How to start kayak fishing
It's exciting, it’s good for your health and it’s relatively inexpensive. If you’ve not yet tried kayak fishing, there’s never been a better time to get afloat.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Being aboard a kayak allows you to reach areas unavailable from the shore – great when lure fishing, for example, as you can get really close to the features where fish such as perch hide out. You’ll also benefit from being active, keeping you warm in winter and healthy too.
WHERE CAN I TRY IT?
You can kayak fish on any venue you wish but you must first get permission to access your chosen venue from the controlling club or landowner. You may also need a navigation licence on some rivers and canals, for example, the Thames.
Kayaks really come into their own on large stillwaters and rivers where you can reach areas previously inaccessible by foot, and where the fish may be out of casting range.
It’s also worth checking where you can launch it on the venue before setting out. Try to avoid areas where matches are taking place, and always be courteous to other anglers.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Kayak fishing isn’t as expensive as you’d expect. A fishing kayak will set you back as little as £300 or as much as £2,000 – it’s up to you.
If you are planning on just coarse fishing, a lightweight, budget kayak is all you will need. Most kayaks come with a paddle and seat, so you will only need to purchase an anchor and buoyancy aid. Finally you will need to consider transporting it to your venue. Most anglers use a roof rack with strapping to hold it down.
