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 Kayaks are extremely popular today. We would be remiss if we did not discuss them. A kayak offers a great way to wend your way down (or up) a river or stream. River size is of little concern. Small rivers are well suited for kayaks, especially if there are plenty or rocks and fast water to add to the fun. If you are new to this growing sport, spend some time with an instructor to learn how to roll or right the kayak.
Limitations are gear and especially rod storage. Some folks rig rod holders on their kayaks. Kayaks are also great for moving up and against the current if need be. They are difficult to fish out of since contorting body motion will twist the craft. With practice you can learn how to position your self to hold position. The best practice is to use them to land at promising spots to get out and wade fish. Kayaks come in one or two man models. Kayaks are definitely not our first choice in fly fishing watercraft, but they are a lot of fun if you plan to shoot fast water and fish more as just a part of the adventure.
Model Type? Enclosed or Open “fuselage?
Enclosed
The traditional kayak has the enclosed cockpit and those that intend on touring as much or more than fishing might prefer the protection and leg stability inside the body of the kayak. They are harder to get in to and out of. Again, take a class with these because it can behoove you to learn to roll or otherwise extricate yourself from the craft, when needed.
Open or Sit-on-Top Kayaks.
Sit-on-Top models make it easy to enter and exit the craft. Being so low to the water, it is difficult to clear your fly line when casting. This type of craft is again, better as a spot-hopping watercraft to wade fish out of. However, with practice, you can learn to shoot fly line effectively. I prefer to eyeball a likely spot and anchor near it, working the fishy areas thoroughly and then moving on. This anchoring approach works well as kayaks tend to turn when you turn your body, throwing off the positioning for accurate casting and fly presentation.
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