Northwest Reel Life November - December 2023 Volume 3 Issue 3 - Flipbook - Page 21
standard on most kayaks these
days. However, the position
of the standard flush mounts
is generally aft of the kayak
seat, and this isn’t always the
best location when you want
to have eyes on your rod tip.
Additional flush mount holders
can be installed in various
locations of your boat.
Fish bag. Insulated fish bags
are great options for larger fish
and are easy to secure on your
kayak. If you’re fishing for spiny
fish, be sure that your cooler
bag is puncture-proof.
Fish Storage
In-hull storage. Some anglers
have rigged fish bags inside
their hull, and if you can make
that work, you are ahead of
the curve on the fish storage
problem that plagues many
kayak anglers. If in-hull fish
storage is a possibility, be sure
that your fish are well insulated
as the inside of a kayak can
get quite toasty on a hot day.
Also keep in mind that if your
fish bag leaks inside of the hull,
you will have the difficult task
of cleaning a stinky mess that
gets more stinky the longer
it sits unattended. Finally,
having the hull open frequently
presents the danger of water
from crashing waves getting
inside your kayak. So, if you
choose this method, be wary of
the risks associated.
There are quite a few options
when it comes to fish storage.
Some folks will carry a small
cooler on board. This is a good
option when fishing for smaller
fish on hot days and if you can
afford the room on your kayak.
Kayaks offer endless amounts
of angling opportunities
without some of the drawbacks
of larger boats. I hope these
tips give you some direction
in planning your next outdoor
adventure on the open water.
Fixed and elevated rod holders.
These will be installed directly
to the boat or to a track. Fixed
rod holders tend to be one of
the sturdier options.
Adjustable rod holders.
Adjustable rod holders can
move from horizontal to
vertical and can be found in
various styles that are suited for
whatever type of fishing you
plan to do.
When installing your rod
holder, be sure to place it
somewhere where it won’t be
in the way of your peddling or
paddling.
NOV - DEC 2023 | 21