Tournament Kayak Fishing Setup: How to Rig for Success

Competitive kayak bass fishing is all about the right setup—having a rig that’s efficient, tournament-ready, and tailored to your fishing style. With the 2025 Bass Master Classic on the horizon, we sat down with Matt Walker , a seasoned kayak angler and expert rigging specialist, to break down what it takes to build a winning tournament kayak setup.

When he’s not competing, Matt helps fellow anglers dial in their own setups, offering expert advice on kayak selection, rigging, and essential gear . Whether you’re new to kayak fishing or looking to upgrade your rig, Matt’s insight will help you fish smarter, not harder.

Matt’s kayak fishing journey started in 2020 with a basic setup and a passion for bass fishing . Like many anglers, he started small—keeping a rod in his truck for spontaneous casts. But it didn’t take long before he was hooked on the sport.

His first serious fishing kayak came from Next Adventure , where he picked up a $1,000 used kayak and fished his first full season of competitions. Over time, he refined his rigging setup—learning what works, what doesn’t, and how to customize a kayak for maximum efficiency on the water.

Now, he’s competing at the highest level, fine-tuning his kayak to stay competitive and helping others learn how to rig their kayaks for success.

For high-stakes competition, Matt trusts his 2022 Hobie Pro Angler 360 , a top-tier kayak designed for serious anglers.

Why the Hobie Pro Angler 360?

• 360 Drive Technology – Allows total maneuverability, even in just six inches of water .
• Unmatched Stability – Wide standing deck for comfort and control.
• Motor Guide XI3 – Wireless, GPS-enabled trolling motor with spot lock for staying locked in on the bite.

For anglers looking to upgrade their fishing setup, Matt recommends testing out different kayak models before committing . Finding the right kayak is all about matching your fishing style, environment, and tournament goals .

Beyond the kayak itself, the right rigging and accessories are key to efficiency on the water . Matt ensures his setup is optimized for safety, performance, and easy transport.

1. Navigation & Lighting

Fishing early mornings and late evenings requires proper lighting. Matt installs Yak Power navigation lights , making him visible to boaters at dawn and dusk.

2. Motor & Battery Setup

• Quick-connect battery & motor systems keep power management simple.
• Under-seat battery storage keeps wiring clean and clutter-free.
  
  

3. Smart Storage Solutions

• Hobie gear bins keep essential tools and baits organized.
• Black Pack storage systems allow easy rod and tackle access.

When the final tournament buzzer sounds, every second counts. Speed and efficiency are crucial when packing up and heading to weigh-in.

Matt’s kayak is built for quick transitions , featuring:
✔ Quick-release mounts for easy motor and battery removal.
✔ Fast-connect rigging to break down his setup in minutes.
✔ Minimalist deck layout to keep everything within reach.

"Learning how to rig my kayak took a lot of trial and error," Matt explains. "But once I dialed it in, it changed everything—it’s the difference between stressing over gear and focusing on the fish."

Kayak fishing isn’t just for pros—it’s an accessible, exciting sport for anyone looking to get on the water. If you’re new to the game, start with a solid kayak and build your setup over time.

Matt’s advice for beginners:
✅ Try before you buy – Test different fishing kayaks to find the best fit.
✅ Keep your setup simple – Focus on essentials first , then upgrade as you gain experience.
✅ Learn from experienced anglers – The kayak fishing community is always willing to share tips.

For those looking to build their own rig, seeking expert advice can make all the difference . Whether it's choosing a kayak, setting up a motor, or fine-tuning a rig , working with someone who knows the ins and outs of kayak fishing can help you avoid common mistakes and fish more effectively.

For Matt, the kayak fishing community has been a game-changer. Learning from experienced anglers, sharing rigging tips, and forming partnerships have all helped him grow as an angler.

His work with Edge Rods led him to a top-10 finish at Clear Lake, California , earning him a spot at the National Championship —which ultimately qualified him for the 2025 Bass Master Classic .

Matt’s biggest tips for new anglers looking to rig their own fishing kayak :

• Start with the essentials – You don’t need the most expensive gear to catch big fish.
• Invest in proper storage – A Black Pack or Hobie storage bin will keep gear organized.
• Focus on efficiency – A clean, well-thought-out rig will make your time on the water more productive .

As Matt preps for the biggest kayak bass fishing tournament of his career , he continues to share his knowledge —both on the water and at Scappoose Bay .

For those who want to support Matt’s journey, his GoFundMe link is available on Instagram and Facebook, helping him take on the next challenge.

Whether you’re competing in tournaments or just getting into kayak fishing , the right setup makes all the difference. And the best part? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

At Next Adventure’s Scappoose Bay Paddle Center , you can:

🏆 Demo the best fishing kayaks before you buy.
🏆 Work with Matt to custom rig your kayak for the ultimate fishing experience.
🏆 Get expert advice from Next Adventure’s paddle team on gear, accessories, and tournament prep.

Ready to start your kayak fishing adventure? Stop by Scappoose Bay Paddle Center or visit Next Adventure’s Paddle Center in Portland to get rigged and ready!