fun to hook a large fish and having it pull you across the lake. I spent a good couple of minutes fighting with a 20lb pike last summer and when I finally got it up to the kayak and could unhook it felt like a real accomplishment. 😁
Awesome.. that sounds like an epic sleigh ride
“Kayadilac” 😂 Had me laughing
:)
I love to be able to just slide into a spot that is underfished. You see all the bank anglers casting from shore and your out there catching them from the other side of the lake that’s unreachable. It’s a great feeling.
Oh Heck Yeah.... When I used to bank fish a lot.. all I would be doing is scanning the lake thinking.. I wish I could fish that "only reachable by kayak" spot. It was maddening
If ya know, ya know. Those of us in the Polyethylene Armada know. We are the masters of finding fish others can even fathom are there.
To piggyback on that, I find bobbers and lures every time I take the yak out. Not only from shore fisherman but peeps on boats that cant get near them. I can thread my 10 foot Slayer between Cypress trees and stuff.
@@HomesteadOnThePreserve same here haha. I’ve got a whole box dedicated to old lures I find and restore them lol.
@@BowFinJunkie Love it! I do the same (minus the dedicated box)
Luv the quiet & solitude of a small shallow cove, waterway, river that is sooo invigorating.
#1 reason I love kayak fishing is the peace and quiet you get all to yourself, no one to say hey watch how you cast, or hey you almost hooked me! Nope not on the kayak nothing but me myself and I, of course it’s exciting fishing with others but fishing solo you learn so much more at your own pace! Tight lines!
Right on SapSap.. I hear ya there.. I have never been hooked on a yak. Big Facts there
I fish with a buddy most of the time. But the quiet is what I love as well.
I love everything about yak fishing....even combating the 10mph wind Friday with my 3 lb anchor was not an issue. But what I love most is getting into fishing spots boats CAN'T get to! Bigger better fish!
Oh heck yes NickNack!!!
And being so much more stealthy than a boat really helps a kayak fishermen bring in better numbers and sizes of fish!!
I’ve been thinking about buying a kayak for two years now and can’t seem to pull the trigger. I guess I feel I might not use it enough to justify buying one even though I fish 2 to 3 times a week. I catch a lot of fish from the bank but can’t get to 70% of the lake. I also can’t decide if I should go inexpensive with something like a Seastream PDL or just go for it and get an Old Town autopilot. So darn many decisions but I’m thinking it’s time to pull the trigger this year and go have some fun since I’m 71 and time is of the essence. Thanks for all your great videos.
Oh man...... a kayak will open up a whole new world for you
I love the no gas and noise. On many lakes the no motor rule doesn’t apply to pedal power . For me it’s access to smaller water and streams that have less fishing pressure.
Great point!
Yeah one of our local lakes has that rule and it's always so pleasant to hike around it or fish the banks. No obnoxious loud polluting boats - can hear every fish splash, all the birds, etc.. The kayakers look so relaxed out there.
I am a kayak fishing rookie, as I bought my first kayak this summer. The thing I love about it most so far is that even if the fish aren't biting, I can still go kayaking and have a great time being alone with nature. I went fishing a few days ago and saw a bald eagle atop a tree. It was worth the trip to see this magnificent bird take off and swoop down to try and catch dinner.
Right on!
Being on the water before dawn then watching the sun come up over the trees. So peaceful and so beautiful.
Oh heck yeah!
I'm new to kayak fishing. Like so new, I haven't gone yet. Picked up a Catch 120 Classic, just finished rigging it up (most ideas from your channel. Even the fishing crate). Was gonna go out this weekend but pouring rain all weekend here in Connecticut. Hopefully next wkend!!!!! Thanks for all the videos and info. This channel has helped a lot with ideas and tips.
Oh heck yeah! Now's the best time to get out there as they are biting like crazy. Happy to help brother. Reach out anytime.
I love the closeness you feel to the water and the fish when you catch them. Nothing like having a 22” bass come up next to the kayak and wallow and shake its big ole head right there in front of you.
No doubt!
I love the calm I experience when I’m on the water in my kayak fishing. I am new to kbf. I’m learning and loving it.
Welcome to KBF Steven!
Being able to pick up and go anywhere is the best. Of course the worst is both the wind and loading. Still putting an 82# kayak on an old Buick at my age? In the summer I just leave it on
Was that a hummingbird
Yeah.. I don't take my kayak off of the trailer in the summer.. My truck just sits outside at this point. What you saw was a Garmin Striker 4
I get asked a lot on why I don’t just get a canoe. I have a canoe and it has its time and place. But I feel it’ll be a disadvantage to fish from it. My kayak, my baby, was designed to fish and the ability to customize it to fit my needs. Many of the points you brought up about cons for it (back pain, etc) I’ve been able to find simple remedies.
That wind though…I have an anchor trolley but I avoid big water like the plague when it’s windy. When it’s that bad I’ll stick to ponds and reservoirs.
Yeah.. Canoe.... it definitely has its place... which is on the showroom floor :)
I've fished lot's from canoes but a kayak is SO much better. It's like night and day for boat control and stealthyness. I totally love my Hobie PA12 and use it 5 or 6 days a week during the season here in Ontario, Canada.
I definitely think kayak fishing has made me a better and smarter fisherman like you said that you have to study the lake and know where the bass are and it makes me plan better and know what I need to throw and when I need to throw it. Love your videos man and keep up the good work.
Right on Dalton... thanks for the encouragement...Appreciate it
You definitely get a smaller but much more detailed view of what's around you. A couple kayak trips and you realize how much you weren't seeing from a boat
I love going to small lakes that everyone is shore fishing on and catching fish they wouldn’t be able to get to. I enjoy the freedom to just paddle and float around. I enjoy the experience of landing a fish and how it can move you around on a kayak it makes a smaller fish seem like a bigger fish.
Thanks for the great content
Heck Yeah Andrew!
I love everything about kayak fishing!! Well, except about 10% of the big boats cutting you off or hitting you with their wake because you may be in a spot that they wanted to fish.
Oh and sweet hat
Thanks FlipFlop!!!
I love kayak fishing, but I seriously considered buying a boat because of the wind . But I decided to buy a old town autopilot instead to help out with this . Super excited. Going to try trolling lake Erie this year for walleye! Love fishing the bay for bass and crappie. Kayak fishing brings you closer to nature imo.
Great channel by the way! Really good content! I also enjoy your podcast! I have a long commute to work and podcasts help with the drive. Keep up the good work! Thanks
Thanks Kevin, Really appreciate the feedback.. I haven't spoken to 1 person who hasn't love the OT Autopilot. So awesome.
@@wendellfishing you helped me decide on the autopilot. I was considering a pedal drive, but a discussion on one of your podcasts changed my mind. You where talking about lake size and kayak choice based on acreage. I mainly fish a 8300 acre bay. Tight lines cheers!
@@kevinmalott9625 That's awesome Kevin.. It makes my day that the discussion was helpful. thanks for letting me know.
You angered the Murder Birds! LoL. Kayak fishing has made me a more organized and methodical fisherman. Going where boats and banklers can't go is my favorite thing. Every time someone tells me "ain't no fish over there" that's where I go. I almost always catch those fish that Cletus the Slack-Jawed Yokel says aren't there. Pro Tip: put a Ziploc bag full of TP somewhere on your kayak. Good video 👌
I'm sure that "Sucks" and "I'm Going to Murder those Geese" may demonetize the video... Oh Well. :)
Good pro tip. I remember one time coming home from fishing and only wearing one sock.
Baby wipes or Dude Wipes are another option. Baby wipes are good for your hands and face if they need cleaning too.
Always have TP AND baby wipes/wet ones for your hands.
Cletus told you that BECAUSE he knows there are fish there. Pro tip: If you get stranded in the woods or swamp, make sure you have Cletus instead of Bob from accounting. He'll be a damn sight more useful.
Thankyou for this informative INTRODUCTION TO KAYAK fishing. I am moving from a house to a condominium, so I have down-sized EVERYTHING. There are lots of lakes, ponds and creeks near my new home, that I am certain harbor game fish. I do not drive motor vehicles anymore, but I am hoping that I can buy or make a trailer for my kayak, that I can pull behind my SCHWINN Meridian trike.
Now.. that rig is going to be epic....
The wind can definitely be annoying. But the thing I love about it, is fighting big fish from a little piece of plastic. Hauling in a 30# + catfish is a pretty cool feeling.
Oh heck yeah.. I call 30lb catfish "Sleigh Rides"
My biggest complaint is the wind .... completely aggravating
You can really feel the strength of big fish in a kayak.
Im brand new to kayak fishing, today was the first day on my brand new kayak. The only thing I truly hated is the extremely painful sunburn I now have. I think the best part about it is you can have alot of fun in groups, and you can easily get onto old abandoned docks.
Heck Yeah.. I was just out for 4 days.. and I cant tell ya how many times I had to reapply
i made that mistake on my first trip as well i got 3rd degree burn that left scars and i was out of work for a week i could not wear shoes and could barley walk.
I did the same thing last year the first time I tried kayak fishing in Northern California , caught allot of trout but also had third degree burns on the top of my feet and lower legs, couldn't wear shoes for about 10 days and could barley walk , the flight home to Arizona was the worst. Rookie mistake to say the least.
@@rocketcityastro wow.. you got it good
Ouch. The sitting position in a yak exposes your legs like nothing else. People put sunscreen on arms shoulders n face but don't think about their legs. Or possibly worse, the tops of their feet.
When it's warm I wear a pair of thin dark colored surgical scrubs and dark socks.
I kayak fish 5 or 6 days a week May - October in Ontario, Canada in my Hobie PA12. I'm 63 and car top it without any problems. Wind is definitely an issue so I generally troll on the really windy days and find laying my rods and net down in the kayak instead of upright in the rod holders helps. Last season I added a 10 color leadcore setup to my arsenal of rods and reels. It let's me troll as deep as 40 or 50 ft for Lake Trout (along with the regular walleye, pike, bass I catch). The leadcore takes a bit of management but really adds a new dimension to kayak fishing. Some weekdays I'm the only boat on a lake and I choose the lakes I fish on weekends carefully to avoid heavy traffic. If I somehow lost my Hobie , I'd go buy another the next day. Life can be sweet and kayak fishing makes it that much sweeter!!
Love it Sarge! I use leadcore when salmon fishing but never from a kayak. Get Some!!!!
@@wendellfishing Thanks man!! You too!
Fell off my yak one time 12ft water hookset caught me off guard had to swim back to shore but the fish was still on! I keep my paddles too, nothing like the challenge of paddling against 20mph winds to make it back. Keeps the arms strong.
The best part of this story is that you still landed it.. GET SOME!
Great vid Darren. I'm in my 3rd season in my Oldtown Sportsman 120 pdl. And running the new J2 Bixpy PP-768. I've Fished all my life on my dad's boat, and from the bank. But what I love is, I can back it into my garage, on my $300 trailer from harbor freight. Add all my own additional accessories, add-ons, and electronics, etc. To me it's a one man boat, without all the headaches. Plus the therapy, exercise, and launching between two trees, on large lakes, or the ocean. And my favorite is doing 5 day camp/fish trips with my friends, on our kayaks. 🌊 🎣 😎
Oh man Anthony! 5 day trips on the yak sounds amazing! Tell me more!
@@wendellfishing Will do bro. Got one planned next month.
Living the dream, way to do it Anthony!
My wife and I love kayak fishing, the fact that we can move around independently, is awesome. The other part is, it's quiet, so quiet I had a loon surface next to me👍
Amen to that... love that you are able to get out there with your wife!
I have an idea that might help in a kayak. Old fashioned window sash weights are iron bars with a loop for a rope at one end. If you drop one to the bottom it should make a good anchor but in a strong wind or current it should slow you down a lot. And if you live around old houses you can probably find some for free. You could also weld on some rebar and make a cheap but effective anchor that won't get stuck easily. I assume a stuck anchor would be a problem in a yak. I've seen the weights in 12 and 8 lb for sure and some smaller ones but I don't know their weight. An 8 pounder would probably be a good kayak anchor.
5lbs is usually too big for kayak use. Here is how we used to handle the stuck anchor problem;
ruclips.net/video/0NjIF5Lo_8s/видео.html
Right on CF!
i use a 3lb magnet and have pulled up small pieces of meteorite.
@@rocketcityastro Whoa.. thats awesome
Those could would. But any anchor with out flukes, blades, or a plough tends to drag. I've had success with a 3lb folding 4 fluke anchor.
To slow your drift in heavier wind a drift sock/sea anchor is easier and safer than a bottom anchor
The biggest disadvantage for me is the wind when I'm pitching in 10-15 feet of water. When it's calm, I can really pick those grass mats and submerged trees apart. When it's blowing, most times, I don't even bother because it's a pain in the ass raising and dropping an anchor repeatedly in deeper water. And I really don't want the extra hassle of having a spotlock trolling motor on my kayak. All the other times, the wind doesn't bother me. Like you, I've figured out ways to be productive, even in 25 mph winds.
On the other hand, one of the biggest advantages a kayak has around where I live (CA) is vessel inspections for invasive species. It's a real pain for boat guys to pass these inspections, making sure there's not one drop of water anywhere, so they usually stay on one lake. It's a cinch for us kayak guys, so I'm constantly hopping from one place to another. It's a huge advantage, imo.
Interesting on the vessel inspections. Thanks for sharing.. learned something new
It's a problem in parts of the Midwest too. Invasive species are seriously damaging the environment. I see big warning signs at every boat launch in my area.
Great video thank you. I enjoy my sit in fishing kayak. It is not peddle drive but I still love it
If you love it.. that's all that matters! Get some P B!
I love that it’s made me a better angler. I’ve learned to be more methodical. To have a good plan.
Right on SwampSquatch! A Goal without a plan... is just a wish
Great video thanks for sharing my wife and I both have Jackson Kilroy kayaks I’m like 5’5 with a F150 loading them is a tad tough on my roof racks I use the method where I rest the front of the kayak on the truck tailgate when it’s down then end up pushing from the back so they get on the roof rack, side note remember to put both straps , front and back for each kayak on the cross bars before you load them, we use the Yakamia round bars, with their baseline towers so they are transported upside down we really do like the Kilroys they are approximately 75 or so pounds and are very stable
Heck yeah... love that you and your wife enjoy it together!
I fish the coastal waters of Maine. I have a 20' Robalo boat and I have a 12' Old Town pedal kayak. I catch a lot more fish on my kayak than on my boat. On the kayak, you are more like a floating log and more stealth, thus one reason why I catch more fish out of my kayak. Love every minute I am out there. You are spot right on with all you said. Great video!
Thanks boss!
I love being out on lakes and sections of lakes that nobody else can get too, wether it’s too shallow or too small of an area to get into without a kayak or canoe. It’s peaceful and great for your mind and soul. Especially when you’re surrounded by nature and wildlife you typically won’t see otherwise! I fish out of a 2020 PA12 360 and it’s an absolute dream. You can maneuver into and out of anything and I love to be able to stand and fish, and it’s unbelievably stable for that
Heck Yeah.. standing and fishing from a yak is the best! Get some!
I love the stability of my fishing kayak. It's a Lifetime Tamarack 103. I also use a canoe loader that is adequate by Reese, that slides into my hitch receiver and allows me to load and unload my yak with zero drama.
heck yeah! Nice setup David!
Went kayak fishing yesterday. Got a nice rainbow and my buddy (in his own kayak) got two. Sinker and garlic Power Eggs on a 3' leader. We both tried new anchors we welded up from lightweight scrap materials using RUclips DYI vids for ideas (I had 50' of line, but I'll take 100 next time and spray paint 25' increments on it). Total game changer just fishing without having to monitor drift and keep maneuvering. Pro Tip: take only what you need for hooks/bait/weights. A wide-access kayak cockpit gets cramped in a hurry even with a small tackle box or bag. Sunscreen UNDER the nose and chin is good too for reflected glare.
Solid advice Tom! Thanks!
Number one reason is the adventure! Getting out enjoying the outdoors and most importantly fishing! Yes ups and downs but beats a bad day at work lol. In this group I kayak fish with we always say "fishing is a plus" we are they're for the company! Tight lines!
Right on Israel!
I love just about everything about kayaking. Just upgraded to two crescent kayaks from my old wilderness systems. One thing I noticed is the more minimal i became the more fun it was. Less rods to tangle in. Less stuff to worry about dropping over etc. Typically now 2 rods, 1 370 box if not a smaller one and a few packs of soft plastics. Took the fish finder off and haven't looked back. Another tip is if your using a lot of crankbaits use quick connects (not snap swivels). This saves uou anlot of time. One other hreat thing is witht the same boat i can go bass (freshwater fishing), stiper fishing, catfishing and even make it out in the ocean all wirh one craft.
Heck yeah CC! Love the minimalism!
Great observation about taking less gear. Takes some experience to know what you actually need.
You can about sink your yak with the
"Just in case" mentality.
My number one reason for kayak fishing is getting into those places that many people just will never see! That makes it an awesome adventure for me! Great video!🌞🌴
Couldn't agree more!
I love the freedom that I feel when fishing from my kayak. There is not a better feeling
Amen to that Ronnie.... I feel a another level of freedom when I see the bald eagles swoop down and fish with me
I personally love fishing out of my kayaks. I have an Evoke Battleship 120 and an Old Town Autopilot 136. The evoke is not really a 'fishing' kayak but more a touring kayak that already had rod holders and rails. I used it for a while and was happy with it but I also always wanted an actual fishing kayak that you can stand up in without flipping. I also wanted a motor. I was stoked when I learned about the Autopilot series from Old Town. I can take more with me and I can do a lot more in it. They are both great kayaks and both have their ups and downs. I live on a canal that leads out to a good size lake. That lake is also connected to another good size lake with another canal too. I like kayaks because I can get out where I need to be and I don't need a truck or trailer. I can also load them into the canal right off of my seawall. I do think a Hobbie with that pedal drive they make with the fins might be easier to get through the crazy weeds on my lake.
Heck Yeah.. I have never met a person who did not like the OT Autopilot
@@wendellfishing It really it a great kayak and a good price too.
I love being able to get away from the boats on my home lake. Yeah, the backwater area has a "Barrier" on it. The kayaks can get past no problem. You would rip the bottom off a boat though.
I have a few of those as well... Also some heavy lillies that boats won't take their boat through.
I’ve been looking at kayak’s and pricing them out with everything I’d want and for the money, I could get a used 12-14’ aluminum boat totally decked out with front and back casting deck’s, 9hp outboard, front trolling motor, some electronics, storage, battery, rod holder’s, and a trailer for the same price more or less! I’ve definitely changed my mind on getting a kayak for sure!
You like what you like
Regarding sitting down too much. As a avid wade fisher, I bring my boots and socks during swimming season and find a place to get out and stand in the water for a bit, or if it's too cold I will wear my waders (and wading belt). That way I can always stretch my legs for a half hour and bank fish. It also make entry and exit easier because I no longer care about getting wet.
I love kayak fishing because it makes me feel immersed in nature. It's pretty cool seeing all the wildlife that lives in the Metro lakes I usually fish. I bought a Perception Pescador 10 in 2014 and learned to deal with a lot of these little issues over time. I now have a SS127 with an Xi3 and wind is no longer an issue. At the point where I'm at currently if I had the money to get a bass boat I would just hold onto the money and use it to go on epic kayak fishing trips.
That's the attitude I like to see!
It is a lot of fun getting pulled around by crappies. I can also get to places that larger boats can't even think about getting. I only have about $600 stuck into my kayak right now. That includes all my attachments. Still working on getting a fish locator.
Heck yeah.. welcome to the addiction
I love these kind of videos to do. Your the best at these. Lots of good info.
Thanks B! Appreciate it!
Lake Wheeler, been on that lake several times. Not a bad little lake. Hello to you sir from a neighbor in Zebulon.
The kayak like yours is pretty sweet. I need to add one to my wish list!
Heck yeah! You just need to get Bonafide to send you one! :)
Excellent!
Thank you for sharing!
NP boss! Happy to help
I just got a pelican catch mode 110 for myself and a pelican escape 120x for the wife and we go out on the weekend. This weekend will be my first time kayak fishing. I live in the Yukon in northern canada and just recently subscribed to your channel! looking foreward to this.
Have fun brother! There's nothing like it!
I just bought a Hobie Outback last weekend. I had a Feelfree Lure. I love kayak fishing. I fish all the local ponds and 1 mile off the beach
Heck yeah Daniel.... get some!!!
In Kansas, and I would assume many other states, we have State Fishing Lakes. Just lakes that are constantly maintained and stocked for fishing. Normally they will have trails, facilities, and sometimes campgrounds around them, as well as they will have a lot of Jetties, docks, and a boat ramp or two made for easy access to the water. By far the best advantage though is the entire lake, which they normally are not that big, are no wake zones. You can take your big million dollar speed fishing pontoon canoe deluxe yachte into it, but it will be going just as slow as all of the kayaks and jon boats out there. They are great places to fish, bar the occasional teens or 20 year olds drinking beer and having a good time, but hey, live and let live.
Some of my favorite places to Yak! GET SOME!
I"m a new angler and your video convinced me to invest in a kayak, thanks Wendell, great explanation on pros and cons.
Heck yeah brother. 1 Thank you for your service.. and 2. Welcome to Kayak Fishing.. there's nothing like it. What Yak did you end up with?
@@wendellfishing Thank you Sir! I'm still researching but also considering the Hobie kayaks, Mirage Outback perhaps. I let my wife know what I want for Christmas, so I've got lots of time to figure it out and watch great informative videos like your channel! I've been missing out all these years that's for sure, but better late than never, hah
Of all the things you listed the only one that really irks me and will send me home is getting blown around. All my kayaks are paddle kayaks so it's almost impossible in higher winds. I have anchor trolly's on them, but some days even the anchor doesn't hold me and I just give up and leave.
The thing I love best is I get into ponds where nobody can. I have to ponds nobody knows how to get onto unless you live on them. And the people who live on them don't fish much. I've talked to most of them from time to time and they mostly just boat around or sit on their docks.
Another pond only has access for a small boat or kayak you can carry and the spot is hidden at the back of a church parking lot. They let me park their and ask me about the fishing all the time.
Those sweet honey holes make kayak fishing just awesome.
I got a 3 Waters Big Fish 108 kayak. It is big, it is heavy, but it is a tank. I’m not into speed anyways, but it will handle some big boat waves or coastal salt water conditions. White caps are no problem at any angle. I use it to explore, fish, and magnet fish from.
Heck yeah Tracy! Glad you got a yak you love!
All kayaks have pros n cons.
Big heavy stable kayaks are definitely nice to fish from
Spot on, dude! Great video!
the most I like from kayak fishing is that I am able to be more mobile, couse if it is very windy, and it is too hard to fish, I can drive to other side of the lake where wind is much slower or other lake to fish :)
Right on brother!
Great Video. As far as the standing, I have a really stable kayak (Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL) and there are some great stable yaks out there if you aren't looking for speed. I can stand and cast for Bass on and off throughout the day.
100%
I grew up in canoes, and whenever I've tried kayaks I've never liked them quite as much. The canoe solves some of those problems, there are other problems, but I feel like it comes out ahead. Honestly, if you learn to pick your battles right, and learn how to focus your efforts properly, fishing from shore can be hugely productive. Even to the point where most seasons my biggest fish are usually caught from shore, even though I have a boat and several canoes.
Right on brother.. You like what you like! Get some!
On a really calm body of water like a lake or a mellow river you're absolutely right.
I'm glad I ran into your channel, because I ordered those P127 seat risers, and they are awesome! Bonafide should have raised the seat, even Chad Hoover said that, but the risers are solid.
Right on brother! Welcome. yeah.. they make an adjustable seat that would have great to see on this yak.
My Feelfree Lure 10 V2 lives on top of my GMC Jimmy so, it's always securely locked and ready to deploy
...perfect for my usual backwater cypress swamp trips
Sounds like someone is living the dream!
Great video! When considering a new purchase, I'll look at reviews and complaints. Bad news first. Lol I love how you give a good comparison across the board of the most common issues. Great video! New sub here :)
Thanks boss! Appreciate you!
I absolutely love my NuCanoe. It’s a bit of a barge but I can into water in the bays that boats can’t. Plus no fuel, licensing or insurance costs. Easy to store as well.
Don't be afraid of an old 2 stroke! This Old Outboard and Dangar Marine on YT can basically walk you through any repair. Probably the easiest engines you can gain experience with. Just buy a $30 compression test tool! Most important thing to start with is strong compression. Good idea to stay with Johnson or Evinrude IMO. Parts are extremely available and cheap. Yamaha and merc made a lot of changes through the model years.
:) I have an old two stroke.. I just have the kayak bug.
@@wendellfishingsame here. Boats are just cumbersome to me any more and the endless maintenance.
I just caught my first good one of 2023 (19”, 4lb largemouth) at a small lake that only kayaks and canoes can fish. Was awesome
Oh heck yes Kirk.. nice one
I’m new at this but being able to throw it in the bed of my truck and go is the major plus! Yes my PDL120 is heavy and awkward, guess I need to get in shape! I fished a lake in Wyoming a couple days ago that’s closed to ALL motor traffic, we put our Yaks on the carts and launched…Smallmouth were biting for about 5 hours and a couple Muskies gave follow, that lake is going to be a great spot for years to come!
Heck yeah.. sounds like you got the honey hole to boot!
Most injuries for me on a kayak is checking my trout line and jug lines, wind and waves hit different on a kayak and sometimes causes me to hook myself wich isn't pretty and hurts to unhook but also hurts to leave hooked as it's usually still attached to line unless I cut it off thus I have to use my legs to keep steady on line while unhooking myself all while it's windy and wavy.
Be safe out there brother!
I definitely have a love/hate relationship with my kayak....and that's mostly just because of the wind. But the thing that I love the most, is that it gets me off the bank.
Yeah.. the wind can be brutal
Mainly the ability to access lots of places bigger rigs can't go...Typically I'm vertical jigging for crappie and all my productive spots are within an easy pedal. I rigged it with the small Helix 5, a lithium battery with solar backup, safety lighting and a good ole lumbar support for the seat. Wilderness Systems Recon 120HD. I've really enjoyed it...
Heck Yeah YaknTackle! Get some!!!
My husband and I got fishing kayaks during the drought when the lakes were so low we couldn’t launch our boat. Absolutely love them. Selling our boat, will never go back!
That is awesome!
I was just thinking about all of the wakes caused by big boats darting around the lake when you mentioned it lol I need to find a smaller lake to fish.
Definitely less enjoyable when you are worried about a motor running you over.
I feel closer to nature on a yak. To catch fish, going to a no boat ramp pond is best.
Sightseeing on shallow streams is great.
Boat motor noise bothers me a lot more than it used to. Good exercise. Mostly maintenance free.
Negatives...
At 73 it is hard to get out of my fin drive sit on top boat. Getting in the water helps. Not enough rudder to get turned into the wind. Getting fishing line caught up on something, especially another rod.
Never thought of using the drive well as a restroom, good idea.
Pelican style pontoon boat? Weighs 50# more, wind, boat motor and battery to deal with.
Right on Bob! Love those no boat ramp ponds and lakes myself.
Just got my Kayak one thing I hate so far is figuring out how to get in and out of the water with no boat ramp. I have learned I can detach my little trailer and roll it to the waters edge raise the tongue and let the kayak slide in the water but cannot reverse that procedure if there's any uphill involved too heavy for me alone. So I bought 2 sets of portable wheels installed a trailer crank in my car with 100ft reach . 2nd wheels arriving tomorrow hope it works. The one thing I'll mention that I love is after 50 years of fishing from my boat for the first time I'm fishing from a very comfortable chair instead of standing up and loving it, takes a long time to get tired
Right on brother!
I learned one tip worth sharing. If you buy bait and put it in a 5 gallon bucket with a aerator to keep your bait alive, buy a second 5 gallon bucket and buy a bag of ice in it, then put your bait bucket in the one with the ice. Your bait will last all day.
I saw a video on YT saying that warm warm loses oxygen, so you can aerate it, keep it cold or pour fresh water in the bucket (and maybe take some water out first) bc just pouring water in the bucket is aeratoring the water.
Right on Haciendadad!
I was thinking the same, if I ever spend that much money I'll get a boat. Then I think about paying to register the boat, trailer and all that u mentioned(take up 1 parking spot, gotta pay for gas, a bit of a challenge going solo{I solo a lot n don't mind}, I like the exercise(great excuse also😂), love the freedom, and much more. Once you get used to loading/unloading the kayak, setting up everything, basically your whole routine and you know where to park and launch from it's awesome! Plus I can park anywhere and pull my kayak in places where there's no others launching from little docks. I don't need a truck to haul it, just load onto my small midsized car and go!
Amen to that.... Nothing Like Kayak Fishing. ruclips.net/video/T4FRCJ9340M/видео.html
I've a lot of your RUclips videos. I appreciate your unbiased un-sponsored reviews. I'm researching to buy my first one. I live in the PNW and they're not as popular or common here. I'm looking at two used ones for $900. One cascade pro pedal 10'.5", and a Lost Creek Angler 10' with an electric motor thrown in. The reviews look like there supposedly good. I've noticed the pedal drive is the same design, so I'm thinking they're made by the same manufacture. My car is a Subaru outback wagon with convertible/fold away cross bars and no tow hitch, so I need to car top it, not trailer it, at least for now. Any ideas or comments on either would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Thanks Darrel for reaching out.. When it comes to the 2 you mentioned... I really can't give any advice as I have never had my eyes on one of them before. Are they made my BKC?
Enjoyed this vid on a very debatable topic! Lack of storage is a downside but on the flipside, once setup to efficiently, everything you need is at arms length! Just subscribed...so let's go down your rabbit hole to see what else you got..lol
Oh.. it's a deep dark rabbit hole. Welcome :)
One of the big things that I like about kayak fishing, is it seems like I can sneak up on bigger bass with the low profile quieter , kayak..I will use a motor to go from spot to spot.. But I get close, the motor gets shut off and I paddle into the spot.. The Frye Guy..
Right on FryeGuy!
I fished from a kayak for a year. Pedal drive. Nice and stable. Got a boat to do more tournament fishing. Haven't gotten my kayak out once ever since. That was 2 years ago.
I have 3 kayaks now and have been kayaking/fishing since the late 60s with a Folbot kit my dad and i built. I have a tandem sit inside, a sit on top and a Hurricane 125 Prima i just purchased and i've found my perfect fishing kayak. It's 35 pounds, acrylic sit inside but has a very comfortable removable beach style chair that's elevated off the hull. It's very slick and the most effortless, quietest paddeling kayak i've experienced to date. It's not for someone who wants a ton of equipment on board but with 350 lb capability, mounting rail and large dry hatch It's perfect for me. I perfer minimalistic that i can load/unload very easy any time i see an interesting fishing spot. I took a fishing pole with broken tip and removed all the ferrels, cut the cork handle off so it will fit in a 3/8" drill and mounted a trolling motor prop on the end with a piece of rubber hose that fits in the prop with the skinny end of the pole pushed into that. In fwd the prop pushes itself tighter in that hose so it doesn't slip. I tried it with a 1/2 drill first and i'm guessing it was pushing around 25 pounds. That's way more than i need to push the Hurricane so went to the much smaller and lighter 3/8" that pushes around 15 pounds. I just hold it in the water by hand now pretty easy but i'm working on a mount. I'm only using that set up to get me to the spots where i then swap over to the quiter paddle.
Niiiice!
Nice option to replace the pelican catch 120 I have. I need a kayak with a seat that is higher and than can handle the weight.
Right on brother!
I hope to have a kayak this next Friday! The last time I was on a boat was a submarine haha.
Heck yeah.. which one are you getting?
Loved the fact it was pretty stable I'm 6' 185 and it moved thru the water like a champ, I did flip over one and I did break my paddle in half , so definitely get a better paddle , other than that , can't wait for my next adventure.
Get some brother!!!
I love kayak fishing !!!!!!! it's a lot of fun for me, a GREAT workout. I don't have a foot paddle drive one ... yet.
Heck yeah Gunter!
As a longtime and passionate fisherman I’ll never say that boat fishing isn’t superior as it always will be. I boat fish regularly but have always wanted a kayak just for those cottage trips where I’m in a swampy area that boats can’t reach and I know for a fact tanks are in, and those camping trips where for most of the time motor boats aren’t permitted in provincial parks so it’s nice to have a means of getting out there on your own terms. It’s a completely different world than boat-fishing. Pros and cons with both, I think both are 100% worth it to have if you love fishing
Right on brother!
I am looking at kayaks, because it might free up my hands while fishing, but i'm concerned you can't really stand in it. Pike fishing is mainly standing, the heavy lures makes you hold rods tip down and casting a 170g lure isn't a viable option while seated. Correct me if i'm wrong, but i'm fishing from an by-design-overstabilised canoe, which is about 27kg, less gadgety and less manoeuvrable, but I do fish standing and turning in it A LOT. I do hate the single paddle tho and might opt for a small electric motor.
I think you would surprised how stable they are for stand up fishing. The pontoon style hulls will be more stable than a canoe so you should be good.
Check out the Advanced Elements Ultralite. 17lbs, 10.5' long, very stable. Not as luxurious as yours, but is easy to setup, folds up to fit into the trunk of your car in its own backpack. It's a real "go anywhere" stable, easy-to-handle craft. Yeah, I have to do without a motor and a lot of other extras, but it's great fun nonetheless. ...I definitely love slow and quiet! I've learned that minimal works, too!!
Minimal works too indeed! Get Some!
I have fished in lots of ways.
from noodling to full on jet boat runs up the snake for steelhead to multi day excursions on the puget sound to sneaking up on trout on small creeks
I am also coming from a whitewater kayaking background so these boats are stable and roomie to me
when I have fished on lakes on small rivers I go for a minimalist way to fish, small tackle box just the rod and tackle you need for the fish you're targeting
subbed and gunna check some of your other stuff
I have never tried noodling.. sounds like a ton of fun! Thanks for the sub brother!
@@wendellfishing holy cow I have scratched the surface of a deep hole
there is a lot of info just on your page
I am sure you will have questions from me
looking forward to more vids
@@kennethlindahl9206 Thanks boss.. and welcome to the rabbit hole!
When I started fishing I had to find a way off the banks, a kayak was an option for me, I respect anyone who kayak fishes. Not easy! I ended up grabbing a pelican bass raider. Allows me to stand and fish as i hate sitting while fishing…I have a bit more room and I don’t halfto worry about flipping over…I would be terrified to flip a kayak and loose my gear.
Love your videos buddy.
Just subscribed.
Phils.... Those bass raiders look comfortable... glad you got something that allows you to get out there and Slay em! Thanks for the sub!
Loading and unloading sometimes makes me not want to go at all. I also have a 12 foot fishing kayak and a 2014 Dodge Avenger...so I'm on the verge of cracking my back window every time I load. I put a hallway runner rug over the back of my car to load/unload.
I have an Ascend 12t and it's affordable (under a grand new if you get on sale), it's durable, you can stand up in and it has lots of options for storage and modifications. It's not overly heavy so I can slide it up on my roof racks no problem. Seats are comfy but I bought some seat cushions off Amazon and I can stay out 8-12 hours at a time. I get my exercise I need, I can get into spots boaters can't and I'm just having a great time for a fraction of the price of a boat. $1100 with basic upgrades vs $20k-$100k+ for a new bass boat.
1000% Andrew!
Great video and a lot of good points and I am a hardcore Kayak Fisherman. Its a great way to get my lazy butt some exercise and its forced me to be a lot more attentive to details when fishing a spot and I catch more fish and bigger fish typically as a result. I can also access areas a boat just cant get into!
I use tackle bags instead of Boxes. It allows me to organize my gear just the same but I can carry a on of tackle in a very compact package thats easy to use even when out at night fishing. Its the best thing I have learned from 25 years of Kayak fishing!
IMO.. one the greatest advantages!
If it works for ya.... no need to change anything!
The wind/current with paddle power was the deal breaker for me. So frustrating
True... the Achilles heal of Kayak Fishing
fixed with a trolling motor or even a 2stroke outboard.
Spend the trip fighting the wind ends the fun quickly.
Check the weather and pick your days.
You said it, no costly maintenance. Sure mine was expensive but I know when I go on the water my paddle will always work lol
I keep my kayak simple, I use to run a motor but I find paddling is just a nicer experience. Less to worry about.
I think overall ease of use? If that makes sense lol
My brother just got a boat and he always tells me to get one. He got out in his boat maybe 5 times? ( motor trouble) I go out just about every weekend In my yak
Case and point brother! Thanks