Kayak fishing has become increasing popular in Texas due to the relatively low cost of kayaks. Kayak fishing is usual done in warm weather, although avid kayakers will fish year round as long as waters are not frozen. The Lone Star State has an abundance of waters such as the Texas Gulf Coast and many rivers, reservoirs and ponds. Those thinking about Texas kayak fishing ought to think about attending a class. Furthermore, new kayakers should make sound decisions about the proper kayak equipment, fishing tackle and essential clothing items to bring.
License & Season
According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas residents/nonresidents under age 16 may fish without a license, but older fishermen are required to obtain a valid fishing license prior to fishing Texas waters. At all times, anglers must keep licenses with them and be able to present them to state game officers, if requested.
Texas Kayak Fishing School
According to Kayak Magazine, Texas has a school for kayak fishing. Classes consists of classroom and on-water practical learning. One such class is taught by Dean Thomas, a expert kayaker and fisherman. For over 20 years, Thomas has been involved in the activity of kayak fishing and, along with his wife, developed a school where like-minded kayakers could come together and discuss as well as learn various techniques in gaining a strong knowledge of this fun recreational activity.
Texas Kayak Fishing
While fishing on a kayak, learning how to manage a rod and paddle at the same time can take time. Once mastering this skill, anglers should cast at a 45-degree angles, approximately 30 feet out. Allow the lure or bait to sink and follow it downstream by watching the line from the rod tip. Place the rod either in a road holder or across the kayak, and start paddling. Watch carefully the rod tip and line for a jolt, which may be a fish going for the bait.
When kayak fishing in Texas reservoirs and lakes, fisherman can navigate kayaks over deep-water spots and use a fish finder to locate fish. Anglers can also navigate their kayaks close to tree stumps, rocks and vegetation. In these areas, anglers should employ jigging tactics. This is done by placing a small rubber jig into a spot and jerking the rod up and down, simulating a struggling bait fish.
Kayak Equipment
Before buying a kayak, determine if you have room to store it, a large enough car to haul it, or will use it frequently. A individual may determine that renting a kayak is a better option. Kayakers in Texas should wear a life vest. Kayakers should always think about water safety and wearing a list vest could keep an unconscious person afloat. As another safety measure, kayakers should purchase a helmet to prevent head injuries that can occur when kayaking down rapids.
Fishing Tackle
The selection of a 4- to 5-foot ultra-light rod with a spin cast reel can make paddling and steering a kayak much easier than a 7- to 9-foot rod. When it comes to kayak fishing, utilizing a compact tackle box to hold flies, lures, and other items can be advantageous to anglers. Small tackle boxes can be strapped around the shoulders of kayakers, freeing up their hands to paddle or fish. This also frees up space to change lures.
Clothing
According to Texas Kayak Fishing School, kayakers should bring extra clothing and items for protection against the elements. More so, wearing a pair of waders when using a kayak can keep anglers from getting wet. Other articles of clothing that kayak fishermen should bring are warm socks, and an extra pair of underwear, pants, shoes and a shirt. Additionally, bring along polarized sun glasses, a hat and sunscreen. Keep items such as sunscreen, camera, cell phone, and medicine in the car to avoid them getting wet.
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