How to Catch More Panfish from a Kayak

Kayak fishing has been gaining popularity among anglers mainly due to the convenience that it offers. Not only does it require minimal storage for your equipment, but most fishing spots offer many launch spots for kayak anglers. It is also one of the most versatile ways to fish as it allows access to shallow and remote waters compared to motorized fishing. Kayak fishing also will enable anglers to sneak up on fish as it is likely to disrupt fish habitats. 

Tips to Consider if You Want to Try Fishing for Panfish from a Kayak 

1. Know Where to Look

Before beginning a kayak fishing trip, it’s best to do extensive research on where hotspots are located. Whichever water body it is that you’re targeting, it’s most likely that other anglers have already been there previously. With this, anglers who frequent the chosen area may already know which spots have more fish and which parts are just going to waste your time. While most water bodies offer a diverse variety of fish, not all of them provide edible fish due to fish regulations and water quality. 

Every town that features a known fishing spot is likely to have a fishing equipment shop around. Especially in locations where fishing is an everyday recreational activity, numerous offline and online communities or groups are happy to provide information on which spots are best to target. As kayak fishing requires more time and effort than using a motorboat, knowing exactly where to go would afford anglers more time to fish and find fish that are safe to eat instead of paddling around for hours or attracting enormous game fish that would likely tip the kayak over.

2. Bring a Variety of Lures

Bringing a variety of lures is a must when targeting panfish from a kayak. Whether an angler is fishing alone or with a group, it’s best practice to try using a bunch of different lures or different colors and sizes to test which type is getting the quickest bite. When there are various fish species in the targeted area, each species reacts differently to lures, so it’s best to see which one results in better outcomes. 

3. You Don’t Need a Long Line

Using longer rods when kayak fishing could be tricky as panfish are typically quicker. Especially when fishing during the non-spawning season, fish tend to be smaller and easier to catch using shorter lines and less complicated rigs. Even when using longer rods, anglers are still likely to cradle the fish once it is already an arm span away. With this, it doesn’t really make sense to bring long lines as it will only heighten the chance of tipping the kayak over and panfish are relatively smaller than most game fish. If a long line is preferable or more familiar to use, it’s better to invest in a broader kayak to avoid getting drenched.

4. Keep Your Gear Simple

One of the disadvantages of using a kayak when fishing is the lack of storage space for lures, baits, and other fishing equipment. Since kayaks only afford little room to move and less space to carry equipment, traveling light is the best way to go. It’s best to consider which equipment is best used for the types of fish in the area instead of carrying all equipment just to come prepared.

For example, an angler targeting game fish like largemouth bass may need a large enough net as they tend to be aggressive, especially during peak seasons. But since panfish such as American yellow perch and bluegill are much smaller than these fish species, it does not make sense to bring a variety of gear just to come prepared. Traveling light and packing smart is the best way to go, and getting everything at once is not always beneficial.

5. Don’t Be Afraid of Getting Yourself Wet

One of the disadvantages of kayak fishing is having less room to move oneself around. In some cases, having to wade into the water would be necessary. When targeting panfish such as crappie, having to get into the water is a common occurrence. However, the best advice is to always be on the lookout for drop-offs to ensure safety. Especially in weedy areas, there might also be snakes or other dangerous species around, which is not worth the risk just for a single panfish.

6. Stay Hydrated

Although kayak fishing may seem like a straightforward fishing technique, anglers have to realize that it requires great physical effort, especially since it requires longer hours paddling while being under direct sunlight. Passing out due to the heat is a waste of time and not an enjoyable experience when all you want to do is catch yourself a good dinner. If paddling really seems like a challenge, various pedal-powered kayak options are available that will make kayaking a less challenging experience. This way, you could carry more panfish home as well. 

Kayak fishing for panfish is a feat that requires practice and a lot of patience. All things considered, there is no better advice in catching panfish than enjoying the experience. To cut things short, just keep it simple, have fun, and hope for a bountiful trip!