What I remember most about winter fishing is slogging through snow well over ankle deep on occasions and on other occasions the guides on my rod were frozen over, so I tell myself that I am too old for winter fishing. Since I have tried winter fishing and found it not to my liking I spend the long winter days sitting by the fireplace dreaming.
What has come to mind is the sport of Kayak Fly Fishing which is exploding. Almost every time I go to a trout stream with any size, I see anglers paddling their Kayaks. Most are using fly rods and appear to be very successful. The current line of Kayaks available on the market includes several models specifically for fishing.
I am too old to consider getting a Kayak however, if I were to own one I would need to choose between a salt water craft and a mountain stream kayak. With that in mind, I would select the Emotion Stealth Angler from Dicks for a meager price of less than $600. This is an ideal kayak for the beginner, but, I never let things like that concern me. So, my musings takes me to the Old Town Predator XL Minnkota Kayak available at Cabela’s for a mere $1300. This kayak is a cadillac for sure and it would make “Tim The Toolman” or “Outdoor Man” proud since a trolling motor can be used with it and no doubt he would increase the horsepower! Listed here are some of the features.
Safety: Stability is enhanced by having a performance-crafted Tri-Hull, slip resistant Exo-Ridge deck and convenient stand-up assist straps and this would be a great asset since I have the inherent ability to fall in.
Storage: The handy Exo-Ridge tankwell keeps you and your gear dry and secure, while an oversized bow-hatch features a click-seal cover that's perfect for stowing large bags, motor batteries or tackle boxes. Center console with Mod Pod cover for additional storage.
Convenience: Side-mount paddle holders and molded rests allow you to quickly secure your paddle out of the way when it's not in use. Includes six high-strength removable mounting plates, side-mounted rod retainers and recessed storage on both sides for quick access to your gear. Humminbird® Transducer Scupper is designed to support the latest in side-imaging transducer technology and the recessed port makes built-in mounting simple. Eight scupper holes easily drain water.
Capacity: It is 13’ 2” long by 33 ½” wide and has a capacity of over 400 pounds. That is sufficient for my 6 foot, 200 pound carcass as well as a bunch of gear. (So what if I under stated my weight by a few pounds.) Well, it is time to quit with the dreaming and get some work done but I would like to hear from you anglers who are kayak fishermen and I would welcome your comments and input.