SUP Fishing Versus Kayak Fishing: Why SUP Fishing Rocks

That is the question many fishermen face when they hear about fishing vessels like new kayaks and paddle boards that come onto the market. Is it worth changing or upgrading? Why is SUP fishing becoming so popular? If you’re new to this hobby, which one to try out first? Let’s compare SUP fishing and kayak fishing, answering all your questions so you can make an informed decision.

Transportation

Photo via POP Board Co.

First, you need to get to the water. So, which one will be easier to transport? An obvious benefit here is that some paddle boards can deflate, making it super easy to find space for them in a vehicle. And even those that don’t deflate are lighter than a kayak. Even if you use a specialized fishing paddle board, it will usually weight less than 45lb.

So, although both kayaks and SUPs can be of considerable length, a paddle board is much easier to handle. If you’re alone you won’t have a problem because you can lift it onto the roof of a car or trailor by yourself. SUPs are also good for RV camping lovers.

Fishing Capabilities

One of the main reasons why fishermen enjoy using a SUP is the view. Yes, it’s comfortable sitting in or on a kayak and you may prefer this during a long day of fishing. But a paddle board is designed to support you standing up, which few people find comfortable doing for long on a kayak. So, on your SUP you can stretch your legs as well as see better and notice detail far away from you, such as a sandbank or reeds. With a better field of view, you can make better decisions about where to position your line.

Photo via iRocker

Standing also allows easier arm movement, so you may improve your casting technique. And instead of trying to maneuver the vessel, you can simply turn around if you want to cast in a spot behind you. Some paddle boards are smaller and narrower than the average kayak. This enables fishermen to maneuver into unique, smaller spaces and catch fish they may not be able to reach from a kayak.

Do take note that when you’re standing up you’re more likely to experience intense glare from the sun being reflected off the water. It’s a good idea to add glare-blocking polarized sunglasses to your regular fishing gear.

Gear Storage

When it comes to storage, a paddle board can’t really beat a well-designed kayak in terms of storing capacity. High end kayaks have enough storage wells and gear mounts so you can have all your favorite equipment within easy reach.

Photos via SIC (left), POP Board Co (right)

But don’t underestimate the latest fishing paddle board designs. Created with fishermen in mind, you can get one with gear mounts and a rod holder. And it’s not too difficult to secure a cooler box in place, so you can carry refreshments or bait with you. The cooler box can even function as a seat. Therefore, if you’re the type of fisherman who goes out on short excursions and doesn’t need a lot of equipment or provisions, a paddle board is more than sufficient.

Cost

Photo via iRocker

Of course, what really matters is how your vessel will influence your fishing experience. For your budget’s sake, if you’re still not sure if fishing is really for you, a paddle board is a good way to start. Many of them—even specialized fishing SUP boards—can be cheaper than some fishing kayaks. You can always invest in a more advanced kayak model later on.

Do take note that price will depend on the kayak or SUP model you pick. Make sure you invest in a vessel that won’t get you in trouble when you’re fishing in deeper waters.

Add-Ons For SUP Fishing

Photo via Thurso Surf

Thanks to innovation and the popularity of paddle boards, you’ll find various accessories these days. And some of them are especially helpful for fishermen:

• Rod holders: With rod holders you can take a little more gear, such as a second rod you’ve been looking forward to trying out.
• Seats: Adding a comfort feature to an ordinary SUP, a detachable seat is also practical. While waiting for the fish to bite, sit down to give your legs a break. Seats provide back support, making a long day of fishing even more enjoyable.
• Drift chutes: The paddleboard itself isn’t a match for wind and currents, but a drift chute helps by slowing you down. This umbrella-like chute helps you stay in a particular area when you don’t want to drift off. A slower speed is also helpful when you approach fish and don’t want to scare them off.
• Stabilizers: A stabilizer add on will make it easier for SUP-newbies to remain steady on the water. Also, when a big fish bites it will enable you to fight and reel it in, with less risk of the board tipping over.

With these you can turn a SUP into a more efficient, comfortable and safe fishing vessel.

Add-Ons For Kayak Fishing

For kayak fishing there are also some nifty gadgets and add-ons that help you enjoy fishing even more:

• Kayak landing net: Because you’re sitting down, you may need this specially designed net to land the big ones. It braces your arm, so you can handle more weight.
• Kayak cart: Make it easier to get your kayak from your vehicle to the water by placing it on a cart. They’re collapsible, making for easy transportation.
• Live bait tank: You can make your own or purchase a tank to keep your live bait in. Then install it on your kayak for easy access to bait.
• Tackle box (integrated): By integrating a tackle box with the kayak, everything from your lures to rods will have an allocated spot.

It’s clear that each of these vessels cater for a specific type of fisherman. Kayaks are efficient and offer comfort during long fishing days. But don’t underestimate what SUP fishing can add to your outdoor adventures. Their unique design can help you fish in places you’ve never been, and as a bonus you’re giving your whole body a workout! Time to try one out?

For more on SUP fishing, click HERE.