As we approach August, it amazes me each year how fast summer goes, and I think the older I get the faster it goes!  This season I have already talked about picking the right kayak and paddle and the best places to launch your kayak in Door County. Today, for you anglers, I would like to touch on rigging your kayak for fishing success. 

For me, two things are key, rod holders, and some type of storage crate with rod holders behind my seat in the tank well. All my sit-on-top fishing kayaks have flush mount rod holders, which I prefer, but I also like the external rod holders that extend up from the kayak deck and can attach to the track system most fishing kayaks come with or with screws. Having a storage crate will give you extra storage, and most have two or three extra rod holders. I prefer one with a cover just in case it rains. You can also go as simple as a milk crate with PVC tubes for extra rods.

After many years of serious kayak fishing, I still have not installed a locator.  Most of my kayak fishing is in Door County, so, with the clear water and fishing shallow, I have not had the need. However, with the funk the smallmouth bass have been in, I have been fishing deeper, and knowing depth, structure, and water temperature would be helpful. I would suggest a locator if you are serious about your kayak fishing.

I have seen fishing kayaks that, except for no outboard engine, look like mini bass boats with power poles to hold you in place while fishing, trolling motors, and more. The track system I mentioned is perfect for adding accessories to hold a camera, your paddle, and an anchor trolley to raise and lower an anchor. Other standard items can include a scale and tape to weigh and measure your catch, a landing net, pliers to safely remove lures from the fish and something to cut line. Rigging your fishing kayak is a personal thing and I would suggest getting your kayak and then add things as you find a need. For those of you with a sit-in recreational kayak, many come with track systems. So, if you would like you can attach a couple external rod holders and do some fishing out of your sit-in kayak.

If you have any questions related to rigging your kayak or any other kayak fishing questions, I am happy to hear from you.  You can email me at kayakfishingwisconsin@gmail.com.