Think Twice Before Buying a Fishing Kayak - 10 Reasons It SUCKS!

[@wendellfishing]

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[@raygissendanner1476]

I know that Chad Hover has some videos on getting your kayak turned back over and getting back in it i have been watching you for a while now and I have seen you fishing area that you are not getting with a boat and you are killing it thank you for the videos and the information happy new years

[@wendellfishing]

Appreciate you boss! Happy New Year to you as well!

[@lowlifeangler]

Another great kayak info video. I try to play the wind ,but it backfires when the calm before the storm hits. I'm on the other side of the lake, and my wife calls me from the bank the storm is coming. Happened to me twice , same lake. I mean bad tornadic storms. I have no issues with side casting. In theory, baitcasters don't backlash when the spool is vertical, not horizontal. Now sitting in a kayak, you can get under the trees better than standing on an overpriced Nitro Z21.

[@wendellfishing]

Solid feedback brother!

[@mindhax_]

My biggest deal was working with one thats too heavy in the wind with only pdl drive. But i work around it and dont care bc ill catch anything anywhere 😅

[@mindhax_]

Also you get to travel to banks you wouldn't otherwise be able to access.

[@wendellfishing]

Big facts boss!

[@af4od02]

Great advice. Thanks.

[@wendellfishing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaell1665]

Good points were made without discouraging people to try kayak fishing! I fished in my 20s in a small 14' flatboat with a 20hp motor here in SE Louisiana. I gave that up, sold the rig, and only fished from the bank or with friends occasionally for several decades. Then in my mid 50s I bought my first kayak, one of maybe 8 or 9 I've owned since then. 8 years ago I bought my first new one, a 2016 Native Slayer Propel 13, which I motorized a year ago. Now, at 71, I'm seriously considering a Nucanoe Unlimited or other wide, superstable platforms to move my NK300 motor to. One very important point that you made, IMO, is that kayak fishing tends to elevate our game. I rarely had great fishing trips in my 20s from a motorboat, but since I started kayak fishing I have had many great trips even with the range limitations of the paddle and pedal drive - now my range is extended with the NK300!

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother... I need to get me an NK300

[@jscott4431]

Many valid points are made in this video. I hate the wind. I've been kayak fishing for about 12 years and have owned several kayaks. Due to lower back issues, I no longer fish lakes with a heavy pedal drive. My only fishing out of a kayak is on shallow creeks and rivers without a lot of current. Because of my back problem I have to hop out of the kayak every half hour or so and wade fish, then get back in and paddle to a different spot. I don't catch many big fish but it's still fun. Loading and unloading is also an issue, so I need a light weight, paddle only kayak.

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like you've found a system that works for you!

[@brandonmerideth5450]

Great video! I went form bank fishing as a teenager to bringing a fishing pole onto a paddle board which sparked the idea of getting a fishing kayak which led me down the road of 3 fishing kayaks one loaded out, one throw and go, and one thats loaded out but not with all the bells and whistles for when I bring people with me and like 50 rods and looking at getting a bass boat! lol so one thing about getting into kayak fishing is that it will lead you down a dark road of being obsessed about bass fishing! I dream about cover scats and chigger craws chasing me 😂

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like you've found your passion!

[@SendItVibes]

@3:08 I have the same style of PVC pipe set up for my yak with one major difference; my set up goes up into the truck on autopilot. I have the PVC "sled" attached to a winch in the bed of the truck. I just kind of guide it with one hand to keep it balanced as the winch pulls it out of the water. Drilled two holes through the pipes near the back and put in eye-ring bolts so I strap the yak to the sled for going in and out of the water. I'm lucky enough to be able to put the back of my truck in the water or use an actual launch at most of the places I go so it was designed knowing I could float the whole thing.

[@WendellWoodworks]

Good stuff! 😍

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks! 😊

[@nrthfish]

Excellent video covering all the key considerations. I just got into kayak fishing this year because I couldn’t tow both my trailer and boat to Texas for the winter. I’m 67 years old and moderately able bodied. I have a Bonafide PWR129 with a Torqueedo and Micro Power Pole. The kayak is a very capable fishing platform, and has many benefits compared to a boat. The biggest challenge is loading and unloading. I haul it in the back of my pickup with a bed extender. I pretty much have to remove everything from the kayak for loading and unloading, and it’s still a lot of work. I have the Sidekick wheels like you, which are an absolute must have. I find the PWR plenty stable enough to stand and fish from. In my opinion the Torqueedo and the Power Pole make a massive difference in usability and effectiveness. I have no regrets getting the kayak, you just really need to think through all the things you point out in your video. Having a kayak specific trailer would make a big difference if that worked for a person.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on... thanks boss!

[@bassdojo]

I have a boat and love it. I'm older and like standing, walking around, have all my tackle and rods, etc. Don't need a motor too much as I fish a lot on motor restricted lakes. I can use my trolling motor, spot lock, and still get in shallow water (10"). I've tried a kayak and it isn't for me. Too unstable, can't sit for long periods, etc.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for sharing boss! Makes sense to me

[@monsterbass007]

Solid Video Wendell!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss!

[@CollinBeBassin]

Going from a pelican kayak to a Nucanoe U10 in the spring! Great video!

[@wendellfishing]

That's awesome! Sounds like a great upgrade!

[@terrencemcguire3240]

What app were you using in your video that has the information on the weather and different baits?

[@wendellfishing]

I got you: 🔥 - onelink.deepdiveapp.com/XkkL/2uopkvm9

[@harryseeto]

Great video Daren! I already own 2 kayaks for salt water fishing. Bonafide SS127 and Oldtown Sportsman PDL120. I absolute agree with you with the pros and cons mentioned in this video. I must say, because I can move around and find the fish, my fishing catch ratio has gone up a lot. It's almost too easy. I can fish where boats cannot go. Since my fishing buddies always see photos of me catching fish, I'd always used to say, c'mon get your kayak already bro! This past year, I got off work and loaded up the gear and the kayak. When I got to the spot I usually launch from, found it was low moon tide. The water was over 100 yards away. I already promised my 6 year old son, I was going to take him fishing with me on the kayak. I had to pull my kayak fully loaded 220lbs+ through 3" deep mud with beach cart tires, just to get to the waters edge to paddle off. Not a lot of options here in New York City by me. It's more like, you see a little opening and say, lets drop it in right there! Nothing like trekking through the sea floor with crocs. ;P I was determined! After an additional 45-50 minutes just getting to the water, we were off! We had a blast fishing that night, caught many fish. But I stopped telling my friends to get a kayak. I now tell them, this is not for everyone. If you think you can pull it over rocks to launch, offload and load it on vehicle, fight the current, wind, and waves, then go for it! I hope I can remain healthy and strong enough to do this for many more years, as I am over 50. So far for me, the positives out weigh the negatives of having a fishing kayak. Stay great, keep up the great content. Happy New Year!

[@wendellfishing]

That's an awesome story boss! Love going where others can't go!

[@HOBFMS]

I have a 36 lbs pelican I bought off of Facebook marketplace. I can haul it through the woods to backwaters, I can lift it up mud hills when I’m climbing out of the river with it. I can throw it on top of my jeep very easily. Yes, it cannot handle strong wind well, and it can be a little tough in choppy water. But I fish with it multiple times a week, and can get to places regular people just cannot. I literally cross a lake and haul it 2 miles round trip to get to places well the bass have never seen bait.

[@wendellfishing]

That's awesome, sounds like you have your own system dialed in!

[@alexandergreer]

I know that storms are dangerous but most of the time you can fish in the rain. Sure it sucks and sometimes you will be cold but in the end 95 percent of the storms you shouldn’t be out there in…you should already know about. Today we are having a huge storm. I’m at the house lol

[@wendellfishing]

Right on Alex

[@violentdawg]

Great video! First off, I love my old town sportsman 120 as it's so comfortable seat wise and steady wise. BUT I didn't put into perspective of trying to kayak solo with a kayak that weighs 85lbs with only the seat! I'm a short dude at 5'3" with an ankle full of metal (after math of being hit head on). So as much as I love my kayak vs my wife's pelican, going solo is hard work... As for getting back into the kayak incase of tip-over, seen a guy that keeps a pull strap on his 24/7 for this reason. I grabbed a deer dragging strap ($16 on amazon). I still need to practice getting back on kayak when warm weather returns. Also, great seeing creek fishing adventures with you! I'm always after catfish but man he's fun to watch and gets on some gorgeous rivers!

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother... appreciate your comment!

[@lonemindinacrowd]

Couldn't agree more on the wind. I LOVE kayak fishing, I don't mind getting wet from rain, but the wind absolutely just keeps me off the water if it's over 10 MPH constant or 15-20 MPH gusts, which, I don't think I got out more than 20 times all this last year due to wind/weather not cooperating with my work schedule.

[@wendellfishing]

Totally hear ya! It's frustrating when the wind just won't cooperate.

[@brucechapman7748]

Was Doing the kayak , it was getting complicated setting it , breaking it down in and out of the was too time consuming , trolling motor , rods , transducer mount battery etc , and sense it started to become a trailable . It made more sense to go back bass boat , still have my bonifide , but now it’s stripped down to a paddle couple rods and small bag of baits . Toss it in the back of truck after work type of use . It’s back to an enjoyable, simple affair. More of a good time out time . Therapy .

[@wendellfishing]

Totally agree! Sometimes simpler is better.

[@opinionatedviewer7730]

I got a 14 semi vhull years ago. Put a casting deck from front to back, 36# thrust minn kota power drive up front, 9.9 in the back. I love it and the boat is perfect for one user 😂

[@wendellfishing]

That’s one awesome rig!

[@Freakdog66]

I absolutely love my kayaks. I bought them to fish my favorite smallmouth rivers. For simplicity and solitude. Going where I can't take my boat. Otherwise, my boat is my office. I've got all the bells and whistles. Love them both and prefer my Pursuit and Unlimited pretty plain and simple.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on Freakdog!

[@Freakdog66]

@wendellfishing power poles are pretty nice on them tho. Lol.

[@anthonyvespia6662]

Thanks for a great video. Heading into season six, and it's epic in many different ways. 😎 🎣

[@wendellfishing]

Heck yeah brother!

[@richardporter1455]

Was a bank guy most of my life. Got a high end fishing yak 6-7 years back and really fell in love with bass fishing.. Many of the negatives you named are the reasons l bought a 16ft jon boat and l haven't been on the yak since.

[@wendellfishing]

Totally get it.

[@johnanthony8305]

Nice video! For me, it's not the rain or the wind, it's the waves! Thank goodness I have my Old Town PDL106 - nothing like a slab of plastic to keep you upright.

[@wendellfishing]

Good call, big waves can make you start sweating real fast

[@Black-March]

Personally, I looked at kayaks, and I ended up buying a Sportspal canoe. Including a boat seat for extreme all day comfort, it's about 40 lbs for a 12 ft canoe and paddle. I throw this thing up on the roof in 2 minutes, and that's a huge deal for me.

[@SmartBassFishingWithKurt]

Helpful hint: if your scared of the winds and storms dont go on days they are calling for it!!! Also Anchor wizard and micro power poles work awesome!!!

[@niko7d]

My Outback hasn't let me down...been through winds, and waves...I will say that with all the videos I've watched have prepared me well.

[@wendellfishing]

Glad to hear it!

[@granvillej3316]

Would a seat belt help from falling out Lmao? Great subject matter that is so important and I have really looked at each point you have addressed and still working on it. I want to make sure I enjoy every moment on the water before I’m ready to throw my first cast. Thank you so much brother tight lines take care and God bless!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! Appreciate you

[@willgriggers-ex5zq]

Fishing from a top end kayak and fishing from a cheap kayak is not even the same sport. Quality/design makes a world of difference in many of the 10 issues.

[@MuahMan]

I went back and forth between a kayak and the little plastic 2 seater Pond Prowler. Ended up going with the Pond Prowler because it slides right into the truck bed like a kayak and my balance is terrible (stroke recovery) and the thing is incredibly stable. Do have to use a motor so that sucks. Still have a cheapo kayak I use to fish with the fam. Funny what you said about the rods behind you. I've had at least 10 massive tangles from hitting those poles behind me.

[@wendellfishing]

Pond prowler for the win!

[@StephenRobertson-i5q]

I have had a blast there is some big water kayaks that are make for all these down side of everything

[@Tommy-h4b]

Thank you very much for the video sir

[@wendellfishing]

Most welcome

[@OSUKNOWIT]

Almost had a classic disaster Saturday returning from Steelhead fishing. I 8:56 was headed south on Rt 11 @75mph & my roof rack popped loose on one side! Needless to say I had to pull over/remove the yak etc. Ended up strapping to my buddies. I’m a world class idiot but Jesus was watching over me 😂!

[@wendellfishing]

YIKES!

[@OSUKNOWIT]

@@wendellfishingBro you have to go with us in 25’. I only get up there about 5 or 6 times/year for Steelhead. They are a blast to catch. Can’t wait for the spring Bass! I wade W.PA creeks for Smallies too.

[@matthall8378]

I got a fishing kayak for $299 on sale and its the best money I ever spent. It's nothing fancy but it has 3 rod holders and enough space for my gear. I have no electronics and no pedals. I kayak fish all summer and fall. It sure beats fishing from shore! You can get to alot of spots others cant get to and I hardly lose a snagged lure anymore. The one con of fishing in a kayak. The wind can be a pain sometimes.

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like you got a great deal!

[@AMFOL-t3n]

Hey I was just wondering what’s better for saltwater boats or kayaks?

[@wendellfishing]

The salinity of the water doesn't matter....

[@adammitchell3462]

I own a bare bones fishing yak, no pedals and on windy days it can incredibly hard to stay on spot and an anchor doesnt serve me at all lol and i am going to upgrade my boat but until i do ill just deal with it

[@wendellfishing]

I hear ya brother

[@madam497]

I moved from a kayak to a jon boat. I like fishing rivers. My experience with pedaling back up a a river in flood stage was no fun and exhausting. I still have a kayak but its more for carry in and electric motor only lakes.

[@wendellfishing]

Totally get it!

[@rubenakacoolerlid2314]

Spot lock is awesome. I love my Autopilot 120.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on, my friend.

[@MikahBoxer1]

What was that app that you had on the screen for research?

[@wendellfishing]

I got you: *DEEP DIVE APP* onelink.deepdiveapp.com/XkkL/2uopkvm9

[@jaimeastin]

Just get a kayak and fish off of it. I have been kayak fishing for years... I cannot get behind these big heavy boats and motors. What started as a hack to kayaks have become thousands of dollars or heavy kayaks that you need a trailer for... Just get a boat at this point. I understand some may be limited with handicap and pedals might bee good for them but... I do not see them using it much.. Get a kayak under 75 dollars.. 12 foot is the best size to me... You do not need to stand up or anything. A nice comfortable kayak. Roof rack is the bestbwat to go. Build your strength up. No need for a trailer and such

[@Bestoftheworstfishing]

For 48 hours after my first kayak trip my upper body was extremely sore.

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds about right

[@justintime3944]

I have a fishing boat with all the right gear for fishing including a trolling motor with spot lock and I have a couple fishing kayaks as does my fishing buddy and we both tend to disagree with you. We prefer to fish from our kayaks. I say to each his own. I get your points, but there are things you can do to make all your points not to be a big deal, like trailering and electric motors and buy a great kayak to begin with. Now with the swivel seats it is like fishing from a lawn chair, so for the most part I say I disagree and say try it and see if you lie it, but yes it can be expensive. As far as the paddling, I am 71 and in only average shape and I can do it with no problem in a Hobie, so again, not a big deal.

[@justintime3944]

The one thing I will agree with you about is that to buy a good quality fishing kayak and properly outfit it you could buy a nice used bass boat.

[@joshlanham4885]

Buy once cry once they say and I’m still crying 😂😂😂

[@wendellfishing]

Oooh.. what kayak did you get?

[@lusciouslunk]

You should edit your videos with headphones on so you can figure out how your audio sounds. I cant listen to your video with headphones on because it is only in the right ear. There is an option for "mono" audio when editing I suggest you use when this happens, as I cant watch this video without getting a headache. Thanks!

[@wendellfishing]

Good feedback, I must’ve accidentally hit the mono button on my transmitter during that shoot..

[@Jeff7477]

Audio is only on right side

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss, must have accidentally hit the mono setting on my mic. Will check that moving forward

[@marcuslinton310]

If your kayak setup costs more then a decent used bass boat and you use it in places where a bass boat easily works, you've made some wrong decisions. The places I have available to fish are not the best options for regular boats at all, many don't even have boat launches, just a rough shoreline at the parking area.

[@zackmorehouse]

That’s 2 videos where you don’t back the truck up on the ramp. Like you said in an other video you don’t back it in. Why is that?

[@wendellfishing]

It takes me about 5-8 minutes to rig and I don't want to be holding up the ramp for anyone.

[@EugeneJohnson-f9q]

The power pole what if you’re in 25 feet of water and 30 feet of water they’re useless

[@wendellfishing]

Just an option... especially if you fish rivers and creek systems.

[@jetfuelg4083]

1448 Grizzly is the best damned kayak you can buy for the money. Fight me if you think I’m wrong 🤣🤙

[@wendellfishing]

Jonyak :)

[@dansteelman5620]

give you 20 reasons not to buy a boat !

[@wendellfishing]

Got 18 myself! kzbin.info/www/bejne/imWpg3aAbphnZq8

[@Real_Talk411]

Video was well done Wendell 🫡

[@wendellfishing]

Appreciate it.. thanks boss!

[@wendellfishing]

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