The C-tug secures with a strap over top of the kayak, and fits nearly every model out there. Though not as sturdy as a scupper cart, anglers are able to set these wheels down and load the kayaks on without having to turn the kayak on its side.
One of the first things I suggest when someone buys a fishing kayak is to also purchase a crate for gear. Being able to load several Plano boxes and other items into a crate that you can stow immediately behind you makes loading and unloading easier. Made in the USA, this tackle storage system is already popular amongst kayak anglers even though it’s relatively new. It co*es with six built-in rod holders with leashes for extra security and features a 2D GridLoc mounting system, so you have the option to add a variety of other accessories. It also co*es with a hinged lid to protect your items from the elements while traveling or out on the water.
The Garmin striker 7 SV is a great all-around unit that will get you mapping, down, traditional 2D, and side scans at a great price. It’s also co*pact and won’t take up much space on the kayak. With the forward facing sonar craze making its way into the co*petitive scene, those anglers looking to have livescope will want to check out the Echomap series.
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Are you one of those anglers who has hooks and baits strewn across the deck of your kayak at all times? Join the club. It doesn’t seem like that big of an issue until you step on a crankbait.
MagnaLure pads feature an extra-strong magnet within the material that is strong enough to hold a pair of pliers. They are an awesome and inexpensive accessory that you can attach anywhere inside of your kayak whether it be the sidewall or up front by the hatch. By attaching one or two of these inside of the kayak, your once loose baits now have a home.
Most of us have donated several pairs of high-end pliers and our favorite braid cutters to the sea. After unhooking a big fish, all sense of organization seems to vanish, but no more. The Gerber Defender Rail allows you to attach your tools (or anything else) to a retractable lanyard that mounts right on your kayak for convenience. The device is secured by either the T-bolt or the lanyard, and it pivots for easy access to any tool (or your phone) that you attach to the other end. It is built for both fresh and saltwater, as it co*es with an anodized aluminum shield.
This is one of the best kayak fishing accessories that most anglers don’t consider until they’ve ruined a couple rods. It is a well-known fact that kayak anglers are especially hard on their gear. More rod guides have been lost to horizontal rod storage in kayaks than we’d care to admit. We get in a hurry, and shove rods into the built-in rod tubes and don’t pay any mind to the nails on-a-chalkboard-sound that follows. Purchasing rod sleeves contains rods for storage to help you protect the guides and prevent rods from tangling with each other. They are a very inexpensive way to save you money on replacement guides down the road.
Speaking of protecting your gear, sometimes accidents happen. Kayaks flip. Tackle loss is a bummer, but losing your phone, keys, and wallet might be worse. I always take a small, clear waterproof Plano box for my valuables. Most importantly, I will attach it to the kayak so if I do flip, those really important items will still be intact and recoverable. This particular case is big enough to fit those items, and co*pact enough to easily stow in a hatch or under the seat.
Let’s face it; not all kayak seats are created equal. But there is a solution when it co*es to seat co*fort. Even folks with the cushiest seats have beco*e loyal Kayak Kushion owners. Kayak Kushion is owned and operated by anglers and they make an ultra co*fortable cushion that straps onto any kayak seat or back. These cushions co*e in a huge variety of colors and patterns, with a few custom options available. During those long days on the water, you won’t want to go without it!
Want to protect your investment? The number one place plastic will wear out on a kayak is the keel. This is due to running the kayak into the boat ramp when you load and unload, and from dragging the kayak. BerleyPro was quick to co*e up with a solution, and they offer this keel guard in a variety of different models to fit your specific kayak. This not only prevents you from wearing a hole in the front (I’ve done it) but it will help your resale value as well.
On those extra windy days, or when you’re sight fishing, you will find yourself wishing your kayak wouldn’t move. The YakGear stake-out pole is a great light weight option anglers can use to help “anchor” themselves by tying the pole to the side of the kayak, or putting the stake through the scupper. It is a much more affordable option over the Power Pole, and you’re able to stow it alongside the vessel, avoiding a long pole sticking straight up, catching overhanging limbs, cypress trees, or bridges. This 6-foot pole also floats, which is key for most kayak fishing gear.
Kayak fishing is a wet sport. It’s always a good idea to bring along a set of rain gear, and a dry pair of clothes. Having a durable, waterproof dry bag for these items can be extra important in inclement weather. Most kayaks have storage within the hull that will fit a dry bag, but if yours doesn’t, you can fasten it behind you or underneath your seat.