Fly Fishing From a Kayak: The Ultimate Guide

We never cease to find new ways to do what we are passionate about. It didn’t take me long after getting my first kayak for my creativity to run wild. I had bought my kayak for fish on local lakes and ponds, primarily using spinners and spoons but have since transitioned to using it full-time for fly fishing. I’m excited to share why fly fishing from a kayak is awesome and how you should get started. 

Benefits of Fly Fishing From a Kayak

Fly fishing from a kayak has become such a unique and thrilling experience for me. Unlike traditional fishing from the shore or a boat, kayak fly fishing helps you to access remote and secluded spots that could otherwise be inaccessible, or at least a lot harder to reach. This opens up a world of opportunities for anglers to explore new bodies of water or possibly catch a new-to-you fish species.

In addition to accessing new fishing spots, fly fishing from a kayak, for me, is a peaceful and quiet way to enjoy the great outdoors. The low profile of a kayak creates a more intimate connection with nature and the surrounding environment, which enhances the overall fishing experience. Being closer to the water also provides a better view of fish activity, allowing you to better understand their target species and make more accurate casts. Overall, fly fishing from a kayak can be a unique and enjoyable way to connect with nature, get to better spots, and improve your fly fishing skills(and maybe your balance).:?

Techniques for Getting Started

Fly fishing from a kayak is going to incorporate a different set of casting techniques compared to what we do while fly fishing normally. With the limited space and mobility of a kayak, we must adapt our casting techniques to accommodate for these limitations.

A good choice when picking a casting technique for fly fishing from a kayak is the sidearm cast. This cast involves holding the rod parallel to the water and using a more relaxed and fluid motion to make the cast. This way, you get a smoother and more accurate cast while minimizing the risk of getting entangled in the kayak or surrounding vegetation. Another useful technique is the reach cast, which involves extending the rod away from the kayak to make a longer cast and reach farther into the water. 

A lot of people worry about being able to stand in their kayak in order to make good casts. I do too. It isn’t impossible to cast while sitting down and that’s what I find myself doing most of the time. 

Picking the Right Kayak

As someone who has tried multiple kayaks, I would definitely recommend a good sit-on-top kayak as the optimal choice for fly fishing. A sit-on-top kayak offers a stable platform up off of the water that you don’t get with a sit-in kayak. Hopefully, it will have a comfortable seat, which is essential for an enjoyable day on the water. Also, sit-on-top kayaks tend to have more storage space for fishing gear and supplies, allowing you to bring all the necessary equipment you might need. 

My favorite perk is that this type of kayak allows for easy water access, making it easier for me to make quick casts and retrieve my line. This type of kayak also allows for better maneuverability and tracking in choppy water, providing a more stable platform for fly fishing. Additionally, the open platform allows for improved visibility, which is crucial for spotting fish and making accurate casts.

Yes, I have my preferred kayak type but honestly, anything should do just fine. As long as it’s not a safety hazard to you and you’re able to get a good cast, you don’t have to be picky.

Fly Fishing From a Kayak Safely

Safety should always be your top priority. When fly fishing from a kayak, there are several key safety considerations that anglers should be aware of.

First and foremost, always wear a lifejacket or some kind of floatation device while on the water. This is especially important in the event of a capsize or fall from the kayak. Additionally, make sure to familiarize yourself with the weather conditions, including wind and the possibility of storms, and plan accordingly. This includes having the proper gear for bad weather, such as a drysuit or rain gear, and avoiding fishing in dangerous conditions. No fish is worth your safety or that of your fellow anglers.

Another important safety consideration when fly fishing from a kayak is water safety. Be aware of your surroundings and the potential for strong currents or undertows. In addition, avoid fishing in fast-moving water, as this increases the risk of capsizing or being swept away.

In other words, just be smart! If the water gets too choppy get to the nearest dry land. If you are on a large lake or in the ocean, don’t go out further than you would want to

 return. My number one rule is to make sure to always have a buddy with me and to stay within sight and sound. 

5 Extra Tips for a Successful Time on a Kayak

1. Consider outfitting your kayak with a fishfinder. If you are throwing out dry flies to rising fish, this might not be as applicable. However, if you are casting out a sinking line and trying to fish something deeper, a fish finder can be very helpful when looking for fish and finding the right depth. 
2. Watch your backcasts. With less distance between you and the water than usual, you’re gonna need to adjust how you bring back your flies. 
3. Triple-check your packed equipment. I wish I could say that this is not from experience. Make sure that you have everything you need before you push off of the bank. Nothing is worse than being a couple hundred yards away and realizing you forgot your fly box in the truck.  Everything should stow well in your kayak. 
4. Try new areas. This is the best part about a kayak. Try areas you wouldn’t be able to otherwise. 
5. Bring a friend! I understand that, from time to time, many people love being alone on the river for a variety of reasons. But, when you are in a kayak on a lake or in the ocean and with so much space, bring someone along for the ride. You’ll be glad you did. 
6.  

Fly fishing from a kayak adds a whole new dimension to the sport. It is a similar unity to the water you feel when you are wet-wading hip-deep in a river.