Advantages of kayaks for fishing versus other watercraft
By Ron Strauss and MNKFA members
In early 2023 I was interviewed by a Minnesota DNR magazine reporter about kayak fishing
The interview covered the growth of the sport, gear you need, costs, and lot more. One of the questions was, “What are the advantages of kayak angling over other watercraft?” The day before the interview, I posted this question in our Facebook group and asked members, how would you answer?
I’ve selected some of the comments to share with you. If you’re thinking about getting in to kayak fishing, you’ll get a sense of what makes it special for MNKFA members.
Here’s what MN Kayak Fishing Association members say about the advantages of kayak fishing
Cost, serenity, and for bass fishing you can get into areas you can’t with a $100k bass boat.
Brian M.
It’s something you can do alone or with a group..
Sue K.
Drop anywhere and go in water the boats can’t. Especially in tidal waters.
Schon S.
Definitely affordability, you don’t have to purchase an expensive bass boat and truck. Kayaks are a fraction of the cost.
Most importantly, the kayak bass fishing community consists of all great people. Encouraging one another, respectful, willing to pass on their knowledge. I’m glad I picked up kayak bass fishing, and to be a part of the Minnesota Kayak Bass Fishing community!!
Steve X.
The peace and solitude. Also, for me, it has made me a better angler in that I have learned more in 3yrs of kayak fishing than all those years fishing out of a boat. Forces me to figure things out for myself, more instinctive vs relying on a bunch of electronics, which is really rewarding.
Trevor J.
With kayaking it is a more intimate fishing experience, you take in your surroundings more as you are moving at a slower pace, you experience nature with all of your senses, where you really don’t on a powered boat with the motor roaring, gasoline, and exhaust smell, etc. When you’re doing 40mph to get to another spot you really do not observe nature like on a kayak.
Fishing from a kayak means you are also limited on the amount gear you bring, so you really have to pick and choose the right gear for the day, it makes you become more proficient with specific baits and techniques.
You can also slip into places that larger motorcraft can only dream about going, namely river systems and creeks. And the kayak is less threatening to aquatic life, including vegetation.
Matt M.
Advantages of a kayak is it puts you right in the middle of the world and you become one with nature and every worry you had in the world disappears.
Leaf V.
I primarily fish the Mississippi backwaters and routinely get to spots that the big bass boats can’t. The ability to launch anywhere also helps avoiding crowds
Niel S.
The biggest advantages are zero maintenance, zero boat access = kayak and canoes only, smaller and more room in the garage and driveway, more exercise, you can go where boats cant, more affordable depending on your budget, and more fun!
Kong H.
For me, kayak fishing is my savior. I’ve suffered from PTSD for almost 30 years, and before being introduced to this sport (and group), I’ve just dealt with it. When I’m on the lake, my brain shuts off and all I hear is the sounds of nature. I’ve had days where I’ve not even gotten a bite, but it was a great day.
Jason M.
I was just talking to someone about MNKFA in Fleet Farm today, and I realized I forgot the biggest positive… Kayak fishing groups (MNKFA especially) members are very open and helpful to those new to fishing, and there is more openness for suggestions to helping others having a hard time. I’ve learned a lot about bass fishing by other members sharing their hottest and greatest, either technique or hot lure.
So if DB joins this group, that was me… Ha!
Joe Y.
You’re getting your exercise in while fishing
Zachary S.
Definitely more primal, especially if you stay low tech like me. I have a paddle and a rod and net.
Michael H.
The kayak fishing experience is unique, we encourage you to join us!
You can tell by reading the answers above that everyone has their own favorite reason they love the sport, but certain topics are top of mind. Cost, being one with nature, avoid crowds, go where others can’t and more. Do these 3 things to get started with MNKFA. Sign up to be a member on this website, join our Facebook group and get on the email list. You’ll learn more about the sport, meet other kayak anglers, get answers to questions and have a great time! I look forward to meeting you on the water! – Ron