Dude!!! I've got a great idea for a video. You sit down with a few of us kayak tournament guys and we discuss the differences and similarities of our two worlds. It would be cool. Either way, you and I need to get back out on the water together.
Ya’ll should come up north and hit some of these big smallmouth waters in mid May for the pre-spawn. Nothing like having to wade out a bit to launch in 40 degree temps.
You're an inspiration to me B-Lat. Last year I had a spinal injury and couldn't walk for 5 weeks and even after that I had to use a walker for a few months. I binge watched all of your videos. I was so depressed because I didn't think I was going to be able to get out on my boat again and fish. I was living through you man. I'm glad to say I'm walking again, and fishing again, and it was you that got me interested in kayaks after watching you drag yours out and clean them up. I purchased a kayak a few months ago and I love it. You're spot on about how much more difficult it is especially when coming from a bass boat. But I think it's an awesome experience fishing out of a kayak. I bought an Old Town BigWater 132 PDL and it's a great kayak, especially with the hands free forward/reverse. Thanks again Brian. You (and your little man) got me through a tough time. Take care and good luck.
Loved the video. Kayak fishing has definitely helped me up my fishing game. There was a time I would bring 8-10 rods and load down the boat/kayak with every bait I owned. I learned real quick that I was spending more time trying to throw the kitchen sink vs analyzing the conditions I was faced with. Now I bring 4-5 rods max, two 3600s and a handful of plastics in a Plano worm file. I've noticed that I've had MUCH more success downsizing and planning out the locations I'm going to be fishing. I've rigged out my kayak in such a way that I have to do as little as possible when I'm unloading. I'll head to work with my kayak in the bed of my truck and head straight to Clarks Hills when I get off at 1p, pull up to the ramp and yank my yak out. All I have to do to get ready is throw my vest on, grab my paddle and Lowrance unit. Rods are already in their holders and my trolling motor is a pod mount that I drop into place once I'm deep enough. All in all it's a 5 minute load/unload. Looking forward to more kayak content.
Load up to go fishing. Unload to get on the water. Load up when you get out of the water. Then the part I dread, unloading at home to get my truck back to everyday life. All that said, I love my kayak and everything involved with it.
What you said! I think that's why I bought a 12ft jon boat and trailer with a 5hp on the back and a TM on the front... for less than I would have paid for a peddle or motorized yak. I love paddle fiahing... done it from canoes and kayaks for over 20 years... but only for protected, small waters, and I get really wore out mentally anymore basically putting together my boat and taking it all apart at the end of a trip. It's got its place... but I think a small jon boat is better for me now that i have one.
Everything you said about kayak fishing is correct. There are some major drawbacks to kayak fishing, but some real benefits as well. I used to fish out of a 19ft Nitro bass boat and it was fun, but kinda boring to be honest. Now I strictly kayak fish. The personal involvement in kayak fishing is what drew me to it. Also, you can get into spots you would never try to get to in a bass boat when kayak fishing. I don't get bored fishing anymore when using the kayak.
Great vid B Lat!! Everything you said about the kayak fishing struggle is 100% true especially when it comes to boat positioning. I started kayak fishing about 5 years ago on a paddle kayak and recently upgraded to the Old Town Autopilot 120 earlier this year. That kayak is a game changer and finally allows me to fish spots exactly how I want, without worrying about positioning. Spot lock allows me to take the kayak out and maintain positioning regardless of how windy it is. Stoked to see more kayak content on your channel!
my favorite way to kayak fish - small shallow river, two rods, one tackle box, float from A to B. usually these rivers have low pressure and will surprise you with the fish they hold.
BLat, excellent video. I have been kayak fishing for 16 years. I have my system down, I never fully breakdown the kayak, it loads in the bed of the truck, and slides onto a PVC "wash rack" at bed level when I get home. Wash it out and it slides onto a wooden, wheeled cart at bed level and wheel it into the garage. Minimizes the heavy lifting at the end of the day. I'm 65, and live to kayak fish. Bought my first boat last year, but the kayak is usually my first choice. Love the fact that you do everything - fresh, salt, kayak, bank fish, etc.
I have fished out of kayaks for years. Finally found a great deal on a used bass boat. Took it out a few times and sold it. The bass boat just felt so different. I guess I stuck with what I know. And ended up purchasing a new pair of Hobie PA’s.
Nice vid.. Ha! Didn't realize there was an easier way. From someone who only started fishing 4 years ago and only on a kayak, I thought this was the way it always was.. tons of research and planning, days in advance- checking 3 different wind/weather apps to triangulate, pre-rigging 3-4 rods the night before, staging all your gear perfectly, etc.. once you get in a rhythm with prep and detailed checklists, you can arrive and be on the water in 15 minutes... well I slide my yaks in the back of my van though. And yea - only use my hobie in the salt, the paddle kayak is for small, fresh water
You can really dial in certain areas because you're limited with how far you can go. But whenever I go on a boat I am blown away by how much more productive they are haha. The pedal kayak will keep you in really great physical shape! Congrats on the Hobie man
Hey Brian: You nailed it. I do ALL my bass fishing from my paddle kayak. It's exhausting AND rewarding (basically that's what makes it so great of a pastime).
The mental aspect of kayak fishing is so much deeper than I would have ever thought. When you're fishing a tournament on a lake that's thousands of acres from a kayak, it takes hours just to decide where to even start. Then when you're trying to decide to make a move that could take 20-30 minutes of pedaling and lots of energy, on top of just the normal things like spot preservation. I have a bass boat also but I rarely use it because I prefer to fish out of my kayak. It's actually faster for me to take my kayak for those short trips. I work nights so I'll take my kayak and my gear to work and go straight to lake after work instead of having to drive home and get the boat. If you set it up and take it apart the same way every time you develop a system and it's really not much slower than loading/unloading a boat solo. The boat positioning plays such a huge role in setting the hook also. It's so easy for the wind to get a kayak turned to where it's difficult to get a proper hookset, and that seems to always be when the fish bites. Great video as always!
oh... you... you... had me all typing a dang paragraph while I was watching... and then you say all the things I was saying... this is why we love this channel!
Respect. I was toasted after 4 four days of peddling and car topping every day at the KBF National Championship. And driving 24 hrs from Cali to Louisiana. Thanks putting this video out
At first I was like, "No Brian!!!" Then I listened to your entire video and I was like, "That's right, buy another kayak." I understand where you're coming from and what I love about my kayak is that I can slow down and take more time in an area to, hopefully, find the fish. However, I do get pushed by the wind from time to time so I use my anchor or my parknpole to hold my current position. I am jealous of your Hobie and one day I may get one. Until then, great video and I expect to see some video in your kayak. Thanks again.
I actually replaced a bass boat with a kayak. But I fish small waters. Ways kayak fishing is superior: Fish never see me coming. I have no motor so they don't even hear me The kayak fits in my back yard in town there a boat would be pretty difficult I can get the kayak into places no one else will be fishing (the biggest one) You get exercise while fishing without even noticing I find a lightweight kayak to be easier to deal with than a boat and trailer No batteries to charge No fuel No mechanical failures But most of my friends don't share my enthusiasm.
Man it is hard loading my old town pdl 106 on top of my car. With all the gear. Plus it’s tiring after fishing all day. Then unloading everything after.
I have a Jackson Big Rig equipped with a tandem mount trolling motor and foot controls, even so, it can be difficult to maintain position in wind or current. I do have an anchor and stake out pole but rarely use them. I do like the physical work aspect of kayaking and sometimes opt for paddling. Most of my fishing is done on a river where big bass boats can't go. I have owned boats but at this point in life find that kayaking suits me better. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on yaking.
I got a Native Titan 12. Unfortunately, first time out today, the wheels weren't attached right, and I didn't even put it in the water. They attach to the tracks, but mine is missing the plates that keep it IN the track. The place I bought it from is mailing me a new setup for the wheels. It's called a Sidekick. Again, great video man. 👍👍
@@jstn05 carrying it sideways and making a bunch of trips back and forth wasn't in the plans today, plus I really just didn't feel like doing all that. Gotta work tonight. Just got here. But yes, it was possible.
Hey, Brian, I have an Old Town Sportsman Auto-Pilot 136. It’s a 13’ 6” kayak with a drop-in Minn Kota 45 HP trolling motor. I trailer it to where I want to go. A 100ah lithium ion battery keeps me on the water all day and more.
Ah a local fella. I’ve often wondered why folks sell brand new fishing kayak. Now I get it. It’s work. Awesome video! Very real and that’s what I was looking for.
I think I heard you say in a quite undertone that “I can’t wait to do a kayak tournament “🤔. Now personally I would love to see you in a kayak tournament and pull for you. Good luck on your future tournaments.
Spot on!! But it’s what makes it great! Haha! Glad to see you keeping at it man! And great to see you at Bucks Island where we met! You should’ve got that Jackson BigRig FD though!!! 🤣👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻
Wait till you put that trolling motor on the bow of your yak..."Game Changer". The thought process of boat an kayak are most different in ..ie where do i fish, where do I launch that's closest to that area? Awesome video, looking forward to part 2..
@@BrianLatimerFishing I started with a paddle but the deeper I got into tournament fishing it turned into a must have yo cover water. Like the forward facing sonar is now..
B-Lat, Big fan of yours down here in Augusta and love your videos. Now that you reviewed kayak fishing, what do you think about Pond Prowlers, and plastic pontoon bass boats?
Sit on top is the way to go for fishing. I have both and when I caught a nice catfish in my sit in I thought to myself ,well how I’m I going to get the hook out.
I got a 10ft with a 400 lb max weight limit which is key, it allows me to use my 55lb thrust trolling motor, marine battery and gear and still be almost 100 lbs under the max weight, this allows the boat to track properly and remain stable. I have a fairly pricey anchor system and a mesh parachute to keep me in place or just slow down if I want to drift. The 10 foot length fits inside my transit connect van and makes transportation much easier.
I started kayak fishing in 2002 primarily for inshore saltwater fishing because it allowed me to get into really skinny water that even shallow water motorboats couldn't access. I could also be very stealthy getting close to spooky fish. It also avoided having to clean the motorboat after each trip which was a real chore. I then used the kayak to fish small quarry lakes and rivers that motorboats were not allowed in or couldn't access. Actually picked up my personal best 8.1lb largemouth from a small quarry lake. Then there is the cost of gas, motor, trailer and boat maintenance that I avoid. Lastly, paddling a kayak in places where there are no motorboats and being out in nature is very relaxing. Oh yeah, people say I have a very strong grip. I attribute that to lots of paddling!
Kayak fishing for 11 years.....you are spot on.....one has to learn to play the current and wind.....also casting from aukward positions....min time on the water for me is 4 hours....yes it gives me a great workout..have use the paddle and the peddle...selling my peddle..just like the paddle......am 74 yrs old....nice video.
Blat, you almost got me there. LOL, Hobie Outback on leg days…. I think you’ll find that Outback will solve a lot of the problems. If it still sucks after that, I can’t wait for the giveaway :).
You'll enjoy kayak fishing even more with a pedal drive. Hands free fishing is a game changer in the kayak world. I never took my triton out 1 time this year. The opportunity to fish so many tournaments out of a kayak is awesome. Great video BLat
BLat love your segway into this video. Totally concur with you about kayak fishing. I do both, bass boat and kayak fishing, and kayak fishing is so much more calculating like you explained. I actually added a trolling motor to my kayak because adjusting movement in it now is much easier. Still have my paddle to help out with micro adjustments but when you're in current or windy conditions it's pretty tough doing this with a paddle alone. Either way Kayak fishing really compliments your bass fishing skills with all the nuances involved in it. You rock and Merry Xmas
The hardest parts of kayak fishing for me are tackle prep and anchoring. Without anchoring, it's really difficult to work a spot over unless it's dead calm
Everything you said is what makes the challenge of it that much better. You learn how to work with the elements in order to achieve your goal of catching fish.
This is my second year in a kayak and found it very challenging and fun. Love fishing rivers floating. Come to South Georgia and we can get you on some Ogeechee River Bass
I think that kayak's make you feel like part of the lake or river! From the seating position just above the water, to releasing the fish with your hand in the water, you're closer to it, constantly looking in it! I love it!
My stomach is sore from laughing so hard! Thanks for a good Sunday morning start. You nailed this perfectly. When I am feeling like an old man (I am) and want to catch more fish, I take out the boat. When I want to ignore age and catch a few less fish, I take out the Hobie PA. Great job on this video!
Dead on in your commentary about kayak fishing. All of that caught me off guard in the beginning but I love it now and it has become my primary style of fishing. I love getting way back in rivers, slews and swamps, in small water, with the wildlife, snakes, bugs and other critters away from people and noise. It is very gratifying to fight some of the monsters in the rivers down south in a kayak without all of the technology of modern fishing.
Speaking of saltwater fishing the very first time I went was with my friend in his 16 foot boat out in mosquito lagoon. The next time I was down for a visit he took me kayak fishing for bass and it was challenging like you said but so freaking fun. This last time I visited him we took his kayaks out saltwater fishing and I caught my very first and biggest snook and hooked into a couple nice size reds. I'm planning on purchasing a hobie pro angler soon so I can do both fresh and saltwater fishing.
I love this! I just got a kayak this year. A lifetime brand. I love it! But it is super hard, but it has made me compact. And it puts you closer to the water, so you can see how the water moves. I don't have a depth finder but I'm not sure if it helps or not. You can see the fishy spots anyway.
I love that laugh at the end. Just pure joy in catching good fish. I also fish out of a Bonafide SS127 and would completely agree with everything you mention in this video. Good opinions.
I just Got me a Paddle Kayak and I think for the type of waters we have here in New Mexico a Yak is perfect. Depending on your location and type lake rivers you Kayak there are there pros and cons. Very awesome and informative video B.Lat always enjoy your Sportsmanship 🤙🏽🤙🏽
Love the video and it’s all true. Up here in NJ a lot of the lakes we have are just not accessible to boats or you can only use trolling motors. Prepping for major tournaments is a lot and I mean a lot of map prep and work. In a kayak you can’t make a change from one end of Lake Murray to another cause the spots not working out.
I fish kayak pro tournaments in my oldtown sportsman powered by minnkota it has a trolling motor with spot lock so I don't have the boat position issues so buy one and then let me know if you think it sucks 😆 love the vids keep up the good work and hope you have a great season!!!!
I have mainly kayak fished since July 2021. Current PB of 9 lbs from that kayak on a Spro frog. One thing to keep you stationary I use is a small length of paracord as a leash to tie to lily pads or small trees. Don't even have a fishing kayak lol it's a Perception Caronlina 12. It is soooo stealthy I love it.
Great vid! Add an anchor system (I’m a fan of the Anchor Wizard) and learn how to control your yak in the wind with a drift sock. Then work with what Ma Nature gives you. I haven’t used my boat for two years.
Dedicated paddler here. You are so right Brian there are endless factors working against you in a little kayak. But! Being stealthy and getting dragged around by a good LM is so excilerating. Got a 4.5 lbr on a walking bait about a month ago and last week a 5.75 on a Rockcrawler. So much fun. Still looking for a low draft aluminum boat with some HP! Until that time it's a kayak for me. Thank you as always for the great content!
Everything you said about kayak fishing to me is true. Kayak fishing is so FUN, you really get a good exercise and you get to see a different world of bass fishing. glad to see that you got yourself a Hobie; I would’ve recommended the 360 but that one is also a bad ass kayak. Btw.. I have learned so much watching your videos that everything that I’ve learned has been for bass kayak fishing. Hope I get to see you soon in any Hobie Bass Open Series!
Kayak fish south Louisiana every weekend. I use yak attack pole anchor in the shallow marsh and have no issues with wind, but without my pole anchor it’s difficult. Takes a while to figure out the ideal setup on the kayak.
I have a Hobie PA 14 and load it to the max. I make countless rigs and use a quick twist to change rigs. I fish mainly saltwater and the only disadvantage I feel is my inability to make long pedals to different spots quickly. If you scout an area right you can have all the same advantages as a boater, and kayakers have the advantage of stealth and getting shallower where redfish live. On the Texas coast it's a definite advantage in spots. You have a nice perspective on this. Tight lines.
Kayak fishing can be tough and I agree it does make you a better angler. You really have to think a lot before you launch. You have to dissect the body of water, and choose your launch wisely, because if you want to move, you might only get one chance to load up and relaunch. It affects prefishing as well. You have limited time and limited distance. On the plus side, It's a low barrier to entry, so if you are a good stick, you can compete even with the guys that have the super expensive rigs. The community, for the most part, is also really cool and understanding. You get a lot more cooperation and don't get nearly as much "spot" fighting because everyone knows what we're up against.
Agree with everything you said Brian. I just started kayak fishing this past year and all the little things you mentioned like boat positioning etc. are true. But it's also what has made me a better fisherman too. I was able to go from barely catching any fish to being able to figure out patterns and catch quantity and quality at the end of the season. I ended up catching my pb of 6 pound 6 ounce in one of my last outings of the season. Can't wait to go back out once the ice melts in MN here!
I bet you would love it if you got a kayak with a trolling motor and spot lock, I know I would love to have one but wanting and affording one are 2 different things
I bought the same kayak last June and love it. It is my only boat and I have taken it to Mammoth lakes, Mission Bay and many SoCal lakes. It did get me in shape too. I have spent more time on the water this year which is always good. Still working on a new PB though.
Kayak exclusive angler here. In central md my closest lakes are electric motor only, so the big boats are out. Most of my fishing are on rivers, kayaks excel there for me. Floating from point A to B and smashing smallies is the way to go. I have a Jackson big tuna 2 person with a trolling motor for the Potomac, a 2015 hobie outback workhouse as an all around and a old town 10’ as a pick up and go. The pedal drives are game changers on a river, really allowing you to hold position with out dropping the stakeout pole or an anchor. Hoping to get my hands on the new hobie lynx as it looks like a dream “pick up and go” boat. Kayaks fit the mold for those of us who love fishing, nature, exercise, solitude, (or with a buddy) low barrier to entry, not maintaining, storing, trailering or gassing up a boat.
I have a bass boat and Jackson Kayak and agree with what you are saying. One thing I would add is kayak fishing teaches you how to down size and bring only what you need. My bass boat looks like a mini bass pro shop but my kayak has just what I need to fish a certain body of water. Last kayak fishing helps you slow down and really focus on an area you are fishing.
Nailed it. Hope to see some vids of how a professional angler would rig the Outback! Used to have one, now I have a PA12 360. Didn’t mind the outback but now that I have a ski trailer I figured why not lol
I've tried it.. I'm too big of a klutz. Here on Long island i have to admit kayak fishing is pretty dang popular! and i am quite impressed how fast the "yakkers" can get that big cumbersome hunk of colorful plastic off the roof of a lifted F250 and into the water(faster than me and my small trailered flat bottom Pond/lake crawler). I have a kayak- but it's touring Kayak and that's all it's supposed to do. It takes my camping gear and me to my remote camping spot and back again. The guys over at Tactical Bassin have a Kayak that can accommodate a Trolling motor and remote control.. pretty cool if you ask me... Thanks Brian.
Dude!!! I've got a great idea for a video. You sit down with a few of us kayak tournament guys and we discuss the differences and similarities of our two worlds. It would be cool. Either way, you and I need to get back out on the water together.
Ya’ll should come up north and hit some of these big smallmouth waters in mid May for the pre-spawn. Nothing like having to wade out a bit to launch in 40 degree temps.
You two Def need to get out there more, you also need to step up your battle royals skills lol jk
Kayak fishing is a different beast but I absolutely love it!
I would watch that!
Not a single thing you said is wrong, and yet it is so rewarding and fun.
The end result can be dope’
Kayak fishing is just like bow hunting. At first all of the disadvantages are glaring and then eventually it all serves to make you a better angler.
You're an inspiration to me B-Lat. Last year I had a spinal injury and couldn't walk for 5 weeks and even after that I had to use a walker for a few months. I binge watched all of your videos. I was so depressed because I didn't think I was going to be able to get out on my boat again and fish. I was living through you man. I'm glad to say I'm walking again, and fishing again, and it was you that got me interested in kayaks after watching you drag yours out and clean them up. I purchased a kayak a few months ago and I love it. You're spot on about how much more difficult it is especially when coming from a bass boat. But I think it's an awesome experience fishing out of a kayak. I bought an Old Town BigWater 132 PDL and it's a great kayak, especially with the hands free forward/reverse. Thanks again Brian. You (and your little man) got me through a tough time. Take care and good luck.
Loved the video. Kayak fishing has definitely helped me up my fishing game. There was a time I would bring 8-10 rods and load down the boat/kayak with every bait I owned. I learned real quick that I was spending more time trying to throw the kitchen sink vs analyzing the conditions I was faced with. Now I bring 4-5 rods max, two 3600s and a handful of plastics in a Plano worm file. I've noticed that I've had MUCH more success downsizing and planning out the locations I'm going to be fishing. I've rigged out my kayak in such a way that I have to do as little as possible when I'm unloading. I'll head to work with my kayak in the bed of my truck and head straight to Clarks Hills when I get off at 1p, pull up to the ramp and yank my yak out. All I have to do to get ready is throw my vest on, grab my paddle and Lowrance unit. Rods are already in their holders and my trolling motor is a pod mount that I drop into place once I'm deep enough. All in all it's a 5 minute load/unload. Looking forward to more kayak content.
Then why do all these guys have tons of baits?
Load up to go fishing. Unload to get on the water. Load up when you get out of the water. Then the part I dread, unloading at home to get my truck back to everyday life. All that said, I love my kayak and everything involved with it.
What you said! I think that's why I bought a 12ft jon boat and trailer with a 5hp on the back and a TM on the front... for less than I would have paid for a peddle or motorized yak. I love paddle fiahing... done it from canoes and kayaks for over 20 years... but only for protected, small waters, and I get really wore out mentally anymore basically putting together my boat and taking it all apart at the end of a trip.
It's got its place... but I think a small jon boat is better for me now that i have one.
Everything you said about kayak fishing is correct. There are some major drawbacks to kayak fishing, but some real benefits as well. I used to fish out of a 19ft Nitro bass boat and it was fun, but kinda boring to be honest. Now I strictly kayak fish. The personal involvement in kayak fishing is what drew me to it. Also, you can get into spots you would never try to get to in a bass boat when kayak fishing. I don't get bored fishing anymore when using the kayak.
Man I got my first kayak during the lockdowns. For me it was some of the best fishing ever, plus it's great exercise. 👍
Great vid B Lat!! Everything you said about the kayak fishing struggle is 100% true especially when it comes to boat positioning. I started kayak fishing about 5 years ago on a paddle kayak and recently upgraded to the Old Town Autopilot 120 earlier this year. That kayak is a game changer and finally allows me to fish spots exactly how I want, without worrying about positioning. Spot lock allows me to take the kayak out and maintain positioning regardless of how windy it is. Stoked to see more kayak content on your channel!
my favorite way to kayak fish - small shallow river, two rods, one tackle box, float from A to B. usually these rivers have low pressure and will surprise you with the fish they hold.
BLat, excellent video. I have been kayak fishing for 16 years. I have my system down, I never fully breakdown the kayak, it loads in the bed of the truck, and slides onto a PVC "wash rack" at bed level when I get home. Wash it out and it slides onto a wooden, wheeled cart at bed level and wheel it into the garage. Minimizes the heavy lifting at the end of the day. I'm 65, and live to kayak fish. Bought my first boat last year, but the kayak is usually my first choice. Love the fact that you do everything - fresh, salt, kayak, bank fish, etc.
I have fished out of kayaks for years. Finally found a great deal on a used bass boat. Took it out a few times and sold it. The bass boat just felt so different. I guess I stuck with what I know. And ended up purchasing a new pair of Hobie PA’s.
Nice vid.. Ha! Didn't realize there was an easier way. From someone who only started fishing 4 years ago and only on a kayak, I thought this was the way it always was.. tons of research and planning, days in advance- checking 3 different wind/weather apps to triangulate, pre-rigging 3-4 rods the night before, staging all your gear perfectly, etc.. once you get in a rhythm with prep and detailed checklists, you can arrive and be on the water in 15 minutes... well I slide my yaks in the back of my van though.
And yea - only use my hobie in the salt, the paddle kayak is for small, fresh water
👌Thank you for this kayak to boat comparison!! Lots of great information!!👌
I am debating the move to a pedal yak from my bass raider. Might try the yak thing next summer to see how it is though before I make a final say.
So many good point! Thank you for sharing! Really enjoy your channel!
You can really dial in certain areas because you're limited with how far you can go. But whenever I go on a boat I am blown away by how much more productive they are haha. The pedal kayak will keep you in really great physical shape! Congrats on the Hobie man
Hey Brian: You nailed it. I do ALL my bass fishing from my paddle kayak. It's exhausting AND rewarding (basically that's what makes it so great of a pastime).
The mental aspect of kayak fishing is so much deeper than I would have ever thought. When you're fishing a tournament on a lake that's thousands of acres from a kayak, it takes hours just to decide where to even start. Then when you're trying to decide to make a move that could take 20-30 minutes of pedaling and lots of energy, on top of just the normal things like spot preservation. I have a bass boat also but I rarely use it because I prefer to fish out of my kayak.
It's actually faster for me to take my kayak for those short trips. I work nights so I'll take my kayak and my gear to work and go straight to lake after work instead of having to drive home and get the boat. If you set it up and take it apart the same way every time you develop a system and it's really not much slower than loading/unloading a boat solo.
The boat positioning plays such a huge role in setting the hook also. It's so easy for the wind to get a kayak turned to where it's difficult to get a proper hookset, and that seems to always be when the fish bites.
Great video as always!
oh... you... you... had me all typing a dang paragraph while I was watching... and then you say all the things I was saying... this is why we love this channel!
Respect. I was toasted after 4 four days of peddling and car topping every day at the KBF National Championship. And driving 24 hrs from Cali to Louisiana. Thanks putting this video out
At first I was like, "No Brian!!!" Then I listened to your entire video and I was like, "That's right, buy another kayak." I understand where you're coming from and what I love about my kayak is that I can slow down and take more time in an area to, hopefully, find the fish. However, I do get pushed by the wind from time to time so I use my anchor or my parknpole to hold my current position. I am jealous of your Hobie and one day I may get one. Until then, great video and I expect to see some video in your kayak. Thanks again.
I actually replaced a bass boat with a kayak. But I fish small waters.
Ways kayak fishing is superior:
Fish never see me coming. I have no motor so they don't even hear me
The kayak fits in my back yard in town there a boat would be pretty difficult
I can get the kayak into places no one else will be fishing (the biggest one)
You get exercise while fishing without even noticing
I find a lightweight kayak to be easier to deal with than a boat and trailer
No batteries to charge
No fuel
No mechanical failures
But most of my friends don't share my enthusiasm.
Dude your awesome! Recently got into kayak fishing. You had me at the title! You got me me lol! Love you man keep it up!
Man it is hard loading my old town pdl 106 on top of my car. With all the gear. Plus it’s tiring after fishing all day. Then unloading everything after.
Sounds like we might see you on some kayak tournaments. Hobie bos has some good tournaments
The Hobie Outback was a great choice! I bought my first kayak about 12 years ago. 12 kayaks later, it is my passion and purpose.
I have a Jackson Big Rig equipped with a tandem mount trolling motor and foot controls, even so, it can be difficult to maintain position in wind or current. I do have an anchor and stake out pole but rarely use them. I do like the physical work aspect of kayaking and sometimes opt for paddling. Most of my fishing is done on a river where big bass boats can't go. I have owned boats but at this point in life find that kayaking suits me better. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on yaking.
I got a Native Titan 12. Unfortunately, first time out today, the wheels weren't attached right, and I didn't even put it in the water. They attach to the tracks, but mine is missing the plates that keep it IN the track. The place I bought it from is mailing me a new setup for the wheels. It's called a Sidekick. Again, great video man. 👍👍
lol you could have launched still
@@jstn05 carrying it sideways and making a bunch of trips back and forth wasn't in the plans today, plus I really just didn't feel like doing all that. Gotta work tonight. Just got here. But yes, it was possible.
@@CarolinaBassHunter I suppose I don’t know what your ramp situation is like, but enjoy the new kayak!
@@jstn05 yeah it would've been a bit of a walk. 😅 Thanks man. 🎣
Hey, Brian, I have an Old Town Sportsman Auto-Pilot 136. It’s a 13’ 6” kayak with a drop-in Minn Kota 45 HP trolling motor. I trailer it to where I want to go. A 100ah lithium ion battery keeps me on the water all day and more.
Ah a local fella. I’ve often wondered why folks sell brand new fishing kayak. Now I get it. It’s work. Awesome video! Very real and that’s what I was looking for.
I think I heard you say in a quite undertone that “I can’t wait to do a kayak tournament “🤔. Now personally I would love to see you in a kayak tournament and pull for you. Good luck on your future tournaments.
Man I fish like 11-13 events a year. There’s no more room for a tournament 🤣
@@BrianLatimerFishing Could always do some during the off season.
need to put a gps trolling motor on that kayak
Spot on!! But it’s what makes it great! Haha! Glad to see you keeping at it man! And great to see you at Bucks Island where we met! You should’ve got that Jackson BigRig FD though!!! 🤣👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻
Wait till you put that trolling motor on the bow of your yak..."Game Changer". The thought process of boat an kayak are most different in ..ie where do i fish, where do I launch that's closest to that area? Awesome video, looking forward to part 2..
If you have motor then it’s now a powered boat and not a kayak. As you mentioned that changes the game so it’s not even the same conversation
@@BrianLatimerFishing I started with a paddle but the deeper I got into tournament fishing it turned into a must have yo cover water. Like the forward facing sonar is now..
B-Lat, Big fan of yours down here in Augusta and love your videos. Now that you reviewed kayak fishing, what do you think about Pond Prowlers, and plastic pontoon bass boats?
You Are totally correct in ALL you said. I like that you explained it in the simplest form possible.without any bias to the kayak world. thank you.
BLat they do make a pedled kayak that you can put a trolling motor in its great with spot lock and you can remote control the unit
Hope you even come fish some of the National event's in the kayak world. Great video !!!!
You have answered all my questions about kayak fishing thank you
Sit on top is the way to go for fishing. I have both and when I caught a nice catfish in my sit in I thought to myself ,well how I’m I going to get the hook out.
I got a 10ft with a 400 lb max weight limit which is key, it allows me to use my 55lb thrust trolling motor, marine battery and gear and still be almost 100 lbs under the max weight, this allows the boat to track properly and remain stable. I have a fairly pricey anchor system and a mesh parachute to keep me in place or just slow down if I want to drift. The 10 foot length fits inside my transit connect van and makes transportation much easier.
I started kayak fishing in 2002 primarily for inshore saltwater fishing because it allowed me to get into really skinny water that even shallow water motorboats couldn't access. I could also be very stealthy getting close to spooky fish. It also avoided having to clean the motorboat after each trip which was a real chore. I then used the kayak to fish small quarry lakes and rivers that motorboats were not allowed in or couldn't access. Actually picked up my personal best 8.1lb largemouth from a small quarry lake. Then there is the cost of gas, motor, trailer and boat maintenance that I avoid. Lastly, paddling a kayak in places where there are no motorboats and being out in nature is very relaxing. Oh yeah, people say I have a very strong grip. I attribute that to lots of paddling!
Kayak fishing for 11 years.....you are spot on.....one has to learn to play the current and wind.....also casting from aukward positions....min time on the water for me is 4 hours....yes it gives me a great workout..have use the paddle and the peddle...selling my peddle..just like the paddle......am 74 yrs old....nice video.
Blat, you almost got me there. LOL, Hobie Outback on leg days…. I think you’ll find that Outback will solve a lot of the problems. If it still sucks after that, I can’t wait for the giveaway :).
Great, objective analysis. Thank you for sharing...
Just over here waiting to see your name on one of our tournament rosters 👀
Good video my dood!! Need to get my a kayak for the smaller lakes around me where they don’t allow gas boats.
You'll enjoy kayak fishing even more with a pedal drive. Hands free fishing is a game changer in the kayak world. I never took my triton out 1 time this year. The opportunity to fish so many tournaments out of a kayak is awesome. Great video BLat
BLat love your segway into this video. Totally concur with you about kayak fishing. I do both, bass boat and kayak fishing, and kayak fishing is so much more calculating like you explained. I actually added a trolling motor to my kayak because adjusting movement in it now is much easier. Still have my paddle to help out with micro adjustments but when you're in current or windy conditions it's pretty tough doing this with a paddle alone. Either way Kayak fishing really compliments your bass fishing skills with all the nuances involved in it. You rock and Merry Xmas
The hardest parts of kayak fishing for me are tackle prep and anchoring. Without anchoring, it's really difficult to work a spot over unless it's dead calm
Best anchor is about 2' of logging chain
Great choice for your second kayak.
Everything you said is what makes the challenge of it that much better. You learn how to work with the elements in order to achieve your goal of catching fish.
This is my second year in a kayak and found it very challenging and fun. Love fishing rivers floating. Come to South Georgia and we can get you on some Ogeechee River Bass
Now when are you going to start fishing the bass masters kayak tournament
Are you planning to fish any of the local kayak tournaments?
Looking forward to seeing more fishing videos on your new hobie kayak!
I think that kayak's make you feel like part of the lake or river!
From the seating position just above the water, to releasing the fish with your hand in the water, you're closer to it, constantly looking in it!
I love it!
This is my favorite channel and favorite fisherman on TH-cam keep up the great content
My stomach is sore from laughing so hard! Thanks for a good Sunday morning start. You nailed this perfectly. When I am feeling like an old man (I am) and want to catch more fish, I take out the boat. When I want to ignore age and catch a few less fish, I take out the Hobie PA. Great job on this video!
Dead on in your commentary about kayak fishing. All of that caught me off guard in the beginning but I love it now and it has become my primary style of fishing. I love getting way back in rivers, slews and swamps, in small water, with the wildlife, snakes, bugs and other critters away from people and noise. It is very gratifying to fight some of the monsters in the rivers down south in a kayak without all of the technology of modern fishing.
Speaking of saltwater fishing the very first time I went was with my friend in his 16 foot boat out in mosquito lagoon. The next time I was down for a visit he took me kayak fishing for bass and it was challenging like you said but so freaking fun. This last time I visited him we took his kayaks out saltwater fishing and I caught my very first and biggest snook and hooked into a couple nice size reds. I'm planning on purchasing a hobie pro angler soon so I can do both fresh and saltwater fishing.
Finally a boat guy understands why we love Kayak Fishing .....thanks BLat
I love this! I just got a kayak this year. A lifetime brand. I love it! But it is super hard, but it has made me compact. And it puts you closer to the water, so you can see how the water moves. I don't have a depth finder but I'm not sure if it helps or not. You can see the fishy spots anyway.
Did you sell your aluminum boat for the center consul
I love that laugh at the end. Just pure joy in catching good fish. I also fish out of a Bonafide SS127 and would completely agree with everything you mention in this video. Good opinions.
I just Got me a Paddle Kayak and I think for the type of waters we have here in New Mexico a Yak is perfect. Depending on your location and type lake rivers you Kayak there are there pros and cons. Very awesome and informative video B.Lat always enjoy your Sportsmanship 🤙🏽🤙🏽
Love the video and it’s all true. Up here in NJ a lot of the lakes we have are just not accessible to boats or you can only use trolling motors. Prepping for major tournaments is a lot and I mean a lot of map prep and work. In a kayak you can’t make a change from one end of Lake Murray to another cause the spots not working out.
I fish kayak pro tournaments in my oldtown sportsman powered by minnkota it has a trolling motor with spot lock so I don't have the boat position issues so buy one and then let me know if you think it sucks 😆 love the vids keep up the good work and hope you have a great season!!!!
I have mainly kayak fished since July 2021. Current PB of 9 lbs from that kayak on a Spro frog. One thing to keep you stationary I use is a small length of paracord as a leash to tie to lily pads or small trees. Don't even have a fishing kayak lol it's a Perception Caronlina 12. It is soooo stealthy I love it.
Why the Hobie instead of the Old town Auto Pilot?
The auto pilot essentially gives you everything when it comes to boat positioning
I’m not opposed to a motor but I also believe once a motor is added it’s then become boating and not kayaking. I have boats already.
@@BrianLatimerFishing great answer!! Cant wait for the content.
Im trying to save up for an outback
Good choice on the new Kayak.
Great vid! Add an anchor system (I’m a fan of the Anchor Wizard) and learn how to control your yak in the wind with a drift sock. Then work with what Ma Nature gives you. I haven’t used my boat for two years.
Until I get a boat that’s all I got haha. Hope to make it like you did man. Love your videos.
Dedicated paddler here. You are so right Brian there are endless factors working against you in a little kayak. But! Being stealthy and getting dragged around by a good LM is so excilerating. Got a 4.5 lbr on a walking bait about a month ago and last week a 5.75 on a Rockcrawler. So much fun. Still looking for a low draft aluminum boat with some HP! Until that time it's a kayak for me. Thank you as always for the great content!
Appreciative .congrats ...I do it out of a canoe. Bow mount strolling motor. Man I appreciate .
What u said brotha what u said ... Greetings From Tennessee .. You ever fished Timbs Ford Lake or Woods Resivoure lake in Franklin County Tennessee?
I had a 13’ canoe/kayak. It was too cramped. My back and ass ached like I was in an office cubicle. I have a 16’ canoe now. I’m much happier now.
Kayak fishing does suck......but it's better than fishing from the shore and way better than not having a boat at all
Everything you said about kayak fishing to me is true. Kayak fishing is so FUN, you really get a good exercise and you get to see a different world of bass fishing. glad to see that you got yourself a Hobie; I would’ve recommended the 360 but that one is also a bad ass kayak.
Btw.. I have learned so much watching your videos that everything that I’ve learned has been for bass kayak fishing.
Hope I get to see you soon in any Hobie Bass Open Series!
i kayak fishing for paddle exercise and fishing sports. not a serious fishermen. but I still caught bass at calm lake
Kayak fish south Louisiana every weekend. I use yak attack pole anchor in the shallow marsh and have no issues with wind, but without my pole anchor it’s difficult. Takes a while to figure out the ideal setup on the kayak.
I have a Hobie PA 14 and load it to the max. I make countless rigs and use a quick twist to change rigs. I fish mainly saltwater and the only disadvantage I feel is my inability to make long pedals to different spots quickly. If you scout an area right you can have all the same advantages as a boater, and kayakers have the advantage of stealth and getting shallower where redfish live. On the Texas coast it's a definite advantage in spots. You have a nice perspective on this. Tight lines.
I can't wait to get a kayak. Right now it's just me, waders and my float tube.
Can't wait to see some new videos in that dope kayak.
Brian I made it 23 seconds and had to comment! I love you and KAYAK fishing! 👊
Kayak fishing can be tough and I agree it does make you a better angler. You really have to think a lot before you launch. You have to dissect the body of water, and choose your launch wisely, because if you want to move, you might only get one chance to load up and relaunch. It affects prefishing as well. You have limited time and limited distance. On the plus side, It's a low barrier to entry, so if you are a good stick, you can compete even with the guys that have the super expensive rigs. The community, for the most part, is also really cool and understanding. You get a lot more cooperation and don't get nearly as much "spot" fighting because everyone knows what we're up against.
Agree with everything you said Brian. I just started kayak fishing this past year and all the little things you mentioned like boat positioning etc. are true. But it's also what has made me a better fisherman too. I was able to go from barely catching any fish to being able to figure out patterns and catch quantity and quality at the end of the season. I ended up catching my pb of 6 pound 6 ounce in one of my last outings of the season. Can't wait to go back out once the ice melts in MN here!
So how did you pare down your take, what did you use.
I bet you would love it if you got a kayak with a trolling motor and spot lock, I know I would love to have one but wanting and affording one are 2 different things
That’s really not kayaking. Once a motor is added you now have a boat
Welcome to world of Hobie kayaks. I would love to go fishing with you. I own 2 Hobie kayaks. You will definitely get a workout fishing from a kayak.
Old Town sportsman with autopilot on a jetski trailer was my answer to all these problems lol.
I bought the same kayak last June and love it. It is my only boat and I have taken it to Mammoth lakes, Mission Bay and many SoCal lakes. It did get me in shape too. I have spent more time on the water this year which is always good. Still working on a new PB though.
Kayak exclusive angler here. In central md my closest lakes are electric motor only, so the big boats are out.
Most of my fishing are on rivers, kayaks excel there for me. Floating from point A to B and smashing smallies is the way to go. I have a Jackson big tuna 2 person with a trolling motor for the Potomac, a 2015 hobie outback workhouse as an all around and a old town 10’ as a pick up and go.
The pedal drives are game changers on a river, really allowing you to hold position with out dropping the stakeout pole or an anchor.
Hoping to get my hands on the new hobie lynx as it looks like a dream “pick up and go” boat. Kayaks fit the mold for those of us who love fishing, nature, exercise, solitude, (or with a buddy) low barrier to entry, not maintaining, storing, trailering or gassing up a boat.
Good stuff Brian, Glad to see you in a Hobie too ✌
I have a bass boat and Jackson Kayak and agree with what you are saying. One thing I would add is kayak fishing teaches you how to down size and bring only what you need. My bass boat looks like a mini bass pro shop but my kayak has just what I need to fish a certain body of water. Last kayak fishing helps you slow down and really focus on an area you are fishing.
Great video BLat. Intriguing and informative and truthful.
I appreciate everything your doing and what you've done for the sport of fishing. I love the channel and the information you share.
Nailed it. Hope to see some vids of how a professional angler would rig the Outback! Used to have one, now I have a PA12 360. Didn’t mind the outback but now that I have a ski trailer I figured why not lol
I've tried it.. I'm too big of a klutz. Here on Long island i have to admit kayak fishing is pretty dang popular! and i am quite impressed how fast the "yakkers" can get that big cumbersome hunk of colorful plastic off the roof of a lifted F250 and into the water(faster than me and my small trailered flat bottom Pond/lake crawler). I have a kayak- but it's touring Kayak and that's all it's supposed to do. It takes my camping gear and me to my remote camping spot and back again. The guys over at Tactical Bassin have a Kayak that can accommodate a Trolling motor and remote control.. pretty cool if you ask me... Thanks Brian.