Novice anglers can go to Pensacola, Florida, to kayak and fish. Pensacola sits perfectly along the Florida Panhandle. It offers a variety of fishing opportunities for numerous game fish. Pensacola has an abundance of fishing charters available in the area. But many anglers enjoy venturing out on kayaks for a good workout and a more solitary fishing experience
About Pensacola
Pensacola is in Escambia County, which is located in the western most part of Florida. There is variety of game fish in Pensacola Bay such as redfish, speckled trout, flounder, pompano, bluefish, Spanish mackerel and tarpon.
According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Pensacola has several kayak access points along the county at Big Lagoon State Park, Beach Road and Pensacola Beach Boulevard.
In addition, kayak anglers can access kayak launch sites such as the McDavid ramp located on the Escambia River. Also, Lake Stone ramp is another boat access area located south of U.S. 29.
Kayak Leasing
In Pensacola, those wanting to lease a kayak have several area stores to choose from as well as a variety of models including fiberglass, plastic and wood. In addition, you can select from brand names such as Ocean kayak, Wilderness kayaks and Hobie kayaks.
Kayak retailer, Pensacola Kayak, not only leases out kayaks but sells kayak equipment as well as offer instructional classes on the proper use of kayaks and how to fish from one.
Another business that offers kayaks is Pensacola Beach. This mid-size business leases out kayaks on a two-day basis at around $75 as of 2010. In addition, Pensacola Beach offers professional guide services known as eco-tours to paying patrons, allowing them to explore and fish the entire Santa Rosa tributaries.
Kayak Equipment
Accessories such as trolling rod holders, fishing rod leash, mounts for fish finders and fish storage space can be purchase individually or through kayak leasing shop.
If you're going to go fishing in a kayak, think about safety and purchase or ask to be supplied with a life vest. In most area Florida waterways, a life vest is a mandatory piece of equipment.
As a precaution, kayak anglers should also wear a helmet to protect their heads from coming into contact with rocks or hard surfaces while kayaking Pensacola waters.
Fishing Tackle
Utilize light tackle while kayak fishing is a most. Anglers need to select a miniature tackle box that keep items such as lures, hooks, weights and other fishing tools.
Additionally, purchasing a small rod between 4 to 6 feet in length works well when fishing Pensacola. Anglers need to limit the amount of tackle they carry with them. Bring three descent lures and enough hooks for a day's fishing trip.
Techniques
While trolling, anglers can control the speed that lures or bait moves trough the water. By paddling either fast or at a moderate pace, the lure will travel as fast or as slow as the anglers would like. This can be a very productive way to fish.
Utilizing baits such as a shad or crappie jig, fishermen can position their boat over locations of fish and drop anchor while dangling these jigs to entice fish to bite.
Casting around structure including logs, rocks and bridges is an extremely smart tactic to employ while fishing from a kayak. Furthermore, a fisherman can get as close to these objects as possible, and cast their lines in various angles, which may not be possible from shore or in a bigger boat.
License
According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, anglers under 16 years old and anyone over the age of 65 can fish without a license. Anglers wanting to kayak fish must have a Florida state fishing license issued by the Department of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Residents as well as nonresidents can purchase a license at several retail shops such as Bass Pro Shop, Wal-Mart and Sears throughout Pensacola.
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