Look. If you’re going fishing you’re going to need more than one rod. You need two in case one falls in. And then a third rigged up for catfish. Plus your favorite ultra-light setup for baitfish. And then there’s that new reel you just bought but don’t really need. Ehh screw it, throw it on board. Now you’re 5 rods in (forgot the dock demon – just for funsies’) on a kayak with enough room for 2. Fret not my overzealous friend – there is a solution.

Kayak rod holders are an essential kayak accessory. They provide a simple solution to a simple problem – keeping your rods and reels from tangling up. There are loads of no-name brands and DIY options available, but there’s a lot of crud out there not worth your hard earned clamshells. Here at Yak Logic we know you expect the best. And boy do we deliver. Scope the best ways to rig your rod on a hard shell below.

Yak Attack Omega

If you’ve spent more than 5 minutes on a fishing kayak than you’ve seen the Yak Attack Omega rod holder. It’s one of the most popular rod holders and for good reason – it’s darn near perfect. Like most Yak Attack rod holders the Omega attaches o t-track with a proprietary gimbal mount. Depress the base lever to the left and you can freely rotate the angle of the rod-holder. Open it to the right and you can completely remove the kayak rod holder, leaving the base on the track.

Rod angle can be quickly adjusted by the mid-point knob. A few turns to the left allows one handed angle adjustments in 15° increments. Up top the collar rotates to allow casting, spinning, and fly rods in both a locked and unlocked configuration. And if you’re concerned about losing a rod two holes on the top provide the perfect anchor for a rod leash.

The Yak Attack Omega comes standard (as pictured above) and is also available in the “Pro” version, which adds an extra arm for greater articulation. The standard version can also be upgraded later with 4″ and 8″ extension arms, but we recommend starting with the Pro version from the outset. It’s more cost effective and you the extra articulation comes in handy.

Yak Attack AR Tube

It’s no secret that kayak fishing has a bit of a machismo vibe going on. Every year boats have more aggressive lines and sharper styling. So what better to compliment your fish wrecking rig than a rod holder with a firearm inspired aesthetic. The Yak Attack AR Tube is undoubtedly the most badass looking rod holder on this list. And it’s got plenty of functionality to go with all that form.

The AR Tube is a tube style rod holder (duh). And it’s perfectly suited for bigger rods and bigger loads. Tube style holders are great for trolling for bigger fish like stripers or walleye. In the down position the rear gimble will prevent compatible rods from twisting. While in the up position spinning reels can slide into the slot for quick indexing. The YakAttack AR Tube is a great accessory for vertical rod storage and a welcome addition to any warship.

Yak Attack Zooka II

If you’re going to war it’s always helpful to have some heavy artillery. The Zooka II, aptly named after everybody’s favorite brand of gum (JK – nobody likes bazooka bubblegum) is a streamlined tube-style rod holder. A wide opening and shorter body make for quick storage and access. The spin-reel side has a slot for trapping the reel body. While the baitcaster-side has a faring for caster on top storage.

This is a heavy duty no-nonsense rod holder that’s great for paddlers short on real estate. Two points of articulation offer greater flexibility for mounting options. And the tube-style is perfect for big rods. The Zooka II is a surefire option for any angler targeting catfish, stripers, or other big fish.

Scotty 279

If your Grandpa ever took you out on his boat there’s a fair chance he was rockin’ a couple of Scotty’s. Scotty’s is one of the OG manufacturers of plastic rod holders and is still one of the best budget options for paddlers. Like most mature brands Scotty has a broad spectrum of accessories replete with different types of rod holders, anchor locks, and cup holders. Along with tons of accessories are a wide variety of mounting options, all at a very affordable price.

The 279 is recognizable for its ubiquity. It’s often the rod holder of choice in beginner kayak packages. It’s an easy to use and lightweight option that’s perfect for ultralight setups and fly rods. It doesn’t have all the frills as other rod holders, but smooth curves and a low profile help keep it out of your way when fishing. Scotty is also one of the few producers to offer a viable mounting solution for inflatable kayaks. Consider Scotty if you’re trying to keep things simple and affordable.

Flushmount rod holders

Flush mount rod holders are the gateway drug to kayak rod storage. They’re cheap, easy to install, and effective, Just about every entry level fishing kayak comes with two of these. And in some cases these rod holders are the only thing qualify a boat as “made for Anglers”.

Flush mount rod holders are typically placed behind and to the side of the cockpit. They’re usually angled at 45° and cant away from the body which can be great for trolling. A low profile keeps these out of the way when not in use. And when properly positioned they can be an excellent addition to a kayak.

The main problem with flush mount rod holders is that they are a fixed position solution. It’s impossible to adjust the angle. So if you’re unhappy with reaching behind you, well, that’s too bad buckaroo. Replacing these is also a tough putt since they leave a large hole in the deck. For these reasons manufacturers are moving towards more flexible mounting options like the Yak Attack Mighty Mount or t-track.

If you have a spot for a flush mount rod holder and are committed to the install then the Yak-Gear flush mount rod is one of your best options. Stainless steel hardware, a sealed bottom, and incorporated leash mount make this one of the best flush-mount rod holders on the market.

Clamp On Rod Holders

Clamp On kayak rod holders are traditionally reserved for jon-boats and canoes. Clamps grip over fiberglass and aluminum gunwales to provide a sturdy mounting point. But they’re also fantastic for retro-fitting Sit Inside (SIS) kayaks. These rod holders can be configured multiple ways to fit over cockpit coaming and provide a sturdy rest for your rod.

With any clamp-on mount the hold strength is limited by the composition of the underlying material. Clamp on rod holders will work with rotomolded kayaks, but tend to perform better on fiberglass hulls. In either case these are only intended for lightweight use. Try trolling for Tuna with one of these and you’ll be sorely disappointed, rather quickly.

The Plussino clamp on kayak rod holders pictured above are a great choice for light spinning and casting rods. Durable ABS plastic construction coupled with a 4.5″ clamp gap make this a great option for adding an extra hand to Sit Inside and Sit on Top kayaks. Best of all these kayak rod holders install without drilling any holes into your hull.

RailBlaza Starport Rod Holder II

Railblaza is well reknown for a lot of quality products, including the c-tug kayak cart, but none so much as the Starport Rod Holder II. Made in New Zealand and imbued with Kiwi pride the Starport Rod Holder II offers anglers an easily adjustable and adaptable mounting system. The Starport base is available in a variety of form-factors and mounting options and fits a variety of accessories. A quick push on the lever unlocks the fixture for easy rotation or swap-out.

The actual rod holder assembly offers a durable option for securing rods at an attractive price point. A locking collar, leash-anchor, and rear gimble which is great for preventing rotation in bigger rods. If you’re already invested in the Railblaza ecosystem, or just looking for a great rod holder, you’d be hard pressed to do better than a Railblaza.

Gatling Fishing Rod Holder

The Gatling Rod Holder is the flagship product of the Gatling Fishing; which has one of the coolest logos we’ve seen from a fishing company (seriously dope). The Gatling rod holder is one of the few off the shelf kayak rod holders that provides flexible horizontal rod storage. It can hold up to four rods at a time and fits spinning, casting, and fly rods.

The main assembly has two securing plates. The rear plate fits rod handles while the front has a simple locking mechanism to keep rods put while they’re not in use. Paddlers have the choice of mounting with either a flat or 45° track mounted swing arm. Both options feature a quick release mechanism to detach the rod-holder array for safe keeping during travel.

The Gating Rod Holder is reasonably priced considering its made with steel and starboard HDPE rather than plastic. Not to mention it holds four rods. This is an awesome add-on for easily accessible horizontal rod storage that doesn’t crowd your cockpit and looks great.

O Pros 3rd Hand

O Pros 3rd Hand is a nifty rod holder aimed primarily at fly fishermen. But it can be a handy accessory for paddlers as well. The 3rd Hand hooks to your belt/pants and provides a simple rest for fly rods and light spinning gear. Catching a fish on a kayak is easy enough to handle; just put down the rod, take the hook out, snap a selfie and you’re good to go. Go wading in a river and that process becomes a smidge more difficult.

The O Pros 3rd Hand is a slick and simple accessory that makes impromptu trips through the ripples a more pleasant experience. It’s a no-brainer for anyone rocking a fly-fishing yak or going for lighter fare.

Hobie Rod Rack

Hobie’s Rod Rack offers horizontal rod management for any model equiped with H-Rail; such as the Outback and Pro-Angler Line, and several discontinued models. Three slots offer support for (you guessed it) up to three rods that can be secured in place with the included bungee. Adding one of these up near the bow provides a protective housing for your delicate rod tips. It also keeps them from getting snagged during loading/unloading.

With two Hobie Rod Racks mounted you can effectively add up to 6 additional horizontal rod storage slots. Unfortunately this feat would only be easily feasible on the Pro-Angler (PA) models. The PA is the only Hobie model with a long length of H-Rail running down the side of each gunwale. And it comes with 6 horizontal rod slots already built in. So an extra 6 rod slots with four Hobie Rod Racks might be overkill.

Another mounting option is the top rail of Hobie’s kayak crate: the H crate. Throw the Rod Rack on a Hobie crate and you’ve got some handy rear facing horizontal rod storage.

Ram

Ram Mounts claim to fame in the kayak rod holder world is their ball and socket connecting system. Their proprietary ball mount allows for multi-planar articulation in each joint. This freedom of movement allows for quick micro-adjustments on the fly to get your reel positioned exactly the way you want it. Transitioning from completely vertical to an off kilter cant takes seconds and is inherently intuitive.

Ram Mounts has the largest catalog of mounts and accessories of any manufacturer on this list. In addition to rod holders they provide solutions for fish finders, camera gear, and more. And they’ve got some really creative mounting options for gunnels and even inflatables. One of our favorites is the rod holder with integrated GoPro mount. These aren’t as widely available in the big box stores as brands like Scotty and Yak Attack (at least in our experience). But they’re worth seeking out for their high quality and impressive lineup.

Overview on Kayak Rod Holders

Kayak Rod Holders are an incredibly useful implement for kayak fisherman. If you haven’t grabbed at least one yet then bro, what are you waiting for? These can make a serious difference in your enjoyment level without making a big dent in your wallet. Let us know your favorite rod holder by tagging us @YakLogic on Instagram and Facebook. And please, no dick pics.

The post The 11 Best Kayak Rod Holders in 2023 appeared first on Yak Logic.

Rain gear is often some of the most neglected apparel in any paddler’s wardrobe. Most of us do our best to paddle in the sun. But, given that the average forecaster is only ever 80% accurate, the odds are high you’ll get caught in wetter weather sooner or later. Our friends at Brella recently sent us their flagship product, The Brella 101 poncho hybrid, to put through its paces.

The Brella had been on our radar for awhile, especially after seeing the USA Bass Kayak Fishing Team rocking them on the water. After several months of misty mornings and summer showers The Brella hybrid poncho/coat (poncoat? coatcho?) has earned a permanent spot on our yak. Read on to learn why this innovative wet-wear is a kayak fishing game changer.

Poncho vs. RainCoat

For eons the Poncho vs. Raincoat debate has raged as paddlers inch ever closer towards the goal of ultimate dryness. Ok that might be a bit of a stretch. Truth is this debate isn’t going to break any friendships. Both ponchos and rain coats offer different advantages when it comes to rain protection. Ponchos offer a coolness factor that rain coats simply can’t compete with. If you’re thinking to yourself “huh?” let me put an image in your head. Clint Eastwood; the Man with no Name. Arguably the most badass gunslinger in Western lore strutted his stuff in a wool poncho. Eh Tuco?

To be fair rain jackets can be look pretty cool also. Trench coats in the Matrix? Awesome. But counterpoint; Bruce Willis in Unbreakable. Now that it’s settled science Ponchos are cooler, Let’s look at the other benefits (as if they even matter, psh’).

Versatility and Dryness

Rain coats are single function items. They keep your torso dry, and that’s mostly it. Ponchos, on the other hand, offer a slew of perks beyond fending off bad weather. The extra length keeps your lower half dry in seated positions. Have a backpack? Throw that poncho on over. Forgot to pack a tarp? Throw that poncho on over. All that extra fabric keeps everything dry, but at the cost of getting snagged on stuff more easily. Remember how Bruce Willie’s weakness in Unbreakable was water? Ponchos do a better job at keeping you dry. That’s why Bruce Willie wore one; and it worked really well until he fell in the pool.

Air, Speed, and Freedom

Putting on a poncho is pretty quick and easy. Just a quick slip over the head and Bob’s your uncle. It might not seem like a huge consideration in most circumstances, but on a fishing kayak it’s pretty clutch. You want something you can get on quick when the storm’s rolling in.

Another hugely important factor is temperature and airflow. Poncho’s offer weather protection without extra warmth. Even a light rain jacket will heat up pretty quickly. That might be perfect in cooler fall weather, but it’s not ideal during steamy summer showers.

Finally, and perhaps the most important factor for fishermen, is the freedom of movement. Poncho’s undeniably offer more flexibility and unrestricted motion than a raincoat, but by a small margin. It’s not like you’re Harry Houdini in a strait jacket if you go the rain coat route. But for anybody fly-fishing or paddling and casting, the marginal improvement offered by poncho’s can be a big deal.

A Hybrid Solution

If the poncho is superior than why mess with perfection? Well while the poncho does have a lot of benefits there are a few drawbacks that have traditionally relegated ponchos to the back of the closet. Foremost poncho’s lack of sleeves often leads to soggy arms; a problem raincoat’s address with velcro/bungee straps at the wrist. Secondly all that extra material tends to get caught up on stuff it shouldn’t; branches, poles, and track mounted gear. Finally most ponchos aren’t made of the best material; thin see-through plastic isn’t exactly durable. The Brella tackles these shortfalls and more with modern design and materials. The result is a versatile piece of apparel that’s great both on and off the yak.

Materials

The Brella is made of a rugged waterproof polyester with a 20,000 MVT rating. There’s a lot of science behind waterproof (MVT) ratings that we won’t get into here. Completely waterproof materials (think rubber) will keep dry even during complete submersion, but that comes with the cost of zero breathability. On the flip side thin plastic is light and permeable; which is why those $5 ponchos sold at the ball park fall apart in a Summer Storm. A 20,000 rating is a solid compromise between keeping you dry and your body cool. YKK zippers, metal grommets, and hard plastic snaps compliment the waterproof fabric and provide “trimming” options unique to the Brella’s design.

Design

The Brella incorporates a lot of smart tricks but its standout feature is its shorter length. Rather than draping down to your feet with yards of fabric the Brella falls to just below the waist. In addition the sleeves cover just your biceps rather than extending to the wrist. Less fabric means it’s harder to get caught up on the errant protrusion. During our testing on the boat we found the Brella kept our torso and butts (i.e. the important parts) dry. And we were able to paddle with ease even during heavy downpour. It’s also incredibly easy to get the Brella over your bod in record time – no swimming through plastic to find the head hole.

One of our favorite features is the interior chest pocket. The envelope-size zippered pocket is perfect for storing your cell phone and other valuables you can’t afford to get wet. Another awesome design is the hood. Most ponchos have an oversized hood that’s great for rain protection, but terrible for seeing in front of you. The Brella has the same large hood, but adds strategically placed Velcro for a quick brim. Roughly 5″ of hood fabric folds back and stays in place. It sounds like a small problem to solve but it makes a world of difference. Finally the lower perimeter is covered in 12 pairs of snaps that permit a tighter/looser fit.

Overview on The Brella Brella Poncho Hybrid

We’re thoroughly impressed by the Brella Brella. As a hybrid solution its kept the strengths of its parents while overcoming their inherent weaknesses. There are a variety of eye-catching designs available for the Brella at a price point of $79, which is pretty great deal given the specs and performance. Next time you’re on the hunt for some new rain-gear Brella should be on your shortlist – and make sure you tell them Yak Logic sent you.

The post Poncho Revolution | The Brella Brella Review appeared first on Yak Logic.

PFD’s are the single most important piece of equipment on any paddler’s boat. But, just because they’re safety equipment doesn’t mean they need to be boring. Kayak Fishing Life Jackets offer paddlers easy access storage, added comfort, and a little more style than the old orange horseshoe molding on the jon boat. After a lightweight paddle a new life vest is one of the best bang for your buck upgrades to make an impactful difference on the water.

The kayak fishing life vests below are all USCG Type III certified. That means they all have at least 15.5 lbs of buoyancy and are suitable for inshore and protected waters. From a life saving perspective these vests will keep you floating long enough to be rescued. They won’t turn you face up if you’re unconscious in the water. And they aren’t suitable for dangerous waters such as the high seas or rapids. Compliance with Canadian and other country’s maritime regulations will vary. But they’re generally close to USCG regs (expect to do some lbs-force to newton conversions if you’re using metric.)

As always we vehemently recommend you wear a PFD at all times when you’re out on the water. If you’re unsure as to how to pick the right one for you then check out the selection guide after the list.

Kayak Fishing Life Vests

NRS Chinook

The NRS Chinook is one of the best known kayak fishing life vests, and for good reason. Like its helicopter namesake the Chinook does some heavy lifting; and its set the bar as one of the most comfortable and versatile PFD’s specifically made for kayak anglers.

There are two standout features about the Chinook. First is the overall positioning of the vest. The posterior padding is smaller and sits higher on the body closer to your shoulders, while the front portion of the vest sits closer to the waist. This positioning accommodates lawn-chair style kayak seats perfectly and won’t distort your posture. A lower-riding front vest offers easier and more natural storage access – you won’t need to make any T-Rex arms to open a pocket zipper right near your chin.

Secondly the Chinook features a built in knife lash on the left front strap. It’s suitable for quick access to pliers or a multi-tool, but it really shines when fitted with either the NRS Neko or NRS Pilot knives. There simply isn’t a better place for a paddler to keep a knife, and it doesn’t hurt that it looks cool as hell.

In addition the NRS Chinook has 5 front pockets for tool and lure storage. And multiple adjustment points on the sides, shoulders, and waist to ensure a perfect fit. All in all there’s little, if anything, that the Chinook will leave you wanting. This is one of the most popular vests out there should easily be a top pick for anglers.

Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket

The Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Vest is a value packed budget option that incorporates the same features of vests twice its price. A high-seated thin foam back provides added comfort for paddlers on sit-on-top (SOT) style yaks. Three molle straps on the left chest plate provide handy access for stickbaits, shades, and other small accessories. On the opposite side is a knife mount atop a small pouch that’s great for some spare split-shot or leader line. Two lower large pockets are great for keeping pliers, snacks, and other essentials.

So with all these features how does the Onyx cost so much less than its competitors? Well the secret’s in the sauce – and that sauce is the materials. The Onyx is primarily made from nylon fabric and has heavy duty plastic zippers. These are perfectly suitable options for a maritime environment; but are more susceptible to rips and breakage than stronger options.

It’s also only available in two sizes; universal and oversize. The latter accommodates chests 40″-60″; and the universal size fits chests between 30″-52″. That’s a pretty huge range for both sizes; so if you’re on the thinner side you’ll have to cinch the straps down quite a bit. Luckily 6 adjustment points and neoprene shoulders will provide security for most folk; but be aware that they run large.

The Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Vest is available online and at Dick’s Sporting good; so if you’re concerned about fit this is one you can easily try before you buy.

Stohlquist Keeper Fishing PFD 2021

Stohlquist’s Keeper Fishing PFD bills itself as the ultimate kayak fishing life vest. That’s a bold claim, but one that’s readily backed up. The Keeper was designed as a “hybrid” to incorporate the unending pockets of fishing vests with the life saving abilities, and regulatory compliance, of a USCG Type III PFD. Like other premium kayak fishing life vests the Stohlquist Keeper has a high price tag.

Perhaps the most innovative feature of the Keeper is its approach towards fit with graded sizing. Rather than relying on universal foam inserts the Keeper provides foam inserts appropriately sized for the wearer; providing a consistent amount of buoyancy across body types. This is a pain from a manufacturing standpoint, but provides added space for ample storage.

The Keeper eschews a high-seated back for a full body-length back with thinner foam. This design provides a more traditional fit without riding up when sitting in a lawn-style chair and opens up real estate for pockets. Two front mounted EVA lined pouches protect from crush damage and fold out to serve as mobile work stations. Ventilated shoulder and back panels will keep you cool in Summer, while built in hand warmers behind the top pockets are clutch for cool weather canoeing.

The Stohlquist Keeper is a high quality life vest that’s available in three striking color schemes (Mango, Lime, Grey) and are properly sized for a wide range of paddlers. Top notch materials, design, and functionality are proof positive that the Keeper really is, a keeper.

NRS Matik Inflatable 2021

While some angler’s prefer storage galore others opt for a more bare-bones experience. And it doesn’t get much lighter than inflatable PFD’s. This style of life vest relies on a built in moisture sensor to activate a CO2 cartridge which in turn inflates a sealed bladder, providing buoyancy. This style of PFD is lightweight, unobtrusive, and a boon for those seeking freedom of movement.

The NRS Matik Inflatable is a manual-only PFD; and this is hugely important. Automatic or hybrid style inflatable PFD’s inflate after a water soluble switch is triggered. Cheaper triggers work based off the length of exposure (usually 30 seconds to a minute) while more expensive hydrostatic pressure valves only trigger at a certain depth. These types of vests are great in situations where you’re prone to getting knocked unconscious, like, for example, in a high speed sailing race.

In less demanding scenarios premature deployments are a costly nuisance; replacement cartridges can range between $10 and $30 per charge. The Matik’s manual only option mean’s there’s no chance of accidentally burning through your wallet due to rain or a bit of splashing. The only way this vest inflates is by pulling the cord; which makes a lot of sense given that kayak fishing isn’t exactly a high impact sport.

If your goal is light-weight and safety only then the Matik is an excellent option. Sizing can be a little too snug on large-chested individuals – so if you’re in that category be sure to try before you buy.

Astral V Eight Fisher

Even though life jacket’s are the most important piece of safety gear on your kayak plenty of paddler’s still choose not to wear them. And one of the biggest reasons is; they’re uncomfortable. When the Sun’s high and the breeze is dead a large bulky PFD isn’t fun to wear.

Astral’s entry in kayak fishing life jackets takes aim at this problem and fires with gusto. This PFD was built for breathability and comfort; and is billed as “The World’s first breathable PFD“. Breathability is accomplished through Astral’s patent pending Airescape® system. A layer of pre-shaped egg-crate style foam is surrounded by mesh to reduce body to vest contact area by ~70%. Air ports on the front and sides provide channels for heat to dissipate, rather than getting trapped and providing unwanted insulation. With a weight of only 1lb 5oz the V-Eight is one of the lightest options on our list, yet still provides 16 lbs of buoyancy.

Lightweight and breathability are further bolstered by a straightforward and simple design. Two front pockets and a tool mount provide limited storage for essentials only. A high back section will keep you comfy while seated and multiple adjustment points ensure a snug fit. We’re also really big fans of the waist-buckle to compliment the front zipper which is super useful for getting a perfect fit.

The Astral V-Eight Fisher is an excellent choice for angler’s in warmer climates looking for maximum breathability and comfort.

Kokatat Leviathan PFD

Do you like pockets? What about pockets with pockets on top of pockets? If you’re looking for a vest with Inception level pockets (5 pockets deep) then breath easy brother; your journey is over. The Kokatat Leviathan is a beast of a vest with truly impressive amounts of on-person storage.

With 14 different compartments the Kokatat is as close to a hands-free tackle-box as you can get. 8 zippered pockets, 4 mesh pouches, and two hand warmers round out the storage array on the Kokatat. If you’re still hurting for more gear there’s a pelthora of mounting points for knives, pliers, retractors, and more. D-rings, shoulder loops, and straps are strategically placed to provide anchor points for strobe lights and landing nets. The front is held together by a beefy YKK zipper and features contoured foam inserts for a more comfortable fit. And the back portion rides high for comfortable seating.

All this storage is crammed into a relatively small front profile. To compensate the foam inserts are a bit thick which causes this kayak fishing life vest to protrude from your chest quite a bit more than others. It’s definitely not a deal breaker, but could interfere with your casting. All in all the Leviathan is a great vest for fly fishermen who enjoy a pit stop for wading, or anglers who can’t leave any lures at home.

Old Town Lure Angler Life Jacket

If you’re familiar with Old Town then you’ll know they make some of the best canoes and kayaks in the business. After 100 years building boats you tend to pick up a few tidbits of knowledge about what paddlers want, and how to give it to them. That expertise has bled from wood strips and HDPE over to the foam padded world of PFD’s with the Old Town Lure Angler Life Jacket.

The Old Town Lure aims to be an excellent all around kayak fishing life vest. To that end its incorporated multiple advanced features to provide a stylish and robust vest. The Lure’s “Aircomfort” tech reduces body contact and assists air flow with egg crate style foam, mesh, and air vents to accentuate breathability. The high back will fit kayak chairs and three large zippered pockets on the front are perfect for a comms-device and a bag of soft plastics. Rather than plastics the Lure Life Jacket opts for multiple loops and D-rings around the vest. This approach confers most of the storage benefits of extra pouches without the added bulk.

The Lure also features a waist buckle for a snug fit and the lower band is great for hanging a landing net or water bottle. Over the last few years the Old Town Lure has grown in popularity and is a stout contender for the title of “Best Fishing PFD”. It’s a quality piece of kit and is available in Moss Green and Grey. If you’re already rocking an Old Town Auto-Pilot or Sportsman kayak than this pfd should be a no brainer. Go for that “Yeah, I’m sponsored” aesthetic (fire).

How to Choose the Right PFD

Finding the perfect PFD isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little effort. Below are our recommended criteria when sourcing your next life vest.

Comfort and Fit

It doesn’t matter how fancy or basic your life vest is, if it’s on the deck and not on your body it won’t do you any good. And the number one reason people don’t wear PFD’s – they’re uncomfortable. Most vests are bulky and restrict movement. Plus they ride up your neck when you’re sitting down. On a hot day when you’re sweating a sticky nylon vest strapped tight to your sunburned skin sounds miserable. For these reasons it’s critically important to find a vest that fits your body type and is comfortable for long spans of time.

When possible make sure to try on a vest before committing to the full purchase. Also make sure to tighten the straps to ensure a snug fit. Make sure it doesn’t come loose or slip off too easily. It doesn’t matter how comfy your vest is if it won’t stay on in a crisis.

Style

Do you bring saltwater gear when you’re hitting up a lake, just in case? Does it take you longer to load up your lures than it does your boat? If you answered yes to either then you’re not exactly a “Grab and Go” angler and that’s OK. But it also means you’ll probably want to opt for more pockets than the average fisher. On the flip side is the phrase “Suns Out Guns Out” more of a lifestyle choice than a chance to pose? Do you consider fishing “active tanning”? You’re gonna want to opt for something light and minimal – like an inflatable vest, you saucy beefcake.

No matter what style of angler you be honest with yourself about what features are must haves versus nice to haves. The PFD’s on our list, and off our list, cover a wide range of prices and styles. If you think paying over $100 for a vest is crazy then grab that faded jetski vest and get out there bruh! Just be sure you wear something any time you’re over water.

Overview on the Best Kayak Fishing Life Vests

Modern fishing PFD’s are an awesome but pricey upgrade for your kayaking game. Added comfort and personal storage will go a long way in increasing your enjoyment overwater, whether it’s a 2 hour jaunt or a 10 day trek. Let us know your favorite vest; tag us on IG with #Yaklogic if you’ve got some cool pics to share. Tight lines wet paddles!

The post The 7 Best Kayak Fishing Life Vests in 2023| Performance PFD’s for Paddlers appeared first on Yak Logic.

Fishing is unique among sports in that it can be done for fun, or for food. Some of you might argue hunting falls into the same category, but we’ve never seen somebody release a bear after shooting it. Catching a fish is the reason most of us hop into a kayak in the first place. But what do you do after you’ve caught a fish? If the answer is “Eat it” then you’d better have a way to keep it fresh. Raw fish goes bad in just two hours at room temperature. So without some ice and a way to hold it you’re looking at a disappointing meal.

Kayak catch coolers offer anglers an easy way to keep ice cold and fish fresh. These bags are custom tailored to kayaks. They’re designed with a multitude of features that make transportation, storage, and cleaning quick and easy. Thick foam and durable liners offer sufficient thermal insulation for anything from a day trip to overnight camping trips. Whether you’re targeting bonitas or bass the collection of kayak catch coolers below will keep your keepers fresh for dinner.

Wilderness System Insulated Kayak Catch Cooler

If you’re familiar with Wilderness System (WS) accessores then you know that their gear is typically big, rugged, and well built. The WS Insulated Catch Cooler is no different and offers angler’s a voluminous bag with easy transportation. Sporting the signature orange and grey aesthetic the WS catch cooler features two separate insulated cavities. The smaller cockpit-facing pouch is great for storing bait, lunch, or keeping a few beverages frosty. The larger compartment offers ~1.5 cubic feet of space for both fish and ice; which is more than enough for a dinner’s worth of catch. Interior pockets in the large compartment offer an easy way to store ice packs vertically.

TPU coated 420 denier nylon fabric provides waterproof durability. 6 D-rings surround the perimeter of the cooler for securing to your hull. Padded adjustable straps on the bottom permit this cooler to be worn like a backpack. This feature may not seem important; but it’s a drastic improvement over hand straps and greatly increases the bag’s versatility. The WS Catch Cooler is equally adept at keeping fish fresh on angling outings, or preserving vittles on extended camping voyages. This cooler is a great option for sit on top paddler’s seeking a multi-functional bag for big fish and long trips.

Precision Pak YakCatch III

Precision Pak’s Tournament Fishing Cooler is a premium kill bag that’s especially great for offshore fishermen. At 42″ long it’ll keep all but the largest pelagics on ice. 420 D nylon fabric and 0.18mm PEVA reflective liner sandwich closed cell foam to provide ice-keeping insulation. The front opening is kept closed with a heavy-duty 1.5″ velcro strip rather than a zipper. Velcro permits quick one-handed opening: which is great for getting big fish on ice quick. A longer zippered opening runs the length for quickly accessing the dry-pod.

The dry pod is a smaller tapered bag that fits inside the outer shell. It’s perfect for keeping food and beverages cold without having your lunch right next to your catch. Sure, a little fish slime never hurt anybody, but we’d prefer it stay off our salami on rye. The Precision Pak YakCatch III is a straightforward kayak kill bag with a stylish, reserved aesthetic. Offshore anglers and pescatori should definitely consider this fish bag for supplying their next feast of seven fishes.

TCYC Deluxe Kayak Catch Cooler

If you’re going after bigger fish you don’t just need a bigger boat. You’re going to need a bigger bag also. The TCYC Deluxe Kayak Catch Cooler is a large cooler bag that’s great for offshore anglers going after bigger prey like mackerel, bonitas, or yellowtail. At 42″ (large version) long this kayak catch bag offers up plenty of space for larger prey and ample storage for ice.

One of the nicer features of the TCYC bag is it’s internal ice bag. Ice can be kept in a removable inner tube and fish are stored around it. Separating the ice from catch offers superior insulation and an opportunity to keep a few cans and snacks along-side your fish without fear of cross-contamination. The main compartment can be accessed by the full zippered front opening or the quick access top zipper. The top port is super useful for loading ice while the front lid is better suite for loading up that future dragon roll.

All in all the TCYC kayak catch bag is an excellent option for bringing home the otoro. Both the medium and large versions are feature laden sport bags that will keep fish fresh and beers cold.

Hobie Fish Cooler

Hobie is one of the oldest kayak fishing brands out there. And arguably one of the most comprehensive and experienced in both their boat and accessory ecosystem. So it should come as no surprise that they’ve got a complimentary lineup of kayak catch coolers that fit nearly every make and model of Hobie yaks.

Like all Hobie kit the Hobie Fish Cooler is well built and doesn’t come cheap. Half inch closed cell foam provides long lasting insulation and everything is kept tight with YKK zippers. If you don’t know about YKK zippers, just know that they’re gold standard in keeping things zipped. The bag is constructed out of vinyl coated polyester and has D-rings at each corner as anchor points.

Perhaps the best aspect of the Hobie fish bag is the fit. There are multiple models that will snugly tuck in to most Hobie fishing kayaks. So if you’re running a PA-14, Outback, or Revolution and looking to bring home the sushi then the Hobie Fish Bag is your best bet.

Opah Fathom 3

The Opah Fish bag isn’t a dedicated kayak catch cooler per se; but it’s such an awesome bag we had to include it Simply put, this kill bag is killer. Opah produces a line of incredibly well built high end fish bags; think of them as the Yeti of fish coolers.

There are seven different sizes available in their Fathom line ranging from the 13 gallon Fathom 3 all the way to the gargantuan Fathom 7 which is 7′ long and holds 121 gallons. Each bag is made from mildew resistant marine grade 18 oz vinyl and has 2″ of closed cell foam that provides enough insulation to keep ice for 4 days. Interior pockets and a waterproof fillet bag helps to keep everything where it’s supposed to be. And compartments are secured with silky smooth YKK zippers.

The larger Opah bags might be a tad too big for most kayaks, but the Fathom 3 could easily fit into the rear tankwell of most 12′ fishing kayaks. If you’re headed out for bigger game or looking to keep fish fresh on overnight expeditions then the Opah bag is an excellent option.

Calcutta Fish Bag

Bow mounted tapered kayak fish coolers are great for long trips out. But they can be overkill if you’re just going out for a short paddle. They also occupy valuable deck real estate and have the propensity to catch a hook if you’re not careful. Sometimes simpler is better, and that’s where the Calcutta Fish Bag shines.

The Calcutta Outdoors Pack Fish bag is an affordably priced fish bag that does exactly what you need it to – keep fish cold. At 40″ x 16″ it’s the perfect size for most keepers and a 20 lb bag of ice. Thick insulation, welded seams, and a tapered zipper keeps cold fish cold. And the nylon strap is great for hauling from boat to shore. It also folds up in thirds when not in use which makes it great for permanent storage in a junk drawer or hull hatch.

Calcutta Outdoors kayak catch cooler is a great bag; we love the skull and crossbones Calcultta graphic and the ruler is handy too. Aside from fish bag’s Calcutta also sports some awesome apparel and fishing gear. Born out of a Florida tackle shop and with over a quarter century of experience the Calcutta crew knows a thing or two about making great gear – be sure to check them out.

FeelFree Fish Bag

Feel Free has garnered a reputation for providing quality kayaks at affordable prices. And their kayak accessories follow suit. The FeelFree Fish Bag is made of ripstop polyester and comes in medium and large sizes. The medium size has an internal volume capable of holding around 12 gallons and the large around 18. The removable “slime liner” will makes clean up a breeze and is handy if you’re storing lunch.

The FeelFree Fish bag wins our vote for the best kayak fish cooler design. The bright camo colorings offer an eye-catching design that fits in perfectly with fishing models like the Mokken and Lure. This bag is great for FeelFree paddlers and budget conscious anglers looking for a great deal. Be sure to check out FeelFree’s site from time to time; they occasionally have sales on their kayak catch coolers that can’t be beat.

Viking Chill Pod

Viking Kayak’s chill pod is a unique take on kayak fish storage. It’s a modular solution that’s designed to fit into the rear tankwell of the Viking Profish Reload, 400 and GT kayaks. Rather than fabric the chill pod is made from HDPE – the same material Yeti Coolers and most rotomolded kayaks are made of. There’s no fear fish spines or stray hooks are going to puncture the insulation like you might have with fabric bags. Placement behind the seat makes loading easy; just open the lid and slide your catch in. The bread-bin style lid can be easily opened with one hand and secures with a bungee.

If you’re running any of the aforementioned Viking models than the chill pod is a no brainer. It perfectly compliments Viking’s offshore fishing style and looks awesome. In fact we hope more kayak manufacturers follow suit with modular kayak coolers because of their ease of use and great aesthetic. The only tradeoff with the Viking Chill Pod is that you’ll have to relocate your kayak crate. Not a huge concern since most offshore anglers don’t use high-profile crates anyways. The Viking Chill Pod retails for $239 and is widely available worldwide.

Overview on Kayak Catch Coolers

There aren’t many feelings better than preparing a killer home cooked meal for your friends and family. And when you’re the one who caught the fish? Mamma mia, essere al settimo cielo! All those days you got skunked suddenly don’t seem that bad. And if you’re lucky you’re spouse might even encourage you to go again (but don’t hold your breath).

Kayak catch coolers are a great piece of gear to help you make your next sushi dinner a reality. They’re indispensable for hauling home fish. And they’re handy for keeping brewskies and vittles cold, in case you’re doing some “light fishing”.

The post Kayak Catch Coolers | 8 Ways to Keep Fish Fresh appeared first on Yak Logic.

Yearghhhh me Maties! So yer keen on sailing the low seas arrre yargh? Well then you’ve come to the right place.

Paddlers have long sought means to stop paddling. In fact the paddle is one of the most regretted inventions in all of human history. Sure it gets you across the water but ugh! It didn’t take long for our ancestors to figure out that using the wind was a helluva lot easier than rowing. Just like ancient mariners modern kayakers have long searched for easier methods to move across the water with less effort.

That search has yielded some awesome innovations. Carbon fiber hydrodynamic paddles, pedal driven propulsion systems, and high-tech electric motors are some of the biggest game-changers introduced to personal watercraft in the last thirty years. While these advancements are great they still come at a cost of extra weight, energy, and cash. Wind is powerful, plentiful, and free (on good days) and so continues to inspire would be mariners to try their hand at sailing.

Before we go any further you should note that sailing a kayak isn’t an easy undertaking. Ready to go kayak sails aren’t cheap and installing a kayak sailing kit takes some fairly serious DIY skills. Still, if you’re committed to jibbing and tacking like the scurvy jack-tar yer argh then read on below to learn more about the best kayak sails options available today.

Downwind Sails

Downwnd kayak sails can jibe all day, but they got no tack. These kayak sails are good for going one direction only; whereas a true sail kit can sail make headway into the wind. Downwind kayak sails are typically inexpensive, easy to install, and less of a hassle than a true kayak sail kit. The downside is that you’ll still have to paddle at least half the trip.

Advanced Elements Sailkit

True kayak sailing kits are awesome for long voyages in high winds. But it takes extra time to set up, breakdown, and man underway. If you’re looking for a more casual kayak sail option to save a paddle back then a downwind kayak sail is pretty affordable. These kayak sails offer paddlers a quick and easy way to capture the power of the wind without serious modifications. On a windy day these sails can save you from paddling at least half the trip.

One of the better downwind kayak sails is the Advanced Elements Sailkit. An internal aluminum spring frame enables rapid deployment, similar to expanding car windshield visors. Two opposing lanyards can be tied down to cleats near the cockpit. While an aft facing carabiner hooks to a bow-mounted d ring to help the sail keep it’s shape, and from flying off the boat. Three translucent panels provide visibility with the sail up. The kayak sail folds up into a small bag that can easily fit under your seat or in a bag.

Advanced Element’s iMexidi Sail Kit is a more wallet-friendly option. Regardless of your choice a downwind kayak sail is an awesome upgrade to keep your arms fresh.

Sea Eagle QuikSail

The Sea Eagle QuikSail is a universal rapid-deploy sail kit specially designed for inflatable kayaks. Two four foot aluminum poles criss-cross and wedge into the space between an inflatable kayak’s side pontoons and floor. Unfolded the total sail area measures 14 square feet which can push along your air-filled yak along at 7 knots (~8.5 mph), which is really zipping. After the wind dies down the Quiksail quickly folds up to store fore and aft deckside along the pontoon. At just 2 lbs this is an extremely lightweight accessory that won’t bite into your gear quota.

It should be noted that the QuikSail is a niche product designed for experienced paddlers running a specific inflatable setup. This sail works best with your feet braced against the base of the poles; so you need to be low in boat with an inflatable or padded kayak seat. At the same time you’ll also need to steer using your paddle. Finally it’s incredibly helpful, almost necessary, to have mid-ship d-rings to attach sail supporting lanyards.

If you’re running a rig that meets these criteria than the Sea Eagle QuikSail is an excellent choice. At $150 it’s a tad on the expensive side. But it’s easily justified thanks to its high speed and quality construction. We guarantee your arms will be thanking you when you catch a free ride back to port.

Kite Sails

If you’ve seen any of the “People Are Awesome” video compilations on YouTube then you’re probably familiar with parafoil and hydrafoil kites. These kites are designed to provide sufficient lift to pull kiteboarders along the water. On occasion adventurous paddlers have decided to try their hand at pulling a yak with line and kite; to varying degrees of efficacy.

There are several issues present in kitesailing a kayak. Foremost it’s only good for going downwind; so it can be useful for a quick ride back if you started upwind. The larger issue is control. Successfully keeping your bow and kite pointed in the same direction takes masterful coordination and skill. Lose control for a second and you could quickly end up in the drink.

Finally kite’s have the annoying proclivity to tangle up in fishing lines quite easily. And not every model is re-launchable from the water; so if you crash a kite then you’re SOL. Prepare to spend the next hour reeling in and packing all that kite line floating on the water.

Overall we don’t recommend kite sailing for kayak anglers; it’s simply not worth the effort. Touring paddlers will fare better; but it’s still a challenging endeavor that’s going to take a lot of practice. If you’re truly committed to giving it a shot then check out the Mentor below.

Prism Mentor 3.5

The Prism Mentor 3.5m Trainer is a power kite; and as such will take considerable skill to control effectively. Trainer kites are great for kayaks because they’re much more forgiving than intermediate and advanced type models. It’s still strong enough to drag you off your feet. But it won’t send you flying thirty feet up in the air.

The Prism Mentor comes with everything you need to fly. It packs neatly into a small bag which is perfect for keeping in a crate or hull bin. Most importantly the Mentor floats and is water launchable. Just tug on the center line to right it and pull back to re-launch. The Mentor is available in 3.5 square meter (37.5 square feet) and 2.5 square meter variant.

This kite is a serious piece of equipment. And it’s a steep barrier to entry for something that may not work great on your boat. If you want a proxy to test first consider buying an acrobatic kite and play around with it on land. You’ll get a sense of how difficult incorporating a kayak kite will be without the full investment.

True Kayak Sail Kits

Unlike downwind kayak sails the following sail packages are trans-formative kits that can serve as a true alternative to paddling. We define True Sail Kits as ones that have the ability to sail against the wind – also known as tacking. These kits all require a bit more pocket change and a fair degree of skill to use properly.

It’s also worth noting that these kits can require some serious modifications to your boat. So be prepared to drill some holes. Also as sails radically change your kayaks balance you may want to consider adding some extra stability with either leeboards or outriggers. These may be essential depending on your setup.

Hobie

If you’re going to talk about sailing kayaks then you’ve got to talk about Hobie. Hobie was known for making some of the best personal sailcraft in the business before they had a reputation for high-end pedal drives. Decades of experience and innovation have positioned Hobie as one of the premier brands for fishing kayaks They’re also the only mass-producer of sailing kayaks.

Mirage Adventure Island

The Hobie Mirage Adventure Island, and its sister tandem version, are the only out of the box sailing kayaks currently available. Hobie also offers smaller sized catamarans like the iconic Hobie 16 or the rotomolded Wave, but these aren’t exactly kayaks (strictly speaking).

The Mirage Island is a beast of a boat. Weighing in at close to 200 lbs and comes standard with a 6m sail on a 5m mast. Twin amas keep everything upright and the integrated mirage pedal drive won’t leave you stranded on a breezeless day. When the wind is whippin’ though the Adventure Island is capable of topping out around 12 knots; which is hauling for a wind-driven vessel. If you’re front running a storm in the adventure island then hold on, because you’re in for a ride.

The Mirage Adventure Island comes with everything you need to start sailing on day one. It’s not cheap. The solo version retails for $5,299. And the tandem previously held the record as the most expensive kayak available at $7,499. That might seem expensive, but when you consider the upfront and operating costs of even a small 15-20′ sailboat the Adventure Island is much more attractive.

Hobie Mirage Sail Kit

Current Hobie owners can easily add wind power to their kayak with the addition of the Hobie Sail Kit. This ~2 square meter sail mounts on a 2 piece aluminum mast that stands 10′ tall off the deck. The upper portion is made of durable dacron fabric while the lower half is composed of translucent mylar so you can still see where you’re headed. We highly recommend grabbing the furling kit along with the sail so you can roll up the sail in a jiffy. This feature is hugely important if you have any intention of staying still at some point during your voyage.

This kayak sail works so well in part because of its high quality construction, but also due to its seamless integration with Hobie Kayaks. The mast seats in a built in accessory port on compatible models. The mirage pedal drive improves tracking while the rudder can be controlled with one hand, leaving the other free to manage the sheet (i.e. sail rope).

Paired with a mirage pedal drive the Hobie Mirage kayaksail kit offers adventurous paddlers a means to cover large areas of water and then finely tune their position. If you’re a current Hobie owner seeking more adventure in your outings then the Hobie Sail Kit is your best bet. Sure it’s not cheap, but this is one upgrade definitely worth the sheckles.

Balough Sail Design

There are few kayak sailing kit manufacturers better known than Balough Sail Design (BSD). They’ve earned a reputation for producing some of the best and most complete kayak sailing kits in the industry. These aren’t downwind do-hickeys, but full blown sail-kits that can tack and jibe into the wind like larger sail craft. BSD has a diverse product line that caters to canoes, long haul trekkers, and even foldable kayaks. One of their most popular kayak sail kits for hardshells is the Batwing.

The BSD Batwing features a hangglider inspired airfoil that’s perfect for small and narrow craft. Full tapered fiberglass battens prevent flogging and the proprietary “Zippy Reefer” system makes reefing the spinnaker effortless. The sail and mast are mounted to the hull and attached to the Balough Outrigger Stabilizer System (BOSS) for stability. The BOSS is a fine-tuned outrigger system that connects the main sail to dual hydrodynamic amas via aluminum tubes and hardware. These amas provide extra stability and security during sailing and turning.

Adding a BSD sail kit to your arsenal isn’t a cheap proposition. The 32 sqft BSD Batwing sail with BOSS system and accompanying hardware goes for ~$1,650 which makes it by far the most expensive option on our list. But, it’s still considerably less expensive than picking up an Adventure Island or a small sloop. If you’re a serious kayak sailor and looking to make some serious expeditions then BSD should definitely be on your short list.

Chesapeake Light Craft

Bespoke hand-made kayaks are functional works of art that represent the cumulative total of a builders passion, skill, and patience. Watch a few videos of a cedar-strip canoe being built and you’ll quickly realize that it takes a certain type of person to pull off such an ambitious project. If you’re the type who dreams of woodworking and envies scratch built vessels than the Chesapeake Light Craft (CLC) sail kit might be for you.

CLC caters to both amateur and professional boat-builders and is an invaluable resource for any paddler undertaking a DIY kayaking project. Their kayak sail kit is one of the biggest, powerful, and comprehensive options available for radically transforming your kayak or canoe. After you’ve finished installing this kit your vessel will be well equipped for long-trek journeys and expeditions.

The kit comes with CNC cut parts and hardware to add two amas for extra stability and a sail between 45 and 70 square feet. The 70 sqft sail is a behemoth that requires strategic reinforcement to accommodate a 15’+ mast. CLC kits are highly customizable and labor intensive – it’s nowhere near a “plug and play” solution for kayak sailing, and that’s Ok – these kits are made for paddlers seeking peak performance and aesthetics. Check out CLC to drool over some of the best looking sailing kayaks you’ll ever see. They’re also a great resource for hard to find sailing hardware and DIY boat plans.

Falcon Kayak Sails

The folks behind Falcon Kayak Sails have designed one of the most popular kayak sail kits on the market for both amateur and advanced paddlers. The founding partners, based out of Perrysberg, Ohio, were tired of cumbersome and oversized sails commercially available. So they decided to make it better and fine tuned it on the windy waters of Lake Eerie. The result is an incredibly strong, lightweight, and compact sail that strikes a fine balance between full blown sail conversion and downwind runner.

The Falcon sail is available in two sizes (1m² and 1.4m²) and weighs a mere 4 lbs along with rigging and hardware. This incredibly light weight is accomplished through the use of a carbon fiber mast and boom and durable plastic connectors. Sailcloth is made from Dacron, a proprietary fabric from Dupont that’s closely resembles polyester (PET) in composition. PET sails benefit from less stretch, greater UV resistance, and drys very quickly.

Most impressively the Falcon sail assembles and disassembles in less than 30 seconds. Sails can be customized in a myriad of colors at no extra charge. Falcon Sails also quality assurance by double checking hardware compatibility with your specific kayak model. The all in price for the 1m2 kit is just $625 which is extremely reasonable. Whether your sailing from South America to Miami, or just going out for a quick tour, the Falcon Sail is a excellent option.

Flat Earth Kayak Sails

Kayak Sails aren’t the sole providence of paddlers in the Northern Hemisphere. Our friends down under have learned a thing or two paddling the Tasmanian Sea. The fine folks at Flat Earth Kayaks have fine-tuned their kayak sail kits through extensive testing in the wild waters off New South Wales. The result is a robust and capable kayak sail system well suited for ocean bound paddlers.

Currently Flat Earth Kayaks (FEK) offers two different models for touring style kayaks; the Footloose 80 and three different sizes of their trademark Tradwind Sail. These junk-rig style sails are well suited for small watercraft because they can take a beating and are easily controlled. A single line provides simple control capable of big tacks and precise adjustments. A bespoke flexible mast mount and custom mounting hardware, along with detailed instructions, make installation and operation accessible for even the greenest yakker.

FEK sail kits are attractive for ocean kayakers especially because of their consistent iterative improvement and attractive pricepoint. Most kits are sub-$600 for for sail and hardware while providing the same strength and durability of kits twice the price. If you’re constantly in the salt and looking for a proper sail rig than don’t pass up a chance to check out Flat Earth Kayaks.

Pacific Action Sails

Crab Claw sails are aptly named for their distinctive shape. They’ve been a mainstay in Austronesian sailing for centuries. These sails have historically been favored for moving both large/slower barge like vessels as well as more nimble outrigger canoes and proas. This sail design is one of the most efficient simple designs (excluding modern spinnakers) and has long been favored for its ease of use and construction.

Pacific Action sails has brought the crab claw design into the modern kayaking era with their sail kit. With a dual spar design and no fixed mast the PA sail quickly deploys and retracts with just one line. Out of the wind the twin spars group together and can be secured to the side of the gunwale. The absence of a fixed mast provides another distinct advantage with regards to installation. Rather than mounting into the top deck the kit can be installed with tensioning straps that hug the hull – which means you don’t have to put any holes in your boat.

PA offers sail kits in 1, 1.5, and 2.2 sqm sizes that range from $380 to $470 AUD. These kits are especially well suited to sit on top style kayaks thanks to their reliance on pre-existing tie downs and hull-hugging mount. Owners of Stealth, Viking, and Ocean kayaks should have the PA sail kit at the top of their list for low effort, max yield sails.

Overview on The Best Kayak Sails

Whether you’re a part time paddler or an expedition angler a kayak sail can add an extra dimension to your outings. Catching the wind offers an eco-friendly way to boost your range and keep your arms fresh. The wind might not be as reliable as a small outboard or an electric motor. But by sailing you’re taking part in a human tradition dating back to the beginnings of civilization. And it gives you a great excuse to talk like a pirate. Share your sailing kayak photos with us and stay safe out there yer scurvy buccaneers!

The post Kayak Sails | 9 Ways to Catch The Wind in 2023 appeared first on Yak Logic.

Tackleboxes are the tried and true transport of choice for shore-bound anglers. And while they’re great for short trips they aren’t exactly well suited for longer journeys. In addition to your hooks and lures you’ve got rods, bait, refreshments, cell phone chargers, and so on. It quickly adds up to more than a handful, or two.

These types of situations are where fishing backpacks shine. Hard to reach fishing holes require a custom tailored solution that’s well suited for long treks. The proper rucksack for your rods and reels can make your next hike to the honey hole a short jaunt rather than a lengthy drudge.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best purpose-built fishing backpacks on the market along with a shopping guide on what to look for and why. These bags offer angler’s space, comfort, and most importantly, gear security. Nothing is worse than dropping an open tackle tray with terminal tackle. Those micro hooks…they’re gone. Check out some of the best fishing backpacks 2021 has to offer below.

The Best 6 Fishing Backpacks in 2022

Ghosthorn Fishing Tackle Backpack

Ghosthorn’s offering is a fully adjustable backpack uniquely designed for anglers, but with a tactical flavor. Exterior MOLLE webbing provides easy anchor points for compatible accessories that makes for easy customization.

MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment. It’s a staple in military spec gear because it offers a simple but effective way to change loadouts on the fly. Accessory components attach via male/female interface on the pouch attachment ladder system (PALS) webbing.

PALS webbing on Ghosthorn’s fishing backpack means you’ve got the ability to attach an AR holster along with a few extra grenades for good measure. More likely though you’ll end up using these for less violent delights. A first aid kit, bottle holster, or fishing accessories can tie in or clip on with a carabiner.

If you’re a fan of gear that’s tough enough to rough it out in any situation than consider the Ghosthorn fishing pack as an option for light load trips. It’s a versatile pack that works well even on trips where you’re not fishing – but who wants to do that? Add in a one-year warranty and it’s easy to see why this is one of the best budget-friendly fishing backpacks on the market.

EGO Kryptek Tackle Box

Ego’s Kryptek tackle box backpack is the biggest and most expensive pack on our list. And also one of the best. Ego turned the dial up to 11 on style, durability, and customization to make a backpack suitable for serious fisherman.

This tackle backpack weighs in at 6.31 lbs primarily due to the generous use of PVC coated 1000D nylon fabric in construction. The exterior features laser cut MOLLE loops for adding attachments rather than more traditional webbing. Not only does this look better, but it’s also much less likely to catch a hook. A rubber base protects the bottom and helps keep the pack upright when it’s off your shoulders. Included with the backpack are four 10″x7″ tackle trays that stack neatly into the lower pocket.

Above tray storage is a voluminous insulated cavity that can hold between 8 and 10 frosty beverages, or a bevy of tools and line. Side pockets feature internal organizers and there’s a minimal use of webbing on the inside which is super helpful for keeping lures unstuck. Abundantly padded should straps with locking clips keep loads comfortable. Finally the bag is adorned in a modern tactical-fishing aesthetic that just looks awesome.

The only knock against the Ego Krypteck is the lack of rod holders. But that’s easily fixed with available accessories or some creative tinkering. Overall this is an amazing bag that we’re confident can survive anything you throw at it.

Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack

Piscifcun’s fishing backpack is a quality pack with a reserved look. If you’re into clean lines and straightforward designs then this is a great option. This medium-large bag is mostly made of 1200D Nylon and has 11 separate spaces for storage with SBS zippers.

The bottom compartment holds four durable tackle trays that can be stored vertically or horizontally. Above that sits a removable clapboard to separate the upper compartment. With the divider removed this pack offers a huge internal volume if you need to haul something bigger. On the top sits a water bottle pocket and a reinforced pouch for sunglasses. While on the bottom a flat compartment holds a waterproof cover to keep your pack dry during the unexpected downpour.

Thick padding on the shoulder straps and ergonomic design will help prevent fatigue on longer treks. At a little over half the weigh of the Kryptek, and a significantly lower price, the Piscifun pack takes our pick for best value for a larger size backpack. It’s available in three different colors: black, camo, and tan.

MoiShow Fishing Tackle Backpack

It’s been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Moishow must be fairly familiar with that saying because their backpack is strikingly similar to others on that list (i.e. Ghosthorn). But that’s not a bad thing. Moishow has iterated on a proven design and optimized for an ultra lightweight fishing solution.

Weighing in at only 1.2 lbs the Moishos Backpack is the lightest entry on our list. It’s made from water resistant 600D fabric and features MOLLE compliant webbing on the lower front. Straps are highly adjustable and permit different backpack orientations. Feel free to use this as a chestbag, handbag, or even as a regular travel bag depending on your style and needs.

The Moishow is available in a slim selection of colors and two different sizes; standard and large. It’s an excellent bag for short daytrips or pond-skipping and is a great candidate to live in your truck full time. If you’re on the lookout for an affordable and lightweight bag then you’ll be hard pressed to find one better than the Moishow.

Kast King Day Tripper

We’re pretty big fans of Kast King products here at Yak Logic. They’ve taken a budget conscious approach towards fishing gear and offer high value for the price. The YL arsenal is stocked with a few rods and reels from this NY company, and to date there hasn’t been a single purchase we regret.

This Day Tripper is a one way ticket to comfortable treks with high loads. Constructed from tear resistant 420D rip-stop Nylon and sporting 8 exterior pockets this bag is a high value contender. The biggest differentiator is this bag’s waist and chest support. Padded and breathable shoulder straps pair with a pocketed waist band that helps distribute the weight more evenly across your torso for a more comfortable experience. Two rod pockets and accompanying bungees on the left side are great for carrying extra sticks.

Kast King’s pack can fit up to four 3600 sized tackle trays in the bottom cavity, and unlike other packs opens from the side rather than the front. This design choice enables anglers to more easily access trays; just sling the pack over one shoulder to grab a box. Speaking of trays – they’re not included standard with the day tripper, but are available as a separate item. We think this is a smart choice, as most of us have too many trays to begin with. All in all this is a great backpack for short or long trips available at an attractive price.

Plano 3600 A-Series Tackle Backpack

If you’re known for making some of the best tackle trays in the history of fishing then it might not be a terrible idea to make a bag to carry them. We’re guessing the execs over at Plano had that same idea, and the result is the aptly named 3600 Tackle Backpack.

Introduced in the Summer of 2020 Plano’s updated fishing backpack is a stylish and heavy duty bag with a cool old-school aesthetic. It’s easy to imagine uncovering a bag like this in your grandpa’s attic stocked with bronzed rooster tails and first gen rapalas.

The bag is made from a sturdy canvas fabric and holds five 3600 boxes that are not easily accessible – you’ll have to unzip the entire front panel. Above the divider a mesh liner keeps your raincoat or loose gear secure while pulling a tray. Two side pockets and a front pouch provide extra room for knick knacks and tools. Four 3600 sized boxes come included.

The Plano 3600 backpack is not the biggest, or fanciest, or most advanced bag on this list. But it looks darn good. This is the one bag on our list that would be perfectly at home on a picnic at the winery, or in the bow of a canoe. If you’re a fishing purist, or rolling our flys, then this is the perfect pack to blend into the background while you master your art.

Why Buy a Fishing Backpack?

If you’ve already got your kayak kitted to perfection then why do you even need a fishing backpack? The answer is simple;

Convenience

More than likely your kayak based tackle starts off organized before the trip, and ends scattered around the deck. If you’ve got a junk drawer, it’s filled. It’s a pain in the butt to sort through all that and throw it in a bag any time you want to go on an overland expedition. And when your finished you’ve got to unload from the bag and repack your boat.

A proper fishing backpack bridges the gap between land and sea to make tackle transfer breezy. Rather than scrounging around for your favorite jig-head in the center console you can just grab the bag and go. Having a dedicated go-bag just for fishing makes impromptu adventures just a quick hike away.

Comfort

Remember your old Jansport in high school loaded up with textbooks? After a day of lugging around 20 pounds of books your back and shoulders are aching for relief. Trekking through the brush towards a bank can put an equal hurting on your upper torso without proper load balancing and weight distribution.

Both large and small fishing backpacks offer a comfortable means to haul out to a spot. Many smaller sized packs can be worn in a variety of positions. Larger variants offer reinforced padding, back support, and adjustable straps to get the perfect fit.

Features to Look For

Size and Storage Capacity

Every fishermen has their own unique style. Some of us load up an arsenal of gear to be prepared for any situation. While others hike out with one rod, one reel, and a can of worms. Whatever your approach is it’s important to match your load-out to your style and trip.

If you’re headed for a 3 day fishing trip on a raft down the Mississippi; then a fanny-pack with a whopper-plopper isn’t going to cut it. Conversely if you’re swinging by the local pond for a few hours of fishing then there’s no need to pack a department’s store worth of soft-plastics.

Fishing Backpacks generally come in two flavors; medium and large. Regardless of size they all feature smartly designed storage to bring along more than just the essentials. So if you’re an absolute minimalist then you may want to consider a fabric tackle-bag or fishing-vest instead.

Materials & Durability

Both synthetic and traditional fabrics hold up to general wear and tear pretty well. What’s more important is thread density and water-resistance. Lower thread count fabric (measured in Denier, or D) is lighter and more pliable, but easier to tear or snag a hook on. Higher D fabric is heavier, resists punctures, and repels water more effectively; but it’s also considerably more expensive.

Fishing gear is designed to get wet, so water resistance isn’t the most important factor in choosing a backpack. But it’s also not something you should completely ignore. Certain bags take a more pro-active approach towards keeping gear dry that can be important if you end up stowing electronics or food in your pack. There are totally waterproof bags available that sacrifice accessibility and ease of use for their added protection. If you’re really concerned about keeping dry then a waterproof backpack cover could be a worthwhile investment.

Special Considerations

One of the most important features for any backpack your considering is tray size. Most backpacks are designed around tackle trays that mirror a Plano 3600’s dimensions: 11″ x 7.25″ x 1.75″. Plano set the standard and competing brands have designed their own medium tray boxes to closely match. However, that doesn’t mean your tray will fit. We’ve provided bag dimensions so you can double check your own tray collection for fit. The fabric use in these trays doesn’t stretch much; so if your tray is more than 1/4″ out of spec then you’ll probably need to adopt into a new ecosystem.

The last big variable between bags is the inclusion of, or the ability to add, a rod holder. It’s not an absolute necessity; you can comfortably carry 1-2 rods in your off hand. Rod holders on your backpack are handy if you’re bringing more than two rods on a trip. They’re also useful for keeping rods off the ground when they’re not in use. We think they’re a must-have feature for surf-casting, but entirely up to you for other use-cases.

Overview on the Best Fishing Backpacks

The backpacks above are our choices for the best fishing backpacks available in 2022. These bags are perfect for hauling a decent amount of gear on both short and long adventures. But like any product they’re not perfect in every situation. There’s a big market of hard plastic tackle boxes, duffel bags, and waterproof storage to suit all sorts of applications.

Remember, your fishing trip will be much more enjoyable if you can reach all of your equipment and tackling supplies quickly and easily. Fishing backpacks can make that happen. Thanks for reading and have a great time out there!

The post The 6 Best Fishing Backpacks in 2022 appeared first on Yak Logic.

Any experienced kayak angler will readily tell you that stability is worth its weight in gold. Big waves and fast currents can make girthy yaks feel like skinny dinghys real quick. In uncertain waters kayak outriggers can level the playing field against Poseidon and offer some peace of mind comparable to bigger boats. With a little DIY know-how and the right stabilizer you’ll find landing the big one to be much easier. Below are nine of the best kayak outriggers available to help keep your feet dry and your keel wet during your next adventure.

Yak Gear Gen 2 Stabilizers

Yak Gear’s kayak outriggers are an affordable and versatile set of outriggers that offer extra buoyancy to handy paddlers. Two HDPE pontoons connect to the boat via 30″ hexagonal aluminum tubes. Rod arms connect to the boat with included Railblaza Starport bases which allow for quick angle adjustments. A simple tension knob handles vertical positioning, which provides accessible over-water fine-tuning. Everything’s held together with stainless steel hardware. And threaded brass inserts on the pontoons make for a solid and secure connection. Each pontoon also features an extra insert for adding a Railblaza MiniPort base; which is perfect for mounting a Go-Pro or rod-holder.

Installation of the Yak Gear’s Gen 2 outrigger system will require drilling into the kayak. If you’re uneasy about putting a bit to your boat you could always try using built in track mounts. However, the forces generated by these Outriggers have been known to bend t-track with ease. Installation is straight-forward with either hull access or well nuts.

Overall we’re impressed with Yak Gear’s entry in the outrigger market. Well crafted components matched with RailBlaza’s mounts provide paddlers with plenty of mounting options at an attractive price.

Scotty #302 Kayak Stabilizer System

Rigid pontoons are great for buoyancy and durability. But they’re big accessories that seriously embiggen your packout. Inflatable pontoons provide the same stability bonuses as rigid plastic. Just a tight bear hug and they quickly deflate for compact storage.

The Scotty 302 Kayak Stabilizer System uses Scotty’s proprietary mounting base to connect 28″ aluminum rod-arms to pontoons. Scotty rod holders (v 279) act as connection points for the rods. These can be mounted on either the hull or pontoon. Altogether the 302 system adds an extra 30 lbs of buoyancy to your ride.

Scotty’s 302 Stabilizers excel in providing extra stability in a lightweight and compactible formfactor. Over-water adjustments can be difficult – two hands are usually needed. The locking mechanism is also subject to failure in high-stress environments. These kayak outriggers are great for flatwater and slow-flow rivers. But you might want something a little beefier for big water.

Expandacraft

Expandacraft specializes in modular buoy systems that do far more than offer extra stability. These pontoons offer the capability to transform a canoe or kayak into a completely different craft. Rotomolded HDPE pontoons are 4′ long and available in bow, middle, and stern configurations which allow for hydrodynamic outriggers between 8′ and 16′ or longer. Connecting hardware such as cross-bars, runners, and risers are available to secure a solid connection to your craft and position just above the water.

These kayak and canoe outriggers are not for the faint of heart. It’ll take some serious DIY know-how to successfully and securely mount these to your yak. Resulting craft are also going to perform far differently; your ability to paddle, steer, and transport effectively could be compromised depending on your configuration. The trade-off, though, is maximum primary stability. Short of a whale breaching on your starboard side we can’t think of much that would tip a yak with a 16′ long outrigger..

Expandacrafts kayak outriggers are available as individual components or as a complete kit. These are large, serious upgrades with quality components. And prices are reasonable, especially considering these are made in America. A single 8′ outrigger kit runs around $300 without freight, while bigger build-outs can easily push you past 10 Bens.

Wingman Cooler Outriggers

Outriggers are kinda like training wheels on a bicycle. They’re functional, they work great, but some of the older kids might make fun of you for having them. Wingman Outfitters took one look at tiny inflatable pontoons and then Tony Starked the hell out of them to make one of the coolest outrigger systems out there…literally. The result is a robust and multi-purpose outrigger system that is one of the absolute best options for long range canoe camping trips.

The Wingman Cooler Outrigger utilizes two 48 quart coolers to provide added buoyancy and stability. A telescoping frame made from high-strength aluminum tubing holds each cooler across the beam of the canoe. 2500 lb ratchet straps keeps the tubing in place. This system effectively redistributes what would normally be extra ballast into extra stability. Both coolers remain fully functional while serving as outriggers and actually perform better with extra weight/cargo.

We’re big fans of the Wingman Cooler Outriggers for several reasons. Foremost is that the Wingman Outriggers are an extremely elegant solution. It redistributes essential cargo without sacrificing utility. Coolers are an essential piece of kit for longer camp trips unless you’re keen on MRE’s and Cup O Noodle for a week. Secondly, Wingman Outriggers are made out of the Commonwealth of Virgina, down in the Star City of Roanoke. It’s great to see such awesome innovation out of our home state. The complete set comes with a single 30 lb frame and two coolers for just $499.

Optional upgrades like a table conversion kit, oarlocks, and platform extenders are available for extra functionality. And they’re continually tweaking the base model to make it better. Be sure to check out the Star City’s coolest cooler system.

Hobie Sidekick Ama

In Polynesian the word “Ama” describes an outrigger pontoon; which was traditionally made from hollowed out trees. Bonus points if you really want to impress fellow paddlers: vaka/waka is the main hull, and aka are the connecting parts. A canoe with an outrigger could also be called a waka aka ama.

The Hobie Sidekick Ama borrows more than just nomenclature from Polynesian culture; it’s demonstrative of their superior skills as shipwrights. The Sidekick Ama is purpose built for Hobie kayaks. It attaches to the hull via 3/8″ well nuts directly behind the seat. Pontoons can be seated in low, mid, and high positions. And are secured with spring loaded buttons. The pontoons are made of durable plastic and are easily inflated with just a few short breaths – no pump required.

All in all the Hobie Sidekick Ama system is a great addition for paddlers running skinnier models, such as the Revolution or Oasis, in choppy water. They’ll do everything a kayak stabilizer is meant to do and will fit your Hobie without a hitch. The price is steep, but if you’re running a Hobie then you should be used to that by now 😉

Spring Creek Stabilizer System

Tippecanoe isn’t just a famous battle; it’s also what a lot of greenhorn paddlers do their first time standing. Canoes are typically prone to tipping because of their extended length, narrow width, and shallow keel. Standing steadily in a canoe takes some time to master. So outriggers are often a welcome addition.

Spring Creek’s canoe outriggers are a robust and durable option that will keep canoe lovers dry, sitting or standing. The tubular aluminum crossbar mounts to your ride via clamps to the gunwales. Cam locks enable additional width, up to 20 inches, which is great for switching from slack to fast water. Each hydrodynamic pontoon offers 27 lbs of buoyancy and weighs 5 lbs. Altogether the entire system weighs in between 17 and 20 pounds depending on the chosen size. The Spring Creek system comes in 30″, 36″, 40″ and 45″ widths.

Spring Creek engineered a high quality product with their stabilizer system. It’s not cheap. But Spring Creek is made in the USA. And their outriggers will keep you and your passengers safely positioned over the water for the duration of your canoeing career.

Boonedox Outrigger Pontoons

Most paddler’s are familiar with Boonedox’s eponymous cart. However they’ve applied their superior fabrication skills towards pontoons as well. The Boonedox pontoon outrigger embodies the companies design philosophy of simple, effective, and incredibly well built apparatuses. Hydrodynamic pontoons attached to 36″ arms attach to the hull using the same knuckle as used by the landing gear. The offset bar design needs just a quick turn of the wrist to lift pontoons off the water.

These kayak pontoons are a no-brainer for anybody already running a set of Boonedox landing gear. And for those running a different cart the kit comes with smaller profile mounting blocks. Boonedox pontoon outriggers are available for $329.

Stand N Fish

If you’re on a quest for ultimate over-water stability, then there’s really only one option; Stand N Fish. Based out of Sarasota, Florida Stand N Fish offers their “complete system” that will radically transform your kayak into a sight fishing machine. Two over-sized plastic pontoons extend laterally. Both are connected to a stand-up control tower that serves as a central command point for casting, rigging, and even anchoring.

The padded leaning post offers both your lumbars and abdominal comfy support while stretching your legs. A plastic tackle tray at waist level offers a level platform for tying flies or rigging gear. And a rod holder on each supporting strut keeps spare rods close at hand. One of our favorite features is the easily accessible stake out pole and remote anchor control; both of which permit stationary positioning from a standing position.

Perhaps most impressive of the Stand N Fish is its portability. It can be assembled in just 30 seconds. More so than any other kayak outrigger system the Stand N Fish offers the opportunity to radically change your fishing strategy through greatly enhanced stability and control. All these perks aren’t exactly cheap though. The complete system starts at $649 and optional accessories can quickly add up. Installation will require some serious modding skills. But luckily a thorough and complete set of instructions, along with accompanying video guides, make things easier. Before you pull the trigger on the Stand N Fish make sure your kayak is compatible.

Wave Armor

Wave Armor is best known for their floating dock systems and accessories. Their modular dock system is pretty slick – sort of like Legos for building a dock. They’ve taken their skills in plastic and aluminum fabrication to produce a nifty stabilizer system that even fits sit-in style yaks.

Like other kayak outriggers Wave Armor’s solution utilizes a tubular aluminum crossbar with detachable vertical braces that connect to pontoons. Rather than clamping to the gunwale Wave Armor’s system is more permanently affixed with brackets that secure to the top deck. This approach permits adoption by virtually all craft – provided you have requisite DIY skills and inner hull access.

The Wave Armor stabilizer kit is priced competitively and made in New Jersey, USA.

Overview on the Best Kayak Outriggers

Stability is a foundational component for success in any endeavor. Security in your standing is what enables us to push the boundaries in life. Considering water isn’t known for staying steady a pair of consummate outriggers makes a ton of sense for paddlers seeking to explore the edge. So for those seeking more solid footing in the blue we strongly consider making outriggers a part or your rig.

If you rock outriggers on your expeditions let us know and send us a picture; we’d love to share pics of your ultra stable fly-fishing and pedal rigs!

The post The 9 Best Kayak Outriggers | Brilliant Boat Floating Buoys appeared first on Yak Logic.

Kayaks may be swift and nimble in the water. But on land they’re heavy, cumbersome, and difficult to maneuver. If you’ve ever had to lug a fully loaded yak with stodgy handles down a steep embankment you’ll understand why wheels are absolutely necessary. Since kayaks vary so greatly in shape and size it’s natural that kayak carts would come in a wide range of designs.

There’s a plethora of different kayak cart brands and models, but only some of them are worth your time. We’ve rounded up the best kayak carts for your boat below.

Railblaza C Tugs

This Kiwi born kayak cart is instantly recognizable thanks to its distinctive black and green coloring, as well as its modular approach to kayak transportation. Railblaza’s C Tug Canoe and Kayak cart is a lightweight and versatile kayak cart that can readily support watercraft up to 260 lbs. Rugged plastic construction keeps weight to just 10 lbs while still providing plenty of strength and rigidity for heavy loads.

The C Tug breaks down to its base components quickly, and without any tools, which is perfect for under-hatch storage. Articulating bow supports adjust to match hull shape and no-slip pads provide a solid connection to your craft. Innovative airless sand wheels are also available for beach-goers. A kickstand keeps things stable while you’re loading, and an optional connector provides the opportunity to double up carts for heavier loads.

The C Tug is a nifty cart that’s perfect for transporting skinnier conventional hull yaks. Kayaks with deep chines, such as trimaran and cathedral style hulls, don’t provide sufficient purchase for a solid connection even with a ratchet strap. All in all the C Tug is an awesome kayak cart for rolling your ride through sand and grass.

The Kayak Cart

There are kayak carts. And then there’s The Kayak Cart. A newer entry to the cart game this handy boat tote sports some high end design at a low end price. The kayak cart takes advantage of a simplistic but strong design that keeps the total weight below 3 lbs, but is still capable of supporting up to 120 lbs on its airless 7″ tires. A plastic cradle securely hugs yaks with steep bows and deep keels. And built in straps with clips ensure a solid connection to your craft.

Measuring just 13″ wide, 10″ high, and 10″ long the kayak cart is one of the most compact options on this list and can fit through oval hatches with ease. The unique cradle on this cart makes it great for sit-in kayaks, but won’t work nearly as well on wide beamed sit on tops. If you’re more into paddling then fishing then this should be near the top of your list.

Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart

Big kayaks need big kayak carts. And no other cart has as high a weight capacity as the Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart. Square aluminum tubing provides ample strength to support up to 450 lbs (with airless tires). Adjustable support bars can be easily fitted for conventional hulled kayaks or widened to fit between chines on high-stability fishing kayaks. Two 12″ airless plastic tires are strong enough to wheel over rough terrain with ease. And optional inflatable sand wheels give beach goers easy access to the surf.

The WS Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is the go-to option for larger fishing kayaks like the Bonafide SS127, Old Town AutoPilot, and Hobie Pro-Angler. But it’s great for smaller yaks as well because of its wide wheel base and adjustable supports. Disassembly without tools is easy, but it’s not as compact as other carts on this list. More than likely you’ll store it fully assembled in the rear tankwell or stashed in your car.

The only feature missing from Wilderness System’s Cart is a kickstand. It might not seem like a big deal, but loading up on a boat ramp will quickly make you want one. Finally this Cart is not cheap – but the high quality components and weight capacity make this one of the few viable for options for bigger boats. If you’ve got a kayak with a deep-chined hull then this is one of your best options for over-land transportation.

Hobie Plug In Cart

Hobie’s well known for making some truly awesome kayaks. And they’re also known for some incredibly large kayaks. The Hobie Pro-Angler 14 tips the scales at 144 lbs, and that’s before you add any rods and reels. Hobie’s solution to hauling around big boats is the Hobie Plug In Cart; a scupper hole mounted cart designed to fit with a variety of Hobie models.

The Plug In cart series is composed of four different scupper mounted carts. Each features stainless steel construction and varying wheel size that corresponds to intended weight and terrain. The Trax 2 (pictured) features 9.5′ pneumatic tires, which are great for beach goers. A clamp at the top of each post ensures a snug fit when pushed into the scupper holes. They can be broken down, but most paddlers prefer to keep these put together.

Hobie’s line of scupper mount carts are super effective once they’re on the boat. Getting them mounted in the scuppers though, can be a challenge, and it’s often the chief complaint about these types of carts. In a truckbed, or floating in the water, scupper holes are easy enough to access. But getting these wheels attached on dry land by yourself can be a huge pain.

Finally you shouldn’t try to use these types of kayak carts on other models. In many kayaks the scupper holes are some of the weakest parts of the vessel. Using a scupper mounted kayak cart on a yak that wasn’t designed for it accelerates wear and tear and can easily cause catastrophic failure. Before you put anything other than a plug in your scupper holes be sure to check the instruction manual.

Boonedox

One of the most cumbersome processes of moving a kayak is loading it onto the cart. And this is doubly hard for anybody running a large yak loaded up with gear. Balancing 100+ lbs of boat and gear off the bow while maneuvering a cart into place will break a sweat and cause a cuss real quick. Once you’ve finally got the wheels in place the last step is to secure them with straps, otherwise you’ll be running it back with some even stronger language.

Boonedox saw the difficulties inherent in solo-loading heavy fishing kayaks and decided to do something about it. The result is the Boonedox Groovy Landing Gear. Groovy Landing Gear eliminates loading frustrations with a simple lift and flip motion. Wheels rotate around deck mounted bearings to deploy on land and store neatly. No more fumbling around with carts and straps – just flip, launch, and flip again.

The Landing Gear system is awesome for moving big fishing yaks, but there are a few considerations. This system places a lot of stress on HDPE hulls and can easily rip your kayak apart if installed incorrectly. Be sure to do your research and confirm compatibility – several kayak makers strongly advise against using Landing Gear on certain models. In addition this system adds quite a bit of girth to the width of your yak, which could affect the fit in truck beds and tailgate supports. Boonedox currently makes custom kits for the Hobie Outback, Pro Angler, Bonafide models, and more.

Malone WideTrak

The Malone WideTrak Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is a budget friendly option that’s suitable for a wide range of yaks. This cart supports 250 lbs via 12″ airless tires on a 33″ wide frame. Removable foam padded bunks ensure capability with any hull type – deep chines are no problem with bunks on. The collapsible frame folds flat for compact storage. And the integrated dual kickstand is handy for keeping things stationary.

This is one of the more popular kayak carts for yak anglers because it can accommodate all but the heaviest kayaks, and it’s a great value. The Malone WideTrak has just about every feature you could want in a cart: it’s lightweight, has a kickstand, supports chined hulls, and folds flat. Really the only downside with this cart is that it’s not optimal for under hatch storage. The wheels are easily removable, but the main frame is meant to stay together, so stowing it under your deck is entirely dependent on the size of your hatch. All in all it’s a minor concern on an otherwise awesome cart.

Paddleboy All Terrain Cart

Big wheels offer some big advantages. In addition to being able to support more weight they also tend to roll over sticks, roots, and rocks with considerably less effort than smaller wheels. The Paddleboy All Terrain Cart (ATC) employs oversized 13″ urethane tires that can tackle bumpy grounds and rocky mounds with no trouble. A powder-coated steel frame provides structure for loads up to 300 lbs and a width of 30.5″ will readily fit wider craft, even a modest jon boat.

The Paddleboy ATC excels at transporting heavy flat-bottom craft. Fully loaded canoes, tricked out jon boats, and fat bottom kayaks will all benefit from rock solid wheels on the ATC. Paddlers have cautioned that trimaran style hulls rub against the wheels on the ATC, so for those rocking extra-stable yaks consider yourself warned. For everybody else this center mounted cart offers a rugged solution against rugged terrain. It’s also the only cart on this list that can double as a bike carrier (via optional upgrade kit).

Suspenz Smart Airless Cart

There are lots of folding style kayak carts out there. It’s by far the most ubiquitous construction style since it’s relatively simple and cheap. You’ve seen this cart in some form at big box stores and sporting outlets. Most times this style of cart is terrible. The components are cheap, the wheels are bad, and worst of all; the cart closes during transport. One bump on the wheel and the frame folds shut leaving your yak to nosedive into the dirt.

Luckily the Suspenz smart cart addresses the typical pitfalls of folding carriers to deliver a quality cart that will keep things rolling. Upgraded hardware and robust components make the Suspenz one of, if not the, best folding kayak cart out there. Cam-less ratchet straps will secure your load without digging into the hull. And rubber pads will provide better grip than far more common foam coverings Airless tires can be swapped for pneumatics with an optional upgrade kit.

The Suspenz Smart Cart is best suited for sit-in kayaks or narrow single hull fishing kayaks. Catamaran and trimaran style hulls won’t sit properly without some modification. Finally we realize that the Suspenz Smart Cart isn’t inexpensive, especially compared to cheaper versions you’ll find in the store. We’re strong advocates of the “Buy Once, Cry Once” philosophy and this is a clear cut case where the extra expense is justified.

Overview on The Best Kayak Carts

Kayak carts are a necessity for modern day watercraft. It simply isn’t feasible to drag a 100 lb + boat more than a a couple yards before you’re tuckered. Before you click the buy button on any cart though make sure it’s compatible with your rig. Manufacturers typically provide guidance on cart styles to avoid (especially scupper). Finally pay attention to your width and hull shape – that triple chined 3′ wide hull isn’t going to work well on a small folding cart. Let us know the best kayak cart you prefer to portage with and happy paddling!

The post The 8 Best Kayak Carts | Awesome Totes To Haul Your Boat appeared first on Yak Logic.

At some point during your paddling career you’re going to hit an “O Crap” moment. A point where you’re too far from shore and too tired to paddle. It’s at those moments when you’ve got to slam a few Cliff Bars and dig deep to eke out just a few more strokes. It’s times like these when your thoughts of motorizing your kayak will transition from flights of fancy to pulling out your credit card.

Bixpy founder Houman Nikmanesh had an epiphany when he got caught in the doldrums 5 miles offshore San Diego. Luckily for us he piloted his Hobie Island back to shore and embarked on a quest to build a highly efficient and light weight sea motor. The result is the eponymous Bixpy Jet Motor which has delighted paddlers with fewer strokes and greater range since 2017.

Electric motors and boats aren’t necessarily a new combination. Trolling motors been a mainstay for small boats ever since O.G. Schmidt invented the first electric gear-drive trolling motor in 1934. Despite their low price and long life trolling motors aren’t always a great option for kayaks. High weight, mounting compatibility,and tiller control/steering often present substantial challenges to smooth operations over water. Bixpy’s engineers managed to overcome these challenges and devised a small but powerful motor that can easily integrate into any kayak.

Bixpy J-1 PowerShroud

The Bixpy J-1 PowerShroud motor provides 32 lbs of thrust, which is more than enough for any displacement hull kayak. A combination of abs/polycarbonate plastic and aircraft-grade aluminum provide a durable housing that will stand up to intense UV exposure. The J-1 is usable in both salt and fresh water; Stainless Steel 316 hardware with Titanium coating provides high corrosion resistance. At just a hair over 11″ long and weighing only 2 lbs the J-1 PowerShroud has a tiny footprint that enables a wide range of mounting options.

Of course no motor is any good without a power source. And Bixpy’s developed what we consider one of the most kayak-friendly batteries on the market. The Bixpy Outboard Battery is completely waterproof and contains a 25.2 V lithium ion battery at 333 Watt-Hours. There’s no worry about losing this battery if you capsize because the 7 pound Bixpy Outboard Battery floats. Tie downs on each corner provide anchor points for bungees/ropes. 5V and 12V auxiliary ports are available to charge your accessories such as fish finders and lights.

The Bixpy jet is controlled by a small Bluetooth remote control that’s attachable to your wrist or PFD. And again there’s no worry if your remote takes a dip in the drink, it floats just like the battery. The forward button will cycle through 10 forward speeds and three reverse speeds are accessible from the back button. One press of the octagon stops everything. And the magnetic kill switch ensures your kayak doesn’t scoot off if you accidentally fall overboard.

Mounting

Bixpy offers 15 different mounting options that cover a wide range of personal watercraft including inflatable kayaks and stand up paddleboards (SUPS). Since the Bixpy J-1 is small and light-weight there are a number of viable mounting options on most conventional fishing kayaks. Adapters allow mounting on the rudder, underneath a center pod, or even in the drive-well of pedal kayaks. You’ll need a little DIY knowhow to mount the Bixpy. But installation is relatively easy with a just a drill, saw, and screwdriver.

Yak Logic Review

We outfitted the Bixpy Outboard Motor kit (motor and battery) on a battle-worn Bonafide SS127. The SS127 is an incredibly stable kayak thanks to its trimaran-style hull with robust chines. The SS127 is a true blue fishing machine. Its earned a dedicated following because of its unparalleled fishability. Paddling, though, is an absolute chore. You’re not winning any races in that yak. With no pedal drive available the SS127 is an excellent candidate for the Bixpy Jet treatment.

The Bonafide rudder kit was already installed on our rig so we opted for the Bixpy DIY rudder kit. Installation was straightforward: the provided template and a dremel made short work of the rudder. We stowed the Outboard Battery in the rear tankwell and ran cables in the grooves underneath the Black Pack. A slight tension adjustment on the foot pedals and the Bixpy Jet Motor was ready to rock.

Powered Paddling

After several trips out with the Bixpy we’re happy to report that it’s an absolute blast to fish with. Low speeds matched a causal paddling cadence and pushed our yak between 2-2.5 mph. The first five speed settings are perfect for paddle assisted propulsion. Not only does paddling feel easier but it’s also much more rewarding to cover more distance faster. Turning off the Bixpy to paddle unassisted feels like shifting to the big gear on a bike; it’s incredible how quickly “naked” paddling feels like your moving with an anchor in the mud.

We also found ourselves putting the paddle down and just enjoying the nature around us. Leaning back in the seat and effortlessly gliding over the water was a relaxing and rewarding experience. Slow speeds also proved great for trolling. The slowest speed kept shallow diving crankbaits cranking, while bigger lipped baits worked better at speeds 3-5. Any faster than that and our baits started turning over or became too eratic.

If you’re in a hurry though the higher speeds will move you at a decent clip. At top speed the Bonafide was moving between 4 and 5 mph. Fast enough that paddling proved pointless – the yak was moving too fast for strokes to catch the water. Bixpy advertises a battery life of 75 minutes with the J-1 at top speeds and up to 10 hours at lower speeds. Intermittent use over a five hour trip resulted in just a 20% drop (5 lights to 4). We found ourselves using a mix of low speeds for trolling and max speed for scooting to a new location most of the time.

Finally the noise level is negligible – Bixpy’s run quiet. Unlike the higher pitch of a Torqueedo ultralight the Bixpy has a low bass hum that amplifies slightly at higher speeds. While it is noticeable this hum quickly blends in with the ambient noise.

Effortless Control

Controlling speed with the Bluetooth remote feels natural and effortless. The remote is light enough that it feels comparable to wearing a watch on your wrist – in fact a few times I found myself trying to check the time. It’s compact enough that it doesn’t interfere with handling your rod or landing a fish. The remote on your off hand wrist is always close by and easy to manipulate. Wrist placement also serves as a fail safe for the kill switch in case you go overboard.

Responsiveness and range are also impressive; there’s maybe a half second delay between pressing a button and the resultant change in velocity. I found myself charging buddies at ramming speed only to hit stop and drift into a parallel position at the last second. Ramping up through the ten speeds is quick as well – speed increased as fast as I hit the button.

Is the Bixpy Jet Worth It?

Before we go any further it’s worth addressing the obvious – price. The Bixpy Outboard Motor package is not an inexpensive option at $1,099. Adapter kits vary in price but start at around $99. So all-in you’re looking at a $1,200 investment before shipping and taxes. This price point places the Bixpy in the middle of the pack in terms of electric kayak motors. It’s more expensive than a watersnake or low thrust trolling motor, but considerably less than a GPS enabled Minn Kota or Torqueedo Ultralite.

So is the Bixpy Jet worth it? For us the answer is a resounding Yes. For three simple reasons:

Size and Weight

When it comes to weight Bixpy smashes the competition. The complete system weighs in at a smidge over 11 lbs. The only combo that’s lighter is a Watersnake Asp 18 lb thrust motor (7.2 lb) and a 12 amp-hour LiPo battery (~3 lbs avg). But that 10.2 lb combo is.12 volt vs the Bixpy’s 24 volt; and takes up considerably more space. In terms of form factor and weight Bixpy takes the cake. These small specs mean the Bixpy system is equally at home on inflatables, kayaks, and SUPS.

Versatility

Since the Bixpy Jet Motor is so small it can be easily mounted to a variety of locations. Bow, stern, pod, or even off the gunwales are quick and easy. Sure a small trolling motor can can be mounted just about anywhere as well. But have you ever seen a trolling motor on a paddleboard? Or used by a Scuba Diver?

The Bixpy Jet’s small size makes it fast and easy to attach to stand up paddleboards. And they offer a hand held battery option if you decide to head down to the Caribbean for some snorkeling. More practically speaking this feature is incredibly handy if you have more than on kayak/sup in your fleet. Quick disconnects and flexible mounting mean you can switch the motor from yak to SUP and back again with ease.

Low Profile Power

Any motor will make a noticeable difference in your time out on the water. However conventional electric and gas outboard motors are pretty easy to spot from a distance. And in most places motorized watercraft have to register and pay taxes. These usually aren’t much – but it’s still an extra expense and hassle that we honestly feel shouldn’t be exacted on paddlers of any sort.

Depending on how you mount it the only visible evidence of a Bixpy motor is its blue power cord. Stealthy propulsion means that the fuzz is more likely to think you’re a consummate paddler than running an unregistered boat. The small form factor is also great for keeping your investment out of sight for any delinquents patrolling the marina.

Overview On The Bixpy Jet

The Bixpy J-1 is awesome and it’s totally changed our outlook on fishing. Destinations that were formerly inaccessible are now in reach. We’ve already gone farther our that ever before all because the fear of that return paddle isn’t as intimidating. If you’re thinking about pulling the trigger on this purchase then odds are you’ll be more than satisfied. Just remember to keep your expectations in check – you’re not going to be towing any wakeboarders. The Bixpy J-1 is perfect for paddlers who want to push the envelope on their over-water adventures.

The post Bixpy Jet Motor Review | Propulsion With a Punch appeared first on Yak Logic.

One of the best parts fishing is choosing your tackle (at least while you’re off the water). Brightly colored lures and worms are like the adult version of Pokemon cards; you gotta catch em all! While the efficacy of all these different baits is debatable, one thing is for certain, new baits are great at catching eager shoppers. In 2012 U.S.anglers spent ~$42 billion on lure, baits, and tackle and growth has steadily continued since then.

As demand has continued to grow numerous companies have capitalized with subscription based business models. Firms leverage buying power at scale to scoop up large lots of overstocked inventory at low prices and pass these savings on to subscribers. The result is a curated assortment of lures and baits made available to consumers at lower than retail prices.

Monthly fishing boxes offer a price effective way to grow your tackle collection; or simply replace the ones you’ve lost. These fishing subscription boxes are a great option for beginner and experienced anglers alike. They’ll save you a trip to the store and expose you to brands and tackle you might not normally try. We’ve put together the most comprehensive list of fishing subscription boxes for your perusal below.

What Makes a Great Box

Before we dive in it’s worth noting what makes a subscription fishing box great, and what makes them…smeh.

Quality Lures

Designing a good lure takes time and skill. But designing a great lure takes experience, master craftsmanship, and passion. The mainstays lures of today like the Heddon Spook, Rapala Minnow, or Mepps Roostertail didn’t just happen overnight. They were perfected over countless iterations spanning multiple decades.

Making fantastic lures is a full time job; and there are plenty of talented small and middle sized companies that deliver innovative and unique new lures to the market. Subscription boxes that showcase both new and established brands and lures to anglers are awesome. Companies that slap a new label on a cheap plastic lures cranked out from a Chinese factory, are not. And unfortunately that’s commonly the case with many in-house brands.

With that being said not all in-house brands are equal. Some in-house brands outsource production to bonafide lure/tackle companies. But it’s pretty easy to see who’s relabeling cheap crap and who isn’t.

Engaging Content

New lures and fishing techniques are always fun to try – especially when they result in a catch. But the learning curve for any new bait can vary between “put it on a hook” and “what the heck is this”. We love to see brands that go the extra mile with pamphlets or guides that explain how to rig the baits in the box; which is especially helpful when you’re out of cell range on the water.

Additionally brown boxes are boring. Colorful designs, stickers, and schwag may not be the most important thing in the world. But these extra touches convey a dedication to improving the consumer experience. And they’re just plain fun.

Flexibility

Let’s be honest – only the most dedicated of fishermen needs new baits and lures year-round. Once your tackle box is overflowing and the winter months arrive you’ll probably want to press pause on your monthly fishing box. That’s why we feel it’s important for companies to offer consumers control over their account and plan via interactive websites. Brands that incorporate automated systems to process order changes are great. Brands that use manual processes like email to cancel an order aren’t necessarily bad, but they are more error prone.

The Best

6th Sense Super 6 Sack

While technically not a “box” the 6th Sense Sack still offers anglers access to some spectacular gear. 6th Sense has built a name for itself off of impeccably crafted crankbaits. Their hardbody lures are some of the best looking in the business and boast amazing action as well. From a crankbait foundation 6th Sense has also moved into soft plastics, rods, terminal tackle, and innovative gear and apparel.

The 6th Sense Sack is a little different from other offerings on this list in that it only includes 6th Sense products. Three tiers; Standard, Premium, and Tailored are available at $23, $37, and $43 respectively with savings for buying multiple months at once. 6th Sense Sacks group products together by their designed depth in the water column. And the Tailored option allows customization for hitting your target depth with your favorite colors. Sacks include a rotating variety of 6th Sense products such as baits, hooks, jigs, and even apparel. Use the code BaitmanSuper6 for $10 off your first order.

Mystery Tackle Box

Mystery Tackle Box (MTB) is one of the most successful and well known fishing subscription boxes available. Founder Ross Gordon started packing MTB boxes in garage and his business quickly exploded into a fishing staple. MTB’s boxes are beautifully designed and include detailed instructions on rigging and fishing techniques for the included gear. Big name brands like Googan Baits, Z-Man, and Rapala are all commonly featured as well as newer upstarts and foreign baits.

MTB has three different box tiers priced at $20, $30, and $40 a month with additional savings for buying more up-front. Boxes are targeted at both fresh and saltwater species (bass, walleye, reds, etc.) and there’s no required commitment. You can change your species, tier, or just cancel altogether at any time. Use the promo code TRYMTB10 for an extra $10 off your first box.

TrueFly

Truefly specializes in fly fishing flies and gear for both fresh and saltwater species. Their monthly “Supply Drops” come in standard and pro editions priced at $29 and $49. Each drop includes between 9 and 24 (dependent on package) along with an assortment of gear that’s valued at $45 (standard) and $85 (pro). Truefly also features a robust customer loyalty program where participants can earn points that can be spent on add-ons and gear. They also feature a totally customizable box if you’re more finicky.

Truefly offers fisherman customization, account self service, and most importantly – stickers! This is a great option for fly fishermen who want more than just flies each month.

MonsterBass

MonsterBass is an all American owned and operated company based out of Los Angeles, California. Founder Rick Patri split from his ventures with Lucky Tackle Box to provide consumers with more focused and high quality lures. They’re unique from other companies in that they focus their efforts on the pursuit of a single fish – the Bass (duh) and tailor lures to different U.S. regions. Bass behavior varies geographically due to a multitude of factors; so lures that work in one spot might be totally ineffective a few hundred miles away.

Two tiers are available with MonsterBass: the National Level that comes with 6 different lures, and the Regional Pro with 8. The Regional Pro is priced at $35 monthly while the National comes in at $25; there’s no monthly commitment and upfront savings are available. MonsterBass partners with some great companies like V&M, Booyah, and Daiichi and boxes are packed with awesome baits. Use the code SAVE10 to save $10 on your first order.

Post Fly

Post Fly claims to be the original monthly fly fishing box and is one of the better options for fly fishermen. Boxes are species specific, or subscribers can opt for a fly-tying box for fishermen who prefer the DIY route. The O.G. tier runs at $25 a month and delivers flies, leaders, and gear valued at $35. The Guide Series tier doubles up the flies and provides gear valued at $85 for only $45. Upfront savings are available and users can cancel anytime.

PostFly includes third party and in house flies/gear. This is one case where in-house brand isn’t a bad thing – PostFly’s gear is well made and packaged to keep it safe during transit. These boxes are a great option for fly anglers who want more than just flies each month.

iFlies

iFlies offers fly fishermen a simple and cost effective option for growing their never-ending supply of flies. This UK based company started shipping curated flies 2014 and now supplies anglers around the world with high quality flies on a monthly basis. Flies come neatly arranged in a pocket sized tins which are perfect for storing in your vest or satchel.

Tins are available in 5 and 10 fly counts, as well as a double up option for duplicates. Anglers can choose flies targeted towards trout, salmon, or warm-water fish. 5 fly tins run £7.99 and 10 fly tins for £10.99 with additional savings for buying multiple months at once. There’s a small additional shipping fee that varies by country. iFlies is an elegant option for the consummate fly fisher looking for a tidy supply of monthly flies.

The Rest

Freestone Fly

Freestone Fly is another monthly fly fishing subscription service. They offer two tiers: the Original membership at $20 a month and the “A-Fish-Inado” (aficionado) membership at $40. Boxes are available in 5 different flavors (salmon, warmwater, etc.) and feature a mix of 3rd party and in house brands. Upfront savings are available and consumers can manage their accounts via the website.

Freestone Fly looks to be a new and upcoming entrant in fly-fishing boxes that presents an attractive offering. Flies are decent quality but we’d like to see some better packaging. Flat-pack envelopes can lead to smushed flies that need a little tlc before going on the tippet.

BadFish

If you’re a coastal fisherman going for inshore species like reds and stripers than you should strongly consider Badfish Supply. Based out of Newbury, Massachusetts Badfish focuses on anglers in the North-East and South-East regions of the U.S. They offer two tiers: the First Mate’s Box and Captain’s Box priced at $29 and $50 respectively which deliver $60 and $100 of value. Baits are sourced from new and existing brands such as Yo-Zuri, SeaGar, and Bubba. Badfish also offers a generous 10% discount for purchasing in 6 or 12 month increments and starter boxes for those just getting into hunting for big reds and stripers.

Lucky Tackle Box

Lucky Tackle Box (LTB) is a big player in the monthly fishing boxes market and has been around since 2013. Their offerings are split into two categories: Bass and everything else. There are two tiers available: the Classic XL with 7 items and the Classic Extreme with 14 items, priced at $27 and $42 respectively. There’s no obligatory commitment and upfront savings are available.

LTB provides a pretty decent value for anglers; you’d be hard pressed to pickup 7 lures for $27 in any retail store. However these boxes are a mix of 3rd party and in-house brand lures and baits – which can be of dubious quality at times. We think LTB is a great option for beginners looking to expand their collection, but seasoned fishermen might be dissapointed.

Warrior Tackle Supply

Warrior caters to freshwater fishermen and donates a portion of their profits to first responder and veterans support charities. Their boxes include both in-house brands and third party names like Keitech and Lunkerhunt. There are three tiers; Standard, XL, and Professional priced at $24, $30, and $43 with additional savings for upfront purchases.

Warrior offers a decent selection of bait and but inclusion of in-house brands isn’t encouraging. In addition cancellation is accomplished by email rather than through an automated system. However they do offer a 100% money back guarantee if you’re not completely satisfied. We think this one is worth a try.

Coastal Fishing

Coastal Fishing offers saltwater themed monthly fishing boxes that’ are tailored for fishermen targeting pelagic species. The Salt Box is available in three different tiers: Standard, Pro, and Tournament priced at $30, $50, and $70, which makes the Salt Box one of the more expensive options on our list. That makes sense considering that offshore baits are typically far more expensive than inshore and freshwater versions. Bigger fish need bigger baits after all.

The Salt Box features third party brands but also relies on in-house lures. Not all in-house lures are created equal, and Coastal Fishing lures look pretty darn good, so we think this box has high potential.

The Salty Fisherman

The Salty Fisherman offers a saltwater themed box at $35 a month. And that’s pretty much all the information we could find. With so few details available this is a risky buy at best.

Bass Baits

Bass Baits Monthly is a newer monthly fishing box that appears to have spun up around 2019 -2020. Although there isn’t a lot of info available it appears Bass Baits Monthly has managed to partner with some brands like Strike King, Missile, and Gambler. Bass Baits Monthly has a single tier priced at $35 with no ongoing commitment, nor any options for upfront savings. Use code PROMO20 at checkout for an extra 20% off.

Fishing Care Package

Fishing Care Package is perhaps the most infamous of monthly fishing boxes, and not for good reasons. Their offerings are enticing on their face due to prices that are much, much lower than the competition. But it’s an unfortunate reality that if something seems too good to be true, then it usually is. There’s a litany of complaints filed against Fishing Care Package because of packages that were never delivered and unresponsive customer servicet. We can’t recommend you roll the dice on this one.

Overview on Monthly Fishing Boxes

Monthly fishing boxes are a great way to build your tackle collection and explore new fishing techniques. You can easily push the boundaries of your fishing comfort zone without ever leaving your home; which is pretty handy given the current environment. We wouldn’t be surprised to see more companies entering this space in the near future; and we’ll continue to update this article as they do.

You’re going to need somewhere to store all that new gear from monthly fishing boxes, check out the best kayak crates for on the water organization.

The post Monthly Fishing Boxes 2023 | The Best &The Rest appeared first on Yak Logic.