A WHOLE NEW APPROACH
Promising simplicity, versatility and access to new waters, kayaks are the ultimate fishing machines. Here’s how to get in on the action
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#3 CUSTOMIZE WITH CAUTION
If you’re not the do-it-yourself type, you might prefer a pre-rigged boat. But if you’re even minimally handy—as in competent enough to hang a shelf or change a windshield wiper—you can modify your own kayak. This is inexpensive, and it lets you customize the boat exactly as you like.
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In fact, there are so many options that I’ve never seen two boats rigged the same way. Just proceed with caution. You don’t want a kayak festooned with crap you’ll never use or, even worse, installed in annoying spots.
The idea of cutting holes in my boat filled me with terror, so I waited a full season before making any modifications. This gave me a feel for what I needed, and where to put it. For example, I added a trolling rod holder behind my left shoulder. Owing to my build and my kayak’s dimensions, that’s the easiest spot for me to reach in a hurry.
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Since I sometimes fly fish (above), I was careful not to install any fittings that would interfere with my line. I also went with a modular mounting system, so I can swap in accessories as needed, such as a camera post or extra rod holder.