Fishing Kayak or canoe could be a great addition to your fishing fun.
As much as I like fishing from a shoreline it is nice sometimes to get out into the water and fish along the shore and get into deeper waters. Some species of fish are hardly found near the shoreline and to access those waters, a boat of some type comes in valuable. In addition, the fishing rig and techniques to successfully catch those types of fish such as walleye, lake trout or smallmouth bass are best practiced from a boat.
Kayak’s have come a long way in design and are becoming a great alternative for those who want to fish from a platform and don’t have a boat or want the logistics of owning a boat. Fishing kayaks are designed differently than whitewater kayaks as fishing kayaks are more open with storage compartments, different hull design that makes them practically impossible to flip over. In addition to their stability, fishing kayaks offer some other great benefits for those who want to fish off the shore but without the hassle.
Fishing Kayaks are light weight with 70 lbs being the max weight on most of them even with the bells and whistles. Many are in slightly under 50lbs and range around 10 feet in length which makes it easy to transport in a SUV or minivan or secured to a vehicle rack. The size and weight also makes it easy for an angler to carry it to the shore and launching.
The prices range significantly based on design and comfort. Maneuverability, stability and speed are key elements when considering a fishing kayak and the price reflects these elements.
Another option that provides a stable, more roomy alternate to a fishing kayak is the canoe. A canoe can be transported via a vehicle top rack, is low weight but still heavier and bulkier than a kayak. A canoe supports more people on board although some kayaks are designed to hold three people. For added stability, a stabilizer bar can be mounted to a canoe as it can be mounted to a kayak as well.
Canoes range from 14 feet to 18 feet and offer versatility in regards to adding accessories such as a motor. Some kayaks also offer a design that supports a trolling motor but a canoe can handle small motors. Canoes should be evaluated based on maneuverability and ease of paddling.
Canoes and kayaks range in similar price based on performance and features. Canoes offer an additional value by being able to carry more people and gear and can be a fun activity to do with the family if fishing slows down.
Either way you go, having an option to get out on the water and expand your fishing horizon and depth is a benefit. Both fishing kayaks and canoes offer a great affordable option to the angler wanting to get out on the water without a bunch of hassle or added cost.