®
Summer 2019
When something happens, you must stay calm and keep control of your emotions. Panic mode is not an option for a kayak angler.
PHYSICAL PREPARATION
You need to keep yourself in proper physical condition to be able to deal with the rigors of kayak fishing. Most kayaks are human-powered either through paddling or pedaling.
A full day on the water can leave your arms, legs or both feeling like jelly. The long walk up the ramp after a full day on the water can be quite a challenge.
A regular regimen of cardiovascular, resistance, and flexibility training will pay dividends. Make sure you pack nutritious snacks and water for the day to stay fueled up and always have some extra on hand in case you get stranded.
EQUIPMENT PREPARATION
Make sure you have what you need before you head out. A checklist is highly recommended. An inspection of your kayak and all the safety equipment is vital.
Below is a list of some essential equipment for every trip:
• Life Jacket (PFD) with whistle and knife attached
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Proper clothing for the season with multiple layers
• Rain gear and gloves
• Dry bag with a towel and an extra set of clothes
including a beanie cap
• Cell phone and battery charger
• Flashlight and glow sticks
• Basic first aid kit and survival blanket
• Practice
The scenario that we all dread is capsizing our kayak away from shore in cold water. Even though the air temps may be warm, the water can be still be quite chilly and it will be a shock to your system if you enter unexpectedly. If you practice self-rescue ahead of time you will be better prepared when the day comes.
I recently had the opportunity to spend a day on the water with Buck Johnson of Prunedale, Calif. who has been kayaking for almost 30 years.
He became a kayak instructor in 1994 and holds two world kayak surfing championship titles.
I met up with him on Lake Don Pedro located in La Grange, Calif. to do some fishing and for him to demonstrate a self-rescue in cold water on a large sit on top fishing kayak (Native Watercraft Titan 12) – see attached video.
Even with all his years of experience and acclimatization to cold water – it was an obvious shock to his system. Just listen to his voice in the video and you can hear it.
page 65