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BUYING TIPS


MODERN KAYAK DESIGNS, LIKE THIS HOBIE OUTBACK, ACCEPT PEDAL,


PADDLE, MOTOR AND SAIL POWER. PHOTO: HOBIE FISHING


WHAT POWER? PADDLE POWER


A double-bladed paddle is still the most popular method for propelling a kayak. Even if you’re going for pedals or a motor, you still need a paddle as back up. Paddle blades come in two styles: high angle and low angle. High angle blades are broader and wider for more power to maneuver a heavy kayak. Low angle blades are long and narrow to pass through the water efficiently and cover long distance. Blade materials range from tough plastic to ultralight carbon fiber. Offset paddle blades angle the out-of-water blade to cut through wind. Low-profile kayaks can be used with a 230-centimeter or shorter shaft and a long, narrow blade. Higher profile sit-on-top kayaks with high-low seats require a longer shaft and wider blades. Ergonomic shafts are bent to encourage more anatomical alignment and reduce the chances of repetitive use injury in your wrists. Angler models feature line hooks on the paddle to free a snagged lure and rulers embossed on the shaft to measure the catch. High-performance materials save ounces for more efficient paddling.


PADDLES, PEDALS AND PROPELLERS: WHICH POWER PLANT IS RIGHT FOR YOU?


Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary defines a kayak as: “A long narrow boat that is pointed at both ends and that is moved by a paddle with two blades.” Get with the times, Merriam! Have you seen a kayak lately, Webster? Fishing kayaks come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, styles and propulsion systems. Here’s an overview of the most popular kayak power plants and suggestions for best application.


PEDAL POWER Since many kayak anglers are anglers first and kayakers second, pedal systems are popular for efficient, hands-free operation. In short, an angler can fish with his hands and pedal with his legs. I can cast or troll and move from place to place without taking my hands off the rod. While I’m pedaling to the fishing grounds, I can tie rigs, prepare bait, adjust my electronics or even eat breakfast and never miss a beat. If the water is too shallow for my kayak’s draft, I kick up the pedal system and go to paddling or poling the kayak. Best of all, I can fight a fish while pedaling away from snags that might give the trophy its freedom. And legs are more powerful than arms, so some find it is easier to pedal all day rather than paddle for miles. Pedal systems do require light maintenance (wash, lubricate and inspect moving parts) but modern designs are efficient and tough.


MOTOR POWER Motorized systems are bringing more anglers to kayak fishing and taking more kayak anglers to distant fishing grounds. Many manufacturers are offering motor options for their most popular models. And engineers have designed kits to attach an electric trolling motor to almost any fishing kayak. Modern systems are light, powerful, low profile and reliable. Whether powered with a 12-volt car battery or a compact lithium ion battery, these systems can go all day and still get the angler back to the launch. Look for a system that is easy to install and remove so the kayak will be easier to carry and store. With so many options for propelling a kayak, be sure to kick the tires and give each a test drive.


Captain Wade Harness is a professional guide who splits his time between California and Florida. As a member of the Hobie Fishing Team, he has pedaled, paddled and motored after everything from bucketmouth bass to mossback yellowtail.


96 KAYAK FISHING || Annual 2016


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