You just want to drop a line in the water; you don’t expect to encounter an emergency. That makes it all the more important to be prepared.
Being a good kayak angler involves more than just good technique. You also need the right equipment if things go south.
Here is some essential safety gear for kayak anglers.
Essential Gear for Communication
Visual Aids
- Flag: A flag is a great idea to make your kayak more visible. Since kayaks are low to the water, you need to make yourself more visible, especially in high-traffic areas. A suitable flag can be used while you are fishing to alert other boats or, in the case of an emergency, to signal first responders.
- Headlamp or light: If you are fishing in low light conditions, it is imperative that you have the necessary equipment to be seen clearly by others. A headlamp (which can also aid in illuminating your fishing) can be an excellent safety addition. Other waterproof options like lanterns or flashlights can also be helpful.
Location Device
- GPS: GPS can help you know where you are and / or alert authorities to your location if you need rescue.
- Compass: Having and knowing how to use a compass can also be an invaluable safety tool to get you out of a sticky situation.
Signaling Devices
- Whistle or horn: A horn or whistle is an excellent option for signaling other boats or emergency personnel.
- Waterproof phone case: Your cell phone can be a fantastic piece of safety equipment if it does not get wet. Invest in a good waterproof case.
- VHF radio: Consider carrying a handheld radio, especially in areas with poor cell reception.
Float Plan
Always remember to leave a float plan with someone on shore.
Essential Gear for the Paddler
Personal Flotation Device
Always, always, always wear a PFD. Find a lifejacket / PFD / buoyancy aid you love and WEAR it. You can’t be expected to have time or capacity to don a vest in the midst of an emergency. Just have it on.
Warming Layers
- Towel / blanket: Especially in cold weather / water conditions (but even on a nice day), plan to have a warming layer in case someone ends up in the drink.
- Extra clothes: It’s not just for comfort; it could turn life-threatening if someone can’t warm up. One fast way to speed that along is to remove wet clothes and don dry apparel.
Food / Water
Bring nutritious snacks and plenty of water to avoid blood sugar / dehydration emergencies. Even if you aren’t out very long, ensure every paddler stays hydrated.
Sun Protection
Sun protection while fishing is a kayak safety feature many anglers overlook. Keep in mind, sun protection is as important as any other kayak safety gear.
- Sunscreen: Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and reapply as directed. Choose a high SPF, especially if you will spend many hours exposed to the rays.
- Sunglasses: Don’t forget to protect those eyes! Sunglasses are an often underrated piece of safety equipment.
- SPF clothing / hat: If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of constant sunscreen, ensure your skin is protected another way. Invest in SPF clothing and use a wide-brimmed hat.
First Aid Kit
Always have a first aid kit stashed with your kayaking gear. You can purchase a kit or create a DIY fishing first aid kit on your own.
Essential Gear for the Kayak
Marine Tow Rope
No one wants to need it, but getting a tow for your kayak sometimes is what you need to get back to shore. Carry some sturdy, light-weight tow line or wear a tow belt.
Backup paddle
- Extra paddle: Stashing an extra paddle on your kayak and out-of-the-way can be a no-brainer piece of safety equipment. You never know how much you need a paddle until you don’t have it.
- Paddle leash: If you don’t have an extra paddle, attach a leash to your paddle to ensure that it doesn’t disappear, especially while you are distracted reeling in that big catch.
- Paddle Float: At the very least, use a paddle float to give yourself a fighting chance at recovering your paddle before it sinks to the depths.
Anchor
There are different ways to anchor your kayak, but it is wise to have some system for keeping your kayak in place in the case of an emergency.
- Anchor trolley system: An anchor trolley system is great for an angler whenever they want to safely anchor their kayak. It lets the kayak respond to wind and current without getting swamped.
- Anchor pole: In skinny water, an anchor pole is a great way to keep your kayak steady.
Essential Gear for the Angler
Hook Remover
In case of an accidental hooking, it is vital to have a way to safely remove the hook (whether fish or human!).
Knife / Multitool
Rescue knives can help to cut through tangled lines or ropes in the case of an emergency.
Being prepared is the first step in responding calmly in a crisis. If you have the correct safety gear, then you are that much closer to successfully mitigating an emergency.