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Kayak Fishing
By Monirupa Shete
Away from the humdrum affairs of life, spending a quiet day in the tranquil waters of a lake or sea can be a mind-boggling experience. And kayak is simply an extension of this amazing sport.

Before you learn about the various aspects of kayak fishing, is it important to understand what a kayak is. A kayak defined as a small boat with a covered deck and spray skirt. These human powered boats carry 1-4 people and vary in style according to the type of kayaking being done.

Till a few decades back, kayak wasn�t as popular as it is today. But with more and more people joining in the sport for adventure and fun, this leisure sport has grown as a flourishing industry. Not only are there places that have developed as kayaking destinations but there are as many professional associations and groups offering training in kayak as there are stores selling kayak boats and accessories. Also there are many kayak tournaments mushrooming everywhere, to keep up the excitement.

The fascinating thing about kayak is that you can literally go "where no boat has gone before" � power boat that is. You can access shallow water, water that won�t float even a kayak at low tide. With no motor and noise, even the under water creatures aren�t scared. For those who want to see nature close up, a kayak is undoubtedly a good means.

Every kayak adventurist should keep in mind some basic facts about the sport before starting off:

Plan your budget: First and foremost decide how much you can afford to shell out to enjoy this sport. Plan your spending. That will give you an idea on whether you should opt for a used kayak or buy a brand new one. For beginners going for a second-hand kayak is a wise idea because that allows beginners to learn the tricks of the trade better. However, when choosing a used kayak, it is important that all parts and accessories are checked thoroughly. Whatever you buy should be value for money.

Height, weight and leg length: Kayaks come in various sizes so when choosing a kayak, it is important to consider your height, and weight. For somebody who has a small structure, choosing a big kayak can prove to be a blunder because it might not be easy to maneuver the kayak. Look for kayaks that suit your body type.

Transportation: You definitely need to consider, how you will carry the kayak to the destination. If you have a small car, it is going to be difficult to carry a heavy kayak wherever you like. Your kayak should be one that you can handle on your own.

Fishing logistics: Once you start kayaking, you will be moving to various desired points � ponds, lakes, small rivers, creeks, large bays, or oceans. A small, light kayak is perfect for in small, shallow river. There might be occasions, when there are challenges like log jams, rocks, waterfalls, shallows etc. In such situations, you might be forced to carry or drag the kayak around. If you have a lighter kayak, the task might be easier.

Locations: What are the places you plan to do kayaking- in freshwater lakes, ponds, small rivers and creeks or do you plan on in the ocean and launching through the surf? How are you planning on getting the kayak to the water? All these factors are critical when choosing a kayak.

Fishing methods: Consider the type of method you use- artificials, bait or both? Do you use live baitfish or dead bait? Do you prepare on anchoring and chumming? The kayak you choose should fit your style.

Storing

the fish: If you like to take your prized catch home then you need a place to keep your fish. It isn�t a concern if you are catching only small fish, but if its big fish you are interested in, it might be a problem. You need to consider where you going to store your catch? Is there enough space in the kayak?

Types of kayak: There are two major types of recreational kayaks, sit inside, and sit on top, commonly referred to as SIK and SOT. A sit inside kayak puts you inside the boat, with the deck covering your feet, and the boats sides are higher. A sit on top kayak is a sealed boat that the paddler sits on top, nothing covering their legs, and no sides to it. A SIK gives you a dryer ride, but if water were to come over the deck, the kayak would fill with water, and couldn't be drained with the rider in it. A SOT gives a fairly wet ride, these kayaks have scupper holes, which allow water to drain from the kayak compartment. So when water washes over the kayak it briefly floods the cockpit and then drains. This is especially beneficial in places like the surf. A sit inside is good for protect waters, and paddling in cooler temperatures. A sit on top is good for paddling through the surf, and rough waters, where water could come over the sides.

Stability: Kayaking involves two types of stability: initial and secondary. Initial stability is the side-to-side wobble that one feels while sitting in a kayak. Secondary stability is when the kayak is nearing its point of flipping and how much forgiveness it has before the fisherman flips.

Initial stability is more important to beginners and secondary stability is more important to seasoned kayakers.

Speed: Longer and narrower kayaks are faster. SIKs are usually faster however there are lots of fast SOTs also available. Speed is only important if you need it. If you are in small, protected area, speed isn�t imperative. But if you are in a large river, bay or ocean and need to cover significant distances, speed is crucial.

Easy maneuvering: Being able to maneuver the kayak is as important as knowing what kind of gear to take and what kind of bait to use. When in small creeks or narrow estuaries, maneuvering is important. Some kayaks do this extremely well. A shorter SOT or SIK will suit you better if these types of environments. In big waters making a sharp turn usually isn't crucial so a longer kayak is not a problem.

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