As Kayak Fishing continues to gain popularity, investing in the right accessories can significantly enhance your experience on the water. Whether it’s for convenience, safety, or just plain comfort, these accessories are worth checking out. Here’s our list of the Top 7 Kayak Fishing Accessories for 2023 that should be on every angler’s radar.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- YakAttack DoubleHeader with Dual RotoGrip Paddle Holders
- YakAttack MultiMount Cup Holder
- YakAttack GT Cleat XL, Track Mount Line Cleat
- EGO LARGE 22-DEEP RUBBER NET HEAD
- Simms Dry Creek Z Backpack
- Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses with ChromaPop Glass Polarized Green Mirror Lens
- Fishing Hat with a Dark Color under Visor
- Conclusion
Introduction
Gear up for an unparalleled kayak fishing experience in 2023! Accessories are more than just optional extras; they are often necessities that add value to your trip. Let’s jump right into our curated list.
YakAttack DoubleHeader with Dual RotoGrip Paddle Holders
Features and Benefits
- Dual Holders: Securely holds two paddles or fishing rods.
- Quick Access: Easy and quick storage and retrieval.
- Durability: Made with high-quality materials to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Multi-functionality, saves space, easy to install.
- Cons: May be pricey for some budgets, limited to YakAttack gear tracks.
Why I like It
I sight fish a lot in gin clear water and I have found the slightest noise or vibration can cause fish to spook. Transitioning from paddle to fishing rod was always a challenge upon sighting a fish. Trying to put your paddle down securely without making a sound is hard. This mount helps big time! Its is the quietest way to store my paddle that I have ever found. Your paddle never hits the inside of you kayak so all the thumps and bumps when putting your paddle down are gone. It easily pops in a out and for added security it also has bungie loops that will add another layer of security. Out of all the things I have attached to my kayaks this is number one Kayak Fishing Accessory I own!
YakAttack MultiMount Cup Holder
Features and Benefits
- Versatility: Holds your beverage or small tackle items.
- Ease of Use: Quick and simple mounting on most track systems.
- Material: Made from UV-resistant, high-density plastic.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Durable, versatile, easy to install and remove.
- Cons: Cup size limitations, may not be suitable for all kayak designs.
Why I like It
I like to keep things simple and when I first installed this it was for hydration. But like most things as I used it the function changed and it turned into a third hand. First I found myself hanging the lure I just cut off on the rim while I tied on the new one. Then when my sent bottle kept sliding under my chair I put it in the cup holder temporarily with the idea I needed a better place for it. Will fast forward a few more kayak fishing trips and now my “cup holder” stores all my essential items I use the most. Depending on what and how I am fishing this cup holder is great for holding lures, forceps, fish scent, pliers, bug spray, sun screen etc. On top of that, its track mountable so I can move it to several deferent tactical positions making it one of the most versatile kayak fishing accessory I own.
YakAttack GT Cleat XL, Track Mount Line Cleat
Features and Benefits
- Easy Anchoring: Enables quick and easy anchoring or tying off.
- Compatibility: Works with most track systems.
- Material: Constructed from UV-resistant, high-impact nylon.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Durable, easy to install, versatile in usage.
- Cons: Can be a bit large for smaller kayaks, limited to track mounting.
Why I like It
It gets rid of the old anchor trolley that never works well and creates a quick release system that is simple and rarely fails. I tie a piece of paracord to my bow handle and another to the stern. Both then get wrapped on a cleat with a single half hitch. I then use a stainless steel snap hook on the end of my stake out pole and anchor lines. Depending on which way I want to face (towards/away from current/wind) I will hook onto the bow or stern lines. Then when I find myself needing a quick release during the fight I can quickly undo the half hitch and the weight of the snap hook will slide off the paracord line setting me free.
Note: you want to add a float to your anchor line or the whole thing will end up on the bottom. Second, you also have to navigate around the dangling paracord when fighting the fish. It is not a major obstacle and I have not lost a fish because of it, but I would be lying if I said it had never gotten in the way. What I can tell you is this set up has enabled me to land much bigger fish because I was able to break free much faster and I will never go back to the old way. My quick release anchor system is my best diy kayak fishing accessory.
EGO LARGE 22-DEEP RUBBER NET HEAD
Features and Benefits
- Fish-Friendly: Rubber net minimizes harm to fish.
- Large Size: 22-inch depth accommodates larger catches.
- Durability: Constructed to withstand heavy use.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Fish-friendly, durable, deep enough for bigger catches.
- Cons: May be bulky for some kayak setups, relatively higher price point.
Why I like It
Big mouth Short handle. Having these two features gives you the functionality of a big boat net and the dexterity of a trout stream landing net. More importantly, its lighter and easier to store. I found after years of having my net always in the way the short handle allows me to tuck it away preventing tangles with my line while fishing. The short handle reduces the torque on your wrist as you try to one-hand a fat sally. Netting is faster and more accurate with the short handle making it my most useful kayak fishing accessory.
Simms Dry Creek Z Backpack
Features and Benefits
- Waterproof: Keeps your gear dry with waterproof zippers and material.
- Storage: Multiple compartments for optimal organization.
- Comfort: Ergonomic shoulder straps and back padding.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Waterproof, spacious, comfortable for extended use.
- Cons: Higher price point, may be overkill for shorter trips.
Why I like It
For forty years I have been buying fishing gear only to find out that I use about 10% of it 90% of the time. So now I only focus on what I need and not what I “might need”. Having a single bag with this 10% ready to go anytime anywhere allows me to get on the water faster because I am always packed and ready to go. I also like everything in a soft bag so the deck of my kayak doesn’t look like a yard sale. Additionally when (not if) I capsize everything is in one waterproof bag. Lastly, I also use this bag when I wade, am a guest on a boat, take a charter or travel. The bag is a bit on the expensive side, but SIMMS is a high quality brand. Out of all the gear I have my SIMMS stuff holds up so you at least get quality that matches the price tag. I expect to have this bag for years and years making this the my workhorse kayak fishing accessory.
Smith Guide’s Choice Sunglasses with ChromaPop Glass Polarized Green Mirror Lens
Features and Benefits
- ChromaPop Lens: Enhanced clarity and natural color.
- Polarization: Reduces glare and improves vision on water.
- Durability: Made with rugged material to withstand the elements.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Enhanced vision, reduces eye fatigue, stylish.
- Cons: Expensive, may not fit all face shapes comfortably.
Why I like It
Of course we all know the benefits to wearing sunglasses out in the bright sun but when fishing you need to get into the details. Depending on what you are doing lens color can make a big deference. So when it comes to inshore fishing on the west coast of Florida I find the green lens really brings out the details when sight fishing for snook and redfish. They also work great near shore when trying to sight tarpon and triple tails. I have owned Maui Jim, Costa Del Mar and now Smith. All are good brands but I find Smith to be just a step above the other two when it comes to being on the water. (they also have more options of big heads LOL). But they just are not for fishing. They are a high end everyday pair of sunglasses making them my most used kayak fishing accessory.
Fishing Hat with a Dark Color under Visor
Features and Benefits
- Sun Protection: Protects against harmful UV rays.
- Dark Under Visor: Reduces glare from the water.
- Material: Breathable fabric for all-day comfort.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Effective sun protection, reduces glare, comfortable.
- Cons: Limited style options, may not fit all head sizes.
Certainly! Here’s a new “Bonus” section that you can add to the end of your existing blog post about the top 7 kayak fishing accessories for 2023.
Why I like It
If you never wore a hat with a dark brim you have to try it. The amount of glare you get from the reflection from your hat’s bill is crazy. Basically the sun bounces off the water, up into your face and illuminates the bottom of your hat. This illumination creates a reflection on the back side of your sunglasses creating glare. You can say a black bill on your hat is like wearing eye black while playing sports.
Bonus: GOODSMANN Kayak Light
As a special bonus, we’re introducing the GOODSMANN Kayak Light—a game-changer for those who love to fish in low-light conditions or are brave enough to tackle the waters at night.
Features and Benefits
- High-Intensity LED: Provides a bright and wide-reaching beam for improved visibility.
- Waterproof: Designed to withstand the harsh conditions of marine environments.
- Ease of Installation: Quick and simple to install on various kayaks, ensuring you’re never in the dark.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: High visibility, easy installation, waterproof, and durable.
- Cons: May require additional battery power, can be considered an extra item that might not be necessary for daytime fishing.
Why It’s Worth It
There are times when fishing opportunities present themselves as the sun goes down or before it rises. For these scenarios, having a reliable light source is invaluable. The GOODSMANN Kayak Light provides not only safety but also convenience, making it easier to manage your gear and navigate through dark waters.
Why I like It
Its small and can go anywhere. I have even made a pole mount out of 3/4 pvc. I used a heat gun to soften one end while I pushed the light in to form the shape. On the other end I glued and endcap that had a t-bolt set up for my tracks. It works like a champ and is 1/4 the cost of the big kayak pole lights. At the end of the day any kayak fishing accessory that can save your life should make any must have list.
Kayak Fishing Accessory Conclusion
The kayak fishing landscape is continuously evolving, and 2023 promises to bring innovative accessories to make your trips more enjoyable and efficient. From paddle holders to fishing nets and stylish yet functional apparel, these top 7 accessories should find a place in every kayak angler’s setup.
Gear up and get ready for some fantastic fishing adventures in 2023!
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