Kayak Fishing Checklist

A fishing equipment checklist is essential for kayak fishing. Preparing for any kayaking trip usually involves a basic kayaking checklist, which primarily focuses on safety.

A kayak fishing checklist should begin with safety-related items. Checklists for kayak anglers will also include important tackle and fishing-related gear.

The following example checklist includes a variety of equipment that may be needed when kayak fishing (all safety equipment is not listed):

rod-reel outfits
tackle assortment
bait
landing net
pliers
knife
line cutters
rag
fish bag
ice
drinks-snacks
portable GPS
digital camera
cell phone
spare batteries
electronics pouches
compass
maps-charts
hat
sunglasses-eyewear
jacket-rain gear
gloves
equipment crate w/ rod holders
track mount accessories

This checklist is only an example. In reality, each kayak angler will create their own personal equipment list based upon their local fishing requirements.

 

Related Information

Essential Kayaking Gear

Chesapeake Bay Public Access

A recent National Park Service study highlights the demand for public access to the Chesapeake Bay for kayak launching and other uses.

According to the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Public Access Plan, the following areas received the highest numbers of site suggestions:

1. Dundalk/Edgemere area (Baltimore County, Maryland)

2. Annapolis (Maryland)

3. Sassafras River and main stem of the Chesapeake Bay south of the Sassafras River (Maryland)

4. Nanticoke River (Delaware and Maryland)

5. Anacostia and Potomac Rivers (Washington DC, and Arlington, Virginia)

6. Fort Monroe (Hampton, Virginia)

7. Colonial National Historic Park (Virginia)

8. Nansemond River (Virginia)

9. Harrisburg (Pennsylvania)

10. Raystown Branch of the Juniata River (Pennsylvania)

11. Altoona (Pennsylvania)

source: National Park Service

Pennsylvania Water Trails Programs

Water trails in Pennsylvania are being promoted by partnership of DCNR, the Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Environmental Council, and the National Park Service.

The Pennsylvania Water Trails Program was created to expand, connect, and promote Pennsylvania's water trails system.

Pennsylvania water trails include access points, boat launches, day use sites and some overnight camping sites on or along waterways.

A recent study focused on visitors to four Pennsylvania water trails during the summer of 2012. According to the study, the trips generated almost three-quarters of a million dollars in economic activity and supported 11 full-time jobs in the state.

For Pennsylvania water trail information, visit fishandboat.com

source: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

Why Do Kayaks Capsize?

Since most kayaks are extremely light and have a shallow draft (depth), they tend to be very stable when empty. Their stability decreases as loads are added.

Human occupants present the most challenge, not only due to weight but also because of the potential for imbalance.

Shifting loads can also lead to capsizing. Before launching, it is important to secure loose equipment, especially heavy items.

Water intrusion can also lead to problems, especially if large amounts of water enter the cockpit or storage compartments.

To minimize instability, it is important to keep occupants and all equipment as low as possible and centered in the craft. In most cases, standing up or leaning over the gunwale is all but impossible.

More Information

Kayaking Dangers

Bloede Dam - Patapsco Valley State Park

Patapsco River kayakers could have improved access in the future, if a third dam is removed from the river. Bloede Dam, which is owned by DNR is located in Patapsco Valley State Park.

The possible removal of Bloede Dam is part of a larger, more comprehensive effort to restore 43 miles of stream habitat for migratory and resident fish. The Patapsco River restoration project started with the removal of Union Dam in September 2009.

The Patapsco River once supported runs of shad, herring, and American eels, but multiple dams on the river have blocked fish migrations. According to biologists, a number of species have returned to the upper river following the removal of Union and Simkins Dams.

DNR is accepting input online at dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/bloededam/index.asp

Comments or suggestions are due by August 31, 2012.

A complete copy of the draft and more information is available at dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/bloededam/index.asp

source: MD DNR

Potomac River Smallmouth Bass Angler Survey

From June through October 2012 Maryland Department of Natural Resource (DNR) will be conducting a smallmouth bass angler survey on the Potomac River between Harpers Ferry and Seneca Breaks.

Information gathered from the survey will be used to help biologists track smallmouth bass population trends and gauge the effects of regulations.

The survey will collect basic fishing information from anglers via postage prepaid survey cards, which will be distributed to anglers on the river and at bass clubs.

In November, DNR will randomly draw 10 winners from the survey submissions who will each receive a $50 prepaid debit card.

source: MD DNR

Wye-Tri Adventure Race

Participants can run, paddle and ride through the Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) during the second annual Wye-Tri Adventure Race on Saturday, May 5.

The Maryland Park Service (MPS) sponsored race is a unique version of a triathlon, broken down into three segments: running, kayaking and mountain biking. The race will begin with a 2-mile run over wooded and open field trails along Dividing Creek, followed by a .75-mile paddle on the Wye River and Granary Creek, and finish with a 6.5-mile mountain bike ride along Wye Island Road and the island’s trail system.

The Wye-Tri Adventure Race is open to anyone 14 years of age or older in good physical health. The cost is $15 per person and each participant will receive a souvenir event shirt.

MPS will permit kayaks and canoes of all sizes. Participants can rent a boat for an additional $5. There are a limited number so be sure to contact the park office to reserve in advance. Life vests will be mandatory for athletes under 16 years of age. MPS will hold the Wye-Tri rain or shine but may delay or interrupt the race in the event of extreme fog, wind or thunderstorms.

Participants are required to have their kayaks and bicycles in place by 7:30 a.m. and be present for a pre-race meeting at 7:45 a.m. The Wye-Tri Adventure Race will begin promptly at 8 a.m.

Wye Island NRMA is located in the tidal recesses of the Chesapeake Bay between the Wye River and the Wye East River. Of the facility’s 2,800 acres, 2,450 are managed by the Department of Natural Resources’ Maryland Park Service for resource management, recreation and agriculture. A major emphasis at Wye Island is to provide suitable habitat for wintering waterfowl populations and other native wildlife.

For more information or to register for the Wye-Tri Adventure Race, contact the Wye Island NRMA office at 410-827-7577 or the Tuckahoe State Park office at 410-820-1668.

source: MD DNR