Barb Erxleben » Blog Archive » Kayak Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico

by inaffected

Image : http://www.flickr.com

At the turn of the new century, eight years ago, fishermen would laugh at a kayak being taken out of the bed of a truck. Many would gather with curiosity sometimes joking about toy boats. Kayak fisherman put up with the good matured ribbing while preparing their boats for the water. Kayaks are launched by just pushing off the beach. The most common type is the wide, stable sit-on-top style. Quick paddle strokes move the boat through the surf zone past the guys up to their necks in the water.

Kayaks can reach feeding shoals of fish waders could never dream to reach. Rod holders on the back of the boat can hold alternate sets of tackle for all kinds of species. An ice chest in the front tank well holds water and treats. A marine battery can power a navigation system, a depth finder and lights. Tackle boxes are carefully set into the gear wells carefully sealed against water. A live bait system with aeration can be placed in another well with oxygenation operating off that marine battery. A battery powered radio assures safety with the latest weather information. Cell phones or two way radios add another level of safety. Careful kayakers always leave a float plan to describe where they will fish. Many kayakers use depth finders just as accurate as those found on huge ocean going yachts.

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