Gift Ideas for the Kayak Fisherman

Frost covered the ground this morning when I let the dog out to do her business. Groggy and delusional at 3AM, I started coming to grips that winter is pretty much here. Winter always means Christmas because as soon as Halloween is over Walmart puts out the fake trees flocked with some flammable white substance. Walmart is here to remind us "Hey, people, it's time to spend all of your money!"

I have given into that thought and started to formulate what to get my family members. I have scoured Black Friday ads (most of which are crap this year) and decided to make my own list. The women folk in my family have a hard time knowing what to get me so this is a little help in that direction. Some of these gifts I already have but could always use another or twelve. I've tried to come up with stuff in several price ranges so if it's a company party or your significant other's BIG gift, you might find something on here. And if you wanted to get me something off this list, it's a guaranteed sure thing I'll like it. (It is my list after all.)

Under $25

Hawg Trough- This special design cradles the fish and holds it steady for accurate measurement. 30" in length, the measurements are readable from either side. Both ends have holes to leash to your kayak.
Measurement numbers are raised.The Hawg Trough is made of durable plastic and is injection molded.

Hoo-Rag- For maximum protection from the sun, or maximum anonymity, the Hoo-Rag takes care of business.  Cover your entire face except for your eyes and achieve complete Hoo Rag ninja status, a new breed of ninja that wears sunglasses.

E-merse Waterproof  Camera Bag- E-Merse™ Clear Dry Cam cases offer great camera protection and allow you to take pictures and operate point & shoot cameras right through the case. Features a DryMax pocket to help eliminate fog build up and maximum moisture control. Comes in two sizes.

Fish Grip- Made by makers of the Norton Brass Rattler - "You have our assurance that this quality product will help to successfully land a fish with a less chance of injury to either the fisherman or to the fish, which may be released".
Over center locking - grip to lock, flip to open.
Unique jaw design - holds the lip of the fish.
Durable materials - plastic and stainless steel.
High viz color - easy to see, day or night.
Weight scale slot - attach a scale, deduct 5 oz.
Wrist lanyard - in case it slips.
IT FLOATS

Flat surface on jaws of the Fish Grip helps to prevent the puncture of thin tissue of the mouth of the fish. Lip bone of the fish rolls to either side of the point of the jawx of the Fish Grip securing your catch.
Less injury to the fish too!

Gear Trac Lite (multiple colors)- Yakattack's innovative, highly versatile Geartrac is now available in lightweight, high performance polymer... and did we mention they're in colors?!

C'mon, you know you want to splash some flair on your fishing rig. Includes mounting hardware. 

Hags Tornados in Watermelon/Chartreuse F4/F8- The Hag's Tornado is constructed in a manner to where it has an action like no other soft plastic worm. The Hag's Tornado has a built-in rattle chamber in the tail so that the fishermen can easily insert a rattle without damaging the worm. If this rattle chamber is left empty it will create an air pocket that will add extra buoyancy to the tail.

When rigged on a Texas rig, the worm will stand completely vertical. When rigged on a Carolina rig, the worm will float up off of the bottom. This will be deadly when fishing those deep grass beds or trees. Put the Hag's Tornado on a shakey head and watch out!

The Hag's Tornado uses a special formulated plastic that not only allows the worm to stand straight up and down or even float off of the bottom, but also makes it tough enough to hold up to numerous fish. A lot of competitor's products tear up with only one fish, costing the fishermen a lot of money. The Hag's Tornado are tough and you will love not having to put a new worm on each time you catch a fish.

Under $50

Zooka Tube- YakAttack teamed up with RAM to produce this innovative, soon-to-be-coveted rod holding system: The ZookaTube! The ZookaTube holds virtually all types of rods: spinning, level and fly. Left handed or right handed? No problem! The ZookaTube is ambidextrous! The ZookaTube is constructed from RAM's high strength composite, which is lightweight, strong and will last forever! The ZookaTube easily adjusts pitch by releasing the large thumbscrew on the side. The ZookaTube comes in a range of mounting options

X-Grip- RAM made universal device mount with Geartrac compatible Screwball.

Although it was designed for holding mobile devices and such, this thing can actually grab onto tools and other items you might want handily mounted on a Geartrac. Clever!

Double socket arm and universal spring loaded X-Grip™ holder for cell phones. The included X-Grip™ cradle has a clean and clever four leg design that sports great holding power without hiding your phone behind foam pads and plastic. The spring loaded X-Grip™ holder expands and contracts, allowing for a perfect custom fit of your cell phone. The perfect compliment to the modern sleek interior of today's vehicles, the RAM X-Grip™ is the cell phone holder evolved. 

Gerber River Shorty Knife- Serrated blade features a blunt tip to prevent accidental punctures and to serve as a prying tool. Highly polished medium-carbon stainless steel inhibits corrosion and holds a sharp edge to cut quickly through entangled rope and webbing. The quick-release sheath clips to a las tab on your PFD so you can get to the knife instantly. It holds the blade securely yet releases it with a single one-handed pull. The strong composite handle has a large, comfortable grip with ridges that help you immediately orient the serrated edge. Holes in the handle minimize the weight and accommodate a lanyard. 6¾"L open, 3¾"L closed. Blade is 3"L. 6.4 oz. Made in Italy.

Polar Bear Soft Sided Cooler (12 pack)- Polar Bear Coolers are made with the highest quality most well blended materials. Built stronger to last longer! Superior Craftsmanship, Superior Performance. You can reliably count on the Polar Bear holding ice for 24 hours in 100+ degree heat. (That's Fahrenheit) 

1120 Pelican Case- This Pelican 1120 case comes with Pelican’s unique Pick ‘N Pluck foam. This foam is pre-cut which allows you to customize the interior by half inch cubes. Trace out the item you want in the case and simply pluck the foam out by hand, no tool required. You can customize your case in less than 15 minutes. It is unbreakable, watertight, airtight, dustproof, chemical resistant and corrosion proof. These are some of the features of this Pelican Protector Case that offers total protection for your equipment. It is made of Ultra High Impact structural copolymer that makes it extremely strong and durable. Its exclusive 1/4" (6.4 mm) neoprene o-ring and ABS latches seal perfectly and includes an automatic purge valve for quick equalization after changes in atmospheric pressure. Your equipment can fit into the high density foam of the case for total subjection and protection against impact, vibration or shock. This case is NATO codified and tested to MIL C-4150J (Military Standard), IP-67 (Ingress Protection) and ATA (Air Transportation Association). Unconditionally Guaranteed ... forever.

Under $100

Bomber Gear Halo 5.0 Top/Bottom- THE HALO 5.0 THERMAL CREW IS WARM BY ITSELF on moderately cool days and ideal as a thermal inner layer.

Moisture management paneling in key areas wicks moisture away from the body, increases insulation, repels moisture and dries quickly. The Polartec Power Dry material with flat-seam, Performance Cut construction allows 4-way stretch for easy, unrestricted mobility and comfort – even under dry wear. The Halo 5.0 includes a reflective screen printed logo, SPF 40 protection, and is anti-microbial treated. 5.0 oz. per square yard.

VisiCarbon Pro Light and Flag- Designed to meet the needs of serious kayak anglers as well as recreational paddlers, the VISICarbon Pro™ sports unprecedented performance combined with light weight, low drag, and portability with plenty of style.The main mast section is designed with carbon fiber tubing for high strength and ultra light weight. The VISICarbon Pro™ weighs in at just 14 ounces, complete with 3 AA batteries. The ultra thin mast and safety flag combine to offer excellent performance with low wind drag. The 48 long VISICarbon Pro™ breaks down to 14 long in seconds. The Silent Snap™ flag attachment system provides a secure attachment that allows the flag to be removed in seconds. The folded down unit can be stored inside the nylon safety flag which doubles as a carry bag.

Leverage Landing Net- What makes The Leverage Landing Net™ unique is its innovative handle design, utilizing a simple arm brace and “pistol” grip that enables the fisherman to deploy and operate the net one-handed while maintaining control of the fishing rod in the other hand. The brace and grip combination enables your arm to act as an extension to the net’s handle, and increases strength and control when your netting fish. The new Kayak model is the same net with a handle extension beyond the arm cradle which enables this net to be used in a traditional rod holder.

Stohlquist Pi-Seas PFD- Economical fish hunting vest with the right features for safety, comfort, and practicality. Large "drawbridge" front pockets act as fold-down work surfaces when opened. Right pocket includes adjustable strap for locking down long lure boxes. Left pocket feature 3-D inner pocket with hook and loop closure sized just right for thread spools. Other features include anchor points, lash tab, and "D"-ring for net attachment.

PanFish Camera Pole- Getting your camera pointed in the right direction just got a little easier. The PanFish™ by YakAttack™ features a split mast design with adjustable friction disks that allow quick and easy horizontal panning. Just grab the foam grip above center mast and rotate. Nothing to loosen, nothing to get loose. Just point and let go. 
The PanFish™ was designed for over-the-shoulder video with lightweight cameras. We recommend a maximum payload of 1 lb, including camera and housing (if applicable). This covers most lightweight and point-and-click style cameras. 

Big Spender

BlackPak- Brand new for 2013, the BlackPak crate system is poised to set a new standard in rod, tackle, and gear management on kayaks and standup paddleboards. It ships flat and assembles quickly using common hand tools. The interlocking joint design creates incredible strength, promising many years of trouble-free service. The clean, tactical appearance demands attention and the rapidly developing line of BlackPak accessories means there’s always another problem solving innovation just around the corner.

The BlackPak has stations for up to 10 rod holders, each of which can be installed vertically or angled. When 4 or more rod holders are used, they can be installed in the “high and dry” position, preventing unwanted seepage from a wet tank well. The top rails are configured to accept all GearTrac or Mighty Mount compatible accessories. The lid is hinged and latched with elastic cord, and is designed for easy removal, allowing it to double as a bait board.   (Sold Unassembled)

Kistler KLX Speck and Red Baitcasting Rod (Medium)- With the foundation of an American Made Hybrid 42.7 Million Modulus blank, adding top quality components and Kistler innovations make the KLX a rod that has to be experienced to be believed. And of course it is built right here in Magnolia TX by Kistler’s certified rod technicians.

When you look at your new KLX rod you will immediately notice very little fanfare in the way of fancy colored wraps, or paid endorsements signed on the shaft. Instead, the American Flag, and the very best rod we could possibly build for the money.

Pride in building the very best for our customers. It’s the foundation of the Kistler values. So you can say…..’Fishing NEVER Felt SO Good!’

DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:

Fuji blank exposed reel seat

Fuji MICRO (larger than other brand micro rods) Stainless steel "K" tangle free, Alconite rings

Action: Fast

Length: 7'0"

Power: Medium

Lure weight: 1/8 - 3/4 oz.

Line weight: 10 - 15 lb.

Handle length: 9 "

"The handle length is measured from the bottom of the butt cap to the bottom joint where the reel seat meets the cork."

Overall rod weight 3.6 ounces 

VIO POV HD Camera- No matter whether you are casting for muskies, flippin’ for bass, fly fishing for trout, or poling the flats for tarpon and bonefish, make sure you do all you can to preserve your outings to more than just your memory or a still photo. Oh sure, it’s easy enough to get a digital camcorder, but finding a willing cameraman is a different story. With the VIO POV HD as your boat partner, every fish from the strike to the release will be recorded. Oh, did we mention that the camera head is waterproof? This means getting one-of-a -kind underwater shots is now easily accomplished. And you’ll never have to say, “Did you get that?” One of the best features of the system is the “Loop Record Mode” which enables you to save recordings after they happen! This means that at the end of the day, no more going through hours of video to get the nuggets of excitement--clips of the action are all you will have, and they are easily downloaded and shared via PC. The camera can be mounted on your hat or shoulder for great “Point-of View” shots, or on your boat’s console for all-encompassing action shots.

Werner Kalliste 240cm- The Kalliste’s performance core blades have an exceptionally light buoyant feel on the water and offer silky smooth strokes that make paddling all day long feel effortless. The Kalliste is the ultimate choice for low angle kayakers. Mid-size blades offer gentle power and a smooth easy stroke.

SuperNova LED Lights Extreme Kayak Kit - Fully Jacketed, Fully Encased and Silicone Encapsulated Strips. The ONLY strips that are fully submersible!

The SuperNova Kayak Kit includes 8 strips of lights for the front, rear and cabin of your kayak, which ensures ample visability of all structures at casting distance and the cabin lights give adequate worklight, and can be switched off and on as needed.

See what's out there and most important, be seen by others on the water.

What's Included:

• 2- 28LED Light Strips, 20"
• 2- 13LED Light Strips, 10"
• 4- 4LED Light Strips, 4"
• 3M Adhesion Promoter
• 2 Switches and Waterproofing Boots
• 8 Pieces Heat Shrink
• 6 Wire Management Pads
• 10 Tie Wraps
• 5amp Fuse
• 6' Extra 22AWG Wire
• 1 In-line Fuse Holder

Smith Optics Tenet- The Tenet is feature packed, centered around the exceptional optical clarity and performance that our proprietary Techlite Polarized Glass lenses deliver. Additional goodies like smooth action spring hinges and rubber- like Megol details make this style fit like a dream and stay put on your head when you have the throttle pinned.

Large Fit / Medium Coverage

Techlite Polarized Glass TLT Lenses

Evolve Frame Material

Anti-Reflective and Hydrophobic Lens Coatings

Hydrophilic Megol Nose and Temple Pads

Stainless Steel Spring Hinges

8 Base Lens Curvature

Frame Measurements 61-18-135

Happy Shopping!!!!

Paddle Battle

If you've been looking for a paddle for under $150, today's Paddle Battle is for you! Two candidates take the stage today that I have been paddling with for about 40 hours each. While the price is the same, these paddles offer very different features. Here is the tale of the tape:

The Aqua Bound Manta Ray Hybrid is a lighter paddle with bigger blades. Bigger blades however, do not always equate to more efficiency in the water. The abXII blades are stiff but I would not say rigid. You can curve the tip of the blade a bit. This is not unexpected as lighter paddles often have less rigidity and thickness in the blade, not always, but usually.

I liked paddling with this paddle. I used it to push off a few times from shore and it didn't snap or give too much. It did flex which gave me pause at first but I soon realized it could handle it. Paddling I felt like the water movement was good and efficiency was where I needed it to be. In the high seat position of the Native Slayer I could really reach the water and not have to concentrate on my stroke as much because the blades are so big. In the Malibu Mini-X, sitting low I was able to skim the water without having to dig and it still moved me right along. I did prefer this paddle in the higher seated positions.

The Werner SkagIt FG IM is a little heavier than the Manta Ray but is a rigid bladed paddle. The SkagIt worked amazing for pushing off, standing and paddling and many other uses. Where it lacked was in surface area. When in the Slayer, I had to concentrate harder on my paddling to make sure I was getting enough paddle surface in the water. I didn't need as much surface area but it was a retraining exercise. When in the Malibu, the low seat paddling was a breeze. You are at the perfect position for the paddle to work at its highest efficiency and can straight up move in a low seat kayak.


I liked both paddles. They both had cool ferrule features that lesser paddles just don't offer. Both had an area they shined in. For paddling an elevated seat kayak, I would recommend the Aqua Bound. For a low seat, I would get the Werner.

If I needed a paddle for both situations, I would choose the Manta Ray because almost all other things being equal, the weight is 5.25 oz less. That makes a difference on the water, especially for long trips.

The best way to choose the right paddle for you is to demo, demo ,demo. Ask a buddy to borrow his, go to a demo that a local dealer is having or even just go into the store and hold one. Making an informed decision is always the best way to go. Both of these paddles are available at Mariner-Sails in Dallas. 

Paddles: How Do I Choose?!?

One of the first questions a first time kayak owner asks is " What paddle should I get?".
"I could tell you but it probably wouldn't be right" or some variant is usually my answer. The problem is not every paddler has the same boat, do the same things, are the same height and have the same financial resources. A few resources exist but usually it is a recommendation or a price point that causes a new kayak owner to buy the paddle they get.
Folks, this is the engine to your kayak! Please choose wisely or we might end up seeing you taking a bath on your purchase as it withers away on craigslist.org. Do you know how hard it is to recoup your money on a Pelican kayak on CL? Better luck in Vegas.
The paddle can make or break the experience but it is often thought of as, well, an afterthought.
I'll tackle a few tips and techniques for choosing a paddle here but the important thing is, go try one in the water. Places like Austin Canoe & Kayak  have a demo day coming up September 15th. Go try one after you narrow it down. It will be well worth it.
This is done from a fisherman's perspective but can also apply to touring kayaks and general recreation.

Length: Paddle length is tricky but maybe this will help. Find a paddle at a shop and stand with it at your side vertically. Now reach up with one hand and curl your fingers around the top of the blade. If the paddle hits you in the palm, it's probably a bit short. If you can't reach the end, too tall. But hang on! Keep reading. Take into consideration the width of your kayak. If you are in a boat wider than 26" you need to bump up a size. Paddles are typically measured in centimeters and range from 210cm-240cm and usually by 10cm increments. At 6'2", I need a 230cm paddle, (monkey arms, I know), but I also paddle two wider kayaks at 31" and 36" so a 240cm is really best so I don't spend all day playing the drums on the side of my yak with my new paddle.

Blade Style: There are basically four categories of blades. You have wide and flat blades, narrow and flat blades, wide and scooped/winged blades, and narrow and scooped/winged. Variations are all over the board for these but two things are needed to decide properly. The wide blades are going to give you more power. They move more water and can allow you to turn faster, accelerate in choppy water better and fight the weather. These work great for fishermen because of their versatility. They also work better in wider boats, which are typically heavier and require more to move them. Narrow blades are more efficient. If you are paddling more than 2-3 miles in a day you might think about this option. Just understand if you are in a big, heavy, wide kayak, the advantage of the more efficient paddle is nullified. The decision about a flat blade versus scooped/winged blade is up to you. Sides are split as to added efficiency etc. I will say however that a flat blade is typically more durable for fishermen when used as an alternative to a push pole.

Material: Blades and shafts can be made of aluminum, plastic, carbon fiber, fiberglass, wood and a host of blends. Carbon fiber is lighter and can reduce weight for a long day on the water but if you are fishing oyster beds or rip rap it can make your paddle into splinters if you aren't careful. At this point let me say, I would recommend if you are buying a carbon fiber paddle, invest in a push pole or backup paddle so you don't cry when it breaks. And it will break if you abuse it. Aluminum and plastic are durable but usually heavy. These are also cheaper alternatives and what most folks will be using on the water. Nothing wrong with that! Just understand you will work harder throughout a day than you would with a carbon.

Weight: Since we are talking about it above let's continue here. Typical paddle weight is between 20-40oz. It doesn't seem like a ton of range but after a few thousands strokes, your shoulders and back will let you know the difference. I recommend the lightest, most durable paddle you can find for you situation. Durability and light are usually not synonymous so this is a decision that needs to be weighed carefully.

Cost: So many variables exist when you talk cost. All of the things mentioned above will play into it. Paddles range from $29 to infinity. There is a huge difference between that Academy $29 paddle and a $199 paddle from a name brand. There is much less difference between a $200 paddle and a $700 paddle as far as performance, materials etc go. The sweet spot for a very nice paddle is usually from $149-$229. This isn't in everyone's budget so buy accordingly.

Shaft Style: I won't spend much time on this but the new line of thinking is that a bent shaft puts less torque on the wrist and arms throughout the day, especially for inexperienced paddlers. A straight shaft works for most folks.

Brands: If you spend your time on the clearance aisle, some of these may be new to you. Check out the full line at places like Austin Canoe and Kayak, Colorado Kayak Supply and others. Some names you should know are Werner, Bending Branches, Aqua Bound, AT, and Carlisle.

That's about it. I've poured it all onto paper for you so now you just have to try one or twelve. Find a demo day and go. You can thank me later.