Canoe and Kayak Fishing plus Canoeing and Kayaking

The authors all like to canoe and kayak for the sake of the ride; it is a very fun sport. We all like the trip, however; we mostly do it so we can float fish. With this is mind we tend to float near good fishing areas and typically use equipment built to serve a fisherman. Several of the authors use either a Wilderness Systems fishing model called "The Ride Angler" such as the one shown or a Walden sportsman kayak. There are also a number of other canoes or kayaks that would perform equally fine or better if your needs are different.

But here are some hints on picking equipment.

1. The sit-on-top models will be easier to fish from. They will not be as warm and comfortable in the cold but will be more stable and forgiving in the choppy coastal waters.
2. Consider carefully the placement of the fishing package. The layout should be easy to get to but be stable enough such that the surf does not knock off the paddles and tackle.
3. Get a kayak that can easily mount a tackle box or bucket, etc. on the outside.
4. If used primarily for fishing; a vest with some pockets will perform better.

There are several nice books on kayaking relevant to NC and fishing. They include Coastal Kayaker's Manual, Sea Kayaking, and Kayak Fishing.