14 Must-Have Kayak Fishing Accessories
Kayak fishing has become one of my favorite outdoor activities. Being able to access remote fishing spots while paddling across beautiful lakes and rivers is an experience like no other. As both an avid angler and kayak enthusiast, I love the thrill of the chase that kayak fishing provides!
While the sport continues to rise in popularity, it comes with many choices. From the different kayak types to the wide variety of accessories available, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. Over time, I’ve learned that some gear is truly essential to have a safe and enjoyable experience, while other products provide helpful conveniences but aren’t completely necessary.
In this post, I want to share the fishing accessories that I believe are absolute “must-haves” for any kayak angler. These items will allow you to securely transport your equipment, protect yourself on the water, efficiently catch fish from your boat, and overall have more fun chasing your next big catch from your kayak.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to get set up or a seasoned paddler taking your skills to new waters, outfitting your rig with these essential accessories will undoubtedly improve both the function and enjoyment of your time spent on the water!
14 Must-Have Kayak Fishing Accessories
Outfitting a kayak properly for fishing requires the right gear to keep you organized, protected from the elements, and allow you to effectively fish from your vessel. When choosing accessories, it’s important to use durable, high-quality options that will withstand the rigors of time on the water. In this section, let’s take a look at the 15 accessories I consider essential to help you have more enjoyable and successful fishing trips from your kayak.
Life Jacket
No piece of kayak fishing safety gear should be more important than a properly fitted life jacket. Conditions can change quickly on the water, so having a comfortable personal flotation device rated for your weight is non-negotiable no matter your skill level. Most models now come with built-in accessory pouches, straps and bungee tie-downs to keep gear like pliers and knives securely on your person as well.
Kayak Cart
Lifting a fully rigged kayak becomes quite a chore over time, so an ergonomic cart allows you to easily transport your boat, gear and fishing accessories to and from any body of water. This is how I get my kayak from my car to the launch each outing and it has made all the difference in ease and comfort. Pneumatic tires, rubber bumpers and different axle widths allow compatibility with almost any hull shape or size. Carts have become indispensable for many kayak anglers and will keep your back happy!
Fish Finder
A high-quality fish finder can take your kayak fishing game to the next level. Being able to mark structure, bait and active fish allows precision casting to pick off more keepers. Look for units suitable for small crafts with strong built-in transducers made to clip onto your kayak. Back at the dock, review sonar history to learn secret spots. Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance are top brands readily appreciated by kayak anglers.
Rod Holders
Storage and positioning fishing rods exactly where needed are key while fighting fish. Well-designed rod holders clamp securely but don’t scratch your vessel while protecting precious graphite. An assortment also lets you optimally configure rods depending on conditions, providing quick access to keep that line wet. Look for padded models from trusted brands like YakAttack and Scotty that last for seasons while seamlessly holding your favorite rods and providing rod storage.
Anchor
On high-traffic fishing spots or windy days, the ability to effectively anchor your position is invaluable. I recommend either retractable styles conveniently mounted to the kayak deck or budget-friendly Danforth/fluke anchors for pitching overboard. Electric or manual anchors like the Power Pole Micro are gaining favor for instant deployment but require slightly more investment.
Pliers and Knife
Besides a life jacket, pliers and a fishing-rated safety knife should always come along to release fish hooks safely. Look for stainless steel options corrosion-proof yet functional for repetitive use expected when kayak fishing. I bring basic pliers for removing hooks when done plus side cutters strong enough to get through braid or thick line in an emergency. Leashing both prevents losing expensive tools when you need them most. Waterlogged pliers won’t grip when it counts!
Fish Bags
An organized fisherman is an effective fisherman. Scooping fish straight from the water into a protective bag designed for the job makes release or transport home so much cleaner and fish healthier after the battle. Several quality bags take up very little storage space either hung around your neck Bungee tie-downs hold them securely in place until needed. Fish bags are a simple way to increase the odds of fish surviving and releasing back into their home waters after photos.
Spare Paddle
Securing a backup kayak paddle where needed while underway gives added safety and confidence, even for experienced kayak anglers. Breakage out of reach of the shore could end a fishing trip disastrously without this essential piece of redundancy gear. Roof racks or external housings keep spares dry yet on board at all times should trouble strike primary paddles for any reason. A few inexpensive strap-on floats raise paddles higher than choppy surf, too. Peace of mind costs little at all!
Cooler
Few things can ruin a great day on the water like warm fish meat or bait spoiling in direct sun. A portable cooling option allows storing catches and bait ice-cold until finished fishing. Look for small coolers specially rated for kayaks with tie-down points, foam insulation or rotomolded designs for stability aboard your vessel. Bungee strapped down, properly drained coolers double as additional seating too between drifts or while eating lunch with fresh fish. Fishing success means little without quality food!
Dry Bag
A large, military-grade dry bag secures gear impervious to rain or accidental submersion mishaps when paired with the right strapping system. Many designs roll closed into compact cylinders taking up little room while offering cavernous storage internally compared to traditional hatches. I use one to protect my clothes, phone, wallet and electronics when paddling between spots. Paired with a cart, two quality bags organize my entire fishing system while trailer-free on remote jaunts far from roads. Dry bags bring total peace of mind!
Net and Gaff
Having the proper tools to land fish safely is important. A net with an extended handle allows scooping and wriggling catch onboard without unnecessary stress. Gaffs likewise assist in hooking fish for release or unhooking without touching wet hands. Quality nets and gaffs made for salt and freshwater use hold up over seasons.
Livewell System
On multi-day trips, safely transporting keepers in fresh, oxygenated water becomes critical. So, why not keep them in the water? Portable mesh livewells perfectly sized for kayaks help prevent accidental loss overboard and are a great way to keep your catch fresh!
Kayak Tracks/Rails
Additional rails or tracks mounted to hulls or decks provide further means to customize accessory setups for angling needs. Rod holders, fish finders, cameras and more attach to tracks/rails anywhere without permanent modification. Sides and casting platforms personalize kayaks down to fishermen’s specific techniques.
Mounting Systems
Holding electronics, gear and other accessories securely depends on quality mounting systems. From clamps and ram balls to suction cups and straps, rigging kayaks involves durable hardware sustaining vibrations. Time on the water and trailering with a pedal drive necessitates corrosion-resistant, locking mounts for longevity.
Tips on How To Outfit A Kayak For Fishing
There are a few important aspects to consider when outfitting your kayak for fishing. First and foremost is using high-quality, durable accessories designed specifically for use on small watercraft. Cheaply-made gear risks breaking down more quickly from continuous exposure to the elements. It’s a good idea to choose gear from reputable brands known for withstanding the rigors of time spent on varied waters.
You’ll also want equipment that can be securely mounted yet easily removable during storage periods to protect it from weathering. This allows cleaning and maintenance between trips. Consider outfitting your entire boat with functionality, efficiency and organization in mind. Heavier items should be positioned low and central to achieve a safe weight distribution.
Finally, take the time to thoughtfully configure your gear placement. Proper outfitting enhances both safety and the overall kayak fishing experience. Rod straps, tackle stations and watertight storage keep your fishing essentials organized for quick access. Mounting electronics like a fish finder requires securing the transducer strongly while allowing detachment as needed. With the right secure but removable setup, your kayak will serve you well on many future adventures on the water.
The right kayak accessory is important for a fulfilling fishing experience!
In conclusion, taking the time to thoughtfully outfit your kayak with must-have fishing accessories is key to having an enjoyable experience. Be sure to check out this post on “How to Choose the Best Kayak” to select the right boat to support you, your gear and your fishing style. Whether you’re a kayak fishing beginner looking to get started or an avid angler taking your skills to the next level, these ten essential accessories will no doubt improve both the function and fun of your time spent on the water in pursuit of your next big catch!
I hope these suggestions give you some great ideas for accessorizing your kayak with quality kayak accessories and making future trips more comfortable, efficient, fun for catching fish while transporting your fishing gear!
For more information on beneficial water therapies and all things around the benefits of water, stay tuned to my blog. I’m always available to give recommendations, reviews, and health information about water. If you found this particular post helpful, you might want to check out my posts on the best portable water filters!
Stay hydrated,
Shashank Varma (Mr. Water Geek)