What To Look For
The major choice facing any prospective kayak owner is whether to sit on top or inside. A sit-on-top kayak has a slight depression for the person, and a good deal of dry storage space. A sit-inside kayak gives you some protection against splash, and strong control of the boat's motion with your hips and middle. Length and seating are factors. There are two-man kayaks and singles. For extended fishing trips you'll need ample storage space for camping and fishing gear. Ocean Kayak, Freedom Hawk, Emotion and Old Town are some known and high-selling brands.
Common Pitfalls
Kayak fishing blends the experiences of human-powered transportation and hunting for your own food. Your boat should be designed to move easily through the water conditions you'll be frequenting. If you'll be in rushing streams, a very buoyant, sit-on-top boat makes a good choice. Fishing kayaks should have easy to access cargo space to hold your rods, tackle and, of course, a live well for your catch. You may want your boat to be wide and stable enough so that you can stand on it easily in calm water, for better casting and visuals.
Where To Buy
You can explore different options for fishing kayaks and even test them out on a store pond at large hunting supply stores. Cabela's and Bass Pro are two brick and mortar stores with locations throughout the country. Both stock many fishing kayak models, and some have ponds you can paddle on. If you find a model you like, you may be able to find a good deal online. West Marine, Fogdog, Backcountry.com, REI and Orvis all carry fishing kayaks and offer discounts for online purchase and shipping.
Cost
You can find a good fishing kayak from a respected brand and retailer for about $400. The top end models can run up to $2,500 for large, two-seater boats. If you plan to spend about $600, you should find many good options.
Comparison Shopping
For longer trips on lakes and large rivers, consider a small jon boat or aluminum bass boat instead of a kayak. The extra space and freedom to move around make a big difference. Depending on how much you want to invest, a larger boat with an outboard motor is a sound option for anglers. If you want a more leisurely experience, or have lots of gear, a canoe would be a step in the other direction. A good canoe provides transportation for camping gear, and can carry more passengers than a kayak. Although you'll need the extra hands to row the larger boat.
Accessories
Paddles are the most important accessory when purchasing a kayak. Get a fiberglass oar that is comfortable to grip, and that will be efficient in your expected water conditions. Your boat's manufacturer may make tackle boxes and storage crates designed to make use of all your storage space. Temptress Kayak makes caddies for the bow and sides of your boat, with an angler's needs in mind. A personal flotation device is also important when boating. Sometimes anglers are caught up in their lines and pulled into the water. Without a proper flotation vest on, this can be a fatal circumstance. A car rack or trailer that will accommodate your boat is also key if you will be driving to boat launches and fishing locations.
Insider Tips
The best kayaking rig is a work in constant progress. You will, after every trip, be refining your fishing kayak setup. You'll find the most convenient spot for your cooler, your rods and tackle, and net, but only by getting out and trying. You might innovate a special cup holder or sun shield as well. Boating is very personal and your posture, size and range of motion will determine where you place everything.
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