Choosing a fishing kayak is one of the best decisions you can make when choosing a fishing boat. They are relatively cheaper than powerboats and they can be used in a variety of settings including ponds, lakes, and rivers. The challenge is that most people do not know how to choose the right kayak for the fishing situations they think they might find themselves in. Below, we will look at a few simple things you ought to keep in mind when choosing a fishing kayak.
Length
A fishing kayak’s length impacts its performance. A longer kayak is faster, but a shorter kayak is more maneuverable. If you primarily fish on small ponds, backwaters, and creeks, it would be better to choose the shorter kayak. If you fish in larger bodies of water like lakes and dams, you can opt for the longer option so you are able to get to and from your favorite fishing spots faster. It is important to consider your body type too when considering what kayak length to go with; if you are taller, choose one that is more than 11 feet long.
Pedals
Some people love to have their hands free when fishing. If you are one of them, you might want to choose a kayak that has pedals. That way, you can use both hands to hold the fishing rod or even use the pedals to control your speed while you move downstream.
The two types of pedal kayaks are rotational pedal kayaks and push-pedal kayaks. The rotational pedal kayaks let you move your feet as if you were walking and are great if you would like to go a long distance. The push-pedal kayaks allow you to only use your feet to propel the kayak and are better suited if you like to move through the water at a casual pace.
Consider the Kayak’s Stability
Today, technology advancements allow companies to build kayaks with greater stability. For example, today’s kayaks allow you to stand while you are on the water while older models do not. Remember that the more stable a kayak is, the harder it will be to maneuver, so check the stability of the kayak before you buy it.
A good rule of thumb is to go for a wider option if you have a wider body because this kayak will be stable enough for you. If you are a troller or angler, opt for a narrower model because you might need to cover a long distance while fishing.
Do You Need a Keel?
A keel is a fin-shaped piece of plastic that extends from the kayak’s hull into the water. A keel can help improve your kayak’s speed, tracking, and stability. For those who fish on open water a lot, a kayak with a keel is the better option. The keel also makes it easier to paddle in deeper water. If you fish in shallow water or love to fish standing up, opt for a model without a fin.
Portability
As kayaks have become more advanced, they have also become heavier. When choosing a kayak, you should go for one that is easy to carry, especially if you fish a lot. If you like, you should consider some cheaper models as most of them are very portable.
Opt for More Room
If you carry a lot of gear when fishing or want to incorporate some electronics into your kayak, ensure that you choose one that has enough room. The extra room might not just be for all the things you intend to carry but also your legs and feet.
Choosing a kayak can be confusing because there are so many different models available that have lots of different features. The most important thing to know is where you fish and how important stability, enough room, and maneuverability are to you. Once you know this, choosing a kayak will become easier.
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