Kayak Fishing

Fishing from the shore is better than not fishing at all, but it certainly has it's limitations. You have to contend with trees, snakes, ticks, chiggers, and other nuisances. You also tend to lose more hooks, as they get caught on roots, rocks, and tangled line close to the shoreline. I always wanted to get away from the shallows, but I never considered a kayak to be a tool for fishing.

Boy, was I wrong...

I bought a fishing kayak from a big outdoors retailer a few weeks ago. It was less than $500, and it had good customer reviews. I chose the "sit on top" style because it's easy to get in and out and allows more freedom to move. The boat has three rod holders and quite a bit of storage space. I also bought a basic paddle and a life jacket.

My first outing was yesterday. I strapped the boat to my truck and drove to Lake Johnson in Raleigh. I brought along my tackle box, two rods, and some drinking water. I carried the twelve foot long, seventy pound craft to the launch site and paid the launch fee. I assembled my gear and gingerly hit the water.

What a weird feeling! I felt like I was going to fall over at first, but I got my balance and began paddling into the lake. The sun was hot but the breeze on the water was refreshing. I was able to see the big picture and pick spots that might hold fish. Before long, I was on the opposite shore.

This is when I decided to try to fish side saddle. It was a bit awkward, but as long as I kept my head in line with the boat's centerline, I was stable. I hadn't let my feet dangle in the water in ages. Every once in a while the icy cold water from the deep would brush my toes.

I stayed out there for about three hours. I explored the coves, did a little fishing, and practiced staying in one spot against the current. I was out of water and getting a sunburn, so I made my way back to the launch. After packing my gear and hoisting the kayak back onto the truck, I was tired.

If you ever have the opportunity, try fishing from a kayak. It's a pleasant way to get some exercise, it's environmentally friendly, and you get to fish!