Why take the risk of standing up in a 34 inch wide-boat that can absolutely capsize at the mere thought of the word ‘imbalance’? You do it for the view.
As the title states, ‘The Higher You Be, the More Fish You See’.
To fish on a stand-up kayak: employ a modestly-athletic stance to keep balance, move slowly, keep the equipment you need close to you, and most importantly: don’t let the kayak bump into anything while standing.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Right Stand-up Fishing Kayak
Key features for stability and stand-up fishing
The following features are key to choosing a stand-up fishing kayak that will meet your needs:
Wide and Flat Hull: Look for a kayak with a wide and flat hull design. This provides increased stability, especially when standing up to cast or reel in a fish.
A wider hull offers better balance and reduces the chances of tipping over.
In reality, all the fishing kayak manufacturers craft super-stable kayaks with wide, flat hulls. Stable kayaks are their wheelhouse.
Stand-up Platform: If you want to stand-up in your kayak, you need a platform to stand on. This provides a stable and secure area for you to stand while fishing.
Look for a spacious platform that allows you to move around comfortably and cast with ease.
Again, fishing kayak manufacturers craft kayaks that are purpose-made to stand on. All you really need to do is go to an outfitter and find one.
Solid Construction: Opt for a kayak that is built with sturdy and durable materials. This ensures stability and helps withstand the rigors of fishing activities.
Reinforced hulls and high-quality materials contribute to the overall stability of the kayak.
Adjustable Seating: Look for a kayak that offers adjustable seating options. Being able to adjust the seat position allows you to find the optimal balance and stability while standing. Look for kayaks with adjustable seat heights or the ability to convert from seated to standing positions.
Enhanced Stability Features: Some kayaks are specifically designed with stability features like pontoon-style hulls, outriggers, or secondary stability systems. These features provide additional stability and can be beneficial for stand-up fishing.
Factors to consider when selecting a stand-up kayak
When selecting a stand-up fishing kayak, there are several important factors to consider:
Stability: Select a kayak with excellent stability, as this is crucial for standing and casting with confidence.
Look for a wider hull design, a flat bottom, and features like a pontoon-style hull or outriggers for enhanced stability (if desired).
Weight Capacity: Consider the weight capacity of the kayak to ensure it can accommodate you, your gear, and potential catches.
A higher weight capacity provides better stability and prevents the kayak from sitting too low in the water.
Typically, a higher weight capacity also equates to a heavier kayak – one that is harder to lift onto the roof of your KIA.
Maneuverability: Look for a kayak that offers good maneuverability, allowing you to navigate easily in different fishing environments.
Consider the kayak’s length, width, and hull design to determine its maneuverability capabilities.
Most stand-up fishing kayaks are highly maneuverable compared to motorboats and only modestly maneuverable compared to more athletic kayaks. There’s always a trade-off.
Storage Space: Sufficient storage compartments or hatches are key to keeping your fishing gear, tackle boxes, and personal belongings organized and easily accessible.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Pay attention to the comfort features of the kayak, such as adjustable seating, padded seats, and supportive backrests. Comfortable seating ensures you can fish for extended periods while maintaining a happy posterior.
Kayak Weight and Portability: Consider the weight of the kayak, especially if you plan on transporting it frequently. A lighter kayak is easier to handle and transport, making it more convenient for your fishing adventures.
Again, fishing kayaks are traditionally heavier than the non-fishing varieties.
Budget: Determine your budget and find a stand-up fishing kayak that offers the best combination of features and quality within your price range.
Fishing kayaks – whether you can stand on them or not – are traditionally more expensive than other kayak styles. Best to get spiritually prepared now.
What are Recommended Stand-up Kayak Models for Fishing?
This is neither an exhaustive review list nor a collection of affiliate marketing links.
The four kayaks below are examples of excellent stand-up fishing kayaks, manufactured by strong kayak brands, that I would happily purchase, stand up on, and cast from. (But hopefully not fall off of….)
The Hobie Mirage Compass is a stable, comfortable, pedal-propelled stand-up fishing kayak.
It has a comfy removable chair and can handle a variety of waterways at pace.
Given the boat’s high build quality as well as sophisticated pedal system, it trades at a higher price point.
The Jackson Kayak YuPIK is a legitimate floating multi-tool.
The kayak has tons of space that just waiting for you to customize with gear.
The YuPIK’s standing platform is large and the boat is super-stable.
While there is more than enough cargo space, all of it sits on top of the hull. This isn’t a huge deal, it just means the outside of your dry sacks will get a little wet.
The Wilderness Recon 120 HD is a stand-up fishing kayak for the big-boned among us. It’s stability is quite remarkable, thanks in large part to its 38 inch width.
While this kayak won’t break any speed records, its rudder and hull design help it track well.
Standing up is also easy thanks to the high stability and elevated positioning of the seat.
Overall, a fantastic stand-up fishing kayak (that you can buy with paddle or peddle propulsion.)
The Old Town Topwater 120 PDL is the pedal version of Old Town’s ‘everyman’ kayak.
This stand-up fishing kayak is super-stable thanks to 36 inches of width and while sporting a mammoth weight capacity of 500lbs.
The kayak’s Double U-Hull design allows it to move through choppy water at surprising pace while maintaining the stability you expect from a fishing kayak.
The 12-foot length is easily managed in tight spaces thanks to the kayak’s effective rudder mechanism.
The Old Town Topwater 120 PDL is propelled by pedals. You can also choose the version that is propelled by your own muscles
www.oldtownwatercraft.johnsonoutdoors.com
Mastering Stand-up Stability and Balance Techniques
Body positioning and weight distribution for stand-up fishing
Mastering stand-up stability and balance techniques is vital when learning to fish on a stand-up kayak.
Center of Gravity: Keep your center of gravity low by slightly bending your knees and maintaining a wide stance. This lowers your body’s overall height and increases stability.
Core Engagement: Engage your core muscles to maintain balance and stability. A strong core provides better control over your movements and helps you react to changes in water conditions.
Foot Placement: Position your feet shoulder-width apart and distribute your weight evenly between them. This wider stance provides a solid base and improves stability.
Balanced Paddling: Maintain a balanced paddle stroke to avoid leaning too much to one side. A symmetrical paddling technique helps keep the kayak stable and prevents unnecessary rocking.
Smooth Weight Transfers: When moving or shifting positions on the kayak, make smooth and controlled weight transfers. Gradually shift your weight rather than making sudden movements, as this can destabilize the kayak.
Active Posture: Stay actively engaged and alert while standing on the kayak. Constantly adjust your body position and weight distribution to adapt to changes in the water or fishing conditions.
The high-level take-away is to assume a slightly more athletic demeanor when fishing while standing on a kayak.
Paddling techniques for stability during stand-up fishing
Here are some effective techniques to enhance stability while paddling on a stand-up kayak:
Symmetrical Paddling: Maintain a symmetrical paddle stroke, using equal power and technique on both sides. This helps distribute your body’s weight evenly, contributing to overall stability.
Low-Angle Paddle: Utilize a low-angle paddle stroke (more vertical than horizontal), where the blade enters the water closer to the kayak’s side.
This technique reduces the chance of rocking the kayak and promotes better stability.
Smooth and Controlled Strokes: Aim for smooth and controlled paddle strokes to minimize any sudden movements or jerks. Avoid making aggressive strokes that can compromise your balance.
Brace Strokes: When needed, use brace strokes to stabilize the kayak. A brace stroke involves placing the paddle blade on the water’s surface to provide support and counteract any potential tipping.
Active Body Positioning: Stay engaged and active in your body positioning while paddling.
Don’t bump into anything: This is probably the most important tip in the entire post because the main reason anglers fall off their stand-up kayak is because their boat hits a hazard while they’re standing.
The boat stops suddenly and the angler proceeds to topple into the drink.
So be aware of your surroundings, particularly as it relates to nearby hazards.
Essential Gear and Rigging for Stand-up Kayak Fishing
Must-have gear and accessories for stand-up fishing
We all know that anglers swear by their fishing gear. (And sometimes at their fishing gear.)
Here are some must-have items for stand-up fishing on a kayak:
Fishing Rod and Reel: Choose a fishing rod and reel combination suitable for kayak fishing. Opt for lightweight, compact options that offer good sensitivity and durability.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Always wear a properly fitting PFD for safety. Look for a PFD designed for paddling that allows freedom of movement and ensures buoyancy in case of an emergency.
It’s pretty common to find PFDs that double as storage chests for your smaller fishing gear.
Anchor System: Invest in a reliable anchor system to keep your kayak in position while fishing. This will allow you to focus on your fishing without drifting away.
Stand-up Assist Strap: Consider using a stand-up assist strap or handle. It provides additional support and stability when standing or transitioning from a seated to a standing position.
Tackle and Bait Storage: Use tackle boxes or bags to organize your fishing tackle and keep it easily accessible.
Rod Holders: Install rod holders on your kayak to secure your fishing rods when not in use. This helps keep them within reach and prevents them from getting tangled or falling overboard.
Fish Finder: Consider using a fish finder to locate fish and identify underwater structures. This tool can greatly improve your chances of finding productive fishing spots.
Did I categorize a ‘Fish Finder’ as a ‘Must Have’? Yes. Is it really a must have? Well… You tell me.
Dry Bags or Cases: Keep your valuables and electronics protected from water by using dry bags or waterproof cases.
Wallet, car keys, cel phone, GPS, paper map. Meet your new home.
Rod holders and equipment placement for stand-up kayak fishing
Here are some tips to consider to place your rod holder and equipment most efficiently:
Flush Mount Rod Holders: Install flush mount rod holders directly into the kayak’s hull. These provide a secure and stable position for your fishing rods while keeping them within easy reach.
Adjustable Rod Holders: Consider adjustable rod holders that allow you to customize the angle and position of your rods. This ensures optimal placement for different fishing techniques and water conditions.
Multipurpose Rod Holders: Look for rod holders that can accommodate various rod sizes and handle different types of reels. This versatility allows you to use a variety of fishing gear without needing multiple rod holders.
Equipment Placement: Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach.
Consider placing essentials like pliers, line cutters, and tackle boxes in easily accessible compartments or pockets on your kayak.
Tethering Gear: Use tethers or leashes to secure your important gear, such as fishing rods, paddles, and tools. This prevents accidental loss overboard and ensures they are always within reach.
Balance considerations: Distribute the weight of your equipment evenly on the kayak. This helps maintain stability and prevents the kayak from becoming top-heavy or imbalanced.
Customization options to enhance stand-up fishing experience
There are all kinds of ways to ‘Pimp Your Float’.
Here are some options to consider for personalizing your kayak setup:
Rod Holder Placement: Experiment with different positions for your rod holders to find the most convenient and accessible locations. Mount them within easy reach, allowing you to quickly grab your rod when a fish bites.
Additional Storage Solutions: Install extra storage compartments or accessory tracks to accommodate your gear. This will give you more space for tackle boxes, dry bags, and other fishing essentials.
Fish Finder Installation: Mount a fish finder on your kayak to locate fish and underwater structures.
Choose a suitable mounting option that provides a clear view of the screen and keeps it within sight while standing.
Standing Assist Handles: Attach standing assist handles or straps to aid in standing up and maintaining balance.
These handles provide stability and support, especially when transitioning between seated and standing positions.
We’ll all need them beside our toilets and in our shower stalls eventually. Whey not start now on your kayak?
Anchor Trolley System: Install an anchor trolley system for better control over your kayak’s positioning. This allows you to easily adjust the anchor’s position to optimize your fishing spot while standing.
Candidly, position management is a bigger deal than beginning kayak fishers initially realize. A little attention to maintaining your kayak position by using some sort of anchor system will almost immediately reap benefits. Not to mention keep you on the fish.
Additional Padding: Add foam padding or traction pads to the standing area of your kayak. This provides extra grip and comfort, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions.
GoPro Mounts: Attach GoPro mounts to capture your fishing adventures and share them with others. Mount the camera in strategic locations to capture exciting moments from various angles.
A GoPro can also serve as your ‘black box’ if things go awry. Which they won’t, of course.
Stand-up Casting and Reeling Techniques
Adjusting casting techniques for stand-up kayak fishing
When fishing on a stand-up kayak, adjusting your casting techniques is helpful to keep your casting accurate.
Shorten Your Casts: Execute shorter casts to maintain better control and accuracy. This reduces the risk of overextending and losing balance while casting from a standing position.
Compact Casting Motion: Use a compact casting motion by keeping your elbows close to your body. This helps maintain stability and prevents excessive movement that could affect your balance.
Sidearm or Underhand Casts: Consider using sidearm or underhand casting techniques. These lower casting motions minimize the risk of hitting the water with excessive force, reducing the chance of rocking the kayak (you know, in case your bait of choice is a baby seal).
Casting Across the Body: Instead of casting directly forward, try casting across your body. This distributes your body weight more evenly and provides better stability during the casting motion.
Stabilize with Your Non-Casting Hand: Use your non-casting hand to stabilize yourself while casting. This can involve lightly gripping the kayak or placing your hand on the gunwale to maintain balance.
Practice in Calm Waters: Start by practicing your casting techniques in calm and controlled waters before venturing into more challenging conditions. This allows you to gain confidence and improve your casting accuracy while standing.
For a ‘deep-in-the-weeds’ discussion about casting from a fishing kayak, spend some time on my post entitled: “How to Cast From a Fishing Kayak. Put Your Bait on the Fish Without Falling Out and Without Breaking Stuff”.
Who comes up with these titles, anyway?
Managing fishing lines and avoiding tangles while standing
When fishing on a stand-up kayak, managing your fishing lines and avoiding tangles is challenging but necessary. Here some tips to consider when trying to keep your deck clean and lines uncrossed.
Keep Lines Clear: Be mindful of your surroundings and ensure your fishing lines are clear of any obstructions on the kayak. This includes securing loose lines and keeping them away from paddle blades, rod holders, or other gear.
Line Control Techniques: Use your free hand to control the line as you cast or reel in. This helps prevent tangling or snagging by guiding the line away from potential entanglements.
Controlled Casting: Practice controlled casting motions to avoid excessive line slack or whip-like movements. Maintaining a controlled casting technique helps minimize line tangles during the cast.
Avoid Overcasting: Be mindful of your casting distance to prevent lines from reaching areas where they can get tangled, such as trees, rocks, or other kayakers. Aim for shorter, accurate casts to maintain better control.
But sometimes casting for distance is pretty fun. Your call on this one.
Clearing Tangles Promptly: If a tangle occurs, address it promptly to prevent further complications. Gently reel in the tangled line and carefully untangle any knots or snags.
Taking immediate action helps avoid more severe tangles and frustration.
Tips for reeling in and landing fish from a stand-up position
When reeling in and landing fish from a stand-up position on a kayak, following these tips will help you successfully bring in your catch:
Maintain Balance: As you reel in the fish, focus on maintaining your balance and stability. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, engage your core, and distribute your weight evenly to avoid tipping.
Be a bit more athletic than you might typically be with a fishing rod in your hand.
Use Smooth Reeling Motion: Utilize a smooth and steady reeling motion to avoid jerking the fish off the line.
Apply consistent pressure while reeling, maintaining tension to prevent the fish from escaping.
Adjust Body Position: Adjust your body position to counteract the fish’s movements. Lean in the opposite direction of the fish’s pull to maintain balance and control.
Control the Fish’s Movements: Guide the fish’s movements by using your rod and body position. Keep the fish away from obstacles and kayak components that could cause line entanglement or damage.
Be Patient and Tire Out the Fish: Avoid rushing the process. Allow the fish to tire out by gradually reeling it in. This reduces the risk of sudden movements that could compromise your balance.
Use a Landing Net: Consider using a landing net to safely bring the fish onboard. This minimizes the chance of losing the fish during the final stages of landing.
Safety and Precautions for Stand-up Kayak Fishing
Safety considerations while standing on a fishing kayak
Ensuring safety while fishing on a stand-up kayak is vital.
Here are key safety considerations to keep in mind:
Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Always wear a properly fitted PFD while on the water. It is essential for your safety, providing buoyancy in case of accidents or unexpected falls.
I seem to mention PFD several times in every post I make. I’m not preachy by nature, but I suppose this is as close as I get.
Footwear: Use appropriate non-slip footwear to maintain traction and grip on the kayak’s surface. This helps prevent slips and falls while standing or moving around.
Also, accidentally stepping on a lure is a bummer with bad footwear.
Weather Conditions: Stay informed about weather forecasts and avoid fishing in hazardous conditions such as strong winds, thunderstorms, or rough waters.
Water Depth and Hazards: Be aware of the water depth and any potential hazards such as rocks, submerged objects, or strong currents.
Standing on a kayak may change the draft, requiring extra caution to avoid collisions or grounding.
In an earlier post, I ran some calculations on paddling in shallow water.
Capsizing Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with kayak self-rescue techniques in case of a capsize. Practice re-entry and learn how to recover gear while in the water.
Communication and Float Plan: Inform someone about your fishing plans, including your expected return time and location. Carry a means of communication, such as a waterproof cell phone or marine radio, to call for help if necessary.
First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit to address any minor injuries or emergencies that may occur during your fishing trip.
Understanding water conditions and potential risks
Here are some key considerations to help understand water conditions and potential risks:
Water Currents: Familiarize yourself with the strength and direction of water currents. Strong currents can affect your stability while standing, so avoid fishing in areas with excessive or unpredictable currents.
Wind and Waves: Be aware of wind speed and wave conditions. Strong winds can make it challenging to maintain balance while standing. Choose sheltered areas or adjust your fishing plans accordingly to avoid unsafe conditions.
Water Temperature: Check the water temperature before heading out. Cold water can increase the risk of hypothermia if you accidentally fall into the water.
Dress appropriately and consider wearing a wetsuit or drysuit in particularly cold conditions.
Visibility: Assess the visibility of the water. Murky or cloudy water may obscure hazards beneath the surface. Exercise caution and be extra vigilant in such conditions.
Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on weather forecasts before and during your fishing trip. Sudden storms or changing weather patterns can create dangerous situations.
Emergency protocols and rescue techniques for stand-up fishing
Being prepared with emergency protocols and rescue techniques is key to safe stand-up kayak fishing. Here are some considerations to help you be safe:
Self-Rescue: Learn self-rescue techniques in case of a capsize. Practice re-entry methods such as the paddle float rescue or the scramble technique.
Familiarize yourself with how to recover gear while in the water.
Buddy System: Whenever possible, fish with a buddy or inform someone about your fishing plans. Having someone nearby provides assistance in case of emergencies and enhances overall safety.
Distress Signals: Familiarize yourself with distress signals and carry appropriate signaling devices, such as a whistle or a signal mirror, to attract attention in case of an emergency.
Communication Devices: Carry a waterproof cell phone, a marine radio, or a personal locator beacon (PLB) to call for help if needed. Keep these devices easily accessible and protected from water damage.
First Aid Kit: As I suggested earlier, carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know how to administer basic first aid. Be prepared to handle minor injuries or provide initial assistance until help arrives.
Emergency Contact Information: Have emergency contact numbers readily available. Store them in your phone or keep them in a waterproof pouch on your person.
Kayak Fishing Advanced Techniques – So You Think You’re Getting Pretty Good
It can be frustrating to put down your rod and pick up a paddle to reposition your kayak. Especially while you’re standing.
What if you could adjust your fishing kayak without picking up your paddle? Well, you can.
How?
Maneuver with your rod and lure.
That’s right. You can adjust the position of your kayak by sweeping your rod in the water to turn your boat.
If your fishing lure is bulky, well, so much the better. Use your bulky lure and rod to reposition your kayak and earn a couple of extra casts before having to make a macro move with your paddle.
Parting Thoughts
In summary, if you’re going to stand-up to fish in your kayak, remember to: keep a modestly athletic stance, move slowly, keep your needed gear close by and for heaven’s sake, don’t bump into anything while standing up.
Stand-up kayak fishing is a terrific way to scope the liquid landscape to understand where to cast.
The Higher You Be, the More Fish You See.