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The success of any kayak fishing expedition lies in how well you choose and organize your gear so that you’ll be prepared to land that big fish in any weather or water conditions.

Chances are you know exactly what fishing kayak accessories you need, we researched the market to make sure you’ll get the best-in-class product for each category.

We selected to review in this article top-of-the-line accessories for a complete performance kayak anglers kit, starting from the fishing kayak to the best battery kit, produced by leaders in the kayak fishing industry, like Old Town and YakAttack.

If you are a dedicated kayak angler or a pro, this comprehensive guide is for you.

Product

Details

Best Fishing Vessel

Sportsman BigWater

  • Manufacturer: Old Town Canoes
  • Weight: 122 pounds (55kg)

Best Transportation

MicroSport LowBed

  • Vehicle service type: Trailer
  • Material: Alloy Steel

Best Protection

Lure Angler

  • Liner Fabric: 200D Nylon
  • Closure Type: ‎Buckle, Zipper

Best Blades

Magic Angler

  • Blade Shape: Asymmetrical, slightly curved
  • Brand: ‎Carlisle Paddles

Best Mounting Option

Omega Pro Rod Holder

  • Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg)
  • Dimensions L x W x H: ‎‎12 x 12 x 3 inches

Best Fish Net

Bearclaw

  • Material: Aluminum, nylon
  • Manufacturer: Frabill

Best Kayak Crate

BlackPak Pro

  • Material: Stainless Steel, Rubber
  • Manufacturer: YakAttack

Best Visibility Flag

VisiCarbon Pro

  • Lamp life: 10,000+ hours
  • Material: carbon fiber tubing

Best Charger Kit

10-AH Pro Battery

  • Manufacturer: Nocqua Adventure Gear
  • Number of batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery

Best Sturdy Stick

YakStick Floating Stake

  • Manufacturer: YakGear
  • Size: 6 feet/182 cm

Gearing Up Your Fishing Kayak

Let’s get you geared up with the best fishing kayak kit. 

Here is the checklist with what you need in that kit so that you can easily get ready for your next kayak fishing adventure:

Checklist

  • A fully equipped fishing kayak
  • A trailer 
  • PFD (Personal Floating Device) fishing life jacket
  • A durable, strong, and lightweight kayak paddle
  • Professional Rod Holders
  • Bearclaw net
  • Fishing crate
  • Kayak Fishing Visibility Flag
  • Compact and portable battery and charger kit
  • Floating Stake-Out Stick
  • Best kayaking gloves

Best Kayak Fishing Accessories

So what are you waiting for? Read on and let’s go on a shopping spree!

1. Sportsman BigWater PDL 132

fishing kayak

If you are serious about kayak fishing, you need to get yourself a properly equipped kayak for this task to begin with.

Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 could be considered the Rolls Royce of fishing kayaks, specially designed for tournament fishing pros and open-water anglers. 

You’ll be able to effortlessly get to your fishing spot without paddling since the Sportsman sit-on-top kayak is pedal-powered. Its pedal propulsion is much less taxing for your body, allowing you to precisely control the boat, with instant forward and reverse paddling.

The pedal drive is removable for easy transport and you’ll need just a few seconds to install it. You’ll get a 5-year warranty for the pedal system, so you are covered up for many fishing seasons. 

Having the luxury of hands-free navigation and fishing, you’ll land the big fish you’ve always been waiting for. 

best fishing kayaks 2021

Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is fully equipped with handy features to make your fishing as efficient and convenient as possible!

You’ll be able to use a universal transducer mounting system, customizable accessory tracks, a custom tackle box, a sealed dry storage area in the bow, and  plenty of rod holders (including one forward-facing and two rear-facing flush mounted)

The kayak is stable to stand and cast, it has a better grip thanks to its cushioned EVA foam floor pads. Also, this feature helps to keep your feet dry when standing, very important during your long days on the river.

Speaking of comfort, you’ll be cruising at ease all day long, feeling cool in this kayak’s premium breathable seat, which provides great lumbar support and adjustable leg length. You’ll even have a cup holder for your favorite drink.

Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 it’s a great product, due to its high-quality design, maneuverability, versatility, and comfort features. All these make it an obvious choice for passionate kayak anglers who want to make the most of any fishing expedition.

Features

  • Manufacturer: Old Town Canoes and Kayaks
  • Weight: 122 pounds (55kg)
  • Style: Sit-on-top kayak
  • Maximum weight capacity: 500 pounds (226 kg)
  • Usable capacity for people and gear:  383 pounds (153 kg)
  • Size: 13 feet, 2 inches long; 36 inches wide; 117 pounds with drive
  • Propulsion: Pedal and paddle
  • Propulsion weight: 21-pound/ 9.5 kg pedal console
  • Material: Single Layer Polyurethane
  • Additional features: Breathable seat design with great lumbar support and adjustable leg length, universal transducer mounting system, customizable accessory tracks, large stern tank well, sealed dry storage area in the bow
  • Warranty: ‎Limited warranty hull, 5-year warranty PDL drive 

Sportsman BigWater PDL 132

The Price of “Sportsman BigWater PDL 132” varies, so check the latest price at

2. MicroSport LowBed Kayak Trailer

fishing kayaks

Now that you chose the best fishing kayak, let’s get you moving closer to the water. You’ll need a low-bed trailer for transporting it, together with all your fishing gear to the fishing spot.

Our recommendation is Malone MicroSport Low Bed Kayak Trailer, perfect for starting your fishing adventure due to its affordability, quality, and reliability.

The Malone trailer’s main advantage is its load bar support system which will help you load and unload your kayak in an easy and safe way.

The LowBed system works very well by lowering the bar height so that you’ll need a minimum lift of your kayak in order to transport it. All this process will be easy-peasy, thanks to its extra-long reinforced tongue with support skid and lift handle. 

 fishing kayaks

This trailer’s construction consists of a marine-grade pre-galvanized steel frame, weighing 197 pounds (89.3 kg).

With a load capacity of 800 pounds (362 kg), the Malone trailer is perfect for carrying your Old Town Sportsman BigWater kayak, which has a weight of 122 pounds (55kg) and a maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds (226 kg).

You’ll need about 3-4 hours to assemble it, try installing the tire wells before you mount the tires, the process should go smoother this way.

The manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty for this product.

Malone MicroSport Low Bed Kayak Trailer is an excellent product, offering great value, so you can’t go wrong by adding it to your gear.

Features

  • Vehicle service type: Trailer
  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Manufacturer: Malone Auto Racks
  • Weight: 197 pounds (89.3 kg)
  • Load Capacity: 800 pounds (362 kg)
  • Foldable: No
  • Size: 78-inch wide x 159 long, 78-inch steel cross rails
  • Warranty: 5 years 

MicroSport LowBed Kayak Trailer

The Price of “MicroSport LowBed Kayak Trailer” varies, so check the latest price at

3. Lure Angler

 fishing kayaks

As any experienced kayak angler knows, a PFD (Personal Floating Device) kayak life jacket is one of the most important pieces of your kayak fishing gear. 

Our choice as the best men’s life jacket for kayak fishing is Lure Angler, produced by Old Town Canoes & Kayaks. 

You’ll feel very comfortable wearing it on your Old Town Sportsman Kayak because it is specifically designed to integrate with the seating in Old Town water crafts.

The Lure Angler is designed for performance kayak anglers, providing you with all the features to keep you fishing in comfort for longer. 

The Lure’s quality construction it’s spot on: it is very lightweight and comfortable, allowing a full range of motion for your upper body. The shell is made of durable 240D ripstop nylon, while the liner fabric is 200S nylon and comfy mesh. 

This PFD will keep you cool in cold or warm weather. It provides excellent breathability, thanks to its AirComfort System, so you won’t get too hot even during your summer fishing trips. You’ll forget you are wearing it, which is a good indicator of any great gear.

This is a Type III life jacket, which means it is designed for conscious wearers with an imminent chance of rescue. Keep in mind that a Type III PFD  is not guaranteed to keep your face out of the water if you are unconscious.

 fishing kayaks

Lure Angler life jacket features an Integrated high back design making it very comfy and safe for tall kayak seats. It provides tons of zippered pockets (7 in total) to organize all your fishing gear. The two main pockets are a very good size, and the secondary pockets are well-placed and super helpful.

Furthermore, this PFD provides highly adjustable features: you can adjust its shoulder, waist, and side straps for different seasonal gear.

Lure Angler is a great option, lightweight and highly functional, offering ultimate comfort and safety for performance kayak anglers.

Features

  • Brand: Old Town Canoes & Kayaks
  • Life Vest Type: Type III
  • Foam Material: Lightweight Polyethylene (PE) and Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)
  • Shell Fabric: 240D ripstop nylon
  • Liner Fabric: 200D Nylon & Mesh
  • Closure Type: ‎Buckle, Zipper, Loop
  • Additional features: Adjustable shoulder, waist, and side straps, a high-back construction, 7 zippered pockets, AirComfort System 

Lure Angler

The Price of “Lure Angler” varies, so check the latest price at

4. Magic Angler Kayak Paddle

If you are looking for a sturdy, efficient, and lightweight paddle designed for kayak fishing, the Carlisle Magic Angler is your best choice. 

This paddle offers the perfect mix for any kayak angler: tough and durable glass-reinforced Polypropylene blades, strong enough to push away from the bank of a river or paddle out of some thick weeds while the fiberglass shaft is lightweight and flexible for smooth yet powerful strokes.

You can adjust also the slightly curved blades to have them a bit twisted for more efficiency in the water.

You’ll enjoy the angler-specific features this paddle offers: you can use the blades’ cutouts to free snagged lines and hooks or to retrieve the lure while the ruler on the shaft helps you measure the monsters you catch, ensuring your bragging rights.

 fish finder

The Magic Angler comes in four lengths – 230, 240, 250, and 260 centimeters. To get the perfect match, you’ll need to consider your torso length and the width of your kayak. At the end of the fishing day, you can break the paddle into two pieces for easy transport and storage.

We would suggest adding a wrap to the handle because it can get hot, causing you blisters. By wrapping the handle you’ll make the paddle much more comfortable.

This lightweight paddle is very responsive, well made, and looks fantastic. The Magic Angler It’s an excellent choice, offering efficiency and durability at a great value.

Features

  • Length: Two-piece, available in 230-, 240-, 250, and 260-centimeter lengths
  • Weight: 2.5 pounds (1.13 kg)
  • Material: Glass-reinforced Polypropylene Blades and Wrapped Fiberglass Shaft
  • Floatable: Yes
  • Ferrule System: Push-button
  • Blade Shape: Asymmetrical, slightly curved
  • Brand: ‎Carlisle Paddles
  • Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

Magic Angler Kayak Paddle

The Price of “Magic Angler Kayak Paddle” varies, so check the latest price at

5. Omega Pro Rod Holder

fishing pliers

Omega Pro Fishing Rod Holder is the best on the market for kayaks. 

It has a very sturdy but lightweight construction and is versatile enough to work with spinning, casting, almost any light to medium rod and reel, and even fly rods of all sizes. The number of reels you can fit on these fishing rod holders is unrivaled.

The Pro version comes with a 4-inch (10 cm) extension arm to help you get the reel higher off the water. 

The rod holder attaches to your kayak with the LockNLoad mounting system, using the patent-pending LockNLoad track base, the most advanced track mount ever created. 

This system is easy to use, offering you countless adjustability options. In the adjustment mode, you can rotate the mount in any direction, so you can adjust the holder to fit where you want your pole. This design helps you lock in the fishing rods, so they aren’t going anywhere when properly set.

The Omega Pro holders are also great for trolling to the side at an angle position away from the kayak. 

The construction allows you to remove the holder without moving the base that connects to the track. You can also reposition the holder on the base without taking it completely off. 

Another advantage is that the Omega Rod holder allows you to see the rod while you are paddling. It holds the rod away from your kayak so the lines don’t get tangled, and you won’t risk hitting the poles or the rod holder with the paddle.

This rod holder is an exceptional product, extremely versatile with heavy-duty construction. So you just can’t go wrong with the Omega Pro Fishing Rod Holder.

Features

  • Material: Plastic
  • Brand: YakAttack
  • Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg)
  • Dimensions L x W x H: ‎‎12 x 12 x 3 inches
  • Color: Desert Sand

Omega Pro Rod Holder

The Price of “Omega Pro Rod Holder” varies, so check the latest price at

6. Bearclaw

personal flotation devices

Any pro angler needs a reliable and robust net to ensure the catch lands safely and smoothly. The best in class for this task is the Frabill Bearclaw, a best fishing net.

With its efficient one-handed design, you’ll scoop up the fish hassle-free. You’ll easily hold on to the net with one hand while you’ll be able to grab the fishing tools with the other.

It allows you to do nighttime fishing, thanks to the built-in light module, placed where the handle meets the net. This feature has 3 settings, it has a reflective hoop, and it’s very bright. Keep in mind that it requires batteries which are not included.

Another super useful feature is the snag-proof fish slide, to help prevent your hooks and your catch gills from snagging on it. If you need more reach, you can simply slide the extending handle to full extension.

kayak fishing accessory

The folding ability of the Bearclaw makes this net ideal for your fishing kayak. You can easily store it under your seat as required. If more reach is required, I simply slide the extending handle to full extension.

The manufacturer offers a 19 years warranty for this product, which says a lot about its durability.

Bearclaw’s excellent design and high-quality construction make it perfect for your kayak fishing. You can count on it to get that big fish in the boat.

Features 

  • Material: Aluminum, nylon
  • Manufacturer: Frabill
  • Weight: 2.7 pounds (1.22 kg)
  • Hoop Size: 14-inch x 18 inch/ (35.5 cm – 45.7 cm) | Net Depth: 11 inch/28 cm | Handle 18 inch/45.7 cm
  • Fishing technique: ‎Spinning, Casting, Fly
  • Additional features: One-Handed Design, folds for easy storage, integrated light module
  • Warranty: ‎19 Year Manufacturers Warranty

Bearclaw

The Price of “Bearclaw” varies, so check the latest price at

7. BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate

kayak fishing accessory

Our choice for the best hard-sided kayak fishing crate is BlackPak Pro produced by YakAttack. 

The BlackPak Pro was completely redesigned and it comes with countless upgraded features: it is 25% lighter than the previous model, it is now fully riggable, and features a hinged lid. 

Its sturdy construction delivers amazing rigidity with minimal weight 

What makes this fishing crate great is its exceptional versatility and best-in-class functionality. It’s easy to change it up, to attach other fishing accessories to it.

 You can totally customize it for your needs, thanks to the innovative GridLoc 2D mounting system, which offers countless attachment points on the inside and outside of the panels. You can also keep your gear dry inside.

kayak cart for professional kayak angler

The latches are designed to be opened and closed with one hand. You’ll easily be able to access the box when placed behind your seat.

The rubber feet make the crate seem like a part of the kayak, nothing bouncing around, securing it even in the harshest of marine conditions,

The  box comes with three TetherTube rod holders that work really well with the integrated removable hooks

The BlackPak Pro is available in two sizes, 13 inches x 16 inches (33 cm x 40 cm) and a 16 inches x 16 inches (40 cm x 40 cm)

The crate is easy to assemble by pressing the panels together and installing it with the stainless steel screws (included in the package).

The BlackPak Pro is a solid product, great for organizing your fishing needs. It is a super quality piece of fishing gear made in the USA, with a lifetime warranty. It will last for years, even in harsh fishing conditions, so it’s an obvious choice for any performance kayak angler.

Features

  • Material: Stainless Steel, Rubber
  • Manufacturer: YakAttack
  • Dimensions: 13 inches/33 cm Lenght x 13 inches/33 cm Wide  x 13 inches/33 cm Height
  • Additional features: Water resistant, included rod holders, rubberized feet
  • Warranty:  Lifetime guarantee
  • Weight:  6.9 lbs./3.1 kg without rod holder TetherTubes and  8.2 lbs/3.7 kg with the included three TetherTubes

BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate

The Price of “BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate” varies, so check the latest price at

8. VisiCarbon Pro

fishing tackle

One tiny, but an important accessory for your kayak fishing safety is a visibility flag. 

Our recommendation is VISICarbon Pro 360 Degree with LED, produced by  YakAttack. The design of the VisiCarbon visibility flag is simple yet versatile.

The flag pole is made of carbon fiber, which makes it ultralight, but sturdy and stiff at the same time. 

The fact that it is compact is a plus: you can fold the pole similar to the tent poles, while the flag itself doubles as the bag to store it away. 

The light is bright, ensuring you 100 hours of visibility on 3 AA batteries ( which are included), while the lamp life is guaranteed for more than 10.000 hours.

 fishing tackle

The attachment system of VisiCarbon allows you to easily and quickly install it or remove it. You’ll get in the package the  Mighty Mount and Hardware you’ll need for a hustle-free installation.

A flag with light is a must-have for your safety, and VisiCarbon will do a great job at keeping you visible at all times on your kayak fishing trips.

Features

  • Dimensions: 48 inches/121 cm long deployed, 14 inches/35.5 cm collapsed (collapsed unit stores inside flag)
  • Battery life: 100 hours on 3 AA batteries (included)
  • Lamp life: 10,000+ hours
  • Material: carbon fiber tubing
  • Manufacturer: YakAttack
  • Additional features: Includes Mighty Mount and Hardware

VisiCarbon Pro

The Price of “VisiCarbon Pro” varies, so check the latest price at

9. 10-AH Pro Battery Power Kit

kayak fishing clothing

An important tool to stay connected wherever you are while kayak fishing is a good battery and charger kit. 

Your perfect companion to help power your fishing adventures is Nocqua Pro Power Water-Resistant Battery and Charger Kit, which includes 1 Lithium Ion battery, a 110V battery charger, a 12V 10Ah NOCQUA battery, a ballistic nylon camo sleeve, and a component cable.

This very compact and portable battery kit is compatible with GPS, Depth and Fish Finders, and most 12V Electronics. You can use it to power Raymarine, Garmin, Lowrance, Humminbird, and Action Sports Cameras items.

The kit is lightweight and has the perfect size to fit in a small dry hatch.

It will be a piece of cake for you to install it anywhere and easily charge it. It is also very convenient to disconnect it and have it inside to recharge. 

kayak cart for professional kayak angler

The Nocqua Pro is completely water resistant, thanks to the silicone-sealed battery and water-tight connection port.

You can count on it to power your fish finders all day long, and can even go strong after a few days of usage.

The versatility, convenience, and reliability of Nocqua Pro battery make it an excellent choice for any dedicated kayak angler.

Features

  • Included components: ‎110V Battery Charger, 12V 10Ah NOCQUA Battery, Ballistic Nylon Camo Sleeve, Component cable
  • Manufacturer: Nocqua Adventure Gear
  • Number of batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery 
  • Additional features:  Water-Resistant Silicone Sealed Battery, the charging kit includes a wall outlet charger

10-AH Pro Battery Power Kit

The Price of “10-AH Pro Battery Power Kit” varies, so check the latest price at

10. YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick

kayak cart for professional kayak angler,

Last, but not least on your kayak fishing gear: you need a sturdy stake-out stick to push your kayak out when you get stuck.

Our recommendation isYakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick. Its length –  6 foot/182 cm – is perfect for getting you out on the flat water. 

This solid fiberglass YakStick works great, whether you’ll be using it standing or mounted on your kayak. The crutch handle makes it really easy to use.

fishing accessory

The only downside is the fact that you can’t break it down into two pieces for easier storage and transport.

YakAttack is one of the most reliable companies when it comes to kayak fishing, so you can’t go wrong choosing their YakStick, so we highly recommend it/to go for it.

Features

  • Manufacturer: YakGear
  • Size: 6 feet/182 cm
  • Overall length:  75 inches/190 cm 
  • Diameter: – 7/8 inches (18/20 cm)
  • Material: Fiberglass
  • Weight:  22oz/0.62 kg

YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick

The Price of “YakStick Floating Stake-Out Stick” varies, so check the latest price at

FAQs

What Should I Bring for Kayak Fishing?

Besides the actual angling gear and the checklist reviewed above for kayak fishing in this article, consider adding: 

  • Waterproof first-aid kit
  • Compass
  • Whistle
  • Kayak Anchor
  • Back up fishing paddle 
  • Personal items in a dry bag: phone, sunscreen, hat, water, extra fishing shirts 

Are Shorter Rods Better for Kayak Fishing?

You’ll need rods between 6.5 feet/183 cm and 8 feet/244 cm. Take also into consideration where you’ll be casting, in the open waters you’ll need casting distance, while for heavy cover, you’ll need casting accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have your best kayak fishing gear ready, enjoy your next fishing trip adventures, and don’t forget to have fun while landing those water monsters. There are also special kayaking boots on the market to keep you comfortable.

And here’s a secret tip for you, get yourself a hip fanny pack to keep your essentials safe while out on the waters.

Wishing you a happy adventure!

Categories: GearKayaking

Laura Vrabie

My name is Laura Vrabie, and I consider myself a wonderer through this amazing journey called life. I love life in all its aspects, I always see the bright side of things. My love affair with extreme sports started with snowboarding about 15 years ago, in my home town in the Carpathian mountains. But everything changed about 5 years ago when I got to try a water sport that looked so fun, kitesurfing, during one boring summer day. I got totally hooked on the feelings of freedom, joy and pure happiness kitesurfing brought into my life Since then I started to chase summer all year round, following the wind & the waves, living as close as possible to the ocean. This way I got to try and enjoy all kinds of water sports: surfing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking. I founded KiteFest (kitesurfing festival & events) as a way to share the love for the kitesurfing lifestyle and to help everybody feel welcome in the riders' community. My quest is to discover and explore the best kitesurfing spots in the world and share them with like minded people. So far I've experienced kitesurfing in Zanzibar (Paje), Turkey (Gokceada, Akyaka, Urla), Greece (Limnos, Ionian Islands, Cyclades Island), Vietnam (Mui Ne), Philippines (Mindoro Island), Dominican Republic (Cabarete, Buen Hombre). And there are so many new locations and adventures on my wish list! I am really excited I got the chance to share in writing the stories and adventures with you, Extreme Nomads readers. I will be happy to guide you through these action sports and help you to enjoy your ride.

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