Like many people, life gets in the way of a lot of the cool things we like to do. The end of 2015 and the beginning of 2016 has been on exception. So when 4pm on the 5th of April came around, I departed a cold and blustery Norfolk, Virginia on a trip that will always have a special place in my memory.
After meeting with my partner Joe at his house in North Carolina, we quickly load up his truck and start our journey south. 14 hours and almost 900 miles later we found our home for the next 4 nights at the Delacroix Lodge.
Photo - Delacroix Lodge
The "cabins" are nicer than you would expect for being so deep in the Louisiana Bayou. They have twin bunks, cable TV, a full bathroom, and a decent little kitchenette. At $150 a night they are a bit pricey, but beat any other alternative on the island. This was our second year staying at the lodge and you can bet that when I make my next trip down, it will be where I will continue to stay. Another consideration about the area is the necessity for both a Basic and Saltwater license. At $5.00 and $17.50 respectively for a day licence, anything under 3 days this is your best option. If you are going 4 or more days, the $90 seasonal option will be your best bet. With that being said, we opted for 3 days from Thursday to Saturday, and enjoyed warm showers, cold beers, and amazing "Adult Grilled Cheese"sandwiches made by fellow competitors and friends Kris and Mark Lozier.
On Thursday, before the sun rose my internal alarm was sounding loudly. Some Community Coffee got the day going and we were off. Launching right down the road at Sweetwater Marina put us on the water quickly and safely. Joe and I launched with Mark and Kris for a trip to the "Graveyard".
Photo - Amy Angelopoulos
Not far into the trip, we started finding Redfish blowing out from under us. I paddle a bit further to find a spot I am comfortable with, chuck a watermelon Aqua Dream spoon and proceed to hook up with my first, and largest fish of the trip at 29".
First Redfish of the Trip
Photo - Mark Lozier
While this was the only fish to come out of the graveyard for us, we worked our way further up the bayou looking for spots to mark in the GPS. I found an area with some wood structure on a flat adjacent to deeper water. This held reds, with schools surrounding the structure. It didn't take to long to hook up to another red on the same watermelon spoon, so that went back into the box and I proceeded to catch more reds on copper spoons, inline spinnerbaits, Egret Baits vudu shrimp, and Power Team Lures swinging hammers rigged weightless. I was feeling good marking spots, catching fish, and working new areas with friends.
One of many day 1 fatties
Some well fed drum
As our day ended, I was not ready to stop. Back at the lodge, I loaded the kayak on wheels and proceeded to fish the north side of Delacroix Highway. Lots of gators, nutria, and gar made it more of a scenic paddle until I got to a spot that held lots of reds and Speckled Trout. My first cast with a copper spoon produced a solid thump and a massive run (in which I ended up loosing the fish to a broken Tactical Angler Clip).
a 50lb clip broke, but at least my knots held
I was struck with utter shock and disbelief at the fact that I finally managed to break a clip. I quickly regrouped and got on a few speckled trout that fought extremely hard for their size.
Some feisty little trout.
After an amazing dinner cooked by my teammate, it was off to sleep to prepare for day two. In the morning, we decided to do something a little different. We were off to either Shell Beach to fish Lake Borgne and see the old spanish fort, or over to Hopedale. Shell Beach was blown out, so going to a spot that I have seen thousands of times in what I consider the best Fly Fishing video of all times was an amazing experience for me.
Big ass gator
Joe and the Loziers ended up finding some decent numbers of specks, while I ended up with a skunk. It's ok though because you can guarantee that I will be back to Hopedale one day to find some Bulls on Top! Dinner that night was made by fellow Virginia anglers Amy and Andy and consisted of some amazing carnitas tacos and the best dirty rice I think ive ever eaten.
The view across the Bayou from Sweetwater Marina
As Saturday came around, things changed big time. Unlike other events, the Adventure Fishing World Championship is unique in the fact that it challenges you as a paddler, navigator, planner, and angler. Some more information about last year's event can be found in my post from 2015. Much like last year, every team received their map sheets and scorecard. At 7am, teams were allowed to open their maps and launch. Joe and I opted to relax, finalize our plans, and proceed with fishing the tournament. Unlike previous years, every team was given a token in which they had to keep on them the entire time. You could catch 4 fish before you go to any CP, with a photo of you in your yak being the proof you made the course. If you only have proof of hitting 2 points, you could only score two fish. Furthermore, you had to go to the manned double checkpoint in order to get the special token to score a double fish. We were the last team out of the gate and decided to proceed to our first (and only) double checkpoint. Checkpoint 1was our double, and our first target. The plan was to bang out a fish quick, and work the course in one big circle. Things change though and soon came the first obstacle.
About 3/4 or a mile away from CP 1, we ran over reds. Quietly but frantically, I told Joe "cast...CAST!!!" He got the strike, and quickly slammed our first, and largest of the day at 26.5"
Fish #1
Joe with a fat multi-spotted redfish!
We were feeling good. In just over an hour we had a good fish on board. Just a bit further up the shoreline we found these fish in, I casted a spoon into a cut and landed a 22.5" red.
Fish #2
In only in 1:30 we managed to make it near our CP, and had 49 points. We paddled looking for a few more fish, then went to the checkpoint at about 0900. Almost immediately upon receiving our double token, I saw a mid 20" red tailing. I make a beautiful cast with a spoon. On cue I feel "tap", and slam the hook home. Unfortunately, the hook didn't purchase and the spoon wizzed behind me. It wasn't the end of the world at the time, but as minutes - then hours passed without as much as a follow, the early missed fish was becoming a monumental mistake that we didn't feel we could overcome. We hit all the areas within a mile radius of the CP that we knew held fish, with no luck coming our way.
Around 1230, we had all but given up. We were both in horrible moods knowing that our tournament was all but over. Beaten and battered, we paddled towards CP1 when like a ray of sunshine focusing on a pot of gold I saw 3 reds tailing towards me. We quickly staked out and I casted the old trusty watermelon spoon to the fish. I felt "tap...THUMP". This time the hook got purchase in the grill of this gangsta ass redfish. The fight was less than a minute, but felt like it was over an hour. I get the fish in the boat, sweep my legs over it, and started shaking uncontrollably.
25.75" double points!
Finally!!!
Photo - Joe M.
I was so happy and relieved that my eyes started to well (and I expected tears of joy that never came). Joe's attitude improved and instead of silence, we were chatting it up on the way to our next checkpoint. Again, happiness quickly subsided as we realized that we had over 4 miles to go to reach our next checkpoint. The thought quickly turned to "can we reach 2 more points to even qualify". 4.34 miles later, we reach CP 5 at 1400. We were excited, but didn't spend any time fishing as we had to get moving to the next point.
Checkpoint 5 at 1411
On the way to CP 4, we were discussing our plan. It was along the lines of "as long as we can make it to CP 4 by 1500, the tournament is ours for the taking. We can finish from here."
Joe was not as optimistic.
Checkpoint 4 - 1.5 miles and 29 minutes later
Checkpoint 3 - 1.3 miles and 25 minutes later
After hitting 3 checkpoints in just under an hour and 2.8 miles, we perked up knowing we had a chance. From here it just meant catching 2 more fish and making it to the check in by 1700. I had found some productive areas pre fishing Thursday night, and we proceeded to those spots first. Not long into fishing, I got slammed by a nice speck at the side of the kayak. It was a fish that would have put us 5 places higher, but like last year, we had lost a fish at the end of the day in the back. It was a tough pill to swallow, and I still feel like slamming my head against a brick wall 4 days later. We felt like we had a chance to break the top 10 with 3 fish, so we decided that since we were going to finish, getting all 5 checkpoints would be extremely satisfying for ourselves.
Checkpoint 2 at 1605
Checkpoint 2 marked the end of our fishing, as the focus switched to making it back to the weigh-in prior to the 5pm deadline. Well we made it back in time, washed up and reflected on our day, one in which we made it to all 5 checkpoints and covered over 16 miles!
Fellow Werner Paddles and Astral Teammate Mark Lozier with a 29.5" Redfish on Tournament Day
Photo - Mark Lozier
Werner Paddles Pro Staff (L-R William Ragulsky, Mark Lozier, Kris Lally Lozier, Bart Swab, Jeff Herman)
Photo - Mark Lozier
At the awards ceremony we got the pleasure of watching Eric Jackson (Jackson Kayaks) doing a bootie beer.
EJ and his partner Steve Fisher ended up winning a pair of Jackson Kraken's (which they donated to the team with the largest fish, which was caught by a 14 year old). Very classy and very cool!
WE FINISHED!
Team Wicked Fishah took 13th place with 100.5 points. Not the showing we wanted, but we finished and did it as a team which is all that matters.
2016 Results
Photo - AMONSGSTiT
My fishing vacation in Louisiana was over, but I still got some good ole southern fishing in down in North Carolina. My search for redfish came up short on Monday, but I wasn't about to let that deter me from getting some pullage.
Fishing a lake off the NC ICW
After a few hour drive north, I stopped into Chasin' Tails in Atlantic Beach to get the skinny. Much like my last trip down to Atlantic Beach, good numbers of Grey Trout were being caught in some deeper water. I armed myself with a few Hogy Epoxy jigs, set up the fish finder, and went to work. On the way out to a deep spot I knew of, I found a little false channel with a deep depression. I kept this area in my back pocket.
Upon reaching my spot, I spent about an hour trying to figure out a pattern. Against rain squalls, opposing winds and currents, and nothing on the screen (let alone the end of my line) I was feeling dejected. As I was calling it quits, I went back to the depression I found in the false channel. I proceeded to find a mess of pinfish (to 6"), some Hogfish just under keeper size, some bait size croaker, and a few greys. As I was going over a area with some small bottom structure I jig and feel a tap. When I set the hook, I was thinking I got into a nice trout. As some stronger runs occurred, I started thinking redfish. As I got some color, my next thought was a Black Drum. Then I saw the tail, and knew exactly what I had found... SHEEPSHEAD!!!
I was looking at the fish each time I brought it up to the surface to see where it was hooked. I was unable to see, so I got it in the kayak as quick as possible. Much to my surprise, it was fair hooked.
Fair Caught Sheepshead on a Hogy Diamond Jig
This fish optimized my vacation. lots of work just to experience the unexpected. With perseverance though I was rewarded with memories that will stay with me the rest of my life.
Big shout out to my partner Joe (one of the toughest SOB's I know), the Lozier's, John Grace (without him, the AFWC IS NOT POSSIBLE), my teammates and friends at Werner Paddles, and the remaining sponsors of the AFWC (Jackson Kayak, Orion Coolers, Watershed Dry Bags, and all the other supporters). Im already excited and looking forward to AFWC #5!
Thankfully, I have a lot to write about. Unfortunately at this point, it would be way too much for one post so I'll keep it quick.
Low pressure, scattered rain, and a crap ton of wind put a damper on my 2015 Labor Day weekend. What originally started out as an amazing 3-day period of big water and even larger fish turned into a period of sadness when I felt there was a legitimate forecast. Fishing was put on a hold, and I had to deal with it. Sometimes safety comes first!
So, before the weather turned to total crap on the friday leading up to the weekend, I was given an hour off work to rush to the water. I met up with my bro Tommy Dewitt, and joined him in his chase for his first VA Release Citation Sheepshead. He had been out for a bit before I launched and ended up with a few nice fish, but not quite what he was looking for...
Tommy's Sheepie just a hair shy of 24" and a VA Release Citation
(Photo - Thomas DeWitt)
Tommy with a consolation prize - Dinner
(Photo Thomas DeWitt)
While Tommy got to enjoy some decent conditions, I launched into total garbage with a stiff NE wind, and lots of chop opposing an outgoing current. While these are not enjoyable conditions to fish, the sheepies do enjoy them. I made a few drops on a couple of pilings and was plagued by the Sheepshead fisherman's worst enemies; Black Seabass, Puffers, and treaded Portsmouth Tautog (Oyster Toad). I move on and get the bite I was looking for. I didn't set the hook, and brought up my rig to find a missing fiddler. I smiled to myself, re-baited and dropped, and immediately found myself setting the hook onto what would become my Personal Best Sheepshead.
25.75" VA Release Citation Sheepshead
Unfortunately, the conditions were such that Tommy didn't hear my calls, and there was not a proper picture taken of this hog. No worries... Shortly after landing this guy, the conditions got too snotty to effectively fish, and we called it a day. A personal best to end a long weekend of fishing before it started lessened the sting a bit.
Fast forward to Saturday Evening. No fishing, just talking fish with Kayak Kevin and Lee. Prior to starting, I just had to get on the beach and see how bad it really was in the bay. After seeing this view, I knew staying landlocked was a good decision.
Sunday consisted of great company and amazing beer from one of my "Unofficial" (ok, DREAM) sponsor Back Bay Brewing. Almost a growler of IPA in, the talk shifts to fishing. After exchanges over the conflicting forecast (in which Tommy and I were referred to two "Bitches"), I caved and we made plans for the next morning. The wind was still clipping which made me unexcited to wake up early and experience a day where I would be getting a whoopin'. I make it to the launch at sunrise, to find excitingly and unexpectedly nice conditions.
Labor Day Sunrise Services... At the launch and on the water!
(Photo - Thomas DeWitt)
First order of business... make a drop and get Tommy his paper. Well, the fish gods had different plans, and I had the hot rod of the morning. Immediately, I hook a 20" class sheepie, and as I bring him up, I notice the hook is not in the skin, but pinched between two teeth. At this point, without a net, it's a crapshoot. I went for the sweep, and it popped off. No worries, "cause I got this... This is what I do"! Within minutes, I hook up again, and this time land a nice sheepie a hair short of 25".
We work the grounds for a bit longer in search of Tommy's sheep, but come up empty. Lots of baits being eaten by trash, but no sheeps means we decided to keep a few crabs each for the trip in and head out in search of larger fish. Upon arrival to "The Grounds", I was greeted by a waiting Jay Brooks, Meghan, and the Family Seed on their respective boats. The reports were not great, but it didn't matter. I know what I can do, and I was feeling good!
A few Kayakers from TKAA were out, and I decided to do something different from the rest of the fleet. I went to find a spot and instead of following the pack and using their techniques, I paved my own path. Each pass rounded out some different fish. Some stud Flounder, a solid Gag Grouper, and some baits for my friends on the stinkpots. It was all fun, but kinda boring until I feel a "THUD" This could mean one of two things, the not so elusive ROCK...fish, or them big, nasty bulls. I set the hook, and get into one of the oddest drum fights I have had. Not much initially went into getting it off the bottom, but about half way out, I had a strong run back down. Each time I gained more ground on the fish, but it was if the structure had an equal draw. With the drag cinched down, I made short work of the brute, but still got worked at the same time. Hard runs, but not heavy head shakes had me scratching my head, especially given the hook placement right on the nose.
Landing the second paper of the day... A 46" Red
(Photo - Jay Brooks)
I got the fish on the grippers to keep it fresh in the water, got an official measurement of 46", a few pictures, and got her off. In all, the fight was less than 5 minutes, and she was out of the water for less than 2.
A big, nasty, spawning bull released to"Get it on" and make some youngins.
As time went on, it was apparent that not much more was going to happen, so we paddled in and attempted to again get Tommy on his paper. Unfortunately, things sucked for both of us and we called it a day... But not after I did something I had never done before. I got multiple saltwater species citations on the same trip for the first time. I can't wait for my next trip out. Hopefully I'll be seeing double once again!
Back in the day, Kayak Kevin coined the term "Spadefish Surprise."
def. When ones bait (clam) is struck by a target specie other than spadefish. i.e. Sheepshead
Well, Ill give your the definition of a "Sheepshead Surprise" in a minute, but lets set the scene shall we. All week long, I had a good feeling about my first VA saltwater outing in a month and a half. So good I felt that I was going to be a hero and do some epic things. On August 1st, there were forecasted ideal conditions for what I was wanting to do, but I just couldn't find the right people who were willing to go all out and leave any trepidation's at the launch. Calls went back and forth, and I got confirmation that the plan was a go, but i had a feeling something would change (and it did). Oh well, I guess I will just relax and sleep in.
One of my favorite things is waking up on my own terms, with no alarm clock or other am annoyances to start the day off on the wrong note. So when I woke up at 0600, and saw a text from Tex, I was shocked but ready for what the day would bring. I collect myself, get bait, and head to the launch. Paddling off the beach at 8am on a Saturday is less than ideal, and this was confirmed when I counted no less than 10 kayaks in my first 10 minutes of launching. I kept telling myself it was still going to be a good day, and when I met up with Tex, all the other kayaks and boats that were at the front of my mind disappeared. Tex had made a handful of drops when we decided to move on. As we approach one of my favorite spots, there was already yaks on it. Well, it just goes to show the early bird gets the worm, and it increased my pace to get to my favorite part of the 3 mile span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.
First drop was met by a spade that was all of 10". The right target, just not the right size. So I moved around looking to gauge the attitude and location of the school of spades. Within minutes, I feel the tall tale "tick tick", drop the rod tip and gather slack, and drive the sz 4 Owner home. "Fish On"! I'm getting bulldogged, and my rod is not shaking, which can mean only one thing Spadefish Surprise. As I navigate through the pilings, I am getting ready to sweep the fish in when I get that gut wrenching feeling of slack line. I look at Tex, and say "sometimes you got it, sometimes you don't". As I inspect my rig, the small spadefish hook just didn't have enough purchase in the toothy mouth of the Sheepshead. time to go back to basics and remind myself that I don't need a ton of drag when I get these fish to the open.
While all this drama is going on with me, Tex is putting on a spadefish clinic!
Roland with one of the nicer Spades on the day
I had a pretty good day on the spades in between dropping crabs to the depths. Not long after loosing the first sheepie, I feel a tap while on the bottom. I set the hook, and get worked much like a sheepie would. This fish is working me through the piling set and once I am in the clear, I let up on the drag. About this time, she is coming to the surface, and much to my surprise, I ended up with a true Sheepshead surprise.
40" Striper brought up from the depths
Shocked!
After landing, snapping pics, and getting a healthy release, I was back at it. I went back and busted out a few more spades until I got bored again and dropped back down. This time, I feel the hit and felt some weight, but had horizontal instead of vertical runs. In shock, not quite sure of what to expect, I bring the fish up to find a 7-10lb Black Drum. Now Ive never really targeted them, so my personal best was a whopping 8" fish. Imagine my stoke when I brought this bad boy up. While most fish go back to live another day, I love eating blacks this size, and he came home for dinner.
Personal Best Black Drum
We went back to spade fishing, but as the current got stronger, we decided to go take refuge and find some triggers. While they were there, they were extremely skittish and we managed a pair a piece. I enjoyed chilling, but Tex was on a mission for his personal best Sheepie. We start moving in, and hit some of our favorite spots. On my first drop, I feel that all to familiar tap tap, and this time I wasn't disappointed. I get the fish in the open, and this is where I get to enjoy the fight without the fear of loosing them. If they want to run, they get to run, as there is nothing that is going to break me off. The leg sweep brought me this beautifully colored fish.
A solid 23" sheep to end the day
This last fish marked the end of our day. Not necessarily all we had hoped for in alot of ways, but more than I would have expected in others. So now I have a new definition for ya: The Sheepsead Surprise
def. 1. a game fish other than a sheepshead, that comes as bycatch while fishing for sheepies 2. a sheepshead that comes after a day full of "Sheepshead Surprises" (see #1)
I was inspired by Brian Vincent over at Appomattox River
Company (www.paddleva.com)
to compile a list of what I feel to be my "must have's" when Kayak
Fishing. Of course this list may vary for many of you, but I feel that I owe
much of the success I've had to what I list below.
1. Quality Kayak
This one should be a no-brainer, but
unfortunately it isn't always that clear. Don’t get caught up in all the hype
about the next best thing, because as of yet there isn't a fishing kayak that
can be classified as the "hands down best all-around" fishing kayak.
Kayaks have strengths and weaknesses just like fishing techniques. I used to
think that one day a company will come up with the "one", but as
kayak fishing evolves, I have come to the personal realization that it will
never happen.
What can you do to find the best
kayak for you? The answer to that question is threefold.
Talk to pro-staffers, ambassadors, or factory reps.
These people will tell you the pro's and con's about the kayaks they
paddle. When I am asked about a specific kayak, I will ask the individual
the type of water they paddle, when they paddle, how often they paddle,
the duration of their trips, and their fishing style. This will help me
build off of my experience and recommend what I believe to be the best
kayak for them, even if it’s not a brand that I represent. I and many of
my counterparts do not want to see you in the wrong kayak. If I put
you in one of my kayak's knowing it’s going to be wrong for you, you will
not be happy, and an unhappy customer is a vocal customer. If a rep is not
of this mindset, then move along, because they do not have YOUR
best interest in mind.
Ask people that own, and have paddled the kayak you are
looking for. A great place to do this is your local kayak fishing forum.
You will get opinions from a broad experience level, and from people who
have paid full price for their kayak. I generally trust the opinion of a
person who will tell you they have paddled a number of different brands
and models. Diversity is a great thing!
Visit your local paddle sports retailer. As they are
the front line oftentimes for purchases, returns, issues, and praise. These
are the people that want to see you in the right boat, so they can bank on
you being a return customer for all your paddle sport’s needs. They are
well versed by some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry, and
have the most overall knowledge. Paddle sports is a laid back community,
so if you feel pressured by sales staff, speak to a manager, or move on!
For me, I paddle the Hurricane
Kayaks Skimmer line because they are Fast, Lightweight, Durable, and
perform amazingly in a number of different conditions I fish in. There are
downsides though such as a lack of storage for surf launches, and the Skimmer's
not being a typical sight casting platform. Overall, they work really well for
me, and allow me certain options to mitigate their shortcomings. Their Pro's
far outweigh their Con's in the vast majority of conditions I fish in. Not to
mention, they are the lightest fishing kayaks on the Market!
Skimmer 128 rigged for fishing
2. Salt Rated Fishing Reels
Kayak fishermen are hard on gear.
Saltwater fishermen are in environments that will destroy equipment in a flash.
If you are looking to fish inshore or offshore from a kayak, plan on dropping
dough on quality reels (or replacing them often). I treat my gear rough, so rough
that people think that I’m made of money. There are only a handful of reels
that I will purchase now because I have put them through their paces, and know
they will work for me no matter what.
Baitcasters - I prefer and highly recommend the Abu
Garcia Revo line. I have a handful of STX's and SX's. These things have
20+ lbs. of drag, are lightweight, are saltwater rated, and feel like they
are solid in their construction. Other reels I have liked are the Shimano
E series Curado's and the Non-CI4 Calcutta's. The G series Curado's and
the CI4 Cronarch's are probably amazing reels if you are going to keep
them away from the salt and baby them, but that’s not my style.
Photo - Werner Paddles
Spinning - For the money, the Shimano Sedona is an
amazing reel and has a price point around $70. I have not had any issue
with the Sedona's I have owned. I also like the Stratic FJ's and drool
over the Saragossa, Sustain, and Stella, but have not owned one myself.
They do have a great reputation in the inshore community though. I also
own a Quantum Inshore Smoke, and a Diawa Ballistic. Both reels have been
in my quiver for a few years now, and have held up fairly well. For some
bigger rods, the Penn Spinfisher V has been bombproof, but the durability
comes with the cost of weight.
Conventional - This is where I have limited experience,
but have still caught trophy fish on all three reels I cover. First is the
Shamano Tyrnos. I enjoyed this reel, but didn’t use it as often as the
others. The Issue I had is while it sat around, the grease pooled in one
area of the reel, which required disassembly and re-greasing to make it
operational. The next is the Diawa Saltist. I can’t say much more than
"I love this reel". If I had the need I would own a fleet
of these things. Smooth, great drag, light weight, and damn sexy. Finally,
I have the Release Reels SG. My SG is a few years old and besides some
minor servicing in its infancy, it has been super reliable. Unfortunately,
not all SG's have the same reputation as mine. Wes and the Crew up in
Reedville will take care of you and make things right if the unthinkable
happens though. Keep that in mind when making your next purchase.
3. Amazing Paddles
In kayaking, the paddle is your
outboard. You wouldn’t put a Daewoo outboard on a 27' Contender. Don’t skimp on
your paddle. While you generally get similar performance form paddles in the
same price range, I cannot in good conscious recommend any paddle other than a
Werner Paddle. While kayaks are variable, the paddle really isn’t. I can’t
badmouth any other brands, nor would I. When it comes to Werner, you get a
paddle that is made in the USA, and doesn’t focus on gimmicks to sell. Werner
lets the paddle speak for itself. I will be buried with my Kaliste when it is
my day to meet my maker. Check them out at www.wernerpaddles.com.
With this purchase, no matter the
brand, the more you spend the more performance you will see and the happier you
will be. I have never thought to myself, I wish I would have bought the next
line down. Each upgrade will increase your paddling enjoyment exponentially.
4. Top Notch Leader Material
My leader is non-negotiable. Never
again will I buy the bargain fluorocarbon. Seguar Blue or Red label is the Jam.
I have also had good luck with the Berkley Tournament grade. The fluorocarbon
properties of decreased visibility by fish, abrasion resistance, quick sinking,
low memory, and knot strength are better in Seguar than other brands I’ve used.
Don’t skimp on this.
5. Comfortable and Functional PFD
A PFD, much like a kayak is
something that you must be willing to trust your life to. God forbid, something
happens on the water, a PFD may be your difference between life and death, no
matter how strong your abilities are. Most brands like Astral, Kokatat, and NRS
make products that will keep you alive.
Moving along, I need a PFD that I
can wear all day long in 100 degree heat, and not feel the urge to take it off.
The Astral Ronny, Ronny Fisher, and Veight have super breathable mesh inserts,
vents, and plenty of storage for your gear. Vests like the Seawolf and Green
Jacket have solid clamshell pockets and are tectonic in nature so they move
with you while you paddle. The Seawolf and Ronny Fisher are my go to choices.
Astral Ronny Fisher
6. The Right Rods for the Right
Situations
This one is simple. Don’t go after
bull drum with a panfish rod. When you are chasing fish, you want a rod that is
matched appropriately to your quarry; otherwise it is like taking a knife to a
gunfight, or a hand grenade to a game of paper rock scissors. The right fishing
rod ensures an appropriate fish which decreases the morbidity of released fish,
but still allows you to enjoy the fight and get the fish to hand.
There are so many great rod makers
out there, so to recommend one rod over another is ludacris. I like my Shamano
Terez's and Crucial's, but that’s not to say that I don’t, or am unwilling to
fish anything else.
7. Versatile Kayak Rigging Options
It pains me to list this at #7, but
fact is, 1-6 are necessity, and this is a nicety. For rigging, I look no
further than YakAttack. Luther, Dan, and the rest of the team are always on the
cutting edge of the sport. They are a US Based Company that makes lights for
fishing at night, tracks to mount fish finders, cameras and rod holders, and
even storage options. There are other companies that have come after YakAttack,
but while a few dollars difference may seem nice, the quality and customer
support is not there. Furthermore, YakAttack gives so much back to kayak
anglers in the form of tournament donations and financial support to HOW and
PHW. If you want it, www.yakattack.us has it!
8. Rugged Footwear
Kick off those flip flops. They have
no place on the water for a kayak fisherman. Hooks in the foot, broken tongues,
and minimal security make them a poor, uninformed choice. Water shoes are where
it is at. Brands like Columbia and Keen make great shoes, but only Astral makes
shoes designed around the paddling experience. You need a shoe that you can
walk on scorching hot sand, through mud fields, over oyster bars, in the
parking lot, and kick off pilings with. You also need something that will
drain, and dry quickly. My Brewers and Loyaks do just that.
There are few things worse than
taking a pack of plastics out, and getting all the tails bit off by croaker or
pinfish. This is not only costly, but it can prematurely end the day with a hot
bite on a certain color, or for the minimalist. When fishing inshore, shrimp
are often my favorite baits to use. The Egret Vudu Shrimp have a Kevlar weave tail which
makes it damn near bomb-proof to those fish that commonly pick and peck at the
tail of the bait. This lets you fish considerably longer with minimal loss. I
also like to use the Egret Vudu Mullet and Wedgetials for these reasons. While the
Wedgetails are not re-enforced, they are extremely durable and last longer than
most anything else I’ve used.
JP hammershad on an Aqua Dream Inline Spinnerbait
For my larger baits, I love fishing
with my Powerteam Lures4.8" Swinging Hammer and the JP Hammershads. These baits are neutrally buoyant
and can handle repeated catches of large, toothy speckled trout. Unlike a lot
of other similar baits I’ve thrown, these don’t easily pull out of screw lock
hooks which save me money!
Swinging Hammer with a Healthy VA Citation Speck
10. All Around Terminal Tackle
To close out this list, I chose
something that I feel to be extremely important and would have expected to come
out much higher on my list. Whether its hooks, jig heads, swivels or the like,
this is one area I refuse to skimp on. If I am chasing sheepshead or other
trophy fish, I will eat ramen and tuna for a week before I compromise on my
terminal tackle.
Owner and Eagle Claw Trokar's are the only hooks I’ll use
when I’m fishing bait. These hooks are strong, sharp, and reliable. I will fish
Trokar's or VMC's when I need a swimbait hook or EWG for more
of my inshore presentations for many of the same reasons above.
Swivels and connectors are another
major part of my game. When tying Sheepshead, Spadefish, or Tautog rigs, I like
the 50lb spro barrel swivels. These are small, yet
mighty reliable to the point I've never had them fail on me. I will also add
them to the split ring on my spoons to help avoid line twist. As far as
connectors are concerned, I refuse to leave home without my Tactical
Anglers Power Clips. I could write a whole post just on these bad
boys. Quick lure changes, added action, and ease of use are just three of the
many added benefits.
50 lb TA Power Clip
I have 2 main requirements for
jigheads. They must have a strong, solid black nickel hook, and the hook shank
must vary in length to correspond to the weight of the jighead. Egret, VMC, and
Owner all make super high quality products, but for me, Jigheads are like
shoes, and whenever I see something new on the market, I make it a point to
pick up a pack or two.
I hope this top 10 list will help
you when making your next kayak fishing purchase. For me, this is what works
well. Keep in mind that many of the products I have mentioned here are from
companies that I am sponsored by. I use their products, because for my style, I
feel that they are superior to many others on the market. In the end though, its all about helping you figure out what works best for you and will give you the most enjoyment from your time on the water!
I have been fishing since before I can remember, and fishing
from a canoe or kayak for a majority of that time.Growing up in the 80’s, I wore your typical
coast guard approved orange floatation device.While it served its primary purpose, it lacked one thing… comfort.If you are not comfortable on the water, you’ll
either cut your trip short, or your PFD comes off.For your typical fisherman, the PFD will
leave your body before you leave the water.This can lead to some very bad things.
As I got older, I started to realize that like many teenagers
and 20 somethings, I was invincible.I
was very fit and lived a warrior’s lifestyle.I never wore a PFD because they 1) were not functional for my style of
paddling, and 2) I was in great shape.If anything were to happen to me my physical abilities would have
mitigated my need for a PFD.Boy was I
wrong!
One day I paddled out for a surf session over a reef in the
South China Sea, and experienced a commonality shared by many surf kayakers…I flipped.When I went over I got caught in the hydraulics of a breaking wave,
while my body was tossed like a ragdoll over the coral below.I couldn’t tell you how long I was pinned,
but I can say that my paddling partner was surprised to see me surface under my
own power, and not unconscious.I got
lucky, and this experience stayed in the front of my mind from that point on.
On that note, let me say that PFD not only stands for
Personal Floatation Device.It also
stands for Personal Fu*%ing Decision for many folks.While I understand both trains of thought
within the kayak community, I do not want to start the debate on the use of PFD’s.I have my personal feelings and experiences
that drove me to the decision of wearing my PFD when I’m on the water.Ill talk about what I have found to be my key
factors when choosing the right PFD for my style.
NRS Chinook PFD
When I started kayak fishing a lot, I started off with an
older Lotus Designs PFD, then NRS Chinook, as it was one of the best reviewed fishing
PFD’s at the time.I fished that PFD for
a few years and liked a few things about it.
Pros:
It is a high back PFD, making it more comfortable with SOT kayak seats.
It has large zippers don’t tend to get off track when fouled with sand or mud.
It is fairly adjustable.
Cons:
I was not a fan of the material it was made from.While it was rip-stop, I found that it did rip easier than it should.
It was not breathable at all.There are no vents and I would find myself soaked with sweat to the point that I looked like I just went for a swim.
The pockets are soft sided, and allow the contents to get wet way to easy.
The Velcro on the front pockets loved to eat… eat my favorite fishing shirts.
The Chinook lasted me a few seasons, but I felt the need to
upgrade.So my next PFD was the Stohlquist
Fisherman.I again fished this PFD for a
few years, loving some of its advantages over the NRS Chinook.Coming in at a few dollars more, I was happy
to spend the money for what I felt to be a superior jacket for my style.The first thing I came to love was the fact
that it was missing Velcro (which my shirts loved)!Next it had hard sided pockets which afforded
my gear greater protection on and off the water.There were still some cons though, that made
me continue to search for that perfect jacket.
The Stohlquist Fisherman
Pros:
It is a high back PFD, making it more comfortable with SOT kayak seats.
Hard sided pockets
Lack of Velcro
Padded shoulder straps
Unique gear attachment options
Cons:
The zipper systems are dainty, and often I found myself conducting field repairs because the teeth were stuck or didn’t grab properly.
Again, it was not breathable, and being soaking wet was a common theme
Not as comfortable or easy to wear as the Chinook was when wearing lots of layers or waders.
I would have probably stayed with my Stohlquist had it not
been for a series of unfortunate events in which my jacket and I parted ways
(and states) for a few months.So,
instead of traveling out of state, I decided I would upgrade and that is when I
went over to Astral.If you remember I
started out with a Lotus Designs PFD.For the life of me, I cannot remember which model it was but I appreciated
its comfort and simplicity.
In searching for that jacket that model I had on the
internet, I learned of a company called Astral Buoyancy, which had in all
reality replaced Lotus designs in the PFD market place.I found a company with some bomber jackets,
amazing style, and based somewhat locally (in Asheville - the mountains of North
Carolina).They had just launched the
Seawolf, and there was some buzz about how amazing this jacket was in the
whitewater and touring community.I
looked at it and immediately knew this was a jacket I wanted to try.
Upon trying it on I found some amazingly awesome features
that I never thought about in a fishing jacket before.
Pros:
The PFD is based to tectonics.The waist is your anchor point, and the rest of the jacket moves based on your movement.When paddling hard, fighting that big fish, or even reaching back to grab your gear, the tectonic body is super convenient (and comfortable).There is also an added benefit of a fleece hand warmer at the torso. Not a must have as much as a nice to have feature.
There is no Velcro (again, my high dollar technical fishing shirts are thankful)!
The clam shell pocket offers plenty of hard sided storage, without getting in the way of your paddle stroke.
It is light weight, and more breathable than the NRS Chinook or the Stohlquist Fisherman.
It is easy to wear over bulky clothing.
The Denier material is super durable.With a simple wash, you would be hard pressed to tell that it has been a primary PFD for 3 seasons.
Side buckle closures lets you don the jacket quickly, and makes for easy adjustment depending on the clothing you are wearing.
The back has padding throughout, which is contradictory to
what the market tells you for a SOT.While
not initially as comfortable as a high back PFD, I find that the movement the
PFD has, coupled with a proper paddling posture and quality seat alleviates this
concern for me.
This is by far my favorite PFD for
95% of my trips.For those of you that
wear your PFD, and paddle hard, this jacket should not be overlooked.
The Ronny Fisher and a 49" Redfish
I was fortunate enough to be
invited to join the Astral fishing team in late 2013, at which time I was sent
a Ronny Fisher to test out.Being a hard
headed individual, I resist change when I find a product I love.Initially, I didn’t want to wear the Ronny
Fisher because I loved my Seawolf so much.As I took it out of the box, I gave it the once over and though, “this
is kinda cool”, then it sat in the corner overnight.When I woke up the next morning I found it staring
at me, sucking me in with its intrigue.That morning I found myself late for work because I was going through
all of its features.It is the SUV of
fishing PFD’s that can go anywhere and do anything you ask it to do.
Although it is not my go to PFD
for my style of paddling, it has many features that are designed especially for
the kayak angler.For starters, it has
an integrated hood.At first, I was not
a big fan of this feature, but one day I got caught in a pop up rain cell.Putting the hood on helped keep my glasses
relatively spot free, and while everything I would have used to clean my
glasses was unusable, I was ok.Its this
type of thinking that makes me honestly believe that the Ronny Fisher is quite
possibly the best fishing PFD for most kayak anglers out there today.
It features and integrated hood that while it won’t replace your rain jacket, it will keep your head dry.
2 fold down hard sided zipper pockets that provide ample storage for tackle boxes, phones, and other amenities.Both flaps fold down plat to provide you a solid surface to work off of if needed.
A can/bottle holder that zips back into the jacket.While I do find it cumbersome to paddle with a can of Monster in the holder, I do find it extremely useful for a VHF radio or even a camera on a retractor.
A tool area that has elastic loops for your tools, and is secured with a Velcro strap that is out of the way.The Velcro is located so it doesn’t eat up my fishing shirts like other PFD’s.
2 elastic loops on both sides of the jacket that allow for easy gear attachment.
Solid zippers that seem impervious to sand and grit.
A thin, vented back that helps cool you, while making the jacket extremely comfortable to wear on a SOT.
Thick webbing on the shoulder straps that doesn’t dig in like thinner, flimsy webbing.
It almost has too much storage, and I can quickly find myself bogged down by all I can put in the Jacket.
I enjoy the side buckle closure that is found on the Seawolf more than the front zipper on the Ronny Fisher.
Photo Credit: Jack Daughtry
While I admit that I am on the Astral fishing team, and may
have a little bias, that bias comes from wearing what I am comfortable putting
my name and reputation on.A company
that has high standards of quality, listens to the paddler, and actually
solicits input from the community when designing new products.While brands like NRS, Stohlquist, and
Kokatat make some amazing products, my search for the ultimate paddling and
fishing specific PFD’s has ended with Astral.
Do yourself a favor and go to your local paddle sports shop.Ask about the Seawolf, Ronny Fisher, or any
other jacket in the Astral line.Try
them on, move around in them, and ask the sales reps for feedback they have received.If you still have any questions, drop me or
any of your local Astral fishing team members a line.We are dedicated to helping you find the best
product for your style!
