Fishing is a fun and sometimes relaxing activity you can do alone or with friends and family. You can stay on the riverbanks or the shore of a lake, but nothing beats getting in the water on a dedicated fishing boat. While there are many larger vessels available for novice and experienced anglers, kayaks are just as effective in getting you to where your prey is.
Kayaks come in one-person and two-person capacity types. The two-person version is excellent for first-time anglers or anyone who needs company on a fishing trip. A good-quality kayak will take you where you need to be and make your time on the water’s surface more worthwhile, even with zero catches. However, it’s not without its faults either.
Before grabbing your fishing rod and bait, you should know the advantages and disadvantages of using a two-person kayak.
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Pros:
1. It’s Inexpensive
Fishing is an inexpensive hobby in itself. The significant expenses usually come from the rod and the boat you’ll use. Compared to other kinds of vessels, two-person fishing kayaks are generally more affordable.
Most larger fishing boats can cost from USD$10,000 or up. But kayaks can cost just a few thousand, sometimes even less. Some inflatable two or three-person types may even come as cheap as USD$250. If you’re looking for a low-cost vessel for recreational fishing, a kayak could be your best bet.
2. It’s Suitable For Any Body Of Water
Some fishing vessels are dedicated to open seas and oceans, while others are better suited to quiet lakes and rivers. A kayak can take on either body of water if you know how to control one properly. It’s sturdy and maneuverable enough for both calm water and rough currents. However, you must also remember that not all kayaks are made the same way. If you plan to head out to the open waters, you should use a sea kayak instead of one for leisure.
When riding a two-person kayak, you can peacefully fish wherever you want, no matter how deep or shallow the water is. You and your fishing partner won’t get bored with the unlimited locations you can visit with a kayak in tow.
3. It’s Quieter And More Environmentally Friendly
Traditional fishing boats often have issues, such as noise and pollution due to the motor and fuel they use. However, a kayak is perfect for those who want to catch a lot of fish without startling the poor creatures or tainting their habitat.
The lack of an engine means that you can travel the waters quietly, moving closer to the spots that have more fish. There’s also less worry about fuel leakage that could destroy the environment, killing every organism in the water.
You only need your arms and a kayak paddle to move around. There’s more physical exertion and skill involved in this activity. But if you use a two-person kayak, your companion can put in their share of paddling effort. Then you could have more energy to fish for as long as you want.
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Cons:
1. It Has Limited Space
Unlike large fishing and Jon boats, kayaks don’t have the luxury of extra space. If you’re going out fishing in one, you may need to leave the rest of your personal items.
When opting to use a fishing kayak, you need to have a compact list of things to bring while out on the water. Additional gear may weigh down the vessel and slow your movement. The number of fish you reel in is also affected by the size of your kayak. You might have to say goodbye to your extra catches and keep just a few onboard.
2. It’s Bound To Get You Wet
Fishing kayaks are more likely to capsize than most boats. They’re much closer to the water’s surface, so they may wash over you and your partner when large waves roll in. Some types, like the ocean or sea kayaks, have scupper holes at the bottom to let water in and out.
Paddling may also splash water around you and drench your hands and arms. Additionally, reeling fish and pulling them up could also get you soaked. It’s inevitable to stay dry while fishing in a two-person kayak. If you love fishing but don’t particularly enjoy getting wet, a kayak may not be for you.
3. It May Be Uncomfortable
Riding a kayak isn’t the most comfortable experience for some, especially first-timers. Kayaks are designed for mobility, and not so much for the ones riding them. Most types cover the lower half of your body, limiting your movement and space, while others are sit-on-top types. The latter gives you more legroom since they have no cover, but it’ll get you wet faster.
The sitting position you need to maintain while casting your line may cause body pain later. If you decide to use a kayak for fishing, you might need to invest in good cushioning, proper clothing, and boating footwear to increase comfort while on the water.
Having a fishing partner onboard could also add to the discomfort. You need to find a rhythm to move together in unison while paddling. If not, kayaking may become an unpleasant experience for you and your companion.
Conclusion
Two-person fishing kayaks are an excellent sea vessel for an outdoor bonding activity with family and friends. It’s also a great way to try out a different fishing experience with a companion. However, this activity may not be suitable for everyone. With that being said, it’s advisable to weigh the pros and cons mentioned above before deciding to go for it.