Rod Holders
The Hobie fishing kayaks have rod holders molded in the kayak. The holders are placed behind the seat and are ideal for trolling. The holders will not interfere with the paddling stroke, and the line will be directly behind the kayak. The location of the line also will prevent tangles with the anchor rope. Additional rod holders can be placed in front of the seat. The extra holders are ideal for casting lures and flies. The holders should be placed far enough forward to clear the paddle stroke and far enough back to be within easy reach. The additional holders allow you to carry trolling rods behind the seat and casting rods in front of the seat.
Measuring System
Measuring fish is popular with kayak fisherman, but the seated position makes it difficult with a tape measure. A traditional tape measure requires the kayak angler to hold the fish uncomfortably in their lap. Use a permanent marker to label inches on the side of the kayak. This allows you to measure the fish along the side just before releasing the fish. When keeping fish, you can hang a stringer near the marks and measure the fish when it is secure to the stringer.
Anchor System
Hobie fishing kayaks are designed to attach an anchor at the rear of the kayak. The anchor is sold separately and is well worth the investment. The anchor will save you energy on windy days and will allow you to stop and work on a group of fish before moving. The anchor on the back works well, but fisherman who plan on using the anchor system regularly should place another anchor on the front of the kayak. This will give a stable platform and prevent the kayak from swinging in the wind.
Outriggers
Outriggers are a great feature for kayak fishing. The outriggers give a stable fishing craft and make standing a possibility. Fishing from a standing position is valuable for sight fishing and fly-fishing. The outriggers will not slow down the Hobie kayaks because the pedal-drive system can be combined with paddling for extra speed when traveling.
Fish Finder
The fish finder is a valuable fishing tool and can be installed on a Hobie fishing kayak. Place the fish finder in the front of the cockpit where it is visible but does not obstruct your fishing space or the pedal drive. The smaller pedal-drive kayaks do not have space in cockpit for a fish finder, but the device can be mounted on the front or side of the kayak.
Article Written By Zach Lazzari
Zach Lazzari is an outdoor writing specialist. He has experience in website writing as well as standard newspaper writing. He wrote an outdoor column for the Silver World in Lake City, Colo., and articles for Colorado-mountain-adventure.com. Lazzari is currently completing his bachelor's degree online through Arizona State University and lives in southwest Montana.
