a few questions

I've rented kayaks a few times at the local harbor and it seems like a lot of fun. So, I want to try kayak fishing more, especially for shallow water rockfish, but have a few questions. First of all, what techniques do you guys use for fishing in the kelp? Also, I'm always worried about flipping and losing a bunch of gear. What is the best way to keep everything in the kayak, particularly rods/reels? Do you use leashes/tethers? or do you just not bring your fancy setup and hope for the best?

Thanks!

What is the best way to keep everything in the kayak, particularly rods/reels? Do you use leashes/tethers? or do you just not bring your fancy setup and hope for the best?

Thanks!

you'll probably get mix response on this. Some people leash their rods while others use floats. I personally prefer the float method. Leash poses a risk of getting you tangled especially in the surf zone. And for Kelp technique, Im pretty sure its just the same as fishing reefs: Drop, hit bottom, jig, repeat. Don't forget to gear up properly for safety (vhf, pfd, buddy system). Be a Kayaker first, and fisherman 2nd. Welcome to the madness.

Thanks for the quick response! Is a float cumbersome to use?

Thanks for the quick response! Is a float cumbersome to use?

Nope. Its like its not there at all.

Thanks for the quick response! Is a float cumbersome to use?

A rod float is usually pool noodle or pipe insulation that's attached to the rod (cut at an angle, velcro strapped, zip ties,  etc). 

Tote made a good video on cutting pool noodle.

Welcome to NCKA bigbassfisherman 

First off, get comfortable with kayaking before kayak fishing.  Don't bring your expensive setups for rockfishing, because the cheap ones will work just as good and not be a pain when you loose them.  Don't use too strong of a line, because if you cant break it off, or if you break it off wrong you could flip.  Get a really stable kayak if your afraid of flipping over.  The Santa Cruz Raptor is a good choice for ultimate stability.  So are Malibu X-Factor's, Prowler Big Game, and others that are on the larger heavier side of Sit On Top kayaks.  Make sure you have all safety gear, dressed for immersion, and go out with someone that is experienced in the area your wanting to fish. 

Welcome bigbassfisherman!! I personally don't spend a ton of money on rods and reels for that reason. I tried leashes but imo it clutters the deck too much, not to mention the safety issues of getting tangled pool noodles are a good idea if you are really concerned about losing gear.

I will mirror other members when it comes to safety. You can not be over prepared. Pfd, compass, GPS and wetsuit are not optional in the ocean.

Learn your kayak then take those skills with you when you go fishing. Taking a kayak safety course is also not a bad idea.

Have fun and be safe. Hope to see you on the water soon.

-FF

Just to add.

Weedless bass jig heads for the swim baits works for me in the kelp.

Do you use leashes/tethers? or do you just not bring your fancy setup and hope for the best?

I leash or add a float to just about everything. And ever since my beloved handheld GPS sank to the bottom, I tend to leash the more valuable things. I've got a knife attached to my pfd, in case I need to cut something in a hurry. It seems there are lots of reasonable ways to do things and I'd recommend experimenting to find what works best for you, keeping it simple (and cheap) to start with...

Thanks guys! This site is full of helpful info. Really helps. It's great to be able to get tips from the experts!