LIP GRIPPER
NEVER SEEN A DOGFISH BEFORE?” PHOTO: DUSTIN DOSKOCIL
“WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT? [TACTICS]
DOG FISHING D
SIT. STAY. FISH ALL DAY. BY ED FELKER
ogs are man’s best friend, but what about ultimate kayak fishing buddy? Taking a pet on a kayak can be
challenging, but will prove rewarding. If you plan on fish- ing with Fido, keep these important tips in mind. Obedience training is crucial. Seasoned tournament fisherman and long-time dog angler Joe Lineberry advis- es, “Train your dog to listen and obey while the kayak is on dry land before you try to introduce fishing and water.” Keith Hendrickson, a pro staff angler for Native Wa-
tercraft who often fishes with his Boykin spaniel, Ruddy, backs Lineberry up: “I have seen many dogs go bonkers when a fish is caught,” he says. Both anglers stress a reli- able sit-stay command before inviting your dog aboard. Choose a boat with plenty of room for a furry friend— open cockpit kayaks, tandems and standup paddle- boards are great choices. However the slick plastic hull can be too slippery for dogs. “A rubber mat is a must,” Hendrickson advises.
Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, a high-visibil- ity canine PFD brings peace of mind and will help you locate the dog in the water; the handle also makes re- boating a wet canine much easier. The first trip should be a short trial run, but as you work toward a half- or full-day float, bring along snacks and plenty of drinking water, especially when fishing salt- water. Perhaps the biggest hazard when mixing dogs and
fishing is accidentally hooking your companion. Drew Gregory, a pro-angler for Jackson Kayak, fishes with his blue heeler, Lu, all the time. He suggests winding lures up to the rod tip and keeping the rod in a rod holder. “Think through your cast before you make it,” adds Lineberry. When a fish is on the line, both dog and angler will get excited. Pro guide Rik Llewellyn fishes for tarpon with a proud Yorkie-poo named Barnacle. “When I’m pulling the rod sideways, I’m always thinking, ‘What if the line breaks?’”
Landing a fish is a vulnerable time. With hooks flying and fish flopping, there’s more ac- tion than a clown car in the circus. Keep the deck clear of rods and tackle and control the fish with a net—it’ll be a true test of your dog’s willingness to obey the stay command. Anglers worry about accidents on the water, but your dog is most at risk on dry land. While rigging up and launching, leash your pup to keep him from running into traffic. When you return to land, make sure rods, tackle and gear are secure and keep ahold of your dog. Never leash your dog to the kayak while on the water. Finally, remember to relax and have fun. “Dogs can
teach you many things,” Lineberry says, “mainly how to enjoy the moment.”
Fido. DIGITAL EXTRA: Click here to get more tips on kayak fishing with
34…KAYAK ANGLER
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