It is a sit-on-top kayak with a pedal drive and I’ve enjoyed using it so far.

Get a closer look in the video here!

Perception Showdown Pedal Kayak [VIDEO]

Find NEW Saltwater Fishing Spots In Your Area In 60 Seconds or Less!!!

The kayak itself is 11.5 feet long, weighs about 90 pounds, and it is 36 inches wide.

These kayaks retail for about $2300.

That is on the lower end for pedal kayaks.

This one in particular has a pedal drive system so you can easily move forward and in reverse.

Standard Kayak Features

Up front, you don’t have a hatch but there is a hard bag that comes standard with the kayak.

You can even remove this bag and use it for your tackle or additional storage.

There is a paddle park on the bag for quick use of the paddle if you are standing or sitting.

Another thing to note is this bag is NOT waterproof and water can get in through the zippers.

Moving toward the middle of the kayak, there is some padding underneath the pedals for your feet.

That helps when standing and fishing which is absolutely no issue on this kayak.

There is also a console in the middle for any customizations or attachments.

In this case, I mounted a small phone holder there for quick access.

The phone holder I use is from RAM Mounts and it is the X-Grip.

If you pull that piece off, the prop is underneath.

The prop on this kayak is completely concealed and folds into the hull.

If needed, you can fish super skinny water.

Mounts & Rear Features

On either side of the kayak, there are metal tracks to mount additional attachments and gear.

Metal tracks are much better than plastic tracks because metal tracks maintain a firm connection.

Plastic tracks run the risk of your gear popping out because it is not as secure.

I attached paddle clips from Railblaza on either side.

They are perfect for securing the anchor stick to the side of the kayak.

Then on the other side, the paddle is clipped in.

You always want to have a paddle with you even on a pedal drive kayak.

If something happens to the pedals, you need a way back to your launch site.

The seat is made of mesh and it’s big and comfortable.

It clips into the base with bungees to keep it secure.

The base also slides forward and back so you can adjust to the pedals and sit comfortably.

Off to the left are the rudder control and space for additional tackle boxes.

There is space for tackle on both sides as well as more rod holders.

There are 4 total rod holders and they are angled backward to stay out of the way of your casts.

The tank well area in the back is big with plenty of space.

You can safely secure your tackle box or cooler there.

Then there is the rudder as well as a hatch to access the rudder in case you need to.

Personal Customizations

The first thing I added to the kayak was an anchor trolley.

This is critical to adjust your position while anchored up.

You’re pretty much limited to facing one direction in a kayak so I try to have any advantage I can get.

An anchor trolley allows you to anchor toward the front or back of the vessel.

I also added an extra track on the back of the kayak for more stability in storing the anchor pin.

Then on the very back, I added an additional mount for my light post if I am out fishing in super low light or rough conditions.

The Perception Showdown is a great budget-friendly kayak if you’re in the market for a pedal-drive watercraft.

Finding The Fish Help

In order to help make sure that you are targeting the right areas based on the latest feeding trends and upcoming weather forecasts, make sure to use the following 3 resources because they will save you a ton of time.

1. Weekend Game Plans (updated weekly)

These regional game plans will show you exactly what types of spots to target in under 10 minutes… just click the video to start, and you’ll be informed on what to do on your next trip.

Weekend Game Plan Lessons

2. Smart Fishing Spots Platform (updated every 15 minutes)

This exclusive software literally shows you where the most fish are likely to be feeding based on exactly when you’ll be fishing. It factors in the tides, wind, and weather to help you quickly see which areas to target throughout the day.

Smart Fishing Spots App

3. Community Reports (live feed)

The Insider Community platform is what you can use to see what is biting near you, and you can get to know other members who fish in your area. Plus, you can use it to keep a log of your catches so you can use past trips to help predict future catches.

Community Platform 

The post Perception Showdown Pedal Kayak Walkthrough appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

I first saw one of these back at iCast in 2017 and since then it’s always been in the back of my mind as something I’d like to add to my kayak one day.

Learn more on how to install a Bixpy motor to your kayak below!!

Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit Review [VIDEO]

Click here to get 10% off a Bixpy Motor

This video specifically details the installation on the Mirage Drive Adapter for a Hobie Outback or a variety of different Hobie kayaks.

We’ll also talk more about the rudder adapter and the outboard power pack.

Equipment & Contents Of The Box

Once you open the box on your motor, you’ll see a detailed quick-start guide.

Please take the time to read through this information!!!

This is for your safety and so you can gain a quick understanding of the different parts and functions of the equipment.

Basic Installation [Hobie Mirage Drive Adapter]

The Hobie Mirage Drive Adapter assists with installation on Hobie kayaks and can be purchased from Bixpy.

I have a Hobie Outback Kayak and this installation is very simple.

Four screws connect the motor itself to the base mount leading to a power supply cable that runs up the main shaft of the mount.

Bixpy includes clasps and zip ties to secure the power supply cable to the main shaft.

NOTE: If you have a Hobie kayak, you need to change the covering of the motor to the covering with shaved edges.

That way you can get the motor in and out of the Mirage Drive Unit without damage.

When placing the motor in or out of the receiving port for the Mirage Drive, make sure you tilt the motor back.

That will prevent you from damaging the motor.

The power supply line can rest on either side of the motor just as long as it is not pinched.

Then, secure the adapter in place.

Moreover, Bixpy provides dielectric grease to apply on the receiving ends of the power supply cable.

Next, connect the power supply to the battery pack.

An added feature is Bixpy’s magnetized coin release clip that sits on the center of the battery.

If you were to fall out of the kayak and the coin is removed, power is immediately cut off.

Bixpy also provides a remote that you can slide onto your wrist with 3 buttons.

There are 12 different forward speed settings, 3 speeds for reverse, and a stop button.

On-The-Water Experience

At the highest speed setting, the motor topped out at about 3.5 mph which is par for the course.

Additionally, I noticed that the motor is very loud and makes lots of noise.

Granted, I did have the speed cranked up all the way to the highest setting, however, the kayak was loudly vibrating.

On full power, this motor should last about an hour to 90 minutes.

If I were to use this to buzz across a bay to fish some points, it would effectively get me there and save my energy for fishing rather than pedaling.

Or even if you get stuck out in bad weather, this motor can come in handy in helping you safely back to shore.

Also, I’m not too sure how applicable the reverse function is on a kayak, but it has the power to do so if needed.

I even was able to try out the Twist & Stow Rudder Adapter which goes on the rear of your kayak.

This adapter will work on most older kayaks and Outbacks from 2017 and prior.

The Pros

Personally, I am not accessory-savvy.

I like to keep things simple and bring as little as possible with me out on the water.

But there are times when I’ll go offshore to target blackfin tuna and tarpon.

This motor is extremely useful when covering lots of ground like I would on those trips.

The battery life is also exceptional.

I ran the motor at full speed for about 75% of the time on a 6-hour fishing trip and I only used about half of the battery.

Furthermore, all of the attachments on the Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit are very easy to use and install.

The gear and unit weigh about 10lbs and change altogether which is on the lighter side.

Also, I absolutely love the fact that the battery pack floats!

I am not the most cautious with my gear and I’m going to fish in some rougher conditions from time to time so it’s nice to go out on the water knowing nothing will short circuit on you or sink to the bottom.

You can have the confidence needed to go out and have a successful day of fishing.

In addition, Bixpy has YouTube videos on their website that detail the installation of just about every single attachment on most any kayak.

I will also add that I personally preferred the Mirage Drive Adapter over the Twist & Stow Rudder Adapter.

It is much easier to swap out the Mirage Drive Adapter when trying to move into shallow water.

The Cons

There are not many cons to address but I did want to mention the wrist remote layout.

The remote does not have a digital screen to indicate which power setting you’re on.

There are 12 speed settings to go forward and 3 settings for reverse so it would be helpful to see which setting you’re on.

A dial or a chart to provide that information would be welcomed.

It can be hard to discern if you are on setting 6 or setting 8 just by the vibrations and speed of the kayak alone.

And, of course, it is not quiet and tends to be noisy.

That is understandable given the power of the motor as well as its size.

But if you plan on sneaking up on fish in shallow water or calm conditions, there’s a good chance the fish will feel the vibrations of the motor.

Moreover, the Bixpy motor is not designed to get into shallow water of less than 2 feet safely.

The Twist & Stow Rudder Adapter also poses some difficulties.

I haven’t found a great spot for the battery pack to go on my kayak.

The lanyard on the safety magnet that clips on the motor is only so long and it is difficult to access when out on the water actively fishing.

Lastly, turning on higher speeds caused major resistance in the rudders so it sometimes feels like you’re trying to move the Earth when turning left or right.

Conclusion

If you are someone that has to cover lots of ground on their kayak, then the Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit is something you may want to look into.

Personally, I would go with the Mirage Drive Adapter in the center of my kayak but it is going to be different for every angler!

Overall, I was very impressed with the power behind the Bixpy motor and would be seen as money well spent if you like to cover a lot of water.

Bixpy is offering 10% off the products on their website to Salt Strong Insider Members!!

Click here to get 10% off a Bixpy Motor

Do you have any more questions about the Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit?

Let me know what you thought of this review and if you have any more questions, feel free to ask down in the comments!!

If you know someone who wants to learn more about the Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit, please TAG or SHARE this with them!

Oh, and if you Join the Insider Club TODAY,  Smart Fishing Spots is absolutely FREE! Click here to join us in the Insider Club!

Related Articles:

• I WON A BOAT FISHING TOURNAMENT ON A KAYAK. HERE’S HOW…
• 40 BOATS VS. 1 KAYAK FISHERMAN (SHOCKING FISHING TOURNAMENT RESULTS!)
• KAYAK TOW FISHING TRIP THROUGH OZELLO BACKWATERS [FISHING REPORT]

The post Bixpy J-2 Outboard Kit Review [Pros, Cons, & More] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

Check out this video where I break down the top three pros and cons of the Kaku Kahuna.

And since we’re not affiliated with Kaku, you can be sure that this is a completely unbiased review.

In the video, I mention a previous video we shot about paddleboard fishing tips, so a link to that is posted below along with a link to see a listing of fun paddleboard fishing posts.

Enjoy!

Kaku Kahuna Paddleboard Review [VIDEO]

Related Links:

– 3 Must-Know Tips For Paddleboard Fishing

– See Paddleboard Fishing Videos

Kaku Kahuna Specs

Here are the specs of the Kaku Kahuna paddleboard:

• Length: 12 feet
• Width: 34 inches
• Weight: 70 lbs
• Weight Capacity: 280 lbs

Conclusion

Have you used the Kaku Kahuna?

What did you think?

Let me know in the comments below!

P.S. know someone who is looking for a paddleboard? TAG or SHARE this with them!

Related articles:

• How to Fish from a Paddleboard – Saltwater Flats Edition [Video]
• 3 Reasons All Kayak Anglers Should Consider Paddle Board Fishing
• How To Consistently Catch Redfish, Snook, & Seatrout [FREE PDF Guide]

The post Kaku Kahuna Paddleboard Review [Top 3 Pros & Cons] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

Today we’re going to be doing a review of the popular L2Fish catamaran paddle board.

To begin, this is a really unique board.

I’ve been using it for the past two years so I’ve got a really good feel for everything this board can do (plus a few small downsides).

For the record, we are not sponsored or affiliated with Livewater Sports (the maker of the L2Fish board), so I’m gonna talk about both the pros and the cons (because we are totally unbiased here at Salt Strong and we always try our best to give fair and balanced reviews).

Finally, if you already own one of these boards (or have used one in the past,) I’d love to hear your experience and thoughts in the comment section down below.

Let’s dig in.

Pros Of The L2Fish

• This paddle board is SUPER stable (to the point you can catch tarpon with two grown adults on the board like our friends Joey Antonelli and Logan Athey did). I’ve even put my skiff platform on the board to get a couple more feet of elevation and it was still incredibly stable.
• It’s 34-inches wide and almost impossible to flip over with the catamaran style hull
• No drag in the middle of the board
• Not much hull slap (compared to other boards that don’t have a catamaran hull) – very important for sight fishing
• The SUP has tracks up and down each side of the board to easily add in any accessories (YakAttack, etc)
• Comes in numerous colors and even comes in a 14ft version as well called the Expedition (this L2Fish in the review is a 12-footer)
• It weighs 50 pounds so it’s light enough to load, launch, and carry by myself (much lighter than my kayak)
• Can hold 500 pounds of weight (so even with me, my gear, a full cooler, and a dog, this paddleboard still runs smooth)
• Easy to use for any size person (from kids to super heavy or super tall anglers)
• It looks awesome and turns heads (I’ve found it’s a great conversation starter)

Cons Of The L2Fish

• The main con is the cost, but then again, you usually get what you pay for… Note: the 12ft version is $2,300 and the 14ft version of this board (The Expedition) is $2600
• Storage (since it’s a little thicker than most boards – because of the amazing catamaran stability – it takes a little more room to store it)
• The 14ft version is a little tougher to transport by yourself

Here’s the video review below.

L2Fish Paddle Board Review [VIDEO]

Did we leave anything out?

What are your thoughts on this board?

Let us know in the comments below.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you don’t like this board, then you probably hate puppies also…

The only real downside is the cost and weight (if you compared it to a super light SUP).

But if you are serious about fishing, if you want a board that can hold all of your gear (plus your cooler and dog), this is the best board we’ve seen on the market.

In fact, we personally own two of them now (Joe just bought a new one for his 40th birthday – in black – it looks awesome).

So what are your thoughts on the L2Fish board?

Let us know in the comments below.

Tight lines!

Related Posts:

Top 3 Reasons To Consider Paddle Board Fishing Over A Kayak (see it here now)

How To Transport Your Paddle Board Hands-Free (see it here now)

How To Fish From A Paddle Board Like A Pro (see it here now)

The post L2Fish Paddle Board Review [Top 3 Pros & Cons] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

This is a pedal drive kayak and offers many customizable options for each angler’s preferences.

This post dives into the pros and cons I have found while using the Jackson Coosa FD Kayak and how you can set this kayak to best suit your needs.

Learn more about the Insider Fishing Club

Jackson Coosa FD Kayak Specs

The specs for the Jackson Coosa FD Kayak are:

• Length: 12′ 7″
• Weight: 105-115 lbs. (105 without the flex drive and raised seat)
• Propulsion: Pedal Drive (called the flex drive)
• Max Weight Capacity: 450 lbs.

Jackson Coosa FD Kayak Review Video

This video provides a comprehensive look at the Jackson Coosa FD Kayak and the different ways you can set it up.

Check out my full review here:

Jackson Coosa FD Review: Pros

I like this kayak for a variety of reasons and it has served me well as a fishing vessel for the past couple of months. My top pros for using this kayak include:

1. Very Stable – This kayak has great stability and allows me to stand up to fish easily. It also allows me to go from a sitting to standing position and vice versa with no issue.
2. Flex Drive Function and Design – The flex drive gives me more freedom to use my hands while fishing and spend less time positioning the kayak and paddling. The kayak is also well designed to where you can access the necessary flex drive parts while kayaking to remove any weeds or debris that gets caught in the prop.

   

3. Customizable Options – Almost everything on the kayak is removable and adjustable, from the rudder to the raised seat. You can set up the kayak in the way you want and easily add additional equipment such as GoPro mounts.
4. Jackson Kayak Customer Service – Jackson not only provides a quality product, they also offer exceptional customer service. If you have any issues with your kayak, the people at Jackson are eager to help you find a solution.

Jackson Coosa FD Review: Cons

Although I have thoroughly enjoyed my Coosa FD, there are a couple drawbacks to this kayak:

1. Weight – This is a heavy kayak at 105-115 pounds and not easily moved around with one person.
2. Aluminum Seat – The seat that comes with the kayak is made out of aluminum and is not the strongest material. Friends of mine have had issues with the seat bars bending on them and getting out of shape.
3. Tackle Box Tray Under Seat – The tackle box tray under the seat can be useful, but it also takes up a lot of space and can actually block you from being able to open the hatch to the pedal drive in some settings. This can be fixed by removing the tray.
4. Rudder System Tracking – One of the biggest issues I’ve had with my kayak is the rudder system not tracking, meaning that when I take my hands off the rudder control levers the kayak will begin turning.

Note: We’d love to hear your thoughts on your Jackson Coosa FD, so please leave a comment down below to share your experiences with these kayaks.

Conclusion

Although there are some cons to this kayak, the usability and design of the Jackson Coosa FD is top notch and provides a great fishing vessel for anglers.

The customizable options also meets the needs of almost any angler, making this an extremely versatile kayak.

If you’ve used the Jackson Coosa FD Kayak, let us know what you think of it by commenting below.

[Click here to the Salt Strong Ultimate Guide to Buying a Kayak]

The post Jackson Coosa Flex Drive Kayak Review [Video] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

• your paddle board
• your paddle
• your rods
• your tackle box or cooler

Well, you can!

Wait until you see this somewhat DIY shoulder strap for paddle boards that I’ve been using with my L2Fish board.

It’s awesome.

As you probably know, paddle boards have become a very popular vessel of choice for fishing as of late.

They are stealthy, lightweight, easy to transport, and they can get into some seriously tight spots that fish love to hang out in.

As the industry is growing, newer and more advanced paddleboards are starting to hit the market.

Many are even starting to take the shape and size of a mini boat.

The L2Fish paddleboard – made by LIVE Watersports out of Clearwater, Florida – is a stand-up fishing machine.

It is super lightweight for it’s size, only weighing in around 51lbs, but it is rather wide and bulky.

This can create some issues with carrying the board from your vehicle to the water.

You could risk dropping it, bumping it into everything in your path, or possibly even injuring yourself.

I have found a very easy and convenient way to carry the board by using a standard paddle board carrying strap or sling.

Here is a link to the exact strap that I use – CLICK HERE to see it on Amazon

I overlooked the idea at first because I figured it would be a hassle to get the straps around the board with it being so wide.

I had an “ah-ha” moment when I figured I could use the ends of the board to put a strap around.

It was a quick and easy solution.

In the following video, I will demonstrate how to use the strap with the L2Fish board (although you could something similar to this with most paddle boards).

I also included a great tip to increase the strength of the strap so that you don’t risk dropping your board.

Enjoy!

Hands-Free Paddle Board Strap [VIDEO]

Conclusion

Although I’ve been a kayak fisherman for many years, I love my paddle board.

The only thing I didn’t like about it was the transportation aspect of it.

There just wasn’t an easy way to transport my L2Fish paddle board without multiple trips.

But then I started playing around with my kayak/paddle board strap, and it eventually changed everything for me.

Now I can transport my paddle board without a ton of trips.

Do you have any tips or special ways to move your paddle board?

Let me know in the comments.

And if you want to see the exact paddle board strap I use, here it is on Amazon.

Related Video: 3 Must-Know Paddle Board Fishing Tips (see all three here)

Related Video: The Best Way To Transport A Paddle Board In A Truck (see it here)

P.S. – If you think your angler friends or fishing networks would like to see this, please Tag them or Share this with them. You Rock!

Fish On!

The post How To Transport Your Paddle Board Hands-Free [VIDEO] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

If not, you’ll like this post.

I’m going to show you exactly what I like about this product, what I don’t like, and some tips on how to best use it.

Hope you enjoy my review below.

To start, why would you want this ParkNPole product by YakAttack?

Well, when fishing from a small vessel, you want to be able to do two things in order to effectively fish an area.

1. Move Quietly
2. Anchor (Stop) Yourself Quickly and Quietly

I usually just use my paddle to stand up paddle when I am sight fishing from my kayak or paddle board, however, the pressure and noise created from the paddle moving water can be picked up by nearby fish, causing them to possibly get spooked.

I already had an anchor pin, which I use to quickly and quietly anchor myself if I came upon some fish to cast at.

I tried to use the pin as a push pole but it was just too short to effectively push myself around (only 8ft long)

I then made myself a wooden push pole from a 10ft long wooden dowel.

This worked for a bit, but was still a little too short to push myself while standing and was also really bulky.

It would bang against the sides of the kayak while pushing off and it took up too much room on the kayak when not in use.

After quite a bit of searching online, I came across the Park N Pole Push Pole/Anchor Pin made by YakAttack.

This pole comes in a couple different sizes and options:

• 8’ One Piece
• 6’ One Piece
• 8’ “Link” (2 Piece)
• 6’ “Link” (2 Piece)

If you want to be able to use this product as a push pole, I highly recommend getting the 8’ ParkNPole Link, which is what I will be reviewing in the video below.

It comes in two separate 4-foot sections which connect to each other to create one.

In addition, I also purchased the 46” extension which makes the entire length around 12-feet long, which is ideal for poling yourself around on the flats.

In addition to being an effective push pole, the ParkNPole makes a great anchor pin in the 8’ length.

The company YakAttack has just about every and anything you could possibly need to gear up your kayak and/or paddleboard for fishing.

Better yet, all of their products are made right here in the USA.

Here is a link to check them out – YakAttackUSA

In the following video, I will be reviewing the YakAttack ParkNPole Link, showing you how well it works as a push pole and also as an anchor pin.

Enjoy!

YakAttack ParkNPole Review [VIDEO]

Conclusion

Overall, I really like this ParkNPole Link from YakAttack (and it really is the pole I use on a daily basis for my kayak and paddle board).

I highly recommend getting the ParkNPole 8″ Link and even consider the extension if it makes sense for you.

Just make sure to take good care of the pole, clean it well after use in the saltwater, and make sure the 2-piece doesn’t turn into a 1-piece anchor…

Any other questions for me on this ParkNPole by YakAttack?

Do you have any other anchor systems you want me to try and out review next?

Let me know in the comments.

Fish On!

Related Post: 11 Essential Saltwater Kayak Fishing Tips For Newbies (see it here now)

P.S. – If you think your angler friends or fishing networks would like to see this, please Tag them or Share this with them.

The post YakAttack “ParkNPole” Independent Review (Plus Best Ways To Use It) appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

And if anything, I’m enjoying paddle fishing now more than ever with the advent of the stand-up paddle board (SUP).

Because my favorite style of fishing is via sight since it’s essentially a combination of hunting and fishing, and the advantages of sight fishing from a SUP are tough to ignore:

• Stealthy movement similar to a kayak
• Higher point of vision similar to a boat
• Lightweight allowing for easy launching and loading

Now that great paddle boards like the L2Fish are available allowing for maximum stability while still cutting through the water for efficiently covering a lot of distance, my sight fishing opportunities have skyrocketed.

SUP Fishing With A Push Pole

I just recently began taking the casting platform from my boat along with my push pole on SUP fishing trips and I was shocked at how effective and enjoyable it was.

Because when a cast platform and push pole are added to SUP fishing, the ability to see into the water increases significantly due to the added height and the stealth is better since the noise from the push pole is place further back.

And a surprise bonus that I found when using the push pole while SUP fishing is that it enabled me to more easily control my drifts because the push pole essentially acts as a big rudder which you can move from side to side to control speed and direction of your drifts.

Cool Sight Fishing Footage On The SUP

I fortunately brought my GoPro along with me on my first trip fishing from the L2Fish SUP with a push pole because I ended up seeing a lot of redfish, snook, and trout while quietly exploring an area I’ve been to only once before.

Best of all, many of the fish were on sand/mud bottom which made them very visible on film.

Click on the video below to see some heartbreaker moments as well as some success:

Note: To see the exact spots that these fish were in (plus many other spots on the Gulf and Atlantic sides of Central FL), be sure to join our exclusive Salt Strong Insider membership club.

Click here to see the detailed Insider Report from this trip.

Conclusion

The advent of stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) has enabled inshore anglers who enjoy paddle fishing to see fish much easier than in a sitting position of a kayak while still being able to quietly move across the water.

And the addition of the casting platform and the push pole as shown in the video below takes it to an entirely different level.

I had a feeling that I’d enjoy it, but the difference in simply adding that additional 14+ inches of height was a huge benefit and that was compounded by using the push pole to quietly move across the flat.

On the trip shown above, I was only on the water for 2.5 to 3 hours fishing a spot I’ve only been to 1 time before. And I saw 30 to 40 fish (redfish, snook, and seatrout) given how clearly I could see in the water for such a large distance away.

So if you see a push pole sticking out from the top of a truck with a paddle board, you’ll know what’s going on… sight fishing!

To see exactly where I was fishing this trip (plus many more), be sure to join our Insider membership because I gladly share my top spots from all of my exploration fishing trips along Florida’s Gulf coast. And we’re adding East Coast spots too with some amazing footage from Mosquito Lagoon and the surrounding areas.

Click here to learn about our Insider Membership.

Related Posts:

• How To Fish From A Paddle Board [Inshore Flats Edition]

• How To Chose The Best Paddle Board For Fishing

P.S. – If you think your angler friends or fishing networks would like to see this, please Tag them or Share this with them.

Tight Lines!

The post SUP Fishing With A Push Pole & Casting Platform [Sight Fishing Machine] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

Perhaps thinking about upgrading your kayak or accessories?

Or perhaps you are just starting to explore fishing from a kayak and want to make sure you don’t buy something you don’t need.

Well, you came to the right blog.

Introducing the ULTIMATE guide to buying a fishing kayak.

We’ve had a lot of questions from the Salt Strong audience about buying kayaks for fishing (in particular, saltwater inshore fishing).

Questions such as:

• What’s the best type of fishing kayak?
• What accessories do I need on my kayak?
• How to select the best paddle for kayak fishing?
• What kind of anchor do I need for my kayak?
• The biggest MISTAKES anglers make when buying a kayak.

So in this article, we’ll cover all of that (plus some).

But first, let’s cover the basics.

What Is A Fishing Kayak?

By Tony Acevedo

Guess what?

Fishermen were catching fish from kayaks way before we were born!

Fishing kayaks date all the way back to the early Eskimos and Native American tribes.

What is interesting is that they were originally used for hunting due to their stealth nature, and then people realized how ideal they were for fishing.

In modern days, hunting and fishing from kayaks has been looked at by some type of “extreme” means of performing these tasks, but in reality, our ancestors did this on a daily basis. Not until recently has the method of kayak fishing taken the fishing industry by storm.

The kayak fishing industry has exploded due to the following reasons:

• kayaks are affordable
• lightweight
• easy to store and transport
• highly effective to fish out of
• super quiet to sneak up on fish
• no gas
• no batteries
• no maintenance
• no payments

Note that although a few brands control a big chunk of the kayak market, here isn’t necessarily a branded “Inshore Fishing Kayak”.

Pretty much all kayaks are capable of being customized to your own needs for effectively fishing inshore waters.

Let’s go ahead and take a look at some key factors when choosing a kayak for fishing.

Types of Fishing Kayaks

When choosing a kayak to fish from, the first consideration is what type of kayak do I choose.

Here are the main options you will have:

Sit-on-top Kayaks

Sit-in Kayaks

Sit-on-top kayaks are going to be your #1 choice for fishing for the following reasons:

• They are easier to get in and out of pretty much in every instance:
  • when launching your kayak
  • if you happen to fall out…
  • or when the need arises to get out and stretch
• They are self-bailing, which means when water gets in, it goes right back out and keeps you from flooding.
• You sit higher, allowing for a better view of the water
• Many seating options for your comfort
• More storage options and access to your gear
• Ability to stand up
• Easy to add accessories and customize

Sit-in kayaks are NOT very fisherman friendly for the following reasons:

• Can be difficult to get in and out of
• Prone to flooding – when water gets in, it has nowhere to go
• You have a very low vantage point sitting below the surface of the water
• Not as easy to customize to fit your needs

Even though sit-in kayaks aren’t the best option for kayak fishing, they are still a means of getting you mobile on the water.

They are also cheaper than the sit-on-tops.

So if this is all you can get away with, then by all means, go for it! This is the original kayak style and our ancestors had no issues with hunting and fishing from them.

Pedal-Drive Kayaks

There is one more style of kayak that has become very popular for anglers called the pedal drive kayak.

These kayaks are propelled using your legs to “pedal” which will either turn a propeller underneath the kayak, or move fins underneath the kayak.

These are all sit on top styles of kayaks but also have their own pros and cons, so let’s go ahead and take a look at these.

The Pros:

• Hands-free operation (aside from controlling the rudder with one hand for turning)
• Ability to cover more water and distance
• More comfort for those with back or shoulder/arm issues
• Forward and reverse capabilities (useful for trolling, fishing in current, fighting large fish)
• Mostly all are capable of standing up in due to their width and stability

The Cons:

• Expensive – Prices range from $1800 to more than $3000
• Heavy – Most paddle kayaks range from 40-80lbs, whereas pedal drive kayaks can start at 100lbs and up, not including gear
• Not very shallow water friendly. If fishing in a foot or less of water (some need more clearance) you will have to pull the pedal system up and use your paddle. This can be a burden especially with the kayak being heavy and bulky. This leads to them not being very paddle friendly as well.

So when choosing a kayak to fish inshore, take the above factors into consideration, and also keep in mind the following:

• Length – you will want a kayak no shorter than 10ft – longer kayaks track better (ride straight)
• Width – the wider the kayak, the more stable it will be. However, you will lose speed.
• Weight Capacity – Choose a kayak with a weight capacity that is at least 100lbs more than your own body weight and the weight of all your gear combined
• Don’t purchase something you can’t handle. Factor in how you will be transporting and storing your kayak.

Last but not least, TRY BEFORE YOU BUY.

You don’t purchase a car or boat without testing it out first, right? Same is true for kayaks as they are not all created equal.

Note: Most retailers will not accept returns of used kayaks either.

On the plus side, kayaks retain their value very well and can be easily sold online to get back most, if not all, of your money.

How To Select The Best Kayak Paddle

When choosing a kayak paddle, there are TWO BIG factors that you must be aware of:

• Length of the paddle
• Weight of the paddle.

Here are some simple kayak paddle rules:

1. If your kayak paddle is too long, you will find yourself zig-zagging as you paddle.
2. If it is too short, you will find yourself having to reach to put the blade in the water.
3. If it’s too heavy, you aren’t going to be able to paddle as far or as long as you want

You may also tend to hit your knuckles on the sides of your kayak if your paddle is too short.

The general rule of thumb when choosing a paddle for kayak fishing is the wider your kayak is, the longer the paddle will have to be. Their sizes are measured in centimeters and range from 210cm – 260cm.

Here is a standard chart that can assist you in choosing the proper length paddle.

Of course the taller you are, go with the longer paddle for the given kayak width.

If your kayak paddle is heavy, you will quickly fatigue yourself on the water, and can also injure yourself.

The most affordable and lightweight paddle you can purchase would be an all fiberglass paddle which can range from around $60 – $100.

However, I do NOT recommend going cheap on your paddle!

Your paddle is your means of getting back home at the end of the day. You wouldn’t purposely go cheap on a boat motor, so don’t do it with your paddle.

Notes on kayak paddles:

In addition to fiberglass paddles, there are also paddles made of carbon fiber, which are the lightest on the market. They also carry a pretty big price tag ranging from $200 to nearly $500. As with most price ranges, the higher the price the better the quality.

Here is a standard fiberglass paddle

Accessories for Inshore Fishing Kayaks

Today, there is pretty much an endless amount of different accessories out there to outfit your kayak for fishing.

You may see some kayaks decked out with multiple rod holders, fancy lights, and all sorts of gear that can actually end up being more of a distraction and space invader than anything else.

Accessories aren’t just limited to what you would attach to your kayak, but what you would need for a productive day on the water.

My advice: Keep it as simple as possible, yet effective.

The following are some of the top accessories to have for an effective inshore fishing kayak:

• Rod holder mounted in front of you – this puts your rod in an easily accessible location, and also makes it easier for you when de-hooking fish, tying knots, etc.

• Rod holders behind you for storing extra rods – Most fishing kayaks will have flush mount rod holders just behind the seat. If not, you can easily add your own either by attaching rod holders to your kayak, or simply adding PVC pipe tubes to a milk crate that you may use for tackle storage.

• Tackle Storage – this can be anything from a milk crate behind you in the rear tank well or even just a dry bag to keep your tackle boxes in.

• Tools – the main tools you should carry are pliers, scissors to cut braid (some pliers have a braid cutter on them), and fish grips and/or a landing net

• Anchor Trolley – this allows you to change your position when anchored by simply pulling on a rope. Highly useful when fishing in wind or current.

• Anchor Pin – When fishing inshore, you are typically in water less than 5ft deep. An anchor pin is the quietest way (and most efficient) to anchor in the shallows. When combined with an anchor trolley, you have yourself an awesome rig for anchoring your kayak.

Attaching Equipment To Your Kayak

Before attaching any accessories to your fishing kayak, take it out for multiple test runs.

This allows you to get a feel for the proper placement of accessories so that they are fully functional and not in your way (or too far out of your reach).

The best example would be a rod holder mounted in front of you. If it is too close, it will get in the way of your paddling stroke. If it is too far, it will be inconvenient for you to have to reach for it (and create any unnecessary noise that can spook fish due to having to move around too much)

The great news is that it’s very simple to install your own accessories.

Just be sure when installing rod holders that they are on a nice flat surface. This helps to avoid them leaning and possibly cracking the hull of your kayak, and also stretching out the holes that the screws are in causing water to enter your kayak.

Always use stainless steel hardware when installing accessories. This will save you from having to replace rusted out screws, nuts, and bolts. Saltwater is very corrosive and stainless steel is most resistant to corrosion.

This will save you from having to replace rusted out screws, nuts, and bolts. Saltwater is very corrosive and stainless steel is most resistant to corrosion.

Whenever possible, always use a marine grade silicone sealant in any holes that you may put a screw or bolt into.

Again, this helps with keeping any excess water from entering the hull of your kayak and also gives some extra adhesion for your equipment.

Tips On Buying A Fishing Kayak [VIDEO]

How To Transport Your Kayak

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, whether it be a car, truck, or SUV, there are ways to transport your kayak.

The most important factor is whether you are able to physically handle your kayak or not.

Definitely take this into consideration when purchasing a kayak. Small trailers are available to transport your kayaks and are best suited for heavy, bulky kayaks, such as the peddle driven types, which can weigh 100lbs or more.

This is also the best option if you just aren’t physically capable of throwing a kayak on top of your vehicle without damaging it, or yourself.

Important Note: remember that trailers must be registered, which can be another expense.

First, let’s talk about the different methods of transporting and what to consider when transporting your kayak.

The most standard method of transporting is just by strapping the kayak down to your vehicle’s roof rack. While this sounds pretty simple, be sure that you are securing it safely while also protecting it from damage.

Use foam or pool noodles on the crossbars of your roof rack so the metal does not dig in, dent, or crack the hull of your kayak. This is recommended for any method you may use for transporting. Plastic strapped down to metal is a recipe for disaster. Protect your investment!

Related Video: “Simple Trick To Loading A Kayak On An SUV By Yourself” (see it here now)

Also, be sure to strap your kayak with the top facing down since it is a flatter surface than the bottom.

If at all possible, try to avoid using the “ratcheting style” tie downs. You can end up over tightening them which can damage your kayak.

The best options are the “lashing” style tie downs in which you just pull on the strap for it to tighten.

In addition to just using your crossbars, there are kayak “cradles” that can be mounted on to your crossbars if you prefer to have your kayak facing upright, or if your kayak doesn’t allow for upside down transport (accessories mounted on the kayak are in the way, etc.)

There are also molded foam blocks that can be placed on the roof of your vehicle if you do not have a roof rack. These can also be used on your crossbars.

Possibly the most convenient way of transporting a kayak is by using a pick-up truck. It’s low to the ground and they all typically have hooks that allow for you to easily tie down your kayak.

As I mentioned before, be sure to protect the bottom of the kayak if you are strapping it down.

You can lay a couple thick pool noodles down for it to rest on and then strap it down.

Or if you want to get creative, you could build your own type of rack for it to rest on as I did that you can see in the image below.

Note: I simply cut some 2×4’s and measured for it to fit within the channels underneath my kayak and screwed them together for my kayak to rest on. I then added foam to the top of the wood that the kayak would be resting on, then stapled some indoor/outdoor carpeting to it for the kayak to easily slide on.

If you have a very long kayak, or a short truck bed, you may want to purchase a truck bed extender (this will only work if you have a hitch mounted on your truck).

This gives extra support for the end of your kayak that is sticking out from the truck bed.

This also can act as a “ramp” to slide your kayak up into your truck bed. As you can see in the image below, I zip tied a pool noodle to the extender for extra protection and support.

How To Store Your Kayak

Now storing your kayak should not be overlooked. In fact, this is a critical part of owning a kayak.

Why?

This is probably where your kayak is going to be spending most of its time aside from being on the water. I’ve seen kayaks get destroyed (permanent warping from sitting on crossbars too long without use, rust from being in an open area near saltwater, etc).

There are multiple options for storing depending on how much space you may have.

Wall mounts are available and work great.

There are also systems to hang your kayak from the ceiling and pulley systems to get it up there.

Since I have the space (and my kayak is a little bulky to put on a wall or ceiling), I simply have my kayak sitting on the ground on top of the same rack I use in my truck bed.

It doesn’t put any pressure on the kayak so it doesn’t risk warping or getting damaged. The most important factor in storing your kayak is keeping it from being damaged.

Important note: If there is too much pressure on a single part of the kayak, it will damage over time.

If storing outside, be sure to have a tarp or some means of covering the kayak to protect it from the sun.

UV rays can weaken plastic and cause it to become very brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Also, be aware that when plastic heats up it becomes softer. So definitely make sure there aren’t any pressure points on your kayak if storing in areas of high heat, such as storage units, outdoors, garages, etc.

Conclusion

Kayak fishing is certainly one of the fastest growing segments in both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Compared to boats, they offer tons of advantages:

• Kayaks are more affordable than boats
• Easier to load/store/transport
• Kayaks be launched in all kinds of places,
• Kayaks can go in really shallow water (as long as you don’t have your pedals in)

But I’ve also heard from way too many anglers that had regrets after buying certain kayaks or certain accessories.

In pretty much all cases, had they done more testing and tried their kayaks out longer, they could have avoided the issues.

Most kayak retailers will let you borrow or rent their yaks so you can test them out before buying. I encourage you to load it on your vehicle, fish out of it, and use it every single way (and place) you intend on using it once you own one before you commit to buying.

The best rule of thumb for buying a new (or used) kayak…

Try Before You Buy!

Best of luck out there.

Private Inshore Kayak Fishing Course

Finally, if you made it this far, we have a special offer for you (that ends Friday, January 27th at midnight).

If you are interested in catching more inshore fish from your kayak, then click here to see Tony’s private inshore kayak fishing course.

Otherwise, hope you got something out of this.

Please let me know if you have any specific questions or things I might have missed in the comment section.

Tight Lines!

P.S. – If you think any of your angler friends or fishing networks would like to see this, please Tag them or Share this with them. Thank you!

The post The Ultimate Guide To Buying A Fishing Kayak (Must Read Before Purchase) appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.

More specifically, I remember coming back to the boat ramp barely able to move my arms after the 4-hour paddle in windy conditions…

I also remember my new Chevy Tahoe I had recently purchased, and I vividly remember struggling like crazy to get the kayak back up on top of my Tahoe without scratching or banging up either of my toys.

My arms were like jello, and it made it even worse that my kayak had taken on some water due to me forgetting to completely latch down the back hatch.

I can only imagine that the people eating outside in the marina restaurant all got a good laugh watching me struggle for so long before finally getting the yak up on top of my Tahoe’s roller bars (without damaging anything).

If you’ve ever had a kayak loading experience like mine, then this blog and video is for you.

Who Needs Help Loading A Kayak?

For those of you scratching your head wondering why anyone would need help loading a kayak, here are just a handful of reasons that many anglers need some extra assistance:

• Instances like mine when you are too physically exhausted to lift a 100+ pound kayak over your shoulders and safely get it on top of a high SUV like a Tahoe
• Any angler that drives an SUV, van, or any other vehicle with a high rack and a heavy yak
• Any angler that has trouble lifting a heavy kayak over their head such as younger yakers, some females, some males, and some senior yakers.
• Anyone with a nice car or SUV that they don’t want to take a chance getting scratched up

Here’s What You Need

The great news is that this kayak loading trick doesn’t take much.

In fact, you should probably already own (and travel with) each of the following items if you are a serious kayak angler.

Here is all that you need:

• Kayak cart/trolley
• Roof strap or any strap strong enough (and long enough) to hold your cart in place (this attaches to the roof rack and the kayak cart that will rest on the back window)
• Short rope (about half the length of your kayak)
• Foam pad or thick towel to protect the kayak cart on the back of your window
• Two small towels if you use kayak cradles

Here is what it looks like once it is all ready to load your kayak

As you can see, it doesn’t take much, and it’s super easy to set up.

If you don’t have kayak cradles, you can skip a step, and many of you will probably skip the small rope step as well.

Check out below how Salt Strong’s very own Tony Acevedo uses this kayak trick to load his yak on an SUV.

Kayak Loading Trick [VIDEO]

Conclusion

At some point in every kayaker’s life, there will probably come a point when you need a little assistance loading your kayak by yourself.

Whether it be old age or a new vehicle that you don’t want to get scratched, this simple kayak cart loading trick is pretty sweet.

Try it out for yourself and watch how easily your kayak loads up on your roof rack.

Do you have any other unique ways to load a kayak?

Let us know in the comment section below.

Tight Lines!

Related Post: “11 Essential Kayaking Fishing Tips For Newbies” (see all eleven tips here)

P.S. – If you think your angler friends or fishing networks would enjoy seeing this, please Tag them or Share this with them. You Rock! Pa-POW!

The post Simple Trick To Loading A Kayak On An SUV By Yourself [VIDEO] appeared first on Salt Strong Fishing Club.