As more water sports are adapted to using Stand Up Paddleboards, many companies are including uses for specific sports. One of these is fishing. Newer paddleboards include fishing pole mounts, seat racks, and other fishing accessories that are making it even easier to enjoy your favorite pastimes together. Even older models that don’t include such accessories can readily be adapted to utilize your two favorite sports together.
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Benefits Of Paddleboard Fishing
For many fishing enthusiasts, the lack of a boat can lead to some frustration. Without a boat, it may be nearly impossible to reach some of the better fishing holes. However, the cost of a boat may be insurmountable for many as prices are skyrocketing while wages remain the same.
The solution? A Paddleboard.
Fishing while using your stand-up paddleboard is an easy way to enjoy both sports at the same time. You can navigate into small coves and areas where a boat may not be able to easily reach, and you aren’t going to have to spend a fortune on boat insurance and boat maintenance. Truly, it’s the best of both worlds.
Even more important, it’s easier to transport your fishing SUP so you won’t require a boat trailer (again, more expensive as you have to license a boat trailer). It’s easy to get your paddleboard in and out of the water and you can do so nearly anywhere, you won’t require a boat ramp or boat ramp fees.
Many fishermen find that boats and kayaks don’t allow them the same freedoms that stand-up paddleboards offer. There’s plenty of space and you’ll never have to worry about your paddleboard floating away because you’ll be sitting or standing on it at all times.
If you tire of fishing or reach your limit, you can still enjoy the water it’s not the end of your trip. There are so many great activities that you can do out on a paddleboard that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason not to own one.
What Do I Need to Fish on a SUP?
You’ll want to select a wider longer style board if you’re going to be fishing. It’s important to consider stability as well as ease of use. How will you transport your board? Do you have plenty of cargo space or will you require roof racks?
If not, you’ll want to purchase an inflatable SUP because they take up very little room and can easily fit in any vehicle.
You also want to ensure that it will be able to support your weight as well as the weight of your gear. Many great companies offer paddleboards that are specifically designed for fishing. You can also adapt your current board with a bit of ingenuity. A newer board with all these features will be priced in the mid to upper price range. However, it’s still far less expensive than that of a boat or a kayak for the same purpose.
Check for weight capacity to ensure that you and your equipment will be fully supported. Weight capacity can vary greatly and you’ll want to ensure plenty of capacity as well as stability for your paddleboard.
Make sure to invest in a paddle holder or leash.
You may find that you’re switching from paddle to rod frequently and you’ll want to minimize the need for this stabilization. You’ll also want to reserve your energy for catching that feisty fish! Paddle holders and leashes are ideal for other paddleboard activities, so why not invest in one that will deliver plenty of stability?
Finally, consider an easy-to-use anchor or sand spear. You may find a great school of fish and wish to hang out for a bit. Keeping your paddleboard from slowly drifting away from a great fishing hole will go far in helping you to merge the two favorite pastimes. It will also help when you’re trying to secure your fish and it will help you to avoid scaring the fish away by being too mobile.
Of course, none of the mentioned accessories are required, however, they will ensure that you enjoy your two favorite sports together. Everyone is different and you may find that you don’t need all the bells and whistles. Consider convenience and what works best for your needs. You’ll want some bungee cords to use to secure things to your board or a gearbox if you’re using a traditional setup for fishing.
Remember too that you will want gear that will float should you find some rough water.
Helpful Tips For SUP Fishing
Once you’re out on the lake, there’s not too much difference between fishing and stand-up paddleboarding. Keep in mind that you’ll want to secure your gear and make sure that you’re ready for your experience. Keep your gear tightly secured and make sure that you have a backup rope or bungee cord or three in case something comes loose.
Follow all of the local fishing laws and make sure that you’ve purchased the required licensing for your fishing. Keep these on your person when you’re fishing, if a game warden or someone with authority shows up, you’ll be required to show this. You may wish to invest in a plastic case to keep these nice and dry should you take a spill.
Know the laws for the locations that you’re fishing in. Some will only allow specific types of fish to be caught and others will have regulations on exactly where and when you can legally fish. You must follow all of the laws to comply with the local laws and regulations. It’s your responsibility to know what the laws are regardless of which state you’re fishing in.
Finally, enjoy your fishing and paddle boarding trip. It’s a great way to combine two of the most exciting water sports that there is. Many successful fishers have switched from boats and fishing kayaks to SUPs because of the freedom that it offers.
From the ability to enjoy more scenic areas in the water to enjoying a new way to fish, there are many great reasons to enjoy fishing and paddleboarding together as one sport. If you’re looking for a great way to enjoy some outdoor time on the water and you’ve always enjoyed both sports, why not combine them into one fun sport? You’ll enjoy your newfound sport.