Yak fishermen, listen up. We’re a special breed, fearless to tackle big water in tiny boats.
We can get in and out where others can’t, but it comes at a price.
Fishing from the yak can be a bit limiting, in terms of space and ergonomics.
That makes kayak fishing accessories like these lifesavers. Take these recommendations to heart.
A Landing Net
This one’s going right at the top. Everything else on this list is important but let’s be real: we’re here to catch fish, and a landing net, especially a tough model like YakAttack Leverage, is a must-have.
Once you’ve lost a 7+ pounder on a jump or a head-thrash yak-side, you won’t make that mistake again. Small fish may be easy to lip, but bigger ones are safer swung over the gunwale in a net.
Losing one is bad enough. Learn from us – get the landing net ahead of time and take no chances with the big ones.
A Rod Holder
Disregard this if your kayak has receptacles for your rods – but if it doesn’t, a rod holder is a must, especially if you troll.
You need both arms for that, and a rod holder that can be set at specific angles will give you greater flexibility over lure running depth and action.
An Outrigger System
Alright, to be honest, this is not a must-have, and some kayak anglers can get away without one.
But if you’re often on choppy water or struggle a bit with primary stability, an outrigger system can make your time on the water much more enjoyable by helping to stop rolls in their proverbial tracks.
A Kayak Cart
Oftentimes the trip from the truck to the water is quite trying. Just as often, the sweet spot requires a hike. Sometimes, you have to get through thick stuff to get to where the fish are.
Porting a kayak loaded with gear is hard enough. Get a quality kayak cart with big wheels that can tackle tough, uneven terrain, rocks, and dips, and make that (unpleasant) portion of the day’s outing a bit more bearable.
Cleats
Some kayaks have them, others don’t. Either way, cleats are must-have tie-down/attachment points for vessels of all sizes and if your yak is lackin’ upgrade it with a cleat like a YakAttack GT that can attach to a standard gear track.
A Seat
If your kayak has a comfortable seat, disregard this recommendation. If not, take heed. Long days on the water can wreak havoc on your comfort, and a comfortable seat (like a Hobie Compass assembly) can provide the support you need to enjoy long days in comfort. Many seat assemblies are easy to install on gear tracks, so the upgrade can be relatively easy to make.
A Safety Flag
Not a necessity for all – but for those that brave rough and heavily trafficked waters – especially tidal waters with commercial traffic, an orange safety flag is a must. It will help keep you seen and out of danger, especially when more of your attention is on fishing than on traffic.
Dry Bags/A Waterproof Case
Waterproof compartment or no, at least one dry bag or waterproof case is a must for your personal belongings (such as phone, wallet, keys, and other effects). Preferably, it should be one that floats.
Scupper Plugs
For those of you that fish sit-on-tops with open scuppers, in the summer months, getting wet is no big deal. But in early spring and late fall, in much of the country, water temperatures are downright frigid. For a few dollars, you can get some new universal scupper plugs and stop up those holes so you can stay comfortable for longer.
Looking for Must-Have Kayak Fishing Accessories like These (and Others)?
These are only a few of the must-have kayak fishing accessories that experience will teach you you’ll need. To learn more about them, pick up a few, or explore other essentials, visit No Bad Days Kayak via the previous link or contact them directly at 512-229-0560. They’ll set you up for success with the best kayaks, accessories, and kayak fishing gear in the industry.
