How To Turn A Kayak Into A Fishing Kayak Effectively

Fishing from a kayak is a growing trend among anglers who want to experience a more intimate connection with the water. A fishing kayak offers stealth, maneuverability, and access to places larger boats can’t reach. If you already own a kayak, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a specialized fishing kayak. Instead, you can convert your regular kayak into a fully functional fishing machine with a few modifications.

In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to turn a kayak into a fishing kayak, covering everything from installing rod holders to optimizing storage for your fishing gear. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to hit the water with your newly transformed fishing kayak.

Why Convert Your Kayak Into a Fishing Kayak?

Before diving into the process, let’s consider why you might want to convert your standard kayak into a fishing kayak.

Cost Savings

Buying a dedicated fishing kayak can be expensive. By modifying your existing kayak, you can save money while still enjoying many of the features of a fishing kayak.

Customization

When you convert a kayak, you can tailor it to your specific needs. Whether you prefer fly fishing, trolling, or casting, you can set up your kayak to support your style.

Accessibility

Not all fishing spots are accessible by larger boats. A kayak allows you to navigate narrow creeks, shallow water, and tight spaces where fish like to hide.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s look at the steps involved in turning your kayak into a fishing kayak.

Main steps to turn a kayak into a fishing kayak

Step 1: Choose the Right Kayak for Conversion

Before making modifications, ensure your kayak is suitable for fishing. Sit-on-top (SOT) kayaks are typically better for fishing than sit-inside kayaks due to their stability and ease of movement. However, you can still convert a sit-inside kayak with some adjustments.

Look for the following features:

• Stability: A wider kayak provides more stability, especially when you’re fighting a fish.
• Length: Longer kayaks tend to track better and are faster, while shorter kayaks are more maneuverable in tight spaces.
• Weight Capacity: Make sure your kayak can handle the additional weight of fishing gear.

If your kayak meets these criteria, you’re ready to start converting it into a fishing kayak.

Step 2: Install Rod Holders

One of the key features of a fishing kayak is the ability to store fishing rods securely. Installing rod holders is a simple but essential modification. There are a few different types of rod holders to consider:

Flush Mount Rod Holders

These rod holders are installed directly into the kayak and sit flush with the surface. They are great for trolling or storing rods when not in use. You’ll need to drill holes in your kayak to install these, so be sure to measure carefully before cutting.

Adjustable Rod Holders

These rod holders can be adjusted to various angles, making them ideal for active fishing. They are typically mounted on the side or deck of the kayak and can be attached with screws or adhesive mounts.

DIY Rod Holders

If you’re on a budget, you can make your rod holders using PVC pipes and zip ties. While not as sleek as commercial rod holders, they get the job done.

Installation Tips

• Place rod holders within easy reach but avoid areas where they could interfere with paddling.
• Use marine-grade sealant around the drilled holes to prevent water from leaking into the kayak.

Step 3: Add a Fishing Crate for Storage

Storing fishing gear on a kayak can be challenging due to limited space. A fishing crate is an excellent solution for organizing tackle, bait, and other essentials. Here’s how to create and install one:

DIY Fishing Crate

1. Choose a Crate: A standard milk crate works well for this. You can also purchase a purpose-built kayak fishing crate.
2. Attach Accessories: Use zip ties or bungee cords to secure items like tackle boxes, a bait holder, or extra rod holders to the crate.
3. Secure the Crate: Place the crate behind the kayak’s seat and secure it using bungee cords or straps. Make sure it’s stable and won’t slide around when paddling.

Commercial Fishing Crates

If you prefer a more polished look, you can buy pre-made fishing crates designed specifically for kayaks. Many come with rod holders, gear tracks, and waterproof compartments built-in.

Step 4: Install an Anchor Trolley System

Wind and currents can make staying in one spot difficult when fishing from a kayak. An anchor trolley system allows you to control where your kayak anchors by moving the anchor point from the bow to the stern or anywhere in between. This helps you position your kayak optimally depending on the wind or water current direction.

How to Install an Anchor Trolley

1. Purchase a Trolley Kit: You can find anchor trolley kits at most outdoor or fishing retailers.
2. Install Pulleys: Attach pulleys to the bow and stern of your kayak. These will allow the anchor line to slide back and forth.
3. Run the Line: Thread a length of paracord or strong rope through the pulleys.
4. Attach the Anchor: Use a carabiner to connect your anchor to the line. Now you can easily adjust your position by sliding the anchor along the side of the kayak.

Step 5: Add Comfortable Seating

Fishing from a kayak often means spending hours on the water, so comfort is crucial. Many recreational kayaks come with basic seating that’s not designed for extended use. Consider upgrading to a padded or adjustable kayak seat for better comfort and support.

DIY Seat Cushions

If you’re on a budget, you can make your seat cushion using foam pads or old boat cushions. Attach them to your existing seat using Velcro or straps.

Seat Upgrades

Many kayak manufacturers sell aftermarket seat upgrades designed for fishing kayaks. These seats are typically higher and provide better lumbar support, making long fishing sessions more enjoyable.

Step 6: Add a Fish Finder

A fish finder can significantly improve your chances of catching fish by showing you underwater structures, fish schools, and depth changes. Modern fish finders are compact and can be easily mounted on a kayak.

Installing a Fish Finder

1. Choose a Mounting Location: Pick a spot where the screen is easy to see but won’t get in the way of paddling.
2. Install the Transducer: The transducer is the part that sends and receives sonar signals. It can be mounted inside the hull or on the outside using a suction cup or adhesive mount.
3. Power the Unit: Most fish finders run on 12V batteries, which can be stored in a waterproof battery box. Make sure to secure the battery to prevent it from moving around while paddling.

Step 7: Organize Your Gear with Bungee Systems and Storage Pockets

Keeping your gear organized and accessible is essential when fishing from a kayak. Install bungee systems, storage pockets, or gear tracks to help manage your equipment.

Bungee Systems

Use bungee cords to secure large items like tackle boxes, dry bags, or fishing nets to the kayak. Many kayaks come with bungee systems pre-installed, but you can add more if needed.

Storage Pockets

Mesh pockets can be attached to the sides or inside the cockpit to hold small items like pliers, hooks, or snacks.

Gear Tracks

Many fishing kayaks come with gear tracks that allow you to attach accessories like rod holders, cup holders, or camera mounts. You can install gear tracks on your kayak using screws or adhesive mounts.

Step 8: Safety Considerations

While modifying your kayak for fishing, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Make sure you have the following:

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device): Always wear a life jacket when fishing from a kayak.
• Leash for Paddles: Secure your paddle with a leash to prevent it from drifting away if you drop it.
• Bilge Pump: A bilge pump can help you remove water from the kayak in case of a leak or capsize.

Conclusion

Converting a kayak into a fishing kayak is a rewarding DIY project that can save you money and provide you with a customized setup for your fishing needs. By following these steps, you can transform your regular kayak into a fully equipped fishing platform, ready for your next adventure on the water.

Remember, the key is to plan your modifications based on the type of fishing you enjoy and the waters you frequent. With the right gear and setup, your kayak will become an indispensable tool in your angling arsenal.