Paddle Reel

KAYAK FISHING IS TRENDING UPWARDS

An island chain known for its rum runners, Key lime pie, blue seascape and laid-back lifestyle boasts some spectacular fishing.

Charters captained by those who truly know the sweet spots get visiting anglers out to the offshore’s deep blue for some sailfishing. In the backcountry, anglers immerse in the beauty of the Everglades — a neighbor to the Florida Keys — as they explore the mangroves and lure the easilyspooked bonefish and tarpon.

A COVID pandemic that kept people separated for a period of time resulted in a water recreation explosion across Florida and the Keys — boats packed sandbars and popular dive destinations. Another trend is making waves in recent times: fishing via kayaks and paddleboards. A relatively inexpensive option for the water enthusiast, it provides an intimate and captivating experience of the Keys’ surroundings from mangrove tunnels to tiny islands.

Of all small craft, kayaks and paddleboards are the ultimate entry-level vessel for the one on a fixed budget who’s seeking a little rod or fly fishing. A boom in kayak fishing was seen in 2014, as referenced by a Recreational Fishing and Boating Foundation, which estimated 38 million kayak fish outings in North America. Low upfront investment, little operating costs, and versatility were among the key selling points that led to the rapid growth of the kayak for recreational uses like fishing.

Morgan Promnitz, director of fishing business development for Hobie, told Kayak Angler Magazine that kayak fishing will continue to blossom with no signs of slowing down. Just look at all the kayaks attached to a vehicle rack as they traverse U.S. 1. Portability and accessibility were some barriers, but Promnitz said inflatable kayaks are an option for people who don’t have an option for a high-end model.

With a boost from social media over the years, especially from those angler Joes producing videos on YouTube, awareness sprang up over a relatively inexpensive and uber exciting hobby.

Fishing from a kayak or paddleboard certainly has its benefits in the Keys. These small fishing craft are not only great in terms of stealth to approach a bonefish or tarpon, but the self-propelled vessels are also the perfect exercise. Relatively inexpensive models on the market, as low as $400, allow a person the chance to fish in shallow waters, near the mangroves or the nearshore on a calm, picturesque day. And despite less room for storage compared to a flats boat, crate systems are available on the market — as low as $41.99 — to hold your tackle, gear and rods while heading out on the kayak.

Don’t want to buy a kayak or paddleboard? No problem. There are ample spots in the Keys to rent a recreational kayak, Hobie pedal kayak or paddleboard. For instance, Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo and Marathon offers kayak and canoe rentals for a few hours or several days. The store’s variety of kayaks and paddleboards allows the beginner to the seasoned outdoors person the ability to explore and fish.

Just make sure you have a saltwater fishing license, some sun protection, water and snacks along with your fishing gear before you head out.

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