The Ultimate Kayak Fishing Guide - Beginner Tips

After 3 years on the water in my kayak, these are all the things I wish I knew before I started. I also asked the guys on our Facebook group and they chimed in with their answers as well. Let me know if you disagree in the comments below

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⏱️ TIMESTAMPS ⏱️
0:00 What I Wish I Knew
0:41 Kayak Fishing Dads
1:02 All Kayaks are NOT Equal
2:44 Kayak Fishing is Not Cheaper
3:47 Buy Your Second Kayak First
4:29 Fishing Kayaks are Heavy
6:03 Get the Pedals
7:17 Channel Memberships
7:33 Learn to Fish
8:41 Weather Matters
9:41 Omnia Fishing
10:13 Mods Can Wait
11:01 Storage is Important
11:50 Buy Right

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🎶 Music:
Intro bumper: Song: CHENDA - Mr. Bully [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds

Disclaimer: This video is for entertainment purposes only. The opinions expressed are my own and should not be taken as professional advice. Always conduct your own research and consult with experts before making any decisions regarding fishing gear, kayak modifications, or water safety. Use all equipment at your own risk, and follow all local laws and regulations. I assume no responsibility for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur from the use of the information in this video. Stay safe and fish responsibly!

[nicklloyd]

Something that many kayakers miss... know self rescue and practice how to get back into your boat. It's not as easy at it sounds and it will make you rethink your deck rigging. Cold water can kill any one of any age. Dig your channel BD.

[alpaca]

At 56 years old and 250 lbs my priority was stability and capacity for my weight and gear weight. Pedal drive was a must. So helpful in dealing with wind and boat positioning. I went with a Big Fish 108 based on one of your videos. It is heavy but I set it up to be able to move it by myself. I am now able to fish areas I can’t take my boat. I thank you for your videos especially the ones stressing safety. Safety is so overlooked in the boating world. Always look forward to the dad jokes.

[pdfahie]

I think “the buy your second kayak first” is the most difficult advice to follow. Buying a $2, 500 kayak without ever fishing in a kayak is quite a leap of faith. I think buying a $300 kayak, realizing that you do/don’t enjoy the kayak fishing experience is a good expenditure. Also, you can decide if you want pedal drive, a motor, or even both.

[kennifer]

I’m 62 and a couple of months ago I purchased a Lifetime Yukon Angler, I decided I needed a new hobby 😂. I was at least smart enough to get out on the water a few times before making some modifications, and yes, I learned the hard way that my kayak is too heavy to take in and out of my pickup, so now I’m modifying my trailer. Love your channel, I should’ve watched this video before I started. Lol.

[ssei]

Valuable information Jay. I agree, do your research before purchasing your kayak shop around and go demo it as well if you can. I found a used one owner 2021 Topwater PDL 120 all the specs of a Sportsman PDL 120 except for the seat and deck pads. I got a great deal on it for $1700. And yes, this baby is HEAVY I plan to build a storage cart and purchase a heavy-duty kayak cart. Tight lines bro.

[Georgiabassangler]

I bought a U10 yesterday. I’m definitely waiting on extras. I’ll be paddling for a good while. Planning on getting a trolling motor later

[Georgiabassangler]

Ive been blessed so far. I inherited a 10 foot trailer from my dad. It works perfect so far

[southwestindianaoutdooradv]

Great video and I feel like buying that second kayak first is definitely key!

[AntonioMartinez-kxqz]

Oh I forgot ur channel is awesome and the info u provide is very informative and u seem to be a very cool person

[MaineStreamFishing]

Couple things…. 1st biggest thing.. BUY ONCE CRY ONCE!! 2nd don’t feel obligated to do it all at once! Get the vessel then go from there and add on over the years.

[rubenakacoolerlid]

Really useful information. Thank you as always

[guymcknight]

Great informative video! Buying your second kayak is key. Figured out I would end up being a minimalist I purchased a RS117 first(weigh, stability, limited mobility, age) fell into the decision. The money I saved enabled me to buy a 10 ft Hoodoo for a throw and go. Then my wife got interested in kayaking and kids got into kayaking, so we purchased a 10x12 utility trailer and modified it to carry 4 kayaks. This year I’ll probably put a simple trolling motor setup on the RS and possibly a garmin striker.

[anthonyletourneau]

No joke on the weight thing. In the short time I’ve had my yak, I’m already over car topping lol. I see a trailer in my future very soon

[DuntellCarter]

Honest Opinion
Big fish 108 VS Old Town Sportman 120 PDL
THX

[yourwrong]

the only mod i would suggest upgrading immediately is your seat situation. Proper back support makes a huge difference in your kayaking experience.

[ghostface]

Good stuff thank you very much for the info.

[davidlewis]

I bought a 10 Lifetime Tamarack first ……..fished it two years ……HooDoo120 Impulse now . I fish tournaments and this pedal/ fin drive makes all the difference

[vincentcomly]

Learning how to fish is the key. You can always forgo a kayak a get a aluminum v boat or a flat bottom Jon boat

[FishLipznFatRipz]

Got an old kayak gifted to me that I’m gonna rig up and try and make work for some basic fishing. Have a feeling I’m gonna love it and empty the wallet sooner than I initially thought

[TripleB]

You should make a video on the different ways to load kayaks on roofs, and how to strap one down with a typical stock roof rack... like what's on a rental mini van (hint hint). Also, explore straps for roof racks.
Should have another video on rental kayaks- what is and is not needed. Questions to ask kayaks rental places. I'm seriously considering buying a used kayak- considering that renting one is roughly $160-180 for 2 days or so (fishing kayak). Be just as good to buy one and use it and then resell it or take it back home. Video on budget seats and good seats??