Rod Holders for Fishing Kayaks

Posted on January 4, 2012 by northamerica

Rod holders are essential for kayak fishing. Although most fishing kayaks are factory equipped with rod holders, many recreational kayaks lack them. Even fishing kayaks sometimes benefit from the addition of extra rod holders. In either case, aftermarket rod holders are available in a variety of configurations.

When choosing rod holders for kayaks, anglers must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each model. Also important when selecting rod holders is knowing what type of fishing will be done. Depending on angler preference, fishing techniques, and other factors, rod holders may be used simply for storing rods while underway, or used while drifting, trolling, or casting.

Some applications require adjustable mounts while other situations may require only simple fixed mount rod holders. Other key factors for kayak rod holders are weight and modularity. Due to the nature of kayaking, complex or heavy mounting systems are not practical for most applications.

Types of Kayak Rod Holders

Kayak crates are a common type of add-on rod holder. They are modular by design and offer considerable versatility at a reasonable cost. Kayak crates are available pre-rigged or can be assembled from components. Most kayak crates consist of a crate, rod-tool rack, and attachment system. Some anglers choose to equip their crate with a special cover. The cover fits over the plastic frame and usually includes some means of attaching rod holders or an opening for crate-mounted rod holders to fit through. Crate covers typically have storage compartments and other features built-in. Similar to basic kayak crates, these units are modular and suitable for a wide range of applications.

Recessed rod holders are permanently mounted in the hull of a kayak. They protrude very little on the exterior, which makes them less prone to obstructing. This is by far the most popular option for fishing kayaks. Most recessed rod holders have a hollow base and allow the intrusion of water into the cockpit. Some models offer caps which seal them when not in use. Recessed rod holders may also be fitted with drain tubes to collect water and direct it elsewhere. Recessed rod holders are typically mounted so that they face rearward at an angle. Recessed rod holders are inexpensive and easy to install.

Adjustable rod holders are another option for fishing kayaks. Most adjustable rod holders mount on a vertical or horizontal surface and have mechanisms that allow their position to be adjusted. Adjustable rod holders provide the greatest amount of flexibility for fishing. Because they add precious weight and take up valuable space, they may not be suitable for general use kayaks.

For serious anglers, multiple rod holders are sometimes warranted. These usually consist of a bar or other device which accepts 2 or more adjustable rod holders. These high end setups are useful for fishing situations were multiple rods are fished at once.

Custom rod holder mounts are the ultimate in fishing kayak accessories. Custom mounts usually combine several rod holders in a single unit. Each unit is designed to suit the specific needs of an angler and is usually permanently mounted to a full blown fishing kayak.

For some anglers, a less expensive custom mount can be achieved by mounting adjustable rod holders to a portable base. These special mounts can be strapped in place when required for a fishing trip and easily removed after use.

For rod storage while underway, horizontal rod mounts may be an option. These units consist of a ring at the butt end and a hook shaped mount forward. Some units have a small bungee which is used to secure the rod in place. These mounts allow rods to be stowed along each gunwale so they are accessible in an instant.

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Freshwater Fishing – Lures vs. Bait

Posted on December 28, 2011 by northamerica

In freshwater fishing, the use of artificial lures vs. bait is commonly debated. In some fisheries, the use of fishing bait may be considered unethical, while in others it is perfectly acceptable. When determining which fishing techniques should be used, anglers often take into consideration not only the fish species that will be targeted, but also local and regional traditions.

In many locations, recreational fishing regulations exist to limit fishing methods. Regulations often specify equipment specifications as well as any limitations on the use of baits while fishing. It is worth noting that some agencies define “bait” to include scents or other attractants, even when applied to lures, flies, or bare hooks.

In some fisheries, the improper use of fishing bait can result in unwanted fishing mortality when fish swallow the bait. Considerable research has been done on the issue of deep hooking, also known as gut hooking. Studies have led to the introduction of several alternative fishing techniques. In most fisheries, circle hooks have been shown to greatly reduce injury to fish from deep hooking. When traditional hooks are used, the hook must be set before the fish swallows the bait.

Live baits have several advantages over artificial lures. Their movement and scent attracts fish, even in murky water. Live baits also feel natural and fish usually hold onto them much longer than lures. Many anglers find live bait easier to use than artificial lures.

Artificial lures are alternatives to fishing with natural baits. Thousands of lure models exist, although most fall types of lures can be classified in a few basic categories such as jigs, soft plastic bodies, crankbaits, poppers, spoons, spinners, flies, etc.

Most lures last for years and require little or no special care. Artificial lures also come in a wide spectrum of colors and patterns. Most lures are equipped with specialized hooks for catching fish. The size, weight, and overall design of a lure determines its running depth, action, and other characteristics.

Several companies now offer soft plastic lure bodies that have been embedded with scents or flavors. These combine the advantages of artificial lures with fish-attracting properties that were once only possible by using live baits. Scented lure bodies are available in most popular styles including worms, slug-baits, curly-tail grubs, shad bodies, shrimp, crabs, and other designs.

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Winter Kayaking

Posted on December 24, 2011 by northamerica

male bluebill ducksAlthough most people associate kayaking with warm weather, the winter season can be an excellent time to enjoy the sport. During the winter season, kayakers enjoy fishing, exploring, birdwatching, and other activities.

Safety is critical during the winter season. With air and water temperatures lower, the threat of hypothermia is much greater in winter. In addition, public safety resources may be limited or unavailable during the winter season, making

During the winter season, dressing for a kayak trip is important. Clothing should be water resistant, warm, but should not excessively bulky or restrictive. Dressing in layers is usually a good practice. When extended paddling is required, paddlers may find themselves getting hot very quickly, even if air temperatures are cool.

Winter kayaking trips usually require mild weather, making accurate forecasts essential. Before departing on a winter kayaking adventure, most paddlers check with the latest forecast.

Even during the winter season, freshwater anglers catch bass, crappie, pike, musky, pickerel, perch, catfish, and other species. Winter fishing often involves deep jigging or fishing with live minnows. Kayaks are well suited for both of these techniques.

In most coastal areas, winter is a good time to harvest shellfish including clams, oysters, and mussels. Although kayaks do not have the range of powerboats, their nimble nature and shallow draft allows paddlers to access productive shellfish grounds that may be otherwise inaccessible.

Winter is an excellent time to enjoy birdwatching by kayak. In addition to resident species of birds, songbirds, ducks, sandpipers, and other birds migrate along the major flyways in winter. The low profiles and unthreatening movements of kayaks are tolerated by many birds, allowing birders a much closer view.

Kayaks are also popular for hunting, especially waterfowl hunting. Kayaks provide a lightweight, simple means of transportation to hunting blinds. Their small size makes them easily concealable with a lightweight camouflage cover.

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Kayak Winter Storage

Posted on December 3, 2011 by northamerica

winter - kayakingAlthough kayaks have lower maintenance requirements than many other boats, most kayaks benefit from simple winter lay up procedure. As with most outdoor gear, each off season lay up should begin with a simple wash down, followed by a visual inspection.

Structural problems in kayaks are often caused by weather-related damage. These include damage from ice, cold temperatures, direct sunlight, wind-related actions and other winter occurrences.

In much of North America, icing can cause damage during the winter season. Ice damage comes in several forms, many of which can affect kayaks and other paddle craft. Cracking and hull deformation are serious winter-related problems, both of which are preventable.

In addition to kayak damage from ice, winter conditions are often an underlying cause of problems. For example, winter storms can contain ice, sleet, snow, and high winds, which when combined, often bring down limbs or entire trees. Flying debris can not only crush or puncture a kayak hull, but can also damage skirting, covers, paddles, and other gear.

Although most kayaks have few moving parts, corrosion or binding can occur with foot pedals, rudders, and even 2 piece paddle locking mechanisms. Prior to winter lay up, a quick inspection and, if required, lubrication can help prevent such problems.

To minimize damage to kayaks, the best option is usually to invert the craft, insure that it is well drained, and store it out of the elements. In situations where indoor storage is not available, special covers may be useful. Several styles of kayak covers are available. Most have an opening on one end, which allows the entire craft to be inserted before closing the cover. Other styles simply lay over the craft and are secured with a flap.

Regardless of the design, kayak covers help keep water, wildlife, debris, and other objects from contacting the hull. Once covered, a kayak can be stored (inverted) in a sheltered area, and tied down if necessary.

When storing a kayak inside a building, a variety of options are available. Specialized racks are popular for long term storage. These include wall mounted racks, overhead slings, and other options. Oars, life preservers (PFDs), and other accessories should also be inspected and stowed out of the elements during the off season.

Having a winter storage checklist can be a good way to insure trouble free kayak operation. The following winter kayak storage checklist covers a few of the basics:

- wash and inspect hull

- invert and drain well

- lubricate any moving parts

- remove and store accessories (remove batteries from electronics if required)

- disassemble 2 piece paddles; lubricate locking mechanisms

- loosen any tie down straps

- install cover if kayak will be stored outside

- invert, store, and secure the kayak out of direct sunlight

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International Coastal Cleanup 2011

Posted on August 30, 2011 by northamerica

On Saturday, September 17, the 2011 International Coastal Cleanup will bring together paddlesports enthusiasts, boaters, environmental organizations, and other groups to help keep the sea free of debris.

The annual International Coastal Cleanup is the largest volunteer effort for the ocean, bringing out hundreds of thousands of volunteers from around the world to remove millions of pounds of trash and debris from beaches, lakes and waterways.

For easy tips on other ways you can help stop marine debris, visit the Keep the Coast Clear campaign.

For more information, visit:

http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/marine-debris/international-coastal-cleanup-11.html

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