Want to get started kayak fishing but aren’t sure what all is required gear-wise? This detailed fishing kayak checklist will outline everything you need for successful and safe trips targeting fish from a sit-on-top or sit-inside kayak.
Kayak fishing opens up an exciting new world of angling opportunities to access shallow backwaters and quiet coves that powerboaters can’t reach. But packing all your fishing necessities into a small vessel does require some specialized gear.
Use this guide to help you prepare for your kayak fishing adventures. We’ll cover how to rig and outfit your kayak, critical paddling and fishing gear, safety equipment, accessories, and tips so you can have epic days on the water landing fish from your nimble personal angler.
Kayak Fishing Gear Essentials
Any kayak needs outfitting with fishing-specific features to make time on the water more efficient and productive:
Rod Holders
Install flush mounted, adjustable and/or Scotty rod holders to keep combos secure while paddling and fishing.
Anchor System
A small portable anchor with rope/chain and cleat gives you the ability to lock into productive spots.
Rudder System
A foot operated rudder allows easy steering while paddling. Useful for fighting wind or current.
Paddle Leash
Secure your paddle to the kayak so it doesn’t float away if you flip or fall in.
Crate Storage
Milk crates and storage boxes strapped down provide abundant dry storage protected from splashes.
Fish Finder
Portable fish finder clips to the kayak and helps you locate fish holding structure.
Stability Accessories
Outriggers, stabilizer fins, rudders make the kayak track straight and add balance.
Safety Flag
An extendable safety flag makes you visible to powerboats around corners and in choppy conditions.
Kayak Fishing Rods and Reels
Fishing from a compact kayak requires specialized shorter rods and reels suited to the tight confines. Ideal kayak fishing combos include:
- 5-7 foot ultralight or medium power fast action spinning rods
- Smaller low profile spinning reels with sealed drag systems
- Light 6-15lb test monofilament or braided lines
- Compact rod/reel travel combos that breakdown to store easily
Pro tip: Look for rods with line guides that resist saltwater corrosion like stainless steel or ceramic.
Essential Gear for Kayak Fishing
Make sure to carry fishing and safety basics including:
- Tackle bag or box secured in crate for easy access
- Small waterproof dry box for phone, keys, and wallet
- Sun protection (hat, glasses, shirt, sunscreen)
- Retractable leashes for tools and gear
- Headlamp for low light fishing
- Multi-tool pliers for hook removal and gear repairs
- Lip grip pliers for safe fish handling
- Marine or handheld VHF radio for emergencies
- Waterproof phone case for backup communication
- Flares or personal locator beacon if going offshore
- First aid kit secured in hatch
- Life jacket or inflatable PFD to wear
- Whistle and/or signal mirror
Pack light but carry essentials for safety, communication, navigation, and fish handling.
Useful Fishing Kayak Accessories
Specialized accessories make time spent fishing from a kayak more comfortable, convenient, and efficient:
Stake Out Pole
Allows you to stop and maintain position hands-free over a fishing spot.
Camera Mount
Attach a camera to rail mounts to capture the action hands-free.
Fish Bag/Stringer
Safely keep your catch in the water while paddling between spots.
Livewell
Insulated livewell storage with recirculating pump keeps bait lively.
Outriggers
Extend stability to stand upright and gain leverage fighting fish.
Electronic Motor Mounts
Add a trolling motor for propulsion or battery to run electronics.
Comfort Upgrades
Add a boat seat pad, lumbar support, or adjustable foot pegs for comfort.
Don’t overload the kayak. Bring only needed items secured in protective cases. Travel as light as possible.
Transportation and Safety Gear
Get your fully outfitted fishing kayak to the water and back with:
- Kayak cart – Rolls the kayak from vehicle to the water easily.
- Truck bed extender – Carries kayak protruding safely beyond the tailgate
- Bow/stern safety lines – Prevent loss if securing straps fail. Attach to vehicle.
- Car roof rack pads – Protects the kayak hull from abrasion enroute.
- Straps or J-hooks – Securely fasten to crossbars for transportation.
- Spray skirt – Prevents splashes from entering the cockpit opening.
- Bilge pump – For draining accumulated rain or splash water.
Helpful Kayak Fishing Resources
Tap these key resources to get started in kayak fishing:
- Hands on instructional kayak fishing clinics – Taught by experts locally
- Regional kayak fishing clubs – Join outings and get tips from members
- “Kayak Fishing 101” YouTube videos – Get visual instructions for beginners
- Forums like KayakBassFishing.com – Ask questions and get advice
- Magazines like Kayak Fish – Reviews on new kayak gear and accessories
- Facebook groups – Connect with the kayak fishing community in your state
- State kayaking organization – Registration, ramp access, safety info
Don’t go it alone – engage the passionate kayak fishing community to accelerate the learning curve.
Conclusion on Kayak Fishing Preparation
This fishing kayak checklist covers all the essential gear, rigging, safety equipment, transportation, and knowledge needed to gear up for kayak fishing as a beginner.
Following it closely ensures you’ll have epic days landing fish from your nimble personal watercraft. But also remember to build up paddling skills, train fishing from seated positions, and stay within your capabilities as you gain experience.
Soon enough, you’ll have the confidence to catch fish farther from shore and handle any situation encountered on the water thanks to proper preparation. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
