If you love fishing and you wish to escape the high costs of owning a boat, kayaking and paddleboard fishing are the best options. There is always an adventure waiting for you in the human powered water vessels. While both vessels require you to invest upfront and it is therefore important that you choose wisely. If you are considering between the two to go fishing you need to consider several factors including your fishing style, personality and also the conditions in which you do plan to fish in. You need to be informed about the differences between kayak fishing and paddle board fishing to make a more informed decision.
1. Stability
When you are out on the waters fishing, you need to take into account the water waves and how stable the vessel it. Kayaks when compared to paddle boards are more stable since most of the fishing is done sitting. This means that your center of gravity is much lower than when standing up on a paddle board. Stability is important especially if the water is constantly moving. If you are fishing in waters that have lots of movement or water with waves and currents with the kayak you have more stability and you can safely and comfortably fish without having to worry about falling into the water.
2. Storage
Every fisherman loves their gear. For most people setting out to look for the right vessel is just as fun as being out in the water. With the kayak, you have a decent amount of space to bring all your gear to the lake. With a stand up paddle board, it can be tricky to get all your gear on the board. While you can buy SUPs that are already rigged for fishing, it’s relatively easy to use the D rings to attach some of the gear you need. Overall though, it is easier to pack a lot of gear on a kayak. The paddle board better suits a person with a minimalistic style, those who do not need too much gear to go fishing.
3. Paddling distance
Kayaks have been designed in a way that they can cover lots of water as you seek the perfect fishing spot. Covering long distances is made easier in a kayak because you paddle when you are seated down. On the other hand the paddle board requires you to be in a standing position most of the time. To cover a large distance on a paddle board you need to be physically fit with the strength to paddle through the water. If you fishing excursion requires you paddle through the marsh then the better option will be to choose the kayak.
4. Portability
The paddle board is much more portable when compared to a kayak. If you have to walk a long distance so you can reach the water, the paddle board is the better option. Even though there are kayaks that are light there are paddle boards that are small and light as well. A kayak that has been designed to hold two people requires some sort of cart or dolly to transport it. This is especially so when you have too much gear. While the paddle board can effortlessly be placed on top of your car. It is also easier to launch paddle boards than it is unloading and launching a kayak.
5. Vantage point
While you can carry a cooler to sit on when fishing on the paddle board, you will do most of the fishing standing up. At that height you will have a higher vantage point which allows you to sport fish from a distance. The same cannot be said about fishing in a kayak since you will be seated on the kayak most of the time. If you prefer doing sight fishing, then it is better to use a stand up paddle board over the kayak since you will have a huge advantage.
Kayaks and paddle boards are different in construction and are fit for different types of fishing. There are more affordable than purchasing a motor boat for your fishing excursions. The choice you make between a kayak and a paddle board will be determined by other factors. Knowing the differences help you make an informed decision.
Leave a Reply