11 Kayak Fishing MISTAKES That Can Take Your Life

Kayak fishing is an exhilarating and rewarding sport, but it's crucial to prioritize safety on the water. In this eye-opening video, I shine a light on common mistakes that can have severe consequences and even put your life at risk. I will guide you through each potential hazard, sharing valuable tips and insights to keep you safe and sound during your kayak fishing adventures.
From underestimating weather conditions and choosing inappropriate locations to neglecting essential safety gear and poor decision-making, we cover it all. Let's highlight these life-threatening errors and provides practical advice on how to avoid them.
Whether you're a seasoned kayak angler or new to the sport, this video is a must-watch. Join us on the Wendell Fishing channel to learn from the mistakes of others and enhance your kayak fishing skills while keeping yourself out of harm's way.
Don't take unnecessary risks when it comes to your life on the water. Remember, the key to an unforgettable kayak fishing experience is preparation, knowledge, and above all, safety.
As always, reach out if you have any questions. -Daren
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**GEAR REFERENCED**
NRS Raku: geni.us/NRSRaku (Amazon)
Tethers: geni.us/BoomsTether (Amazon)
NRS Safety Knife: geni.us/NRSCoPilot (Amazon)
VHF Radio: geni.us/TwoWayRadio (Amazon)
Paddle Tether: geni.us/PaddleTether (Amazon)
YakAttack Foldable Net: geni.us/YakAttackNet (Amazon)
**VIDEOS REFERENCED**
NRS Raku Review: • NRS RAKU Fishing PFD R...
Life Saving Gear That Should Be On Your Fishing Kayak: • Life Saving Gear That ...
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**TIMESTAMPS**
0:15 Kayak Fishing Mistake #1
1:20 Kayak Fishing Mistake #2
2:55 Kayak Fishing Mistake #3
4:40 Kayak Fishing Mistake #4
5:19 Kayak Fishing Mistake #5
6:23 Kayak Fishing Mistake #6
7:48 Kayak Fishing Mistake #7
9:20 Kayak Fishing Mistake #8
9:50 Kayak Fishing Mistake #9
10:26 Kayak Fishing Mistake #10
11:14 Kayak Fishing Mistake #11
#WendellFishing

[@ChadHooverFishing]

Great video brother!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks Boss, means a lot coming from you!

[@michaell1665]

#1 is not wearing a PFD... has to be the biggest fix for most kayak incidents.

[@wendellfishing]

Agreed... covers up a lot of the other sins

[@michaelburk9171]

Absolutely. Being a great swimmer won't help you if you get hit n injured by a boat, bounce of a river rock, or suffer some sort of medical emergency

[@parkerj1776]

@@wendellfishingalso, know the rules of stupid! You can break one and possibly get away with it, start combining factors and you get yourself in real trouble!

[@Blue-Kayak]

My mistake was floating down a river with the current while fishing with 35 pound test line. I had only kayaked a couple of times, I was alone, and it was November in Minnesota. It did not take long to get a snag, and there was no way I could break the line. I'd pull with all my might and the kayak just moved closer to the snag. Soon I was broadside to the current and capsized when I hit a partially sunken tree AKA a strainer. Luckily, I did not get caught in the strainer, but the first time I got up on the kayak I was shivering so badly it capsized again. I was more careful the second time, and then I paddled like crazy to keep warm. Many mistakes made, and I'm lucky to be alive. Should have had a knife handy to cut the line.

[@wendellfishing]

Whew... glad you are able to tell this story.. hope it helps someone!

[@Tshipa]

Pp❤pp😊

[@michaelburk9171]

Like Wendell said, multiple things can happen fast. You learned a few things.

[@randynickels7363]

Your last sentence says it all, I keep a small blunt tip scissors in the top pocket of my PFD for easy access. Came in handy when I snagged a 30" wide Stingray in the Gulf of Mexico on my maiden kayak fishing excursion. Pulled me for 30 minutes and over half a mile in a big circle until I could see what it was. Snip. Glad you were ok.

[@Exploremorefishing]

As a brand new kayak angler this vid is invaluable , thank you !!

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother.. stay safe out there!

[@michaelburk9171]

Welcome to a fun sport. Remember that like all sports, kayaking has a learning curve. Start small, get some basic skills and confidence and move forward

[@Exploremorefishing]

@@michaelburk9171 I'm definitely in the starting small stage , getting confident every time I'm out , thanks for great advice

[@YakNfishNkc]

FYI - Always read all of the local laws concerning Kayaks. In Missouri, if the water is below 50 degrees, you are required to wear a full body wet suit. It saves lives.

[@wendellfishing]

That I didn't know.. thanks for sharing!

[@thomaslangdale4915]

Great info! Know your limitations and file a float plan with somebody that gives 2 flips about you.

[@wendellfishing]

Absolutely! Solid add!

[@agentwynnoutdoors]

Great information. Get a dry suit for cold water days. It will save your life.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother! Solid add

[@RogerFordTheSmilingBassHole]

Awesome advice! Safety is so important. I always like when there are other folks fishing (or at least somewhere on the shore) rather than me being all alone on the water. Nice to be secluded, but it poses a greater risk.

[@wendellfishing]

Big Facts Roger..

[@Jokerrrrrrrr]

Hey man I just wanted to give one tip on water I would highly recommend having a life straw with you in your life jacket vest or something but highly recommended unlimited water remember water is way more important than food in a survival situation

[@oxyfee6486]

I flipped my Lure 11 by reaching out for a bag of tubes, I just bought them and they fell over board, I think I totally forgot I was on a kayak, I reached out to grab them and over I went. It was the beginning of May in Ontario Canada, the water was freezing, it took me six hours of throwing my anchor to get my rods back. It was a humbling experience, it scared the hell out of me, luckily I was fairly close to shore, my jacket definitely saved my life.

[@wendellfishing]

Whew... that's scary stuff and six hours.. that's commitment

[@MrFishBlood]

Bringing water is a big one for me. I worked as a biologist with Indiana DNR on the rivers for a few years. It was part of the safety policy that you cannot go on the boat for the day unless you have a PFD, a gallon of water, and a rainsuit.

[@wendellfishing]

Interesting.. thanks for sharing boss!

[@richyoung4051]

just get a sawyer filter and you dont have to lug a bunch of water around. got a whole river or lake to drink lmao. UNLESS your going in saltwater that is

[@MrFishBlood]

@richyoung4051 yeah, I have a sawyer filter... Important to remember they won't remove chemical contaminants.

[@Wellfedfisherman]

If I go doing something I love much better than dying in a truck at some warehouse or truck stop

[@wendellfishing]

Ha! Well.. I can't disagree

[@Brian-yx5vo]

Amen

[@keithangstadt4950]

I took an involuntary swim while wading on the Lehigh River in PA on an unseasonably warm January day. I had waders on which kept me from getting my whole body wet. I told my buddy I was ok and wanted to keep fishing because I felt fine, but he took charge and got me to walk with him back to the truck. About halfway there ( a 1/4 mile or so) he had to assist me because I was barely awake and could hardly walk. If I had been by myself I likely wouldn't be writing this. Cold water ain't no joke.

[@wendellfishing]

Hey Everyone... read this.. it can happen to anyone!

[@outdoorsforachange]

Had a beaver harass me a few nights ago. I thought a 100 pound fish jumped next to me.

[@wendellfishing]

lol... There's literally no warning.. peace, calm, birds chirping.......... EXPLOSION!!!

[@xxhyjynxx5939]

Same! Fishing a buddies 16 acre private lake, coasting banks and coves, got up onto the bank to relieve myself not realizing I was 10 feet from the dam. Spooked a big beaver and didn’t realize he was following shortly after, MAN those tail-slaps!

[@wendellfishing]

@@xxhyjynxx5939 They will wake you up for sure!

[@joeavelar2222]

Did he slap his tail on the water?

[@wendellfishing]

@@joeavelar2222 yup

[@tammlen2284]

All really good tips. Another... know that water in just the 50s can be really dangerous if you capsize and can't get back into your kayak within 10 minutes. WIsh there were more vids from experienced kayakers mentioning this and the use of drysuits, not just PFDs. Maybe not a problem where they kayak. But can effect those of us just getting into the sport, who live in colder climates. Despite watching MANY vids before deciding on buying fishing kayaks, my husband and I remained pretty ignorant to the danger of cold water, not thinking it was all that "cold" when we went kayak fishing in the spring and fall. Outside temps were still comfortable on nice days. But didn't even think about the water temps being in the "50s". It wasn't until recently I found out that, had we capsized during those times, we may have been in very serious trouble. Maybe not so much a danger for those capable of very quickly righting and getting back on their kayak. But that is definitely not us. Alhough we considered ourselves still physically fit enough to self-rescue, given time, being able to do so within 10 minutes, before the cold starts getting to you, would be unlikely. And probably the same could be said for a lot of kayakers, especially newbies, and those older ones like us. Needless to say, we now have drysuits and will be practicing self-rescue with them the next time we go out. If you should happen to read this, hope you might mention drysuits at times, even if you have no need for them. Thanks!

[@bermchasin]

i nearly got heat exhaustion yesterday, but felt it coming on and was able to get off the water and rehydrate. then had a nice relaxing time after.

[@wendellfishing]

Nice! Glad you recovered brother!

[@mastermouaable]

I always check the weather before I go out. Never plan to go on a set date; unless it’s in warm weather condition. Respecting the water even though it looks calm. One thing is let people know where you are going to be in case anything happens.

[@wendellfishing]

All great adds.. thanks boss!

[@georgefitzhugh6455]

Good information. Thanks for sharing!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for watching George!

[@thekayakjack]

Great advice! Thank you! 🛶

[@wendellfishing]

You bet!

[@southwestindianaoutdooradv4714]

Great video and important information!

[@wendellfishing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@CalebAEverett]

Awesome tips man! Thank you so much!

[@wendellfishing]

Happy to help!

[@AdventureIndiana]

I have been on water my whole life but I found your video to be great reminders

[@MichaelKaufmann927]

Wow. Thank you for this extremely important content!

[@wendellfishing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@EdSki4Life]

Great video! Priceless advice!

[@wendellfishing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@julesbodnar3899]

As an ACA certified Sea Kayak instructor, This is Great info! Good job, Kayak fishing isn't just fishing!!

[@wendellfishing]

Man.. means a lot.. thanks!

[@ChadHooverFishing]

👍

[@phillair3813]

Thanks. 80 y/0 In good health and looking forward to first time on my Hobie Mirage Itrek 9 ultralite. Your presentation here is really welcomed. This is exactly the information I've needed to have the confidence I used to have in my little Hobie cat 50 years ago. Currently living in WA with a lot of small lakes in the NWPacific to explore.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother! Stay safe out there and Slay em!!!

[@kathyweigelhi-lophotovideo2984]

Too many think accidents happen to others and/or think if they’re healthy they can’t drown. Down here in the gulf, 9 people lost their lives to rip currents including one NFL football player. Just yesterday, I saw several boats out on the water in a huge thunderstorm with lightening…can’t fix stupid. Good point on beavers…didn’t know they were so hazardous:) we have a lot of gators !Be safe out there!

[@wendellfishing]

Yeah, overestimating ones ability is the root to many of these problems.

[@adraye5123]

Very informative video love it a lot, keep up the good works. Thank you

[@wendellfishing]

Appreciate you reaching out! thanks!

[@seanfalconer7182]

Your best video yet, man! 😎👍🏻❤️

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! 1% better every time is my goal! Glad I am not going backwards!

[@martyscott2788]

Great video. I pretty much exclusively fish solo. It is higher risk but can be safe through heightened awareness of all the potential risks that you outline. I'll add to your "know your ability point": If the option is there, I will head out against the wind and at the end of the day have the wind bring me back in. I'd rather fight the wind to stay on the water rather than the alternative. Thanks again for taking the time to put this together.

[@wendellfishing]

Glad it was helpful Marty! Appreciate it!

[@michaelburk9171]

I like to fish solo as well. That makes it particularly important to check wind n weather, know your capabilities, and have your self rescue skill down. Another thing you don't hear mentioned much is knowing when to say when. Having enough experience to see trouble coming in advance and abandon you plans can save your life.

[@rayniemann6969]

Great video, you make a lot of really good points

[@wendellfishing]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@randynickels7363]

Thanks for these all important reminders. I was impressed how you rattled the entire list off unscripted and with great detail. Subscribed!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks Randy!

[@girlinvt]

Great advice. Thank you for actually explaining cold water reality.

[@wendellfishing]

You bet!

[@comfortablynumb9342]

I just moved to the VA Beach area and I want a kayak. This is great advice, thanks.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother! Stay safe out there

[@lonniebillings2388]

Great video man!!!

[@wendellfishing]

Appreciate it!

[@basskirkster]

Awesome video 👍

[@wendellfishing]

Thank you 👍

[@Fishingishard]

Thank you for this video. This is very good information and people tend to watch the "latest and greatest" for tackle but don't spend nearly the same amount of time on safety. Hoping the algorithm picks this to show up on people's feed and saves some lives.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! Appreciate it!

[@michaelburk9171]

Many people see folks on yaks holding big fish. And think it's easy. They don't know how much they don't know. Getting comfortable, competent, and conditioned in the yak comes, or should come, before fishing

[@mikemcgeehan4321]

Good stuff.

[@thiodorchalkias8906]

I'll like to add something for the new kayakers... I learned with the hard way today.... When you use your fishing kayak (or "top seat" type) put out the taps!!! Are for water drainage!!!! Have good time every time!!! Best regards from Hellas (Greece)

[@DasGladiator222]

Just bought my first kayak today. Can't wait to take it out.

[@wendellfishing]

Heck yeah.. what did you end up getting?

[@richdorak1547]

Good lookin' out my friend ! Thanks .

[@wendellfishing]

No problem 👍

[@therealkevan8158]

good job getting this out there, I was just down in Zihuantanejo kayaking around crocodiles

[@wendellfishing]

Daaaang!

[@anthonyvespia6662]

Great info and vid bro. I now have my pdl drive 120, my PP-768 Bixpy, and my paddle is always leashed, on a roto grip mount. Everything is tearhered. And all emerg gear is stored. The NRS PFD, never comes off, and its light. 💯 🌊 🎣

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like you are ready to SLAAAAAAAAAAYYY!

[@matthewpetersen4417]

IDK Ive been kayaking for decades, I get it but all it takes is being smart but accidents are called accidents for a reason. I have been blessed many times. Nearly struck by lighting, attacked by swans/gooses and muskrats, almost ran over at the launch, got out to pee and got stuck in knee deep mud and couldnt get back on the yak, hooked in the neck, etc.

[@wendellfishing]

Those are a whole other level.... almost a category of their own... Freak accidents

[@taylormayhew369]

Thanks homie all great advice and practicing on our small lake Abiquiu in NM water's like glass until 11:00 and then it turns into white cap swells so I always make sure I'm out in the middle of the lake so that I can ride the waves back. The wind always comes from the far side of the lake and blows towards the dock which was lucky because on my first time if it had been the opposite I would have been 12 mi from the only pier on the lake

[@wendellfishing]

Yeah.. crazy how things change fast! Glad you are staying safe out there!

[@outdoorsforachange]

Great thumbnail, hahaha!

[@wendellfishing]

lol .. Thanks.. we will see how the CTR does on it.

[@SGT_Reid]

In the military I used to have to fill out a Composite Risk Management(CRM) form every time I conducted a training event for my unit. It didn’t matter whether or not we were doing PT in the morning or doing weapons qualification-whatever it was-it needed a CRM form. It made me think of all the different ways people could get injured or killed. From silly little accidents to obvious major ones-they needed to be listed and how to avoid them and a plan of action for when an emergency arises. Besides being a good fisherman and having quality safety equipment-you need to know how to handle those situations when they arise. Being aware and prepared is half if not the whole battle. You can easily slip on a rock and drown in 4 inches of water because you were unconscious. Safety wise, I would judge your experience level off how well you could tread water and for how long. If you have trouble treading water for more than 10 minutes by yourself then I personally would never recommend you go kayaking alone you could. Just because you can turn your kayak over in 30 seconds by yourself doesn’t always guarantee you that you’ll have that type of environment during an emergency. If you’re only fishing small ponds/shallow creeks I would recommend you to work on being able to tread water for 10 minutes by yourself. If you fish lakes/rivers I would recommend you train until you reach 20 minutes. If you fish oceans/rivers/big lakes I would recommend 30+minutes. Most people get hurt or die because they panicked. Practice in a controlled environment first then in real life. Muscle memory kicks in during emergency situations, so while you may be screaming in your head, your body is doing exactly what you trained it to do. This is a skill set that you and I pray we would never need but as my drill sergeant used to say, “I would rather have it and not need it, then need it and not have it.” Awesome topic and be blessed!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for the add brother!

[@SGT_Reid]

@@wendellfishing Of course brother, I’m here for the ride no matter how bumpy it may seem to get around here. We’re men at the end of the day, we’re going to have our own beliefs based off our own experiences and we’re not always going to agree on everything but that’s ok in my book. The more we get used to talking and sharing those experiences with each other the better off we all will be, in my opinion. There’s a lot of young men out there that are struggling and in a tough spot right now-some of those young men get into fishing because of the benefits it provides. They may be scared to reach out and ask for help for fear of criticism or being a burden to someone else. I haven’t met a person yet that has heard my story that couldn’t relate to my struggles and that especially is true among young men. I don’t share because I think the older generation can learn something, I share because the younger generation is watching us and how we interact with each other. Happy fishing and be blessed.

[@CharlotteYakkingNoob]

Just purchased my first kayak from renting kayaks out on the river. No training what’s so ever and your comment made me realize I’ve been playing with fire and haven’t gotten burned yet but it’s only a matter of time. I have pool to practice in so it’s time to train. Thanks for the reality check.

[@wendellfishing]

@@CharlotteYakkingNoob Right on brother... stay safe out there

[@JakeArmyRetired]

Too much Hoah...🤣😂 do you do a AAR's daily also?

[@michaelburk9171]

Great video. I started 'kayak' fishing here in San Diego CA 30 years ago on a big old wind surfing board. Upgraded to a kayak 25 years ago. At that time kayak fishing wasnt really a thing and seeing another yakker on the water was unusual. So I was already very experienced when the whole yak fishing thing got cool and took off. In that time I've experienced and seen virtually every thing mentioned in this video. I'll share a couple things I've seen frequently. Most beginners don't know how much they don't know. And videos and advice only go so far. So when some thing happens (or multiple things) they are not mentally or physically prepared. Like all activities and sports, kayaking involves a learning curve. Start small. Going out in lakes or bays on calm days with little or no gear. Get to know your kayak. Find it's tipping point by tipping it over. Practice righting and re-entering. Way too many beginners and even novice yakkers have stories of tipping their yaks, losing a $1000 worth of gear, not knowing how to get back on their yaks, and needing help. Here in So Cal those disaster often happen in the surf. Tipping over in your kayak sucks. But it's worse in the shallow surf zone. You can hit the bottom or be hit by your yak. ( No doubt moving water in rivers and streams poses the same danger) Reading waves and surf knowledge only comes from experience. So before you load up your big expensive yak and go for it, again, get in some practice. Actually in the surf. And having a peddle yak doesn't mean you shouldn't know how to paddle. Especially during surf launches and landings. And I don't mean dipping your paddle in and out of the water. I call that 'stirring coffee'. I'm taking giving 100% and moving the kayak. Big wide heavy peddle yak don't paddle well. But you can learn how to best get em moving. . Boats and boat wakes can be things you'll need to deal with in many places. Always wear your PFD. Always. And a piece of equipment not mentioned that you absolutely need to carry is a hand piston style bilge pump. I've pumped out my own yak twice and others' yaks 5 times. Damn, I rambled. Hope this helped.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother! This stuff definitely helps. Thanks for Sharing!

[@mitchellludwig5882]

Subscribing to your channel because of all the great knowledge and the fact that I see your replies to almost every comment. Makes me feel that if I had a question I would get an answer. Thank you for the work you are doing.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! You are correct. I made a promise this year to respond to everyone. I wanted to honor your time with my time. Thanks!!!

[@AM-we6en]

Well said.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss!

[@randolphtolbert3825]

Here in Michigan I only fish ponds and I paddle around the edges .

[@seanpowell1163]

Good info

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks Sean!

[@mitchponder837]

My main concern is log jams if I'm on a river and boats on busy lakes like eastfork or Caesars creek.

[@ericgautreaux1752]

Was on he bayou one day in my jonboat. While sitting there I watched a sit on top kayakers paddling my way. About thirty feet behind him was a gator following. It was about eight feet long. Cured me of the desire to kayak the bayous.

[@wendellfishing]

Well.. Dang.. that's crazy

[@BK-jc9xj]

Great vid! What vest is that??

[@wendellfishing]

I got you: geni.us/NRSRaku

[@JoKenFujitsu]

How about a quick release shackle for that anchor? I have one for my stakeout pole just in case I get boaters/jet skiers or some unexpected wake coming at me. May work well with that anchor.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on.. for the right person.. absolutely

[@michaelburk9171]

A break away with a buoy is a great idea. Adds safety, gets you anchor back, and no fumbling around with a knife trying to cut the line while the yaks bucking around

[@jordancohen474]

Overall for the money this is a very nice beginner fishing kayak. Stable and sturdy. Handles for carrying are placed very well. The seat cushion could use a thicker pad. Overall very nice. The fishing rod holder is a nice added touch.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on

[@arthurdirindinjr1792]

Superb video you undoubtedly saved a few lives. I would NEVER go kayaking WO wearing my PFD specifically designed for a kayak fisherman at all times. What are your thoghts on how much harder it would be to capsize if you have some outriggers with a very significant degree of flotation? And More importantly if you have outriggers and still capsize can the outriggers make righting your kayak to difficult to do?

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! My thoughts is that if you have outriggers and capsize... then you should have never been out in what you have been out in.

[@MrGhendri]

I had a waterspout form 75 yards from me. It only lasted about a minute but it grew a few hundred feet tall and roared like a waterfall. Pretty awesome.

[@wendellfishing]

Holy crap.. did you get that on video?

[@MrGhendri]

@@wendellfishing no, I was in a Cobra Navigator with my Golden Retriever drift fishing on the Mullica River NJ where the Batsto river joins (The Forks) It formed in less than 5 acres of shallow water. It’s been about 25 years ago. Pretty awesome sight.

[@CharlotteYakkingNoob]

Good video

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss!

[@CR03_Outdoor_Adventures]

I wasn’t in much real danger because the water was warm and I was near a shore, but I was out on my kayak on a medium sized lake that was like glass testing out my GoPro setup but all of the sudden the wind picked up to like 20+ mph with huge gusts. I didn’t feel comfortable so I paddled along the shore back to my truck. It didn’t help that I was downwind. I made it back then decided to go take a hike instead.

[@wendellfishing]

Whew.. 20MPH is no joke. Glad you were okay!

[@williamfry6087]

I used to canoe in class 1 rivers in Texas. Whitewater scares the hell out of me.

[@wendellfishing]

Nice healthy respect for whitewater is a good thing

[@TheKrazykris]

I helped a guy who was on a kayak, and got caught in the wind. He was pushed into tall reeds and ended up capsizing trying to get back out onto the water. He lost ALL of his gear (about 6 feet of water). all he had when he came up was his kayak and his paddle. I helped get him turned over and back to shore, but he definantly had a bad day.

[@wendellfishing]

Oh man.. that is a bad day

[@okayman1163]

Living here in Texas luckily. Usually anyway. It’s too warm to get too cold in the water lol

[@wendellfishing]

I dream of Texas weather... especially in NE Ohio in January

[@jeffarcher400]

Overloading the kayak. An empty kayak is stable, maneuverable and nearly self righting. Everything you add makes it want to flip and stay flipped. If you have a battery,motor,fish finder,anchor,live well,rods,cooler and ez boy recliner all aboard you may not be able to flip it back over. Raft guides carry web strap to attach,throw across and pull the boat upright. Be careful of all lines and attached things that can tangle you in rivers. Don't tie anything to your body. Stay upstream of the kayak to avoid getting pinned by rocks or shore. In the ocean if you feel tired battling wind or current if there's kelp paddle in and tie up or grab a strand. Then try to stay on the lee side. You can Eddy out behind channel marker buoys or bridge pilings. If there's no kelp reduce resistance by placing rods flat and paddle for the nearest safe shore. Once near shore look for glassy areas to rest. One scary situation is pulling hard on heavy tackle. When a large bonito got in the kelp I was really bending the rod when I remembered I was on a kayak not a big boat. Started thinking how bad did I really need this particular fish. I gave him some slack and still got him. If you're snagged and the line breaks you can flip or if the fish throws it you can end up with a face full of hooks.

[@michaelburk9171]

Sounds like you're in So Cal. You need heavier tackle for yellow tail, white sea bass, and threshers. If I'm hung up I make sure to get right over the snag, line is vertical. Turn the kayak so the rod is pointing just off from the bow. So the force is pulling down on the bow, not side. Kayaks don't capsize bow to stearn. If you do need to really pull, like trying to break the line, take the line in your hand, right near your hip, and as close to the side of the yak as possible. You can even put your legs over each side and crouch down to increase stability. I have a long narrow kayak. This might not be needed on more stable ones

[@schiz0phren1c]

Just found your Channel and didn't realise that *B Real from Cypress Hill* was a Kayak Fisher!, seriously though, thank you for a great video and great channel!

[@wendellfishing]

Ha! I had to look him up. Thanks for stoppin by boss!

[@schiz0phren1c]

@@wendellfishing the voice, the beard, the hat!, there's your cosplay idea, Man! thanks for the video and channel!

[@wendellfishing]

@@schiz0phren1c Right on brother!

[@thegreendank1]

Last year i was fishing standing on a huge fallen tree, was there maybe 10-15 minutes and i turn around and two huge moccasins are mating on the tree 10" behind me. Could've easily took a step back and got bitten several times. Another time i had a family of deers following me. Everytime i got to a new spot I'd look behind me and momma was laying down dad was standing in front of her locked on me and the kids were behind both of them playing. They followed me to 3-4 different spots.

[@wendellfishing]

Yikes!

[@elopez9869]

9 was me. 😂 Luckily I'm a pretty fit person and was able to fight through the fatigue, but kayaking is a different movement and no matter how fit you are, if you are not used to it you will get tired.

[@wendellfishing]

Ha! I hear ya.. a whole different beast

[@michaelburk9171]

Consider kayak to be a sport where conditioning is needed.

[@Lil_T420]

I've had no problems from rarely going canoeing to straight kayaking 10 miles in foot n half white caps, guess I got a good ride or built different because I went 17 miles and only complaint was the heat and wet feet as the sun went down

[@outdoorsforachange]

Content Request: Beaver Fight Club

[@wendellfishing]

Oh.. I'm game

[@timlong1462]

One of my buddies unfortunately watched a guy drown 2 years ago on a lake in Omaha. He was on the shore fishing too far away and water was 40ish degrees. Guy was in a canoe, but almost same thing. No jacket and the water was freezing cold. People really underestimate early season fishing and cold water here in the Midwest. I'm up in MN now and there's only a few months of fishing where the water won't kill you in a few minutes. Maybe you can survive 30-60 minutes, but good luck swimming in clothes and staying calm and collected while getting to shore. Wear PFD's guys, get an auto inflatable if you don't like the bulk.

[@wendellfishing]

That would have been horrible to experience. Read this folks!

[@miclam00]

There are so many quality, thin, lightweight high back PFDs that "bulk" really isn't an excuse anymore. Plus a PFD provides extra easily accessible pockets and clips.

[@boco1951]

I have fished Kayak, Canoe, and out of my innertube from a jet airplane. Kayak has the advantage of being able to get into small areas with low water, but if you have to do a gator roll you know it is not easy if you are engaged. The canoe is the easiest and I like it the most, and tubing you need deep water and if you get snakes they can come right up your middle.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother... I like float tubing as well.. but very much do not like snakes

[@88mikemoody]

A neighbor of mine got a new kayak. It was a small tippy box store type. He wanted to go out yak fishing with me for his inaugural trip. The yak had a very uncomfortable looking seat and he asked me if it would be ok to sit on a throw cushion. I told him it would make his center of gravity higher which would affect the stability. He didn't listen. We hadn't been on the water more than 30 minutes (this was spring so water was in the low 60s air temp 75) when I heard a splash. He had fallen in about 50 yards from the ramp and was walking in the shallows back to the ramp. I asked if he was ok, he insisted on fishing some more. About 10 minutes later I had went around a point but didn't see him on the water anymore so I went directly back to the ramp and there he was on the dock shivering uncontrollably. I immediately went to shore, we got him in some warm clothes (I always carry an extra set) and got him in my warm truck. It was a wake up call for me. I didn't realize how quickly one can go from fine to hypothermia. And before anyone judges me, I really tried to convince him it was time to go and offered up my extra set of clothes after he went in but he insisted that he was fine.

[@wendellfishing]

Crazy story.. when it happens.. it happens fast! Live to fish another day folks!

[@richardsousa2625]

Broooo that thumbnail is cold! Hahahah

[@wendellfishing]

LOL.....

[@randpherigo9724]

WIND.. Glad he mentioned it... Lake michigan.. even with an anchor down.. 10 mph..& your swept out to sea Great Video.. !! in hawaii you can freeze to death before they find you..

[@wendellfishing]

I will be on Lake MI this week going after some KINGS! LEt's Go!

[@randpherigo9724]

@@wendellfishing what baits should I try?

[@joefishstone8132]

We just had someone near me drown while they were kayaking. Kayaking is fun, but you need to respect the water and know your limits

[@wendellfishing]

Ugh.. happens more than it needs to. Do you know the story?

[@joefishstone8132]

@@wendellfishing not much is known about it about at the moment other than he was alone. I just kept getting calls from family asking if I was alright cause I was kayaking around the area at the time.

[@wendellfishing]

Oh man.. heartbreaking

[@intexxi]

Always wear your pfd. The first time I took my kayak out I flipped it trying to pick up garbage that blew out of my box. I was able to right it and get back on in less than a minute but if the water hadn’t been so warm, I have no doubt that I could have been in a dangerous situation. Considering it took an hour to return to my launch I’m lucky it was warm. Only thing I lost was the center piece of my fly rod 😂

[@wendellfishing]

Whew... When it hits the fan.. it happens fast. Glad you were okay and thanks for sharing!

[@Hondeer]

Kokanee fisherman here, wind is a big one for us. Made the mistake a few times of doing another loop past 10AM, wind kicks up, white caps. That's a long wet travel back to the launch, even under power. What are your thoughts on the auto-inflate PFDs? Picked one of them up by Addicted's take on them.

[@wendellfishing]

I like em for hot weather climates like 90+ degree fishing days, however, I can't tell you how many times I have seen them not open when they are set to auto-inflate. If they are not auto inflate.. then I think they are completely worthless. When you need a PFD... it's usually not when you are in full control of yourself (unconscious, shock, etc.)

[@drjekelmrhyde]

Anchoring wrong. I almost did that on my first time out, till I thought about it. I was going to drop my anchor right on the side of me, causing it to tip over, till I thought about how boats anchor in the front and back. One more a it might sound weird, but carry one of those pee jugs things they have at the hospital if you don't stand on your kayak.

[@wendellfishing]

There ya go.. a few things I haven't thought of

[@michaelburk9171]

An anchor trolley allows you to drop your anchor off the side then move the attachment point out to the bow or stern

[@gregstabryla9945]

Speaking of water, I always have electrolyte water and carry extra magnesium tabs.

[@wendellfishing]

There ya go Greg

[@nikovlahou2553]

I wear my ice fishing float suit when kayak fishing in cold weather.

[@shannonboatright4894]

Just over this weekend my brother in/law when to this nice small lake it was hot.. I had to keep him to drink water.. I just how people get excited about a new place and forget to drink water or something

[@wendellfishing]

I call is the Bass Phenomenon

[@robertapreston4200]

Wonderful vid. Great❤ everyone talks about PFD, and I can't dooms 1 that explains how to size and cut properly. They All this and that, but where should the shoulder pad be? The chest, the back, the stomach???? I bought one today, brought it home, and zi hated it ! Wasn't cheap.... but uncomfortable and all afternoon, in between filling spools, I've searcher for the, "proper fit guide" and so far no one has really good clarification

[@wendellfishing]

Which one did you end up picking up?

[@robertapreston4200]

@@wendellfishing Onyx Dynamic Movement PDF. Dynamicpfd. Nice, but bulky and no pockets..

[@stevemclaughlin1732]

Where did you get that magnetic sheath on your pfd?

[@wendellfishing]

Ahhh.. thats the NRS Co-Pilot. It's not magnetic but it does lock in. Pretty Sweet. Here ya go: geni.us/NRSCoPilot

[@joeavelar2222]

When out on mine, i always stay as close to shore as possible. Always wear a life jacket, put everthing in a dry bag. Still need to get tethers for my rods. I flipped over in my canoe with my son, i thank God we we're close enough to shore because getting back on to a canoe is a pain in the butt! Panic is the thing that will get you in trouble, regardless. I think most just forget that you can float and conserve energy for swimming.

[@michaelg8642]

the current around the shoreline can be more dangerous around bends where the water cuts into the river bank.. can be much deeper and stronger current under the surface even though it looks relatively calm and have little pockets of erosion in the wall that the current can trap you in..

[@paules0099]

Kayaking is new to me, so I was doing something I'm new at. I am a swimmer, so I am comfortable being in water. All that being said, I respect the water and studied boating safety before I took the native voyage. So, I have rules to protect myself from myself, and I can not break those rules! 1st rule, wear the PFD! 2nd rules, if the winds blow above 20 mph, and the waves are choppy, I do not go! I have more rules, but the 2 I mention, I do not waiver on!

[@wendellfishing]

Rules to LIVE by for sure!

[@michaelburk9171]

Wearing a PFD is like fastening you seat belt when you get in your car. And like a seat belt, you hope you never need it

[@TheFishingMommy]

Man this is true. I am fairly experienced but not on rivers. Without going into the full story let’s just say I recently came very close to disaster on a creek when I got too close to a laydown. I lost a LOT of gear, including my phone, swallowed plenty of water, and spent an hour in the water trying to get back to the kayak & flip it back over. Then two weeks later discovered a crack in my kayak! If not for my PFD, I would not be here today.

[@wendellfishing]

Do you mind if I share this as a reminder that this can happen to anyone?

[@TheFishingMommy]

@@wendellfishing you sure can. Some more details: I originally learned to kayak in the 90s on the Ocoee River in TN which has class III and IV rapids. I know much better. I made a split second bad judgement call, getting just slightly too close (within a boat length). The only reason was that there was a little sit inside caught in the tree branches & I was worried someone needed help.

[@JamesStClair-gi9uk]

Don't fish top water when gators are around because you are just ringing the dinner bell

[@wendellfishing]

Oh man.. I keep seeing videos of gators going after topwater lures. CRAZY

[@chrisgerrin9550]

That is a fact. Wasn't on my kayak but I caught a 5 footer off of a boat dock in MS on a Sexy Dawg. 12:22 12:22 12:22 12:22 12:22

[@michaelburk9171]

Even from here in California with white sharks and huge aggressive sea lions I say oh hell no to gators.

[@johnhubbard6262]

You make a good point on PFDs, yet how many fishing PFDs keep an unconscious boaters head out of the water.

[@wendellfishing]

I don't know that number but I would rather not take my chances.

[@johnhubbard6262]

me as well, but like you, I end up wearing a Type 3 as well instead of a type 1, so here's to staying conscious@@wendellfishing

[@wendellfishing]

@@johnhubbard6262 Live to fish another day

[@collinmc90]

Like you said it's a combination of bad decisions. I can't remember who said it but they called it "counting lemons" or something like that. Little things like bad weather, being tired, unprepared are all little lemons. You get like 3 maybe 4 of those bad boys and maybe you should reconsider what you are planning or turn around. Also a little tip from pilots I have heard is don't get hyper focused on reaching a destination. That can distract you from those "lemons".

[@wendellfishing]

Know your lemon count for sure!

[@michaelburk9171]

I can take a bit of experience to know when to say when. Show up at the launch, see the conditions, and know when to turn around n go home. Or when you're in the water and can recognize that trouble is coming. Like you said, give up on the destination. Change plans or run for it

[@seanpatun9875]

Thats why i installed outriggers!

[@MrBendylaw]

#9 should be #1, always, for everything. Curiosity is the driver, but life is the cargo.

[@wendellfishing]

I agree you should always wear it but where it sits in a video has no bearing IMO as long as it sits in the video.

[@MrBendylaw]

@@wendellfishing Maybe I got the # wrong, but I was referring to the whole "start modestly" thing. I know some guys, veterans actually, who had to be airlifted out of a hike in some national park. Dehydration and disorientation. And I guess we all know some folks who ended up horribly sunburnt on a river float trip, or somesuch.

[@wendellfishing]

@@MrBendylaw Ahhhh... I see where you are going there.. Yeah... I am actually doing a beginning series where I am teaching the start modestly thing again. Good point my friend. Sorry for the misunderstanding

[@MrBendylaw]

@@wendellfishing No sweat. I'm just a strong believer in it, personally, due to my own misadventures. Google Maps has a way of getting me into some stuff. Haven't bit off more than I could chew yet, but I guess I've had to do some real chewing a few times.

[@JasonCarrara]

I just got in trouble on the Connecticut River we got a flood here the current didn't look that serious. I just did a ways down just for awhile headed back an hour later I realized I wasn't actually moving it was like a treadmill type of Illusion by that time I told him where to start to die I had to paddle hard for two straight hours to get to a cut back where I could actually follow the bank back up to the boat launch I literally thought I was going to have to call for emergency services not fun.

[@wendellfishing]

Whew... glad you were okay boss

[@BassBashin]

Beavers? Dude I would love for beavers to be all I have to worry about.

[@wendellfishing]

Beauty of NE Ohio

[@Alberthoward3right9up]

I tether my paddle and net. Everything else i can go without. I probably should tether my rods. But i do lock them into the rod holders when not in my hand. A big seal scared me the other day and i went to shore straight away. I was alone in the ocean with strong currents.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother! Stay safe out there

[@martiallaw1758]

You got a link to the yak attack light I can use? I need one

[@wendellfishing]

This guy? geni.us/YakAttackFlag

[@thomassmith3310]

Another tip is to check the tide or current.

[@bigdawgggbachi5394]

Great video! To ease your mind Wendell there are no water moccasins in Ohio that’s a myth bro. You do however have rattlesnakes and copperheads lol

[@wendellfishing]

Yeah.. I realized that as I was going through the Columbus zoo yesterday looking at the venomous snake maps!

[@markskibo5159]

Many mistakenly believe the water moccasin occurs in Ohio. But according to the Ohio Division of Wildlife, It ranges no farther north than the Dismal Swamp in southeastern Virginia

[@wendellfishing]

Huh... Your right.. I don't know what I am seeing then.. but I know I don't want to get close enough to find out!

[@markskibo5159]

@@wendellfishing Agreed, I just said because I used to live back there PA, and never seen moccasins. In any case back off! I had a friend from LA, said as kids they went fishing, took turns fishing while the other fought off moccasins !!!! OHHHH Fun

[@wendellfishing]

@@markskibo5159 Now, that's some dedication!

[@markskibo5159]

@@wendellfishing HEY Fishing is FIRST !!!!

[@DaleMattox]

I came here to say this as well. They are just Northern watersnakes

[@BeardedKayakFishing]

Should ALWAYS wear a life vest, ALWAYS. Thanks again for the great info.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother !

[@randolphbehm877]

This summer I anchored my kayak 1/2 mile down stream of a hydroelectric dam. I was livelining bluegills for flathead in a deep channel. The dam opened up a few more gates and I realized I was in trouble. My anchor rode was tied to the stern handle and I had a line tied a few feet down the rode and to a side handle so I could pull the kayak towards the anchor. This meant I had to initially put the kayak broadside to the current. I also had a stringer tied off with three sizable fish on it plus a flow troll bait bucket. My biggest fear was that the stern of my kayak was going to dip into the current turning me into a giant crank bait. I had a PFD on but was concerned about potentially getting tangled in all of the lines and pulled under. I cut the stringer and bait bucket loose and leaned forward to keep wait off of the stern. The power of the water whipping by me was amazing and my adrenaline was way up. After about 30 minutes they must have closed a few gates. I was able to pull myself backwards enough to get a knife through my anchor line to freedom. I anchored this way many times down stream of this dam however, after looking at google earth when I got home I realized why the current was magnified at that particular location. There were 2 main factors. 1 I was positioned at a hard bend in the river. All of the dam gates pointed at the bend and all of there energy focused on that spot after a half mile straightaway. 2 I was anchored on the precipice of a substantial drop off. The 1/2 mile upstream of me averaged 10-15 feet deep. There was a deep hole just in front of me that was 90’ deep. This 100 square yard spot was the perfect storm of current. I am thankful that I made it out unscathed.

[@wendellfishing]

Holy crap brother! that's some scary stuff.. glad you are ok