Why do you do it? Better yet why do we do it?

Because we are cooler than boat fishermen.

The smaller details attract me; like your paddles cutting through the water after you push off, but above all those details there's a certain mystique for me. I relate it to how ancient kayaking really is.

Indians used them to hunt and fish, and when I'm out in the ocean its almost as if I'm paying homage to the same gods and spirits (sharks, whales, sea lions, etc) they worshiped. Might seem a little cheesy, but I put that experience over the fishing any day - its just a plus anyways.

Adventure
Therapy
Nature
Food
Fun
Peace

I enjoy Pre trip and afterward as much as during. Keeps my mind off other things I don't enjoy much

I am a boat whore and genetically mandated Waterman. I have gills. For Christ's sake my last name is a fish. I grew up on Lake Huron, the Golf Coast and in Cali. I lived in Phoenix for 6 months and I was NEVER more miserable. 

I practically cried when I got back to the beach upon my return to Cali. I have to be on the water.

Dude,drive 10 minutes,  drop the yak in thr drink off the trailer, pedal 500 yards (if there is no wind), catch 50 stripers on one lure, release them all, Then winch the yak back on the trailer, drive back 10 minutes.

One of us is doing something wrong.

Fishing has always been a part of my life.  Connected me to my grandfather, dad, uncles and cousins.  It's tradition.  It's passion...it's primal. I was fishing in a little 12' Gregor the first time I seen a kayaker and thought...damn that looks fun.  Never got back in that skiff

Because we are cooler than boat fishermen.

DUDE!  I've met that guy on the right in the picture.  Pictures from the year BEFORE I went to the Regional Burning Man event.  He was in a camp next to ours.  Can you spot him in these picture(s)?  He goes by the name 'White Tiger'

http://www.unscruz.com/unscruz-history/unscruz-2014/unSCruz-gallery/unscruz-2014/unscruz-2014

It ties me to the past, i calms me, it challenges me, something about the spray coming over your bow of your yak...reminds me of those Curt Gowdy's American Sportsman Milwaukee beer commercials on day nights. Too bad the beer sucks.

Darius, to make your load ups easier, may I recommend a packing card?  I use a 4x6 index card with everything written out, in the reverse order I wear/pack so it puts everything in order quickly.  Cover it with clear packing tape, punch a hole in it, stick it to your load out bag with a carabineer or some sort of clip.  It will make you life a little easier.