Whether you are slipping your kayak into a secluded pond or launching into briny surf, there is excellent fishing to be had from your kayak. However, you will need to tailor your strategies for different experiences.
Here are some key differences between saltwater and freshwater angling so you can make the most of your kayaking hours.
Saltwater Kayak Fishing Strategies
Selection of Gear
When heading into saltwater environments, guarding against the corrosive elements at play is essential. Choose your gear with this consideration in mind. And make sure to care for your kayak and gear after each outing by rinsing thoroughly with fresh water.
- Invest in reels with sealed bearings and corrosion resistance. Those moving parts are particularly susceptible to corrosive salt and other elements.
- A braided fishing line can also be a good choice for its strength and resistance to saltwater damage.
- Make sure your hooks and lures are also rust-resistant.
- Ensure that your kayak, paddles, and all other moving parts are sealed or cleaned frequently to guard against salt buildup and its corrosive effects.
Awareness of Tides
Heading out on the ocean always requires understanding the significant role that tides can play in maneuvering your kayak and finding those fish.
- Study tide charts before you launch. It is vital to do your research before you head out. This can impact where you will find fish, how difficult it can be to paddle to them, and how easily you can return. Pick your launch and pick up point intentionally.
- Fish are more active during moving tides. Time your fishing for when tides are incoming or outgoing for increased fish movement.
- Be aware of how tides impact water depth. Fishing the same spot in low vs high tide can have very different effects. Tides can also expose different structural elements that can play a role in where you cast.
Impact of Structure
Saltwater fish will often congregate around structures in the water.
- Look for oyster beds, rock piles, and artificial reefs as likely areas where fish will feed. This is a perfect place to drop a line.
- Invest in a fish finder to help you locate those underwater structures that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
- Throw a line near pier pilings, bridge supports, and channel edges for good opportunities to pull in a big one.
Choice of Bait & Lures
Of course, if you are targeting saltwater fish, you want to opt for lures that get the strikes from saltwater fish.
- Live bait like shrimp, minnow, or cut bait are highly effective with saltwater fish.
- In low-light conditions, pick a nice topwater lure.
- If you don’t have live bait, experiment with soft plastic lures that mimic local prey species. This will require you to do a bit of research on what is biting. This can vary on the time of year, water depth, and more.
Freshwater Kayak Fishing Strategies
Approach with Stealth
In freshwater environments with calmer waters, a quiet approach is key. While kayaks are already known for their surreptitious movement, take care to capitalize on it.
- Consider a push pole for a stealthy approach.
- Invest in sound dampening on your kayak. (Even DIY foam or other paddling on your deck can decrease sounds that could spook fish.)
- Consider an electric trolling motor for near-silent navigation.
- Even your choice of clothing can make a difference. Pick muted colors to blend into your surroundings.
Consider Seasonal Patterns
Freshwater fish are considerably impacted by the seasons.
- When fish are spawning in spring, drop your line in shallow waters. However, pay attention to laws restricting or prohibiting fishing certain specifies during spawn.
- Focus on deep water structures and drop-offs during the summer heat. Fish will be looking to stay cool, so find deep water or shady spots where they are congregating. Also, fish during cooler times of the day, like early morning.
- Fall fishing can be a highlight of the season as fish feed aggressively in preparation for winter.
- Winter fishing might be possible for some areas of the country or hardy anglers.
Use Cover & Vegetation
Another advantage of a kayak is its ability to get into “skinny” water. Use that shallow hull to get close to vegetation that shelters freshwater fish.
- Cast a line near lily pads, submerged logs, and weed lines.
- Choose weedless lures to prevent snagging in these environments
- Landing your lure in tight spots is essential, so practice accurate casting.
Practice Lure Presentation
Freshwater fish can be more persnickety about lure presentation, so spend time perfecting your casting.
- Vary your retrieval speed and technique. Get the fish to chase your bait.
- Lighter lines and smaller lures are best for clear water conditions.
- Matching your lure or bait to your local conditions is always important. Find out what is biting and pick your lures accordingly. This could vary throughout the day and at each spot.
Whether you are chasing striped bass in the bay or largemouth bass in your local lake, understanding the nuances of saltwater or freshwater fishing can make or break your experience. Get the most success by choosing your gear, techniques, and approach with your environment in mind. Soon, you will be well-equipped to make the most of all your kayak fishing endeavors.