Kayak bass fishing is a great way to get out on the water and fish for some bass. With the right gear, you can reel in some big fish with ease. There are many different ways to kayak for bass, so find one that works best for you and your style of fishing.
Bass fishermen often think of kayaks as a great way to fish for largemouth and smallmouth bass. However, there are many fishing tips and techniques that can be used when fishing in a kayak that is just as effective as when fishing in a traditional boat.
In this article, we’ll be discussing a compilation of do’s and don’ts for bass fishing from a kayak, along with the top 5 spots for kayak bass fishing.
Do’s And Don’ts
The kayak has many advantages over traditional fishing methods, and you can go virtually anywhere on the water. You can cruise past lily pads, hug the bank, or slide between tree stumps.
By knowing where the bass is hiding, you can increase your odds of catching them! Look for areas where the depth changes, edges of aquatic vegetation, and partially submerged objects provide good cover for the fish.
Let’s take your kayak bass fishing to the next level.
An artificial lure is often the most effective for catching bass. It looks like prey and smells like prey, which can make the bass attracted to it.
Trolling for bass in a kayak can be a productive way to catch fish. By trolling, you are using your kayak’s motor to move the boat back and forth in a pattern, which will attract fish.
Bass is particularly attracted to moving objects, so by trolling; you are increasing your chances of catching one.
Here are a few things that you should keep in mind for bass fishing from a kayak;
Find Hidden Horseshoe Lakes
Besides the lack of a draft, fishing from a kayak is easier in skinny water. Also, you can fish in areas that big boats can’t access. Besides, you can also fish in small creeks and rivers. You can find hidden horseshoe lakes and other spots that are untapped by regular fishing boats. You’ll be surprised at the size of the bass that you catch in a kayak!
Don’t Overfish
Don’t overfish. Bass are usually a bit more aggressive when you’re moving fast. When you’re fishing in a kayak, it’s vital to use the right lure for the conditions.
If you want to catch big bass, you should try a topwater. You should also try a wacky rig or a Texas rigged lure.
Learn When To Go For Kayak Bass Fishing
When you are fishing for bass, the best time to fish is right after rain. This time of year is very powerful for bass, as higher water levels push them from their nesting areas.
It’s the perfect time to use a kayak, but be sure to exercise caution. If you don’t want to disturb the bass, then you should try to paddle slowly instead. It is the best way to make sure you catch a big one.
Don’t Add Too Many Attachments.
Adding unnecessary attachments can cause overload, especially for kayak fishing journeys. Therefore, do not attach avoidable accessories if particularly for kayak bass fishing trips.
The only real downside of adding electronics to a kayak is the weight. Depending on your needs, you’ll likely need a 12-volt battery with a 10-amp-hour capacity.
Pick The Right Equipment
If you want to try bass fishing from a kayak, you’ll need the appropriate equipment and safety gear.
For starters, make sure that you have a fish finder and a life jacket. Besides, you need to know the local state fishing and kayaking regulations.
Second, you’ll need your fishing gear, including soft plastics and lures. Remember to bring a flashlight as well.
You can take some awesome photographs of the fish that you catch in your kayak. To do so, you should angle your kayak so that the sun is at your back.
Don’t forget to bring your tackle
Don’t forget to bring your tackle. Bass often sit in grassy areas. A kayak is a very small boat, so be sure to take some extras with you, such as lures. Besides, a kayak fishing crate is also essential to keep everything organized. If you can’t fish while paddling, don’t bring too many accessories, or you might end up in an awkward position.
Learn To Anchor
Anchor your kayak to a rock or log for stability. Kayaks weigh less than most boats, so anchoring your kayak is essential. You should never paddle while fishing like the motion will disturb the fish and scare them away. Don’t use a line that is too short or too long. If you do catch a fish, you should hold it away from its head.
Do Not Disturb The Bass
Another important aspect of kayak fishing is stealth. Any disturbance to the waters could spook a bass. Therefore, try not to make noise or hit your kayak with the lure. Also, keep the paddles in place so as not to disturb the bass. Moreover, avoid using hard hookset lures, such as frog lures and extra-wide-gap heavy-wire worms.
Choose a lure carefully
When choosing a lure, be sure to pick a lure with a high visibility color, as fish tend to squirm around these types of baits. Landing nets are useful for scooping up fish, but they occupy valuable space and tangle with everything. If you’re fishing in heavy cover, weedless frogs may be an excellent choice.
Don’t Forget You Floating Device
While kayak bass fishing is an enjoyable activity, it is vital to protect yourself and your gear with a life jacket. Life jackets are a mandatory safety feature of your kayak, so be sure to purchase one that fits snugly and can hold all of your gear.
These jackets come in different styles, so you can choose the one that works best for your specific needs. You can find ones that include pockets to hold your fishing gear.
Dress Accordingly To The Trip
As with any outdoor activity, proper dress is essential for kayaking. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and check the radar before setting out on the water. The biggest threat is incoming weather. Don’t forget to bring rain gear.
The second biggest danger is the sun. Wear sunscreen or protective clothing to protect yourself from harmful U.V. rays. Hats and gloves are must-have accessories for protection from sun damage. You can have a look at our take on what to wear for kayaking and fishing for more details.
Don’t forget to keep a Scupper Plugs
Don’t forget to keep a scupper plug in your gear well. Bass are attracted to weeds that grow above the water’s surface, and hydrilla and milfoil are great hideouts for bass. The water temperature drops, and the bass move to deeper cover. It’s important to fish early and late, as the top water bite is less likely to produce much fish.
Wrap The Line
A proper angle on a kayak is crucial to successfully catch a fish. To increase the chance of catching bass from a kayak, anglers should carefully wrap the line to prevent any possible injuries.
Larger fish can be lifted by the leg in the water. Holding the fish close to the body can add several pounds to the catch. You can also use a rag to cover the fish’s head.
Never Leave The Boat
Lastly, never leave the boat unattended while fishing. Even if you’re fishing in shallow water, a kayak’s weight will cause it to move. If you don’t want to lose your catch, make sure you anchor your kayak to keep it secure. Otherwise, you’ll risk losing a good catch because of the disturbance. Also, don’t paddle while fishing like this; it can scare the fish away.
The 6 Best Kayak Bass Fishing Spots In the United States
When you’re looking for the best kayak bass fishing spots in the United States, there are many choices. In this article, we’ll cover the Eleven Point River, Lake Gregory, Lake Estes, and Caddo lakes. Each of these spots has something unique to offer, so you’re sure to find a fish to hook. And don’t forget to try out all of these fishing locations if you’re thinking about going for your next kayak fishing adventure.
Eleven Point River
There are many advantages to paddling the Eleven Point River from a kayak. The river is relatively short, making it one of the most convenient kayak fishing spots in the country.
For instance, you can avoid the crowds at the campground by paddling on the river at sunrise or sunset.
Moreover, if you’re on a tight budget, you can rent a kayak from a commercial outfitter, which will give you all the information you need to catch bass from a kayak.
The river flows through the Mark Twain National Forest and is protected under the Wild and Scenic rivers act. The water level on this river is usually adequate, even during periods of drought.
But it can also quickly flood during times of excessive rainfall. Although the Eleven Point River is navigable year-round, it can get very cold during winters. However, with the right gear and good paddling skills, it can be a wonderful experience.
Caddo Lake
Another excellent kayak bass fishing spot in the United States is Caddo Lake, a massive lake spanning 26,800 acres in the heart of Louisiana.
The lake is home to 90 species of fish, as well as many turtles, snakes, and the occasional alligator. The lake is also home to 47 species of mammals, including beavers, nutria, white-tailed deer, feral hogs, and squirrels. Have a look at our take on kayaking around the gators for more details.
It has an abundance of aquatic vegetation and cypress trees that make it an ideal place to paddle a kayak. The lake is relatively shallow, with maximum depths of only 20 feet.
Bass typically spawn in March, and post-spawn patterns extend through May. In this pristine water body, 95 percent of the surface is covered with cypress trees.
One of the best times to visit Caddo Lake is in the spring or fall when the water is warmer. During this time, anglers should use jigs or soft jerk baits and fish around docks.
The best docks reach into deep water near the main-lake point. The upper arms of the lake, meanwhile, have a more diverse landscape.
They are more densely forested with vegetation and vast areas of standing timber and flooded brush. However, fluctuations in water levels can be a challenge.
The area’s Spanish moss-draped bald cypress trees make it impossible to miss the local wildlife.
To access the lake, anglers must first park at Wilson Fox Park, which is located at the Texas-Louisiana border.
The lake is a popular destination for kayakers and canoers. Besides, it’s home to an award-winning Texas largemouth bass, as well as spotted and white bass. However, it’s best to launch at Big Cypress Bayou Boat Landing, located at the highway 43 bridge.
Lake Gregory Bass Fishing From A Kayak
If you’re looking for a great place to go kayak bass fishing, you should check out Lake Gregory in Michigan. This lake is home to one of the top kayak fishing tournament trails in the nation, and Gregory has been making headlines with his consistent top finishes.
He currently has the highest average finish in the K.B.F. National Championship, and has finished four tournaments in a row in the top 10. Gregory attributes his latest win in the B.O.S. series to sticking to his plan. He was hoping to catch two big fish in his second location, and he did by catching an 18 1/4-inch fish and a 21-inch bass on the first day.
Lake Gregory hosts a variety of events throughout the summer. There is a Trout Derby competition, a massive fireworks display, a barbecue for Independence Day weekend, a luau for Labor Day weekend, and a sand sculpture contest.
Besides, Lake Gregory is a beautiful spot for kayaking. This mountain lake is home to a large population of native fish, including bass, pike, and trout.
Private boats are not allowed on Lake Gregory, but kayak anglers can rent boats and use electric trolling motors.
You should use a kayak trolling motor, as these are the most effective when kayaking.
You can find a boat rental in the area, but it is best to rent one that comes with its own motor.
And if you’re bringing kids, you should consider signing up for the FitKid in Every Park program, which allows kids to enjoy the lake for two hours. This program also includes obstacle courses and fishing lessons.
Lake Susquehanna
If you are looking for a great place to catch bass, consider a kayak trip on Lake Susquehanna. The Susquehanna River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, dating back to the Appalachian Mountains.
While the Susquehanna River is renowned for its large population of smallmouth bass, you’ll also find other species, including walleye, catfish, pickerel, and muskie. In addition to bass, there are other species, including northern pike, walleye, and catfish.
This spring-fed river is one of the best places in the state for smallmouth bass. You can also target other species in the river, such as carp and walleye.
And if you can find them, you’re sure to catch some! When fishing on this river, you should use topwater lures, subsurface lures, and jerk baits.
The river is home to some fantastic wildlife, including a rookery of black-crowned night herons and great egrets. You can also find beavers and smallmouth bass here.
You’ll want to take plenty of bait, too, since you’ll likely find a few big ones. This area also hosts the largest population of nesting great egrets and black-crowned night herons.
The upper Susquehanna River is known for its riffle, pool, and run configuration. Walleye typically inhabit the deeper pools and emerge to feed in the riffles and run at night.
Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers are commonly used by local anglers. Nightcrawlers are also an excellent bait. Channel cats and walleye are common species found in this area.
Lake Estes Bass Fishing From A Kayak
If you want to go kayak fishing, you can find a lot of great places to try this. One of the most comfortable places is on the waters of Cool Mountain Lake. Whether you’re looking for a quiet lake or a bustling fishing town, the Shenandoah River has a variety of options. Many of these kayak fishing spots offer easy access to boat launches, and many offer paddles.
The Colorado town of Lake Estes is a great kayaking spot. The lake is about 60 miles from Denver and is situated in Rocky Mountain National Park.
It is perfect for brown trout enthusiasts, and it is popular with all levels of anglers. You can fish for a variety of fish species, from smallmouth to largemouth.
There are also picnic areas and barbecue areas, and you can even rent bikes to explore the lake’s trails.
Black Warrior River Kayak Bass Fishing
The Black Warrior River is one of northern America’s best-kept fishing secrets. It’s been named the country’s best-kept boating secret, but it’s not for beginners.
Although the water looks calm, it’s actually a mixed bag of different types of water. The Black Warrior River has plenty of rapids, including a class II wave train known as Schooner Bend.
The Black Warrior River also runs through a wildlife preserve called Jims Landing.
You will love the scenery and the wildlife as you kayak the Black Warrior River. You may see a flattened musk turtle, black warrior waterdogs, and different kinds of mussels.
You will also be treated to multiple species of fish. Despite the warm winter, you will find plenty of freshwater fish to feed on. They have plenty of shad and eggs to eat.
The Black Warrior River is home to many coal mines. The majority of these mines are operated under a general permit called Nationwide Permit 21.
The permit does not take local conditions into account, does not study the impacts of mining, and does not allow for public input. In short, the Black Warrior is one of the 10 best kayak bass fishing spots in the U.S.
The Ultimate Guide To Kayak Bass Fishing
Kayak bass fishing is a popular way to catch bass in many lakes and rivers throughout the country. Bass can be caught on a variety of lures and techniques, but the basics of catching bass in a kayak are the same. The following guide will help you with everything you need to know to start catching bass from your kayak.
How to Find Bass For Kayak Fishing
One advantage of kayak fishing is its stealthy approach. You can easily move from bank to bank, slither between tree stumps, and cruise through lily pads. But what do you need to know to maximize your success?
Understanding bass habitat is an essential component of kayak fishing. To find bass, pay attention to changes in depth, land that pinches the water body, and edges of aquatic vegetation.
First of all, choose a place that offers great access to smaller bodies of water. Kayak fishing allows you to reach more shallow water than bank fishing does.
Whether you’re looking for big bass or a small one, kayak fishing has many advantages. You’ll be able to catch more bass and have stealth.
In addition to your kayak, you’ll need a life jacket, soft plastics, and lures.
Once you’ve spotted a spot with a lot of grass, it’s time to cast. If you’ve never fished for bass in this environment, you’ll need to practice casting from a kayak to perfect your technique.
It’s best to start out slowly and build up your comfort level as you fish. When casting, make sure to keep the line in a straight line and do not extend the length of the rod. A rod length of one-rod length is the right amount to control a large fish.
Kayak Bass Fishing Is An Art Of Stability And Balance
Kayak bass fishing is the art of balance and stability, but there are some tips that can help you get started. First, make sure you have a stable kayak.
There are two types of stability, primary and secondary. Primary stability refers to how stable your kayak is at rest, while secondary stability refers to the amount of tilt or wobble before it tips over.
However, both are important for stability and safety.
When fishing from a kayak, angle it so that the weight of the fish is evenly distributed over both sides of the craft. This will help keep the kayak from capsizing.
Also, angle it so that it takes the brunt of the hookset force. The left side of your kayak is the least stable, and the right side is the strongest. Those two features work together to help you stay stable while fishing.
Develop Paddling Skills
One of the most important skills for bass fishing from a kayak is paddling skills. While kayaking is easy with two hands, it takes some practice and skill to paddle with one hand.
The basic forward stroke involves putting the paddle shaft in the water and using the entire upper body to push through.
Whether you plan to fish from a kayak on a calm lake or a rapid, you should become familiar with the basic strokes to make your kayaking experience as productive as possible.
Practice Casting Techniques For Kayak Bass Fishing
Once you have a basic understanding of paddle techniques, you can practice casting techniques and learn new ones.
Casting from a kayak is not difficult, but it takes practice. Start out slowly and gradually increase your confidence and accuracy. Fishing in shallow water is fine, but don’t cast far if you aren’t familiar with the technique.
If possible, fish with a friend or partner, or use a kayak with a trailer. It will also prevent a lot of mistakes.
Remember that if your kayak flips over, you need to paddle back to shore. If you have trouble with your technique, you should learn how to swim and regain balance.
You’ll need to practice casting skills, as well as adjusting your position on the water. Practicing the correct technique will also make the experience easier and more enjoyable.
Fish Finder Matters When Kayak Fishing For Bass
If you’re planning on kayak bass fishing, one of the most important pieces of equipment to have with you is a fish finder. These devices can help you find fish and mark key fishing locations.
Fish finders can also show you the depth, temperature, and underwater structure of a lake, which is vital for bass jigging. And, of course, these devices can be extremely useful for finding the right bait.
In conclusion, kayak bass fishing is an excellent way to get close to the fish and have a lot of fun. The key to success is finding the right spot and using the right bait. With a little practice, anyone can enjoy this exciting sport. So get out there and kayak bass fish!
