Hey guys I’m getting a fishing kayak for Christmas and wanted to know what you all preferred for rigging it up and what to bring with me. College student so don’t have much money to spend on it. Also where are some good spots to go?
Danny,
Welcome to kayak fishing- it’s a blast!
First thing is to get a fishing license (fresh and/or saltwater), PFD, and a whistle so so you are legal with the DNR. A kayak PFD, which is typically shorter, is more comfortable.
Are you getting a sit-in or sit-on-top (SOT)? Both have their benefits but it makes a difference for rigging. I use both effectively for fishing.
If it is a SOT you pretty much have to have a rod holder for trolling, if it is a sit in you can get away with leaning it against the cockpit and holding it with your legs.
A milk crate is very handy for holding your gear in SOT’s as well. A lot of folks will lash it to the rear tankwell and keep tackle boxes, buckets for bait, and fashion some rod holders on it.
You can use a behind-the-store crate and tie wrap or bolt on lengths of PVC pipe for a cheap, down and dirty crate with rod holders set up. Google Image “kayak milk crate” and you’ll see 100’s of ideas.
Tying a rope or using a rod leash onto your spare rod or trolling rod is also a good idea in case it goes overboard. Some people fashion floats to their equipment for the same reason.
Last thing I can think of is a fish grip or net for landing all those fish you are going to catch.
Not sure where you are located but kayaks are excellent fishing boats in every type of water- just be aware of the weather conditions and be safe.
Thanks for the response! I’ve done research for awhile and am going with a west marine pompano 120 SOT. It’s the same model as the perception pescador 12. I am gonna fix up either a milk crate or 5 gallon bucket with some rod holders on it. Eventually I would like to put a cheap fishfinder on there too. I live on a small creek off of the Stono river so I would love to find a nice spot out there.
Welcome to the addiction! That is a proven hull…you’ll enjoy it. Keep the rigging simple until you get everything figured out - then you can add those wonderful extras.
Lowcountry Kayak Anglers - http://www.lowcountrykayakanglers.com
Any specific gear I need to wear since it is winter? And which fish are the most active
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Originally posted by DannyCroghanAny specific gear I need to wear since it is winter? And which fish are the most active
Wear layers! I wear rain pants, muck boots, and whatever seems appropriate for the day and take extra layers Ina dry bag. You can catch reds, trout, sheepshead,black drum, and flounder inshore now. Pm me if you need any more ?s.
Danny - I fish a “sit-in” yak, and the most important addition for me was a stick pole anchor, I made it with PVC, two small blocks, a ring and quick release shackle, and small diameter line. I can adjust the anchor fore or aft, depending on tide and direction I want to fish. Totally Agree with the comment of fish for a while before buying stuff, I have a $75 fly rod holder (in the garage) and on the yak in its place are two 50 cents cable holders thaat hold the rod nicely while paddling. Also, a lanyard paddle line for safety is a lot cheaper than a paddle clip.
Enjoy and welcome
Towee RiverMaster/20 hp
Riot Edge Yak Lowcountry Modified
Some inexpensive options for the above:
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Milk Crate - Walmart in the office supplies area, about $10.00. (I have 8/9 in which I store all of my Plano satchel style tackle boxes and can take just what I need for the day).
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Pole anchor - I actually just purchased a telescoping “Golf ball retriever” from Acadamy Sports. It will telescope to 12’ and is composite. I cut the golf ball cup off the end. It is stiffer than the pvc/wooden dowel filled one I made for $5.00.
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Winter clothing - as stated above, layers. A set of rain pants and jacket will keep you dry. Footwear, think safety. If you can swing a pair of kayak boots - very well. Just be careful that if you go in the water, are the boots going to fill with water and become an anchor? Use that question as your bases for what you wear.
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Safety - Consider that as well. An inexpensive first aid kit is a good start. They don’t take up much room.
Lastly - Enjoy - they are great to fish with. Once you get your first ‘sleigh ride’ you will be addicted!
Sea Hunt BX22 Br
WS Tarpon 140
Thanks for all the help you guys. Can’t wait to get my yak and get out on the water! Any good places in the stono river or Ashley river? I live in west Ashley so that would be most convenient
Well, folks around here have a tendency to say “there are no fish in the Ashley” 
Lowcountry Kayak Anglers - http://www.lowcountrykayakanglers.com
Took the new kayak out yesterday for the first time just to get my feet wet (no pun intended) and took it out today to fish. Out for about 3 hours at high tide and outgoing. No action on mud minnows or spinner baits for reds. I’m out in a creek off the Stono close to the wappoo cut. Hopefully better luck tomorrow!