Kayak gear, whats good? - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

dsafety · 09-24-2010, 08:56 PM

When I first started yakfishing, I went out with a swimsuit and a t-shirt. To ward off the morning cold, I had a sweatshirt. I quickly learned that having a water resistant jacket during the launch was a very good idea.

During a normal summer, (not like the one we just lived through), I still prefer fishing in a nylon swim suit. Your butt never gets completely dry but if it is warm, who cares. Just be careful of the sun. Sitting in the same position for hours with your legs exposed can lead to a serious sunburn.

During the winter, I wear breathable waders all the time. Ditto for this summer. Waders are not as comfortable as shorts but they block the sun and keep you warm and dry. After this summer, I have gotten used to going out this way and may not go back to wearing shorts, even if the weather ever gets better.

As for splash jackets, there are many good ones out there. Most cost over $100. I prefer to just layer up with t-shirts, sweatshirts and fleece, depending on the weather conditions, with an inexpensive waterproof shell on top. When the sun comes out, I start stripping down.

One thing that I have learned is that kayaking can be tough on your clothing. The sun, abrasion against the seat and all the movements you make while on the water can quickly wear out even the best splash jackets. I choose to go the other route. My splash jacket is an inexpensive waterproof nylon shell. It only lasts a season but each one only costs $20, sometimes less at an REI sale.

Bob

09-24-2010, 08:56 PM	#4
dsafety Olivenhain Bob Join Date: May 2008 Location: Olivenhain, CA Posts: 1,122	When I first started yakfishing, I went out with a swimsuit and a t-shirt. To ward off the morning cold, I had a sweatshirt. I quickly learned that having a water resistant jacket during the launch was a very good idea. During a normal summer, (not like the one we just lived through), I still prefer fishing in a nylon swim suit. Your butt never gets completely dry but if it is warm, who cares. Just be careful of the sun. Sitting in the same position for hours with your legs exposed can lead to a serious sunburn. During the winter, I wear breathable waders all the time. Ditto for this summer. Waders are not as comfortable as shorts but they block the sun and keep you warm and dry. After this summer, I have gotten used to going out this way and may not go back to wearing shorts, even if the weather ever gets better. As for splash jackets, there are many good ones out there. Most cost over $100. I prefer to just layer up with t-shirts, sweatshirts and fleece, depending on the weather conditions, with an inexpensive waterproof shell on top. When the sun comes out, I start stripping down. One thing that I have learned is that kayaking can be tough on your clothing. The sun, abrasion against the seat and all the movements you make while on the water can quickly wear out even the best splash jackets. I choose to go the other route. My splash jacket is an inexpensive waterproof nylon shell. It only lasts a season but each one only costs $20, sometimes less at an REI sale. Bob