5 Gear Essentials for Kayak Fishing
Quick answer: Beyond your kayak, paddle, tackle, and PFD, the five kayak fishing essentials are: a 6-8 foot length of 550 paracord (stringer, mooring line, or tow rope), a small tool kit with spare parts for your drive and hardware, a first aid kit in a waterproof bag, full sun protection (hat, sun gloves, long sleeves, face buff, polarized sunglasses), and gear tethers for your phone, paddle, and rods.
Kayak fishing is an exhilarating way to connect with the water and the sport. Beyond the basics (a kayak, paddle, fishing tackle, and a PFD you always wear), a handful of small items can make your day safer, more comfortable, and longer. Here are five pieces of gear every kayak angler should carry.
1. 550 Paracord: The Versatile Tool
A 6 to 8 foot length of 550 paracord earns its spot in any kayak:
- Fish stringer: tie a loop on one end, thread the cord through the fish's gills, and pass it back through the loop to secure each fish.
- Mooring line: wrap it around your seat or an attachment point, feed the tag end through the loop, and tie off to a dock.
- Tow rope: carry a longer piece to tow another kayak back to safety.
2. Tool Kit and Spare Parts
A small set of tools and spares lets you handle minor repairs on the water instead of ending your trip early.
- Tools: carry what your kayak model needs for common fixes, like reattaching crank arms or adjusting a pedal drive.
- Spare parts: extras like propellers and latches. Check with your kayak's manufacturer for recommended spares.
3. First Aid Kit
Hooks, knives, and slippery rocks mean minor injuries happen. Your kit should include gauze, tape, bandages, and antibacterial ointment, all stored in a waterproof bag or container so it is dry when you need it.
- Surviveware Small Premium First Aid Kit Compact kit that fits a hatch
- Surviveware Survival First Aid Kit Extra survival essentials
- Kayak Deck Bag Keeps your kit and small gear within reach
4. Sun Protection
Hours on the water mean heavy UV exposure, including glare reflected off the surface. Cover up with:
- A wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck, and ears
- Fingerless sun gloves that protect your hands and improve grip
- Lightweight pants to keep your legs from burning
- A long-sleeve UPF shirt
- A face buff or neck gaiter for your neck and face
- Polarized sunglasses to cut glare and help you see into the water
- Showers Pass Neck Gaiter Covers neck and face
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket (Men's) For PNW showers on the water
- Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket (Women's) For PNW showers on the water
5. Gear Tethers
Anything that is not tied down can end up on the bottom. Use a phone tether to keep your phone from going overboard, and add leashes for your paddle, rods, and other gear that could float or sink away.
Fishing kayaks, paddling gear, and fishing accessories are available in-store at our Grand Avenue store in Portland's Central Eastside. Stop by and our staff can help you outfit your boat.
Prepared Anglers Fish Longer
With these five essentials on board, you can handle small problems, stay comfortable, and keep your focus on the fish. Happy fishing!
Kayak Fishing Gear FAQ
What gear do I need for kayak fishing besides a kayak?
Start with a paddle (or pedal drive), fishing tackle, and a PFD you always wear. Then add paracord, a small tool kit with spare parts, a waterproof first aid kit, sun protection, and gear tethers.
How do you use paracord as a fish stringer?
Tie a loop in one end of a 6 to 8 foot length of 550 paracord, thread the free end through the fish's gills, and pass it back through the loop to secure the fish. Repeat for each fish.
Why do kayak anglers use gear tethers?
Kayaks sit low and gear is easy to knock overboard. Tethers keep your phone, paddle, rods, and tools attached to the boat so a slip or capsize does not mean losing them.
What sun protection is best for kayak fishing?
Cover as much skin as you can: a wide-brimmed hat, a long-sleeve UPF shirt, sun gloves, lightweight pants, and a face buff, plus polarized sunglasses to cut glare off the water.
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