Is a rudder very helpful?

I have one on my kayak and It's great, but I primarily use it just for tracking when I'm trying to get somewhere that's a ways off.
Like a fishing spot, otherwise I bring it up.
I added one thing to my rudder a spring that wants to always bring the blade  back to center. It just seemed like it would be nice if the kayak allway's wanted to go straight unless I wanted to turn.
best idea I've had for my yak,

I read a post of a guy who said he had hooked into a good size fish that took him right into trouble had to cut it off, said if he had had the rudder who knows I might of landed it. Hard to steer with your paddle when you have a fishing pole in your hands.
that's the main reason I got it, I don't like setting my pole in the pole holder that much tell I start to get tired of holding it.

like most these other guy's have said you have to find what's going to work for you. As for me I have no shame, I'll do what ever seems to work best.

PS I'll bet I will get my line snagged in the rudder, I snag it on every thing Else.        Gowen    *Anchovy

I never had one and felt they were uneccessary, giv en a boat that tracks well.  I primarily fished a Scupper Pro, then a Prowler.  On the Prowler I got this year, i ordered a rudder just to see what it is like, and I find it very useful, not only for tracking in following or quartering seas/wind; but for making tight turns as well when fishing or working with others on the water.

I won't say I couldn't live without the rudder, and indeed regularily paddle boats no rudder, but most days I'm glad I have it.

Allen

Allen, how would you compare the scupper pro and the prowler?

The scupper pro is a bit faster, but wetter, and tippier.

The prowler is fast, drier, and way more stable.  Also more roomy for rigging and storage.

Allen