5 Pro Tips For Using A Hobie Fishing Kayak

Kayak fishing has been increasingly popular through the years. From the traditional kayaks, they have evolved into more efficient vessels. One of the modern and go-to options of these is the Hobie kayak. Some of these kayaks have paddles, while others are pedaled, making them ideal for fishing.  

Suppose you’re planning to buy and use a Hobie fishing kayak anytime soon. In that case, you may need to know some professional tips and tricks to make the experience more manageable. In addition, it’d help you catch more fish while safely gliding across the waters. For that purpose, here’s an article to guide you. So, read on!  

• Practice Pedaling And Paddling

Pedaling and paddling are two of the basic skills you need to be adept with to master kayak fishing. These skills could help you maneuver your boat correctly and keep it in balance despite heavy movements.  

Since most Hobie kayaks are either pedaled or paddled, having these skills could make your fishing better. You may start with sit-on-top Hobie kayaks since they’re wide and more stable than other types. You may click here to choose from among the Hobie kayaks ideal for paddling or pedaling.  

In paddling, the rule of thumb is holding the paddle’s shaft with thumbs and forefingers, forming rings for proper gripping. Yet, don’t forget to loosen your grip so you can paddle more manageably. In pedaling, maintain an upright position and set your feet on the pedals conveniently. You may need to paddle and pedal to push through the swells in rough waters. Always go to the shallower part of the water as this has a weaker current.  

• Use Your Feet

Although kayak fishing seems to be an arms-only activity, you could use your feet in various tasks. These may include steering your boat in high waters to re-direct the kayak and anchoring on shallow areas. In addition, you’d be using your feet to maintain your core balance by stretching them toward the foremost part of your boat.  

If you’re using a foot-powered Hobie kayak, you’d need your feet the most. In addition to maintaining the boat’s core balance, your feet can set your kayak in motion by pedaling. Because of this, you can use your arms solely for fishing.  

• Utilize Eddies

Eddies refer to the circular water movements caused by a counter-current. Beginners are generally frightened by eddies, but these movements can help them stay in a fishing spot for an extended time. Because of them, anglers can use more time waiting in place, even if the area is in the middle of a downward stream.  

In some cases, eddies serve as a collection point for small fishes that have gone out of their lines because of the counter-current. This situation gives more chances for anglers to catch more fish. And since they’re using a Hobie fishing kayak, they can anchor better on the spot and even make the extended time longer.  

• Learn Casting While On-Board

To make the most of your Hobie kayak, you may need to learn casting while kayaking. However, this can be challenging because an angler’s sitting position restricts him from swinging his arms. For some tips, you may try the common casting techniques, such as:  

• Overhead

It is an over-the-shoulder casting approach. Overhead casting may only be ideal for long-distance casting and when schools of fish are in your spot. On the other hand, this could create a loud splash that could scatter the fish.  

• Side Arm

It is suitable for spots where branches and boat docks may hinder much of your casting. You need to swing your arms side low to the surface in this type. You may do it like a baitfish skipping across the water. To maximize this type, you may need to choose appropriate lures, such as soft plastic types and the ones without appendages.  

• Pitch And Flip

Using a medium to heavy fishing stick is better than the longer ones in this option. With this, you can keep your lure close to your surface and make casting easier. For better casting, you may need to pre-position your Hobie kayak by keeping its fore part toward where you’re casting at.  

• Learn To Fish Stealthily

Stealth is one of the best things about kayak fishing. In many cases, this helps catch a lot of fish, even on challenging surfaces. To maximize this, you may need to use short and gentle paddle strokes, pedal slowly, and choose a proper spot to anchor.  

Positioning your Hobie kayak well is a must to avoid producing splashing and loud noises. If you successfully landed in a spot silently, you could cast your line. Then, you may continue paddling toward the surfaces where the fish likely stays.  

Final Thoughts

Kayak fishing can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time. Fortunately, you can use a Hobie kayak with the features, size, and types that could help you have your first catch. On top of this, you may refer to the tips provided in this article to make your first-ever kayak fishing a success.