The BKC Blog

Tips on Choosing a Kayak

Buying a kayak is an exciting prospect. It’s your gateway to morning workouts on the water, weekend explorations at the local lake, or an angler fishing adventure down the river. But it’s also an investment — you want to know that you’ll get your money’s worth. So how do you choose the best kayak for you? Here we provide a few things to consider:

1. What’s the best kayak for where you’ll be paddling?
2. Is a sit-on-top or a sit-in kayak better for you?
3. What is the best kayak shape for you?
4. What activity will you use your kayak for?
5. Will you want a single kayak or a tandem kayak?
6. What about a pedal kayak?

Here some tips on how to choose the best kayak for you and the experience you’re looking for.

What’s the best kayak for where you’ll be paddling?

Though kayaks aren’t usually classified by water type, thinking about what kind of experience you want to achieve can help you answer the other questions on this list and find the best kayak for you.

Do you envision exploring the coastline of a beach, or the quiet backwaters of a sheltered pond? Will there be wind and waves? What about sharp bends that could cause you to tip over? These questions will help determine the stability, durability, and accessibility of your kayak.

What will you use your kayak for?

Kayaks present a wealth of options for outdoor activity, so it’s helpful to narrow down how you might be using your kayak.

1. Will you be fishing? Some anglers prefer to fish in a kayak so they can not only reach the tricky areas that motorboats can’t, but also because BKC kayaks feature 5 different rod holders for fishermen to choose from! Additionally, a kayak is far less expensive than a motorboat.
2. Will you be exercising? Kayaking offers heart-health benefits and full body toning, making it an ideal form of exercise.
3. Will you be relaxing? Many kayakers view their boat as an opportunity to de-stress and enjoy some quiet time in nature. It can also provide a chance to get out with friends or bond with other kayak enthusiasts.

Kayaks aren’t one size fits all, so it’s important to consider how you’ll be using your boat when searching for the best kayak for you.

Is a sit-on-top or sit-in kayak better for you?

Sit-on kayaks are generally considered to be the best kayaks for beginners. They’re stable, easy to get on and off, and self-draining, making them ideal for recreational use. However, be prepared for a little spray — the exposed seat means that you’ll always get wet while paddling.

Sit-in kayaks provide more protection from the elements, making them the best kayaks for longer trips and cooler temperatures. They also offer more efficient paddling and faster speeds than sit-on kayaks. However, the cockpit may flood if you capsize, making for a more difficult exit.

What is the best kayak shape for you?

The shape of your kayak will affect how fast it moves, how easy it is to turn, and how stable it is to paddle and launch. Choosing the right shape is essential to finding the best kayak for your experience level.

Kayaks with rounded hulls offer more maneuverability, making them the best kayaks for navigating tricky rivers and coastlines. The best recreational and fishing kayaks tend to be wider and shorter — you give up some speed, but they offer far more stability, perfect for casual paddling and casting a line.

Do you want a one-person single kayak or a tandem kayak?

When thinking about the best kayak for you, consider whether you’ll be paddling alone or with a partner. Tandem kayaks, which have two seats in the cockpit instead of one, are naturally the best kayaks for paddling pairs. You learn to work together and enjoy the kayaking adventure together. Tandem kayaks are a great bonding experience with your paired paddler. However, even if you wanted to kayak solo, you can still use a tandem kayak!

Single kayaks provide you the freedom and flexibility to go whenever and wherever you want. You can enjoy the serenity of the open waters alone and on your own terms. Single kayaks are typically a lighter weight kayak so loading and unloading is easier — and you can travel a bit faster if you want to paddle off some of the day’s frustrations!

What about a pedal kayak?

Pedal kayaks aren’t as common as paddle kayaks, but they’re worth considering in certain situations.

If you are kayaking for the heart-health benefits, a pedal kayak is a fabulous form of aerobic exercise!

For anglers, pedal kayaks free up your hands, allowing you to adjust your fishing line or tie on different bait. They also cover more water in a shorter time, making them ideal for long trips. If you foresee multi-day treks or kayak fishing in your future, a pedal kayak might be the best kayak for you.

Once you’ve answered these six questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best kayak for you. Whether it’s to fish, exercise, or just to unwind, you’ll be out on the water in no time!

Kayaking is a great water sport that even the least athletic – or aquatic – among us can embrace. It won’t be long before a beginner kayaker will be paddling along like a pro, but starting a new activity can be confusing. For those who like to do their research beforehand, we’ve answered 10 questions that any beginning kayaker might ask.

What should I bring with me?

1. Bottled water for hydration
2. Snacks for fueling your body
3. Sunscreen UPF/SPF 30 or higher
4. Sunglasses that decrease glare
5. Whistle for safety
6. Floatation device or life jacket

While kayaking is fun, you will still be exerting a lot of physical energy, even at the beginner level — so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated. Sunscreen is essential, especially for long paddles, and sunglasses will help cut the glare from the water.

It’s good practice to keep a whistle on hand in case you get lost or encounter trouble while kayaking. The standard distress signal (three long blasts) will get the attention of other boaters and people on land.

As with any water activity, a good flotation device is a prerequisite. Invest in a life jacket that fits snugly and is comfortable enough to be worn at all times.

What should I wear when kayaking?

1. Wetsuit (if under 60°F)
2. Layer clothing if chilly
3. Swimwear (in warmer weather)
4. Waterproof footwear
5. Sun shielding hat

When kayaking, you want to think about both the water and the weather. Even if it’s warm and sunny on land, the water may still be chilly away from shore.

In conditions under 60°F, you should wear a wetsuit, as well as a lightweight fleece jacket or vest. In warmer waters, swimwear or shorts and a rashguard top will do just fine. Waterproof footwear and a sun-shielding hat are musts, no matter the weather.

Where should I go as a beginner kayaker?

1. Calm body of water
2. Avoid lots of motorized boat traffic
3. Lake or pond with gentle sloping shoreline

Once you have your kayak, it’s tempting to just get in the boat and set off for a marathon paddle down the river or out to sea. However, it’s probably not the best idea for beginning kayakers.

Instead, choose a small, calm body of water without motorized boat traffic. A lake or pond with a gently sloping shore will make for the easiest launch. This should present the fewest number of water hazards, allowing you to practice paddling in peace.

How do I stay safe while kayaking?

1. Bring a friend along
2. Don’t veer off to isolated areas
3. Avoid inclement weather conditions
4. Know your limits

Safety is key on the water, especially for beginning kayakers. Whenever possible, bring a friend along and commit to keeping each other within sight or earshot. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, as well. You don’t want to get bogged down in a downpour or battered by choppy waves.

It’s also important for beginners to know their limits. Never paddle out further than you can reliably swim until you have more experience. It’s easy to over-exert yourself your first time out — set an easy pace and get a feel for the kayak, the paddle, and the water.

How do I keep my stuff dry?

1. Sealed plastic storage bags
2. Dry bags

Even though you aren’t directly in the water, you can count on getting wet while kayaking. Press-and-seal plastic storage containers work fine for items that can take a little spray, like wallets or food.

For more sensitive items like electronics and clothing, you may want to use a dry bag — but make sure you seal it correctly, with at least three folds of the top rim.

How do I get my kayak in and out of the water?

Launching your kayak can look awkward, but if all goes well, it should only take a moment.

Move your kayak as close to the water as possible, perpendicular to the shoreline. The front of the boat should be floating, while the back stays moored. Sit in the cockpit and adjust your legs, then use your arms or paddle to push off from the shore. To get out later, simply reverse the steps.

How should I sit?

Sit as upright as you can; good posture will save you neck, back and shoulder pain later. Slide your legs forward until the balls of your feet are resting against the footpegs. Turn your toes slightly outward, and check for a gentle bend in your knees. You’re ready to move!

How do I hold the paddle?

Kayak paddles are pretty intuitive, but there are a couple of ways to get the surest and most comfortable grip.

Hold your arms so that your elbows are at a 90° angle, with your hands equally distanced from the center. Make sure the long end of each paddle blade is on top, and that the scooped side of the blade is facing you — this will keep you moving through the water smoothly.

As for grip, make a loose “O” with your thumb and forefinger, then lay the rest of your fingers gently along the shaft. A relaxed grip will keep your hands from tiring too quickly.

What’s the best kayak paddling technique?

Kayaking is a forgiving sport, but learning the proper strokes will make your time on the water more enjoyable and efficient.

The stroke you’ll be using most is called the “forward” stroke: immerse the blade fully by your feet, twist your torso to pull the blade back, then “slice” it out of the water when it reaches your hip. To stop your kayak or move backwards, simply reverse the motion.

What should I do before heading home?

Breaking down is just as important as setting up, so make sure to double-check and dry off your gear. Look for any dings or dents on your kayak and paddle. Carefully dry all items to avoid mold and rust buildup. And, of course, make sure no gear gets left behind in the parking lot.

Make time to care for yourself, too — you likely worked up a sweat out on the water, so perform some gentle stretching exercises and drink plenty of water before getting in the car. You’ll be back on the water again in no time!

Did you ever want to know where is the best location to catch the trophy fish of your dreams? Here is our list of the top 10 locations across the United States for you to catch the most amazing fish! #HappyFishing

Largemouth Bass-Castaic Lake, California- Castaic Lake wins out for largemouth bass fishing areas just because of the sheer size of largies that have been caught in this location. No other lake can boast the amount of 20-pound+ fish that have been recorded like in Castaic. Catching a bass that large is a rare feat, but anything in the 12-15 pound range is not.

Tarpon-Boca Grande, Florida- Tarpon are one of the most exciting game fish out there, and nowhere can you catch as many big species as you can at Boca Grande, Florida. They can reach weights over 230 pounds, and you’’ll feel every ounce of that. Boca Grande embraces its tarpon fishing tradition.

Sheefish-Selawik Valley, Alaska-The Tarpon of the North, these similar looking species grow to weights of 60 pounds in northwest Alaska. Getting to the big sheefish of the Selawik Valley requires you to fly in to this location. These gorgeous fish can be caught almost all year-round, though summer offers the best results. The coldwater fish can be taken with spoons or even with a fly when they come to the surface.

Red Drum-Pamlico Sound, North Carolina- Catching red drums in the 30-60 pound range is pretty common, and there's also a chance to catch a channel bass over 80 pounds. Be aware that red drums are primarily a catch-and-release type of fish across the North Carolina coast due to strict regulations.

Muskie-Lake St. Clair, Michigan- Nestled in between Lake Erie and Lake Huron along the Michigan-Ontario border, Lake St. Clair boasts a tremendous fishery for many species in addition to muskie, despite having an average depth of only 11 feet. With all the species available, muskies get overlooked.

Mako Shark-Massachusetts Bay- Some of the best shark fishing in North America comes straight out of Boston. Massachusetts Bay contains several species of quality shark to catch, but mako is the prime target here. Catching a mako shark over 1000 pounds is super possible in the Massachusetts Bay. But be careful when fishing for makos, however, as they have been known to turn and attack anglers. 

Walleye-Lake of the Woods, Minnesota- Another lake that borders with Canada, Lake of the Woods sits on the very northern tip of Minnesota. Trophy walleye is commonplace on this lake However, if you’re looking for the ultimate Lake of the Woods experience, the best time to go is during the winter time. When the ice sets in, the most comfortable ice shanties you could find are sprinkled along the shoreline, and there are dozens of quality resorts to stay in as well.

Golden Rainbow Trout-Mahoning Creek, Pennsylvania- For anglers who enjoy river and fly fishing, there are few targets as elusive and colorful as the golden rainbow trout, found exclusively in a select few locations in the eastern United States. The best water system for golden rainbows is Mahoning Creek, Pennsylvania, where the biggest ones can be found. These golden rainbow trout can grow to weigh over 13 pounds. 

Striped Bass-Chesapeake Bay, Maryland- Chesapeake Bay is as good a fishery as you can find in the United States, especially for its striped bass. Spring and late summer-early fall are the best seasons for fishing as that's when fish move through the area.

White Sturgeon-Sacramento River- The biggest freshwater fish in all of North America can be found along the Sacramento River and into the San Francisco Bay Area. It is known to reach weights over 1500 pounds and lengths of over 20 feet. White sturgeon are governed under strict guidelines in California, so be sure to follow all regulations when tackling a monster fish this size and magnitude.

Fishing Kayaks for Your Angler Adventures

Need a kayak for your fishing adventures? Whether a traditional paddle kayak, single, pedal kayak, or tandem kayak fishing adventure, Brooklyn Kayak Company has you covered. See all our kayak inventory to find out what is best for you.

If you just begin to talk about the Bahamas, people usually think of the tan lines, tiki bars and endless buffets. But what lies beyond the breakers is what makes Grand Bahama an angler's dream fishing spot.

Paddle just a couple of miles from the shore and the bottom can drop 1000 feet. Deep ocean currents carry nutrients where marlin, dolphin, tuna, wahoo and king mackerel wait.

Live slow trolling baits or diving plugs is deadly on the surface-feeding tuna, marlin, dolphin and wahoo fish. But just drop a vertical jig onto any of the reefs or sea mounts to hook up with a snapper or grouper.

Do you want to take a break from the open ocean? Then head through a series of man-made canals to the sand flats on the lea side of the island. The Grand Bahamas is a world class sight fishing destination for trophy fish. Grab a fly rod or light spinner and stalk your prey in crystal clear shallows.

There are also plenty of options for food and lodging here on the island. Fresh fish is worth it's weight in gold, so just use your catch to get yourself any goods and services you might need.

WHAT YOU CAN CATCH

Mahi mahi, Atlantic sailfish, blackfin tuna, kingfish, wahoo, grouper, snapper and marlin.

BEST SEASON TO GO KAYAKING

Grand Bahama offers a year-round offshore fishery with a very mild and stable climate.

GET ALL RIGGED UP

Live bait is the easy ticket for catching just about any species in the gin clear waters off Freeport. Goggle eyes, pilchards and blue runners are all good choices. Leader choice depends on the target species. For toothy predators, like kingfish and wahoo, use 50-80 pound single-strand wire. For sure sighted hunters like tuna and mahi mahi, stick with a fluorocarbon leader between 30-60 pound test.

KAYAKING THROUGH THE BAHAMAS

The Bahama seas may be nasty when the wind blows from the southeast, so bring a stable pedal kayak that can handle the moderate surf. A pedal drive kayak will cover the waters faster and more efficiently, especially for trolling. Also invest in a high-quality depth finder and GPS combination that will keep the boat on the reef and on the fish.

Kayaks are Stealthy

No matter how you slice it, a kayak is quieter and less noticeable to fish than any boat – even poling skiffs! Not having a trolling motor makes you kayak quieter. Even the pressure of the bow of your boat creating a small ripple will give fish in shallow water a serious case of lockjaw. A kayak can slip into any size pond and the fish won’t even know you’re there! To make your kayak even more stealthy, adhere stealth rubber to every spot on your boat that you lay paddles, Plano boxes and rods.

Kayaks offer better casting angles

When fishing from a motor boat, most of your casts are perpendicular to the bank and your lure swims from shallow water to deep. With a kayak you can gain a major advantage by placing your kayak right on the marsh grass. Then you can cast up the grass line and retrieve along the grass. This keeps your lure in the “red zone” for much more time than the typical boat cast. Also throw out into open water and retrieve back to your kayak that’s placed on the shoreline. This swims the lure from deep to shallow which is the instinctual way that bait fish typically avoid hungry predators. Turning the tables on casting angles makes a huge difference in catch rate.

Kayaks are comfortable

Today’s modern fishing kayaks have comfortable seats that make you feel like you’re fishing out of an easy chair all day long. Catching fish is more fun in a kayak: Hook into a 24 inch Redfish with a kayak underneath you, and you’re off on the “Cajun Sleigh Ride”. Hook the same Redfish in a motorboat and you horse the fish into the boat in less than a minute.

Fish just feel bigger when you are catching them out of a kayak. The fish may completely circle your boat during their initial runs – giving you that adrenaline filled out of control feeling that make fishing so much fun. That “man vs. nature” feeling is so apparent when you have a big fish throwing mud and water up on you and over you as you struggle to gain the upper hand.

Kayaks are more fun when the fish aren’t biting

Everyone has those days when the fish just don’t seem interested. When you are fishing from a kayak, you have the added fun of seeing all the other wildlife abundant in the marsh. I recall the thrill of seeing a mother deer and her baby emerge from the marsh grass, swim the canal and head off into the grass on the other side – all while never spotting me. You’ll see amazing bird life, otters, raccoons, gators and more. I’ve even seen a Black Bear swimming a canal and coming up on a mud flat in the marsh. As an added bonus, you get a day of great exercise.

Kayaks allow you to fish where other boats cannot get

I have spent countless days fishing in the marsh in my kayak where I don’t see another single boat, kayak or other craft. Louisiana has so much marsh to fish that’s basically inaccessible to motorized fishing craft. John Williams Kayak Fishing Guide Pack & Paddle. Not only is it accessible, but your craft is perfect for fishing these waters once you get in there

Kayak fishermen are social

Once you have a kayak – you’re in the club. There’s a kindred spirit among the people that forego the common path and take up kayak fishing. You’ll find that you are much more approachable by not only kayak fishermen – but also all the folks in motorized craft as well. If you’re into clubs and tournaments, you’ll find a plethora of opportunities to join other kayak fishermen for club trips and tournaments year round.

Kayak fishing is downright cheap

Take away fuel, insurance, storage, launch fees not to mention the upfront cost of purchasing a motor boat and you can see that kayak fishing is a great way to have more fun fishing at a much lower cost. You may not want to sell that motor boat quite yet though. Consider keeping the boat and using it as a “mothership” to carry you and your kayak to areas you can’t paddle to from the launch. Truly the best of both worlds!

The bottom line is that coastal Louisiana is the perfect playground for kayak fishing. I often tell people “If you want to ski powder snow, go to Colorado – but if you want to catch big saltwater fish out of a kayak – come to Louisiana”. We have a treasure trove of opportunity that is absolutely phenomenal for kayak fishermen. I look forward to seeing you on the water!

The BKC UH-TK181 was reviewed by kayakerguide.com. Brooklyn Kayak Company is excited to share the review here - and we're grateful for the love!

UH-TK181 REVIEW at KAYAKERGUIDE.COM

Kayaking has always been one of the most popular outdoor activities for adventurers around the world. There is something about this activity that makes people enjoy their time spent in the wild. Of course, in order to enjoy this period of time and this activity, they will need to find a good kayak. According to many experts, using a tandem kayak can make your trip in nature, even more, fun and if you get involved in fishing during this activity you will have some of the best moments in your life.

Experienced kayakers will tell you that Useful is not the best-known kayak manufacturer out there, but this doesn’t mean that their best seller model is not worth a try. On the contrary, the Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak comes with some excellent features and great design.

One of the first things that you will notice about this kayak is the color or mixture or colors to be more precise. The Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak has a distinctive camo design and even though this design and pattern is quite trendy these days, the manufacturers had another thing in mind when they decided to use this color. Namely, according to the designers at Useful, the camo design will help kayakers blend in any environment in the wild and keep the fish calm and relaxed. Obviously, using kayaks with bright colors will scare fish.

This specific model comes with excellent tracking and what is even more important it is very easy to maneuver it. Keep in mind that this is a tandem kayak which makes maneuverability more difficult per se, but the team behind Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak have spent some time creating a unique design adding features that will ease handling this kayak. Even though when it comes to kayak fishing, most kayakers are focused on calm waters, they still have to move from one place to another from time to time. This is the reason why UH-TK181 kayak comes with a carefully balanced hull that provides maximum stability even when the water is not very calm. It is very easy to get carried away while you are fishing, but with this kayak, you can rest assured that the stability is at a high level and that your fishing activities won’t be interrupted.

The maximum capacity of Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak is 450 pounds and two people. It is obvious that their intention was to create a kayak that will not just resist the weight of two adults, but a kayak that will have sufficient weight capacity to carry fishing and other equipment and to keep caught fish. There is significant cargo space that will satisfy the needs of experienced fishermen. While we are still focused on the cargo space, it is good to highlight the fact that there is a big rear compartment that comes with a bungee tie down system for extra safety and added space. Finally, there is extra storage located at the back of each seat. This is where kayakers can place some of their personal belongings.

Truth be told, the kayak is not lightweight. Namely, it weighs around 68 pounds. Surely, this is not a weight that can’t be handled by two adults, but it represents significant weight for long distances. However, the good news is that there are four carrying handles that make this task much easier.

This tandem fishing kayak is created for the long fishing expedition and this is the reason why the two seats found in it are so comfortable and ergonomic. But, that’s not all. For kayakers’ comfort, this kayak provides 2 high-quality bungee paddle rests, three mount rod holders that can be adjusted according to users’ needs and requirements, additional four mount rod holders (flush holders) and several foot rests. All these things are here to provide maximum comfort and exceptional safety. In addition, the package includes two high-quality lightweight paddles made of aluminum

Useful UH-TK181 12.5 foot Sit On Top Tandem Fishing Kayak is definitely one of the best tandem kayaks on the market today.

3 Popular Kayak Myths Debunked

The kayak fishing market is continuing to grow.

New kayak anglers are purchasing kayaks every day. Many, though, are making assumptions about their kayaks that simply are not true. Many are not informed correctly. Whether placing the blame on the sales company or the customer for not asking the right questions at the time of purchase, these kayak myths should be explained.

1. My Kayak Should Not Have Any Water In It After A Long Day of Fishing

Your kayak shouldn’t have gallons of water in it, this is true, but a couple of ounces isn’t hurting anything or anyone. So many new anglers obsess about the little bit of water that gets inside. No kayak is waterproof. Even submarines and battleships can take on water so the kayak is going to be ok with a little bit of water after you’ve been fishing If you want to locate a leak, check your hatches first, whether they were open or sealed properly. Next you can check for cracks or deep scars on the keel. If you had a big problem, you’d definitely know it. A little water won’t to hurt.

2. I Bought the Kayak For $800 So I Should Be Able to Sell For That Price

Kayaks, like cars, lower in value once they are used. I see a lot of people buy a kayak, add a bunch of accessories to it and then expect to sell it for the price of a new one. Kayaks are not houses. You can not buy a kayak and sell it for a quick profit. Doesn’t work like that. Why? Fishermen almost always want to choose their own stuff. I’d rather buy a brand new kayak and just upgrade over time. You can try to get back money on the price with adding accessories but that will usually take you longer to sell.

3.One Kayak Can Do Everything Well

This is another totally wrong statement.

Buying one kayak that can do many terrains such as saltwater, freshwater, rivers, lakes, swift water and beyond breakers just isn’t going to happen. You can buy one kayak and do all of those things in it but to expect it to be great at all of them just isn’t possible. My recommendation is to find a kayak that can do a little bit of everything you want to do and don’t expect it to be awesome at everything or buy multiple kayaks, each suited for a particular purpose.

We've put together 6 bass fishing tips for those wanting to get out there in your kayak to get that largemouth bass score! #HappyFishing

The higher water temperatures of summer can make bass fishing frustrating. But finding the right environment where the fish are taking cover to stay cool or choosing the best time of day to bass fish are part of our tips for bass fishing in the summer.

Try These Bass Fishing Tips

1. GO SUPER EARLY, OR GO SUPER LATE

If you want to know when to go bass fishing in the late summer, you need to get out on the water before sunrise. This is key. If you can’t do this, try to go more around dusk. The cooler periods of the day are the best times for bass fishing. For beginners, this is the foundation tip you should beware of.

2. THE WATERS YOU CHOOSE ARE SUPER IMPORTANT

Reservoirs that are either thick with vegetation, or that are relatively deep are a great start. Consider ponds, lakes as well. The vegetation gives more oxygen to the area which the bass needs as temperatures go up throughout the day. Also, the deeper water is usually colder. So as the temperatures go up, the bass will slowly move deeper into the water.

3. BEGIN AT SHALLOW WATER, THEN MOVE TO DEEPER WATERS

You should start in the shallow during the early parts of the morning, then slowly but surely move into the deeper waters as the air and water temperatures rise during the day. It’s time to expand your mind when it comes to where to fish. The deeper you go in the middle of the day, the more likely you are to get a bite or two.

4. USE A TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR A CONTOUR MAP

When you are learning how to fish, one of the most helpful things you can do is to use a contour map. This will help to locate different structure in the deeper waters. The map is really useful for late summer fishing trips for bass, when the very warm weather forces the fish to areas that are deeper, where the water is cooler for them. This map will help you find helpful clues and insights the area you are currently fishing in. Pay attention to any types of channels, submerged points, humps, flats and rock piles,

5. GET OUT YOUR SOFT PLASTIC RIGS CRANKBAITS AND SPINNERBAITS

Make sure you take your deep-diving baits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastic rigs as well. Early in the day in the shallower waters, use the Texas-rigged or Carolina-rigged soft plastic worms. However, you will then need to bring out the deep-diving crankbaits and to help in the deeper areas of the water as the day progresses and the hot temperatures rise.

Check out our fishing kayaks and kayak accessories to see what works best for your fishing needs!

It's important to find the right rod that optimally performs with your particular reel and fishing style. Here are 5 tips on finding the right fishing rod for you.

1. USE A ROD MADE OF ONE PIECE

There are both 1 piece and 2-piece rods on the market. Sometimes, you may choose to use a 2-piece rod as you are used to it. But, as a newbie, one-piece rods are the best choice for you. it will let you feel for more if you are fishing in deeper water. So, you will be having less missed bites.

2. TRY FIBERGLASS OR COMPOSITE RODS

Fiberglass rods usually provide more flexibility than other types of rods. It will still leave you with enough backbone for all different types of fish. There are also fiberglass and graphite available that are light, but also durable. If you want to do a lot of offshore trolling, you may need to use a medium heavy, extra fast or fast action fiberglass or composite ROD. But remember, offshore jigging and fishing will usually need more power and strength.

3. MAKE SURE TO LOOK FOR CORROSION PROOF FISHING RODS ALWAYS

Any saltwater fishing rod or reel you use should typically be made to withstand corrosion. Usually, a lot of the guides and reel seats should be made with some type of non-corroding material, for example, stainless steel or aluminum. To help the gear last longer, make sure to give all of your saltwater rods and ocean fishing reels a heavy rinse in some freshwater when you arrive back at home or as soon as possible.

4. USE RODS THAT HAVE A SPECIAL UV PROTECTIVE COATING

A lot of ocean fishing rods are usually made with a protective coating to help protect the blank of the rod from cracking, fading, peeling and chipping. This can occur also with the ongoing of items in the shining sun light.

5. MAKE SURE THE ROD YOU USE HAS CLOSED CELL FOAM

Closed cell foam, can usually help a rod withstand major temperature changes and bad saltwater conditions for more prolonged periods of time. Now that you are aware of some of the features available for your fishing rods, you can better make a wise educated decision about what kind of saltwater rod will help you out and be useful and withstand all conditions through your catches. Just make sure to always check the saltwater fishing regulations for your state and also to make sure to buy your FISHING LICENSE ONLINE before you leave. #happyfishing everyone!

What is a crankbait? A crankbait is a lure with a shape that enables it to dive and stay under water, typically via a flat lip on the front.

5 Different Types of Crankbait

1.Shallower Water Crankbait

These have small bills on the baits body, and can only go 0 – 5 feet deep. A square bill type crankbait is the most common of the shallow diving crankbaits. It is used most often because of how it can deflect and bounce off of shallow covers.

2. Medium Diving Crankbait

Medium diving crankbaits have a little bit of longer bills on the front side. These baits can go down effectively from 5 – 12 feet waters. An effective medium diving crankbait can get the job done when the bass aren’t sitting up in the shallow stuff, hold a little deeper on the edges.

3. Deep Diving Crankbait

These crankbaits have bigger bills and are much beefier than the medium or shallow diving crankbaits. Typically, you need some beefed up gear to throw one of these bad boys around. Deep diving crankbaits are best used anywhere from to 12 – 20 feet deep for diving down to bounce off the bottom or cover.

4. Lipless Crankbait

Lipless crankbaits don’t have a bill at all hence the name lipless. They sink down into the waters and have a tight vibrating motion on the retrieving aspect because of the small flat surface on top of the bait. These crankbaits tend to work the best when fishing around grassier areas of water. Ripping a lipless crankbait over the top of grass vegetation is a really popular and effective method for catching bass fish. A lipless crankbait can be fished at any depth of water. They typically come in heavier sizes for fishing deep, and lighter sizes for fishing in shallower areas.

5. Jerk bait

A jerk bait is a type of crankbait that suspends in the water, and is used with a twitch and pause motion. They are typically used in colder waters to imitate a dying baitfish. Usually the deepest they can go is about 12 ft deep. Most of these have small bills and can only dive down to about 5 feet, and stay up in waters on the pause.

Make sure you consider these 3 variables when choosing our crankbait.

1. water clarity

2. water temperature- using water clarity, and water temperature will help you determine the style of crankbait you should use.

3. water depth- the depth you are fishing should help you determine the type of crankbait you should use.

All of these are key factors when choosing the right crankbait for you!