Kayaking is one of the most popular ways to take to the water with more than 25 million people participating in the sport. They’re the perfect choice for adventure-seekers, adrenaline-chasers, and recreational paddlers that just want to get out on the water.
But did you know that you can use these boats for fishing, too? You can! And the maneuverability that kayaks offer makes getting through tricky slow-moving rivers or out into deep lake water easy.
However, there can be a learning curve, especially if you’re new to boat fishing. Here are a few common kayak fishing mistakes new kayakers make and what you need to do to avoid making them yourself.
3 Common Mistakes Kayak Fishing with Your RV
Many kayak anglers enjoy the flexibility and freedom that comes with camping in their RV. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when kayak fishing from a recreational vehicle.
1. Forgot to Cheak Your Kayak’s Problem:
Check the kayak for any faults before setting off. This can be a big mistake as it can put you in danger if your kayak springs a leak or capsizes. Always check your kayak for any holes, leaks, or loose fittings before setting off. They could eventually cause your kayak to sink.
You can’t go kayak fishing when your kayak is at the bottom of the lake! When you see any cracks in your wood kayak, use marine epoxy to fix them. If your kayak is made of plastic, you can use tape or a repair kit made specifically for plastic kayaks.
2. Not Securing Your Kayak Properly with RV:
When your kayak isn’t securely attached to your RV, it could easily be swept away by a gust of wind or a strong current. Additionally, unsecured kayaks can pose a danger to other motorists on the road. To avoid these problems, be sure to tie your kayak down securely before heading out on your next fishing adventure.
Solutions:
Make sure the kayak is securely fastened to the roof of the RV. Tie the kayak down at both the front and the back. You don’t want it bouncing around while you’re driving. Always use two straps to secure your kayak. This will help to distribute the weight of the kayak and prevent it from damaging the RV.
Make sure that the straps are tight enough so that the kayak can’t move around, but not so tight that they damage the kayak. Regular rope or bungee cords might not be strong enough. If possible, try to position the kayak so that it’s close to the center of the RV. It will maintain the RV’s balance and reduce its risk of tipping over.
3. Leaving Kayak Gear with Your RV:
Take a moment to evaluate your kayak fishing gear and choose only the essentials before you leave for your next kayak excursion. There’s no need to bring extra gear that will just take up space and weigh down your RV. Prepare fishing gear for kayaking, including life jackets, paddles, and fishing rods.
If you are planning on catching salmon, you will need a different type of rod than if you were hoping to catch trout. A larger fish will require a stronger rod and a heavier line, while a smaller fish can be caught with a lighter rod and lighter line.
3 Common Mistakes When Kayak Fishing and Their Solutions
For RVers, fishing from a kayak is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. But it’s important to avoid making common mistakes. Otherwise, you could end up in danger. Follow these tips to stay safe and enjoy kayak fishing from your RV.
1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Kayak
There are tons of different types of kayaks and each one is suited to a unique purpose. Unfortunately, some of them may not be ideal for fishing.
Some kayaks are too narrow to give you enough balance for your casts. Others won’t have enough storage space for your kayak safety gear and fishing equipment.
Before you choose a kayak, make sure you’re looking at one that’s designed with fishing in mind. Research each model and manufacturer before you make a decision. Read up on affordable fishing kayak reviews and see what other owners have to say.
If you can, try to look at kayaks in person to make sure they’ll work the different fishing techniques you’ll use rather than ordering one online sight unseen.
2. Not Wearing the Right Clothes
When you’re out on the water, you’ll be in near-constant sunshine the entire time. That means you’ll want to choose the right clothes if you plan on staying comfortable the whole time.
Many novice kayak fishermen show up in jeans and a t-shirt without any form of sun protection. As they paddle out, their jeans get wet and uncomfortable, and their exposed skin faces an increased risk of burning.
Rather than choosing the first clothes you find for your kayak fishing trip, take the time to choose items with care.
Wear a lightweight long-sleeve shirt to protect your skin from the sun. Grab a wide-brimmed hat to help you stay cool when you can’t hide out in the shade. Choose pants or shorts that dry quickly and won’t chafe if they get wet.
3. Zoning Out on the Water
Fishing is supposed to be relaxing. And the more relaxed you are on the water, the easier it is to stop paying attention to your surroundings. That hurts your chances of catching fish, but it also makes staying on the water dangerous.
Weather conditions can change without warning and engine-powered boats can create rough wakes that could capsize your kayak if you’re not prepared. Instead, pay attention the entire time you’re on the water.
This way, you’ll be ready to deal with any surprises as soon as they happen.
Conclusion:
Now you know the common mistakes RVers make when kayak fishing with their RV. With this knowledge, you can avoid making these mistakes and have a great time kayaking and fishing on your next RV trip. Always check the weather conditions before heading out, and be sure to bring the proper clothing and gear for a comfortable and safe trip.
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