Kayak Fishing Quarterly Winter 2019 Issue 1

KAYAK FISHING QUARTERLY

JAXTON

ORR: FIRE ON AND OFF THE WATER

PEOPLE

THE FLY LIFE OF

KACEE BONES GEAR GUIDE

NRS OTTO MATIK

GIFTS UNDER $100

CRESCENT LITETACKLE DESTINATIONS

KAYAK FISHING

SOUTH OF THE

RIO GRANDE BONUS CONTENT: HOW TO STAND IN A KAYAK

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Winter 2019

KFQ WINTER 2019

Cover PHOTO BY CHRIS FUNK

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

PHOTO BY ROLAND PALACIOS

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Orr on Fire

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Transition Fishing for Striped Bass

Winter 2019

ARTICLES Brad Oswalt Kurt Smits

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The Fly Life of Kacee Bones

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Holiday Gear Guide Under $100

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Kayak Fishing South of the Border

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How I Won KBF at Tablerock

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The Catch

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Fresh or Salt: Sometimes It’s All the Same

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The Core of Balance

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Crescent LiteTackle Review

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Redfish Bonanza

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The Outdoor Gallery

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NRS Otto Matik PFD Review

Chris Payne

Payne Outdoors

Alfonso Gonzales Rabelo Troy Enke

Eric J Goldstein Michael Fiorenza Donald Dehm Chris Payne

Dustin Nichols

Reader Contributions Chris Payne

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onFIRE ORR _ _

by Brad Oswalt

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

I asked Jaxton to break down the tournament and how he felt checking off one of his goals for the season in hoisting that check at the end of the day. It was during our conversation that I really began to appreciate a key ingredient into what makes him so successful: his fishing IQ.

“I knew that I wasn’t going to get the opportunity to In the Hoosier heartland, one 16-year-old is doing just pre-fish, so I spent weeks leading up to the tournament studying all parts of the Tippecanoe River on a map that, while still enjoying his teenage years. Jaxton Orr has become a household name in kayak bass fishing in and looked for unique structure, creeks, or contours the US. Arguably one of the most consistent anglers in that caught my eye. I chose the particular stretch I the nation, amassing over 30 top 10 finishes and 9 wins fished in the tournament because it opens up to the in only his third season, he is always a threat wherever Wabash and it was the longest stretch out of all the other float options” says Orr. he shows up to compete. Yet he remains the most humble of people I have ever met, especially at such a It’s a good thing he has his driver’s license now to help young age. Jaxton gives all the glory to God and just facilitate those river floats a little easier. flat out enjoys fishing, but that is only a part of what makes him so unique in our sport.

“When I got to the ramp early in the morning, my nerves started to kick in when I saw the quick current I was fortunate to catch up with Jaxton shortly after of a river that I had never been on before. Within the his win on the Tippecanoe River with Indiana Kayak first 30 minutes, I was extremely happy to catch a 21Anglers where he put up a giant smallie bag of 86.75″ inch TANK smallmouth that ended up being big bass including the big bass of the day at 21″.

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hink back to when you were 16. What were you doing? Most of us would probably say chasing the opposite sex, staying out of trouble with our parents and the law and trying to get through high school. Very few of us could say we were chasing our dreams because, quite simply, we didn’t know what those dreams even were.

for the day! One of the best feelings in the world is to catch a kicker fish in the first hour! “ “I spent the rest of the day mainly targeting bankside seawalls and deeper eddies to get my bigger bites. I made as many casts as possible and tried to make each one count and kept praying for the next big bite. At last cast, I ended the day with a stringer of 86.75 inches that was comprised of a 21.00, 17.50, 17.50, 17.25, and a 13.50. I just wasn’t sure if that would be enough to win.”

where I believe he will be the youngest competitor.

Orr, steadfast with his demeanor though, isn’t letting the nerves get to him just yet.

“It’s overwhelming when I think about being one of the 50 anglers in the United States that will be competing in this historical event. It would certainly be a dream come true for me to finish in the top ten on Lake Ouachita, Arkansas, but for me, it is much more

Jaxton’s stringer would go on to win by over 3 inches over Sam Robertston, with the ned rig king Aidan Darlington rounding out the top 3.

“As Jason Young (Tournament Director) announced the second place winner, it was at that moment that I knew that I had won. My heart dropped and felt a huge sense of relief. My dad is on the board of directors for IKA and being handed a big check from him was an extraordinary feeling that I will never forget! I am constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to do what I love.”

As big of a win this is for Jaxton, perhaps the biggest highlight(s) of his year so far have been those made fishing the new Hobie Bass Open series. A Top 10 finish on Kentucky Lake in May had people talking, but his 7th place finish on St Clair, sharing the stage with his dad Jim, made for a memory neither will soon forget.

His performance on the 6th great lake earned him a ticket to the Tournament of Champions later this year, Kayak Fishing Quarterly

on the short term. “My biggest goal as an angler is to consistently improve my mental game. I have learned firsthand, the power of positivity and that anything is possible if I believe that it can happen. Later this year, my goal is to finish in the top ten in the Hobie TOC. Next year, and ultimately, it would be a dream come true for me to qualify for Hobie Worlds 10 and have the opportunity to represent my country on Team USA at Worlds!”

Not only was earning the TOC invite a highlight of the St. Clair event, but Jaxton also got to share the stage with his father who finished 4th in the event.

Being sixteen, Jaxton will soon face the decisions of life after high school. It came as no surprise that this young man is already squared away in what he wants to do.

“The Hobie Bass Open on Lake St. Clair was simply incredible. My dad and I have never shared the stage together prior to this tournament. Lake St. Clair is a place where any cast could produce a 6-pound behemoth smallmouth. I will always remember the moment when my dad and I were slaying 18 plus inchers almost every other cast during practice. We both also caught our personal best smallmouth (at the time)! Standing on that stage with my dad and taking two of the 50 available spots for the TOC with him was a very heartwarming and proud moment for me. This is going to be an experience I will always look back on and I will never forget.”

As our conversation continued I wanted to know what was next on the bucket list for Jaxton, having already achieved so many goals. I mentioned Hobie Worlds (arguably the most prestigious event in kayak fishing) and not surprisingly his answer was focused more

“I would love more than anything to make a living fishing. That has been my dream since I was a little kid. I am hoping to obtain a collegiate scholarship for fishing and am planning to pursue a business/ marketing/management degree in college. If I am unable to fish for a living, I definitely want to work in the fishing industry. I would love the opportunity to fish at the collegiate level. My heart is with kayak fishing but I also love the collaboration of team fishing from a bass boat.”

To no surprise, Jaxton has found success fishing in weekly boat tournaments this year with his partner Mike Schone. We may just see him on the FLW collegiate stage in a couple short years.

Recently while out visiting his mom and sister in Washington state, Jaxton got to spend some time with

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about the experience and the honor of being on the roster for this tournament. I am being blessed to fish against 49 of the best sticks in the game! Most of these anglers aren’t just the best sticks in the country, some of them are my biggest role models and people I look up to as a person and an angler. They are my friends.

They are my family. To be fishing with them in the TOC is a true honor. I am sure that I will begin to feel the pressure build as tournament day nears.”

one of his sponsors, Ram Mounts, doing some fishing and a photoshoot.

“The experience was unbelievable! Brad Hole is an incredible host and a genuinely great man. Brad had invited me to go to ICAST, but it was during the time that I would be in Washington visiting my mom so I couldn’t go. I asked Brad if he had any other time available that I could meet up with him and the RAM Mounts crew in Seattle while I was there.

I flew from Orcas Island, WA to Lake Union on a floatplane where Mr. Hole picked me up at the airport and the adventure began. We stopped at Outdoor Emporium and then he took me to Beaver Lake in Sammamish, Washington.

Not only did we catch a lot of fish, but Lance Hanson from RAM Mounts came and did a product photoshoot of Brad and I. Spending the day with Brad and Lance is another one of those memories and experiences that reminds me of just how fortunate I am to be surrounded by incredible people who I share a passion for fishing with.”

That same passion for fishing has branched out into an annual charity tournament Jaxton started last year. This year he hopes to see over 100 anglers enter to really help these charities out. He’s spent months planning, working with sponsors for prizes, and now promoting this event. Just another example that this young man’s shoreline is attached to his faith and to helping others.

The acronym K.A.T.C.H. means Kayak Anglers Together Can Help. I started this because I truly believe that kayak anglers can make a difference and help the ones in need. Anyone can fish in it from any public water in the United States and Canada.

100% of entry fees will be donated to organizations that help those who are less fortunate. The top 10% of anglers will receive prize packages from the event sponsors and also name the charity to where their winnings will be donated. The winnings are donated in each of the angler’s names. At the end of the day, I just want to help and do what I can to get other anglers in this awesome community engaged in giving back to those who could use some help.”

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

It is the Lord Christ you are servingColossians 3:23-24

“I have been kayak fishing competitively for three years now and I have been extremely fortunate. I realize that there are so many people that do not have the opportunity to live their dreams and some that are fighting for their lives and would trade spots with me in a heartbeat. I began to brainstorm on how I could help others that are less fortunate. I came up with the idea of hosting a charity tournament using my love and excitement for the sport of kayak fishing to give back to the ones in need. I called it “Jaxton Orr’s 1st Annual KATCH (and release) Charity Tournament.”

As Jaxton prepares to close out his biggest year in kayak fishing yet, he is quick to never forget the people that have helped him get where he is.

“I could not be more thankful for all of the support I receive from my friends, family, and sponsors, and how I am able to participate in this incredible sport under God’s eyes. I am so incredibly blessed to be able to do what I love most. I would really like to thank my sponsors: St. Croix, Tourneytag, Bayou Bug Jigs, RAM Mounts, Picasso Lures, Eagle Claw, Trokar, FISHing ONline, Cal Coast Fishing, Hobie, Dry Dock Marine, and Tourney X!”

Editor’s note: Jaxton’s 2nd annual charity tournament went on to have 137 anglers. Danny Glann (FL), Eric Siddiqi (OH), and Barry Davis (SC) were the top 3 respectively. The event raised $3000 with that money being sent out to charities such as Heroes on the Water, St. Jude Children’s Hospital and others.

Jaxton went on to win the Indiana Kayak Angler Championship event and then capped off his impressive year with a 4th place finish in the Hobie Fishing Tournament of Champions on Lake Ouachita, taking home $2500, in a staked field of 50 of the best kayak anglers in the country.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

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Transitional Striped Bass and Where to Find Them

by Kurt Smits

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weaters and campfires with leaves crunching under foot rings in my favorite season these changes mirror the changes on the river and the beginning of opportunities for a different species of fish.

Southwest Ohio means fish with stripes of all kinds white bass, hybrids, and striped bass. There’s just something special about hooking into a head shaking freight train that you will never be able to get out of your system.

Locally known as ghosts of the river, striped fish (hybrids, striped bass, and white bass) are pack hunters.

When you find some you seem to find a whole lot of them but they leave as fast as they come. The Ohio River is enormous and its tributaries give these fish plenty of places to roam and feed without being targeted by anglers.

The trick is finding the feeding fish as fall provides us conditions to help target them efficiently. These fish are voracious eaters and finding the food is the most important indicator to where they are located. Shad and skipjack are two of the prominent forage species.

To understand striped bass movements is to understand their prey and feeding tactics.

Right as the first cool nights start, shad in the tributaries will move down towards the deeper pockets of water. Shallow waters cool off quicker at night and

shad are delicate fish that don’t like quick temperature drops. Timing is paramount. These fish begin to move away from their summer haunts at the dams and migrate towards deeper tributaries with bait holding near the mouths of the creeks trying to avoid the nightly drops in temps.

The difference in temperature from the Ohio River and a tributary is what I am looking for.

If we can get a nice cold snap to really fire everything up all the better. Following conditions has been made easier with the internet and being able to follow weather forecasts, water temps, and elevation. Rising or falling water helps put the fish in spots to target them effectively and knowing water conditions is really helpful.

On one such a time cold snap we had a 15 degree difference in water temps. The tributary was running cold from a quick two night cold snap with temps falling to freezing each night. The shad were piled up so thick you could almost scoop them out with your hands.

The striped bass were having a feeding frenzy and shad were raining down from being knocked out of the water. The hybrids were running them so shallow it looked like sharks attacking. Those conditions lasted five days and in those five days I had the best fishing of my life. So much so I hurt my bicep muscle setting the hook and fighting these freight trains.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

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rom the time she was seven years old, Kacee Bones has chased the fish around the saltwater flats near Rockport, Texas. What started as going on guided trips and soaking bait with her Grandpa, ended up decades later as the way Kacee puts food on her table as a full time guide in that same complex of waterways.

It’s not only fishing fever that courses through her veins however.

Surfing Association of which Kacee is the 2018-2019 Texas State Surfing Champion for both Longboard and Shortboard.

From soaking bait in Rockport moons ago, Kacee made the complete realization of a dream by becoming a full time guide a little over three years ago. Doing as many as 100 trips per year she fishes most often with a fly rod in hand and a box full of flies she mostly ties herself.

Kacee grew up hunting and has always had a keen respect for the captured prey. As an adult, she wanted to honor these trophies by not just harvesting their lean meat bounty but to also appreciate their beauty.

That was the birth of Glitter and Bones Jewelry, where Kacee was both the owner and curator. She would create beautiful art pieces to be worn as jewelry from antlers or bone to honor the animals that provided food for her family.

Her guide boat is a Maverick technical poling skiff and she prefers Hardy fly rods in a 7/8 weight paired with a Hardy Fortuna reel. While she does most of her own fly tying she did give a hat tip to Andy Packmore’s Redfish Crack Fly.

As her creations owned her some local notoriety, a local radio DJ started referring to her as Kacee “Bones” and the name stuck.

I asked her what a day on the water in her boat is like and she quickly chimed in, “It’s important for me to make sure you learn something. I am going to share knowledge. I am not somebody that’s going to keep all that to myself. I am there to help you learn.”

In addition to being an angler, hunter, and jewelry curator, Bones is also a surfer. Not your, go to the beach on the weekend and fall off a board a few times surfer. She is a competitive surfer and can be found competing during surf season with the Texas Gulf

When I asked Kacee about guiding and what keeps her going she shared. “I am a serious angler. It’s what I love to do; it’s how I pay my bills.”

“We’ll also do some coaching on casting. I’ll give you clues on what the fish are doing, why, where they should be in certain situations. It’s a lost art. A lot of 13

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STORY BY CHRIS PAYNE

people believe that knowledge is earned and if you share that then give up all your value. That’s not me.”

Kacee chose the Rockport area because she believes it’s one of the best ecosystems for saltwater fishing on the Gulf Coast. She added, “The amount of fish coming over from Cedar Pass is mind blowing. There are so many fish here!”

pee. Casey offered to take the rod from Bones but there was no way she was going to risk losing the fish.

“If the fish came off while he was holding the rod, I’d be forever mad at myself. I just couldn’t risk it. So with the rod in one hand and my pants in the other I went to the back of the boat, peed, and pants at my ankles, I was standing reeling on this giant tarpon which could When she isn’t guiding or surfing Kacee Bones is be the only one for the day. The fish kept swimming chasing fish in the States and abroad. One such trip she back to the boat, I’d get the line tight again and then landed a 110 pound tarpon right in front of a television she would run off again until I finally landed the fish.” crew that was filming a tarpon fishing show.

“Tarpon will find any issue to exploit yet I was the one trying to ruin it for me that day. It’s a fish I’ll never forget and a memory that will last forever.”

A great cast and a swift take quickly turned into a long battle with what would eventually be her favorite catch ever. Just 20 minutes in however, the drinks from If you’d like to book a trip with Captain Kacee Bones, the early morning hours came calling and she told her visit https://www.flatsfishtexas.com/ and check out captain for the day, also named Casey, that she had to her catches on Instagram at @kaceebones

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Winter 2019

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Holiday Gear Guide UNDER $100

Some of our favorite items we have been able to check out this year. And best of all, everything is under $100.

Click on the pictures to order or read more information

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

NRS Varial Hoodie $69 If kayak anglers could only have one piece of (non-safety) apparel, the versatile NRS Varial Hoodie with its head-to-waist protection would be a top choice.

The integrated sun hood and neck gaiter let you adjust to conditions on the fly, and on the water, without taking off the shirt. Use the hood and neck gaiter separately, or in combination.

NRS LOLO PANTS $99

The NRS Men’s Lolo Pants are purposebuilt for on-the-water performance with lightweight, DWR-treated material and zip-off adaptability. From river guides to fishermen, rafters to kayakers, the Lolo Pants are designed for paddlers.

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SALTY SCALES BLUE LINE HOODIE $55 Uniquely dye sublimated designs allow you to stand out, while staying cool. We take it a step further by paying attention to the slightest but vital details, the contrasting BLUE thread gives a color pop, the incorporated spandex allows for stretch and comfort, the mesh sides allow for complete breathability while combating brutally hot elements.

We support our law enforcement and we hope that you will too. The thin blue line stands for the sacrifice law enforcement officers of this nation make each day; we have also incorporated the blue stripe on one of the most prized gamefish, the snook.

Use code: Bfyt19 to save 25%

SALTY SCALES CYCLOID CAMO FISHING SHIRT $44 The Salty Scales Cycloid Camo fishing long sleeve integrates masculine geometry along with fish scales to display art like camouflage. The magic starts with the design but the real power is the UPF protective qualities to keep you safe from harmful UV rays.

Improved fabric features 90% Polyester/10% Spandex and spandex thread around the sleeve cuffs for exceptional comfort. All of our long-sleeves are moisture wicking and double stitched for superior quality. Whether you are chasing your favorite fish, our hiking through the wilderness, the Cycloid long sleeve will help you do it in style.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

HUK ICON X COLD WEATHER LONG SLEEVE SHIRT $55 Get geared up for chilly days fishing in the Huk Cold Weather Icon X Long Sleeve.

Constructed of poly-knit, hollow, core warming fibers to retain heat while on the water. This shirt is equipped with DWR water-repellent finishing, comfortable 4-way stretch, and even UPF 30+ protection.

Features a large Huk logo to the front and left arm.

HUK RESERVE PANTS $70 Stay active on board with the HUK Reserve Pant. Constructed with movement in mind, these pants are designed with ultra comfortable 4-way stretch Nylon. Ample storage with dual plier pockets and secure rear zip pockets. Features quick-drying and stain resistant technology, DWR waterrepellent, and excellent sun protection.

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STEALTH QR-2 WITH KAYAK RAIL MOUNT $60 The Stealth QR-2 for large handle rods.

Stealth is the only rod holder that grips the rod handle, keeping your gear nice and secure. The patented technology releases when you pull up to set the hook. The CAM is EPDM elastomer, which is the same material that engine gaskets are made from.

It works from -100F to +300F and is UV resistant. Like all Stealth products, the QR-2 is constructed with glass-reinforced Nylon and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

THE PROTECTOR PHONE TETHER 2.0 from Rogue Fishing $15 Let’s face it - there’s a lot going on to get that perfect picture of your fish or the scenery around you! From balancing your paddle on your lap, to handling the fish, to getting your measuring board out, one unfortunate slip and all of your contacts, photos, and work life could end up in the water, gone forever. That’s where the Protector comes in!

Made from a durable silicone case and the same tough leashes that we’re known for, the Protector will grip your phone tight, keeping it safe from chaos so you can thrive on the water!

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

SHIMANO SLX BAITCASTING REEL $99 A true workhorse, the Shimano SLX Casting Reel utilizes key Shimano technologies to provide competitive anglers with a dependable, performance-oriented reel that won’t break the bank. Providing a smaller profile without sacrificing line capacity, the Shimano SLX Casting Reel is over 20% more compact than the Shimano Caenon, while maintaining the same line capacity.

SHIMANO GLF FISHING ROD $99 The new GLF series are built to match the demands of Gulf Coast anglers. Whether your target is redfish, speckled trout or flounder, the GLF series has perfectly tuned actions for a wide spectrum of techniques.

Featuring lightweight 30 ton hybrid blanks and a Shimano custom reel seat, offering anglers all-day comfort and fishability.

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YETI RAMBLER 16 OZ STACKABLE PINTS 2 PACK $49 Upgrade your single-use plastic cups at base camp with the reusable, nearly indestructible, supremely insulated 16 oz. Stackable Pints.

These hefty happy hour vessels pull their weight at base camp until the last beer’s poured. Available in stainless, black, seafoam, brick red, navy, and white that won’t peel, fade, or crack.

YETI RAMBLER 12 OZ BOTTLE WITH HOTSHOT CAP $29 On-the-go caffeine enthusiasts, meet the ultimate drinking vessel for filling up and hitting the road. While this 12 oz. Bottle is conveniently light, it holds more than enough joe to jump-start your day, whether you’re gearing up for an early morning trip or need an energy boost before a day outdoors. Why we’re giving this Rambler extra kudos? It’s topped with a unique, 360-drinking, 100% leakproof HotShot Cap that lives up to its name by letting you sip from any side while locking in piping-hot temperatures for hours on end.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

YAK-POWER Lightning Rod 360 degree light $80 The extendable, modular 360 degree light from Yak-Power does away with dead AAA batteries, always wondering if you’ll have power and makes turning your 360 light on in the kayak a breeze. Wire it separately or into your exisitng Yak-Power system and extend your fishing before sunrise and after sunset. And if something happens and it gets knocked overboard, it floats!

YAK-POWER FISHFINDER POWER KIT $35 Everything you need to power up your fish finder except for the battery. Included in this kit is 8ft. wire, plug-and-play SAE connector and a protective rubber cap. The kit also includes ring terminal adapters for larger batteries and an in-line, booted, watertight fuse holder.

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KAYAK FISHING SOUTH of the RIO GRANDE

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

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ayak fishing is a relatively new sport. In the US you could say it is in its toddler years. Just a few miles south of the southern US border in Mexico and kayak bass fishing is still in diapers.

Bass fishing is nothing new in Mexico. It is no secret that the country is home to some of most famous bass fisheries in the world, and since kayak fishing is the fastest growing segment in the sport it was just logical that kayak bass fishing would find its place into the hearts of avid Mexican sport anglers.

There are stories of people who claim to have started more than ten years ago by grabbing a recreational kayak, a paddle and a fishing rod to venture into the local lakes of northeast Mexico aiming for the most wanted freshwater fish in the world, the Largemouth Bass or “Lobina” as we call them in Spanish. Those were isolated events and individuals, however and there was nothing organized. Fast forward to today and we have tournaments the likes of “Iron Kayaker” “Copa Anglers Forever” “Circuito Kayakero del Noreste” and “Curricanes”, to name a few that constantly register 100-150 kayak anglers for money, prizes and bragging rights under the CPR format.

To say that the growing of the sport has been exponential may be a short statement. Three years ago we would be surprised if more than four kayak anglers would happen to be fishing the same waters at any given time. If any new kayak would be spotted we would quickly approach just to say “Hi, I fish from a kayak too, we should be friends!”

Maybe not exactly like that but you get the idea, and now we have several different 25

Winter 2019

words by Alfonso Gonzales Rabelo photos by Carlo Salas

clubs all over the country growing a friendly but fierce rivalry including regional, state and national championships that will grant the right to participate in the Pan-American Championship where Mexico’s delegation was present this past May in Cookeville TN. And for 2020 Mexico will be hosting the Pan-American Championship.

Additionally, Iron Kayaker announced a partnership with KBF so expect to see Mexican anglers in the next national KBF event.

The local kayak fleets are still composed of a majority of recreational and entry level kayaks. Not long ago our only option was to drive north and bring whatever we could find in Academy, Bass Pro Shops, WalMart or even flea markets home to Mexico, so you will see a lot of Pelicans, Lifetime and Sun Dolphins roaming our waters with a lot of

PVC DIY accessories. We are however starting to grab attention from the industry leaders and now we have official dealers for Vibe, Feelfree, 3Waters and Wilderness Systems. This is another reason why kayak fishing is such a perfect fit for Mexico.

The average Mexican spending capability is not as strong as the average US outdoorsman so a bass boat is nearly impossible to afford but a kayak is not. We hope that soon everybody will realize the potential of this almost virgin market to have more options to choose from.

The future is bright for Kayak Bass Fishing in Mexico whether you are a recreational fisherman, weekend warrior, professional angler, ambassador of the sport, have a business or make a living out of kayak fishing.

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HOW I WON REGIONAL the

KBF FINAL on TABLEROCK

by Troy Enke

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rian Hillman and I began prefishing up the James River arm of Table Rock on Wednesday near McCord Bend.

We found 76-degree water and lots of surface activity. Clouds of shad were swarming the flat across from the ramp.

I headed for them and immediately hooked up with a fat 16″ largemouth on a black and blue zMan Chatterbait in 3 feet of water at the edge of a shade line. I continued fishing the flat with a shad colored Rat-L-Trap and hooked into a giant that I never got to see. It straightened one of the trebles and left me wishing I would have upgraded those stock hooks! We both had decent limits by noon, high 70 inches for me and mid 80 inches for Brian.

Although the area was full of 13″15″ bass and packed with baitfish, I never got comfortable there. I knew there would be a lot of pressure in that area of the James as it traditionally holds winning fish during Table Rock tournaments. Also, the water was dropping. I wasn’t sure how that, combined with the coming weather change, would affect the baitfish.

Forecasts were calling for a mixture of clouds and sun, highs in the mid 80’s,

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

chances for storms and potential 30mph gusts… so, typical Missouri weather.

Winter 2019

THURSDAY

6 am, Thursday before the tournament, I decided to launch at the Old Hwy 86 Public Use ramp and fish the islands in front of Clevinger cove and afterward probe some of the shallow cuts near its mouth. The lake was calm and with water temps 77-79 degrees.

A bass boat was already fishing the first island so I kept pedaling my Hobie PA12 to the north shore of Clevinger. After getting no love on the first bank with a Whopper Plopper, I noticed a submerged point on my Garmin.

I pedaled to the on top of it in 10′ and threw out into 25′ with a brown/orange 3/4oz Pigsticker Quick-5 football jig with a magic craw colored 3″ Berkley Chigger Craw trailer. I began dragging the jig uphill and that familiar “tick” of the line resulted in a 17.75″ smallmouth. I got another bite on that point and missed it.

I made a move to the shore and picked the Whopper Plopper back up and didn’t set it down for the rest of the morning. I caught three more bass on the plopper over 15″ in the next hour, one a 20.5″ brute on the main lake side of an island. I hadn’t fished in this cove since I was 10 years old but I knew where I was going to fish all weekend. I packed up and headed to the house around noon.

FRIDAY

Friday was spent running errands. Brake line repair on my truck, trailer light fixed, re-rigging baits, paring down tackle, meal prep, etc. Then, it was off to checkin where I dropped off supplies for Sunday’s posttournament nacho bar and finally headed back to Nixa to try and get some sleep.

I normally take about 30lbs of tackle with me, because, I’m a freak. After a successful pre-fish, I ended up taking three small Plano waterproof boxes, a Ziploc full of plastics, some terminal tackle, and eight rods.

After the dust settled Sunday, the reality was that I only needed to take three rods-one with a jig, one with a plopper and one with a popper.

SATURDAY

Saturday morning I began the same way I had practiced on Thursday except that my execution was horrible. I hit the island first and lost my first four fish on topwater with the Yellow Magic popper and Whopper Plopper. One a heavy 15″+ that came off at the boat as I was reaching for my net. I kept pedaling and firing.

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I knew I was around quality fish and I just needed to make as many good casts as I could. I knew the weatherman had said southerly gusts to 20mph later in the day, so I headed for the north shore while I could hold there safely. I caught a 15.5″ with the Plopper there, if memory serves, to get the skunk off and get me on the board. It felt so good to get some redemption after losing those first four, it’s almost like they were short-striking in the low light conditions that morning.

Next, I then headed to the south shore of Clevinger as the wind started to pick up. I kept the Hobie in 3-5′ of water as I worked back and forth in the coves near the outer 1/3rd of the creek. I limited out with the T1000 colored Whopper Plopper 90 on 25lb test Trik-Fish mono with my Daiwa Tatula elite reel on a 13Fishing M/H Blackout rod.

I checked the leaderboard and noticed I was in 2nd with ~81″. As the south wind increased, I pedaled out to a point near the 3mm of Long creek and picked up the jig. On my first cast, I landed a beautiful 18″ smallmouth which put me in the lead. I continued fishing the point and noticed my graph was lit up

with fish in the 20-25ft range. My next few casts were swings and misses as it felt like the fish were picking it up and dropping it before I could get a hookset. This bank was loaded with feeders!

Finally, I tried throwing up on the shelf rock at the edge of a channel swing. My jig landed in about 12′ and was smashed by a 17.75″ largemouth. I put her on the board now I’m flirting with 90″! Just unbelievable.

My next cast was to the base of a cedar sticking out of the water on a shelf in 10′. The shelf dropped down into 30′. At the bottom of that lay the largest tournament fish I’ve ever caught.

She slacklined the PigSticker jig and I could barely keep up with her as she rocketed to the surface. I kept the line tight and drug her out over deep water where I let her tire herself out, which, seemed like an hour but was probably only a minute or two. Finally, I put the net under her and just sat there stunned at what just happened. 94″ before noon, on table rock, in late summer, in a kayak tournament, that’s not normal.

I had a 10″ lead on 2nd place and decided to head back to check in early. I had to try and get my mirage drive

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

SUNDAY

As I launched at 6, the wind immediately began blowing out of the southeast. I headed in that direction to try and keep the wind in my face to help with boat control. I fished toward the back of Clevinger and noticed lots of surface activity but they wouldn’t take the Plopper or Yellow Magic. I kept pedaling and firing. Around 8:00 am, I worked my way back out and as soon as the bank rocks started to get larger I hooked up with an 18″ and a 14″ and got on the board.

There was a bit of a lull and around 10:30, I checked the scoreboard and noticed something terrible had happened. I mistakenly wrote TJC instead of TJZ on my identifier card. I was beset with all kinds of emotions. Anger at myself for making such a bonehead mistake, rage about the fact that we have to physically write something on a piece of paper to deter cheating, but mostly, regret for not double checking my card at the ramp before I launched like I always do. I kept pedaling and firing.

I was in the outermost cove on the south shore and I continued to throw the Plopper as I worked this sheltered area as best I could picking up two 15″ers while the wind howled overhead and whitecaps crashed into the north shore. Nobody had been on that bank in two days in the afternoon. I knew the wind had pushed bait up there and I knew the normally gin clear Table Rock water would be cloudy. I just needed one of those typical Missouri hourly weather changes to happen.

A few minutes later, the storm clouds to my west began to form and the wind died just enough that I could make it to the north shore. I kept firing as the wind pushed me along the bank. 100 yards into my first bank at the base of a huge willow tree an 18″er erupted on the “Willy-P” in 4ft of water.

I immediately hit the power pole and anchored while I boat flipped the thrashing largemouth. Pro-tip, never boat flip a green fish with a mouth full of Plopper. I narrowly avoided a treble hook to the shin, toe, hand, finger, and the elbow as she bounced all over the floor.

I got her on the board around 1:50 and began fan casting while the power pole held me in place.

Waves began crashing against the stern again as the storm clouds grew darker. With no more bites in that area, I began drifting again and threw the Plopper at the base of another willow tree. A 14″er smoked it and after entering it into TourneyX, I could finally relax.

REDEMPTION. I was euphoric. I was so happy with myself for deciding to keep pedaling and firing even though my first 32″ were DQ’d. I never gave up. Ike knows and now I do too. You are always in it. Just keep firing at em’.

I ended the day with 170.75″ and a 14″ lead over Arkansas, Justin Brewer on the KBF side. I also won the Missouri State Kayak championship with 176.25″ – 13.5″ over Lance Burris in second who only fished 10 hours!!!

Thank you to Joshua Boothe and Jeff Mellencamp for organizing everything. Thanks to my wife, Rebekah, for letting me go play in the water on the weekends and to all the sponsors who help pay for these contests.

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repaired before OMTC closed and I needed to get some more jigs and trailers. Jason at OMTC took care of me but my tackle shop was closed for inventory. I got back to the house and found one more PigSticker as insurance in case I lost my first one.

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33

The Catch

by Eric J. Goldstein

T

he morning bringing a promise of a beautiful day ahead just began to announce itself. I immersed myself into the rituals that surround and connect us all as anglers. What rods to use, which lures to tie on, what lake to throw my fate into.

Laying my kayak into the stained waters of a local lake I paused to read the water I had studied so often and decided today running North to South was the right direction. An old man, worn to leather by years of running in the sun passed by, with a “Good luck out there son.” He said. I signaled with a wave and pushed off the dock hopeful, expectant and grateful for this day.

I paddled out, quietly, methodically. This was too nice a day to rush. Time does that easy enough without our help. Every few strokes I cast out looking for that first bite while all around me life on, in and above the water teemed with activity. Baitfish dotting the surface, Carp making loud splashing noises as they jumped, birds sought out their next meal and the Bass… Well the Bass I had to find.

As is my habit I decided on a crankbait. We all have our favorites and these plastic and balsa imitations of life are mine. Something about the vibration and feel of each rock, branch and grass bed telegraphing up the line makes me feel connected to the water and structure I float by, over and through.

Twenty minutes maybe, had passed and I paused looking at the water. I found a submerged grass line and knew, knew there had to be bass there. We’ve all had that feeling. You know the one. You see that laydown and you know with an undeniable surety that the fish you are looking for is in there. We are not always right, despite our confidence. But today was different.

I knew this next cast was the one.

I threw out my lure feeling the whip of the rod and watched as the bait sailed effortlessly through the air in an arc. The line, picked up by the wind spraying droplets of water into the air glistening in the reflective sunlight, a shower of water sparks marking the path of the cast.

I started my retrieve slowly, pausing every few rotations to give whatever fish might be watching time to hone in and strike. I didn’t have to wait long.

My line, bee lining for my boat suddenly, violently jerked to the left. I waited for just a second then pulled hard to make certain the hook set. The pull back and down was strong, bowing my rod into a U shape defying physics. How much further could it bend without breaking?

I reeled fast and hard thinking the longer the fish is on the less chance of landing him. And then, with an eruption of water and energy he jumped. What an amazing thing it is to see one of these beautiful

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

creatures airborne, the sun blasting its colors with radiance. Just as quickly it was back in the water diving in a desperate attempt to free itself.

There is a unique connection we anglers have with our prey made even more concrete by the line that binds us together.

He was close to the kayak now and showed me he knew the end was near by diving hard and deep going under the boat. Struggling to keep tension and bring him to the surface I reached for my net, fumbling in panic as the bass fought with all he had.

Finally at the surface and the net just under he gave up, or so he would have me think. One final jump brought him almost eye to eye with me. Frantically I moved the net under him and his re-entry had him landing inside his new nylon prison.

As I brought the net into the kayak he flipped once more shedding himself of the treble so tenuously attached. He fell softly back into the net. I was shaking as I thanked him for the fight, grateful for the catch.

Gently, I laid him back into the security of water, watching him swim away with a final kick of his powerful tail. It was already a glorious day.

Photo by Chris Funk 35

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019 37 Photo by Chris PAYNE

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

or Salt: Sometimes

It’s All the Same

by MICHAEL FIORENZA

I

have the luxury of living here in Texas and being located near Lake Conroe as well as within striking distance to some of the best bass fishing lakes in the state. Add to that an hour highway run to some of the best inshore saltwater fishing on the gulf coast, and a kayak angler ends up with quite the recurring dilemma. Freshwater, brackish or saltwater? Green fish or redfish or speckled trout? The answer really is yes to all three types of water and to bass, specs and redfish.

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Fresh

Why limit yourself, after all, there is a lot of water out there to explore. I consider myself lucky to have been able to enjoy kayak fishing while constantly learning and using skills that cross over between species.

While bass fishing, I am most comfortable covering water and power fishing. My absolute favorite ways to fish for bass is with a topwater, crankbait, swimbait or chatterbait. Like most power fishing junkies, I struggle forcing myself to finesse fish and slow down, and I tend to carry six rods consisting of five casting rods and one spinning rod, and of course enough tackle to work through and find a pattern.

tail swimbait on a rattling jighead. I regularly have even thrown wacky rigged worms, trick worms on shaky heads and Ned rigs, creature baits and frogs with success in saltwater and in the grass during flood tides.

It really is amazing how similar largemouth bass are to redfish and how many techniques and tackle can be easily used for both species. If you are geographically located so you can fish for multiple species, do not be intimidated or feel that you need to get specialty gear for saltwater. Proper maintenance on solid gear goes a long way to extending the life of equipment. Spending numerous hours on a kayak, capitalizing on being able to get to the water boats cannot or will not, offers some rewards if you are willing to put in the work. This goes for both species and any water type, especially when you can get off the beaten path and to areas that rarely see any fishing pressure.

Saltwater I fish differently with much less gear and tackle. I enjoy paddling distances, so I tend to try to stay as light and fast as possible. I also carry half the rods, specifically two casting rods and a spinning rod, unless in a tournament where I add a third casting rod primarily to add a spoon to the toolkit and to reduce time spent retying. While I do downsize the amount of tackle I carry with me for saltwater, that is the only real Since you are reading Kayak Fishing Quarterly, I difference. I carry the same rods, and use the same am assuming that you are either a seasoned kayak topwaters, crankbaits, swimbaits and chatterbaits. angler or becoming involved with a sport that has exponentially grown over the last few years and does I also employ power fishing tactics in the marsh, and not seem to be slowing any. Either way, I hope that the cadence, locations, contours and currents are all you all get to take something positive away from like what I look for bass fishing. Quite honestly, I the articles and submissions here at Kayak Fishing am always looking for current, bait, bottom contours, Quarterly from some excellent contributors, and I look structure and signs of feeding fish. Another way forward to sharing some more content with you soon. of thinking about redfish is that they pattern like Get out there and challenge yourselves to fish other bass but pull and hit much harder. If you have any types of water and for different species. Wear that doubt, redfish will absolutely crush crankbaits and PFD, have and share your float plan, and good luck chatterbaits, and my go to lure in saltwater is a paddle out there!

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

41

The Core of

Balance

by Donald Dehm

Photo by Chris Funk

L

earning to stand in a kayak is one thing, maintaining your balance while standing in a kayak is something that you must practice on and off the water.

Most fishing kayak manufacturers have at least one kayak model that is designed with standing in mind.

Over the last few years, standing in a kayak has become a desire of the angler; this desire has driven the design to meet these demands. While there are many videos, articles, and tutorials on how to stand up and sit down in a kayak, this article is about how to keep your balance while you are standing and how you can improve your balance to allow you to stand longer with more confidence and with less fatigue to your knees and back.

BALANCE BIOMECHANICS

Keeping one’s balance on a kayak requires understanding what balance is, what sway is, what center of mass is, and how it all comes together when we talk about the human body. So, what are balance, sway, and center of mass for the human body? “In biomechanics, balance is an ability to maintain the line of gravity (vertical line from center of mass) of a body within the base of support with minimal postural sway. Sway is the horizontal movement of the center of gravity even when a person is standing still. A certain amount of sway is essential and inevitable due to small perturbations within the body (e.g., breathing, shifting body weight from one foot to the other or from forefoot to rearfoot) or from external triggers (e.g., visual distortions, floor translations).�

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Image Courtesy of Kelsey Hoggard

The center of mass of the body, when standing, is roughly in the middle of the body, just below the belly button level. It is directly over the base of support, the area between your feet.

This changes with movements, body type (height/ build), what we are holding or doing (paddle, rod, casting, etc.), and what we are wearing (clothes/PFD).

CONTROLLING YOUR BALANCE

There are two ways of controlling your balance, involuntary and voluntary. Most individuals have some level of involuntary control of balance (automatic), and this level varies from person to person and is extremely difficult to improve upon.

Imagine you’re standing still, now slowly lean forward, you will reach the point when you lose balance and have to step forward to catch yourself from falling; this is the point at which your center of mass is no longer over your base of support.

Voluntary control of balance (learned) levels vary in us all, but fortunately, we can improve these levels greatly with practice and training. Of course, there are psychological and physical factors that can limit each of these two areas, but we can all reach our full potential if we work hard towards improving ourselves.

BIOMECHANICS IN THE KAYAK ANGLER

When we, as kayak anglers, allow the center of mass to go outside the base of support is when we risk falling into the water. The bigger/wider the base of support, the easier it is to balance; standing with legs as far apart as possible on the deck.

The closer the center of mass is to the base of support, the easier it is to balance; crouching or sitting down in the seat.

Sway comes into play for us kayak anglers in many forms which include the water/wave movement, the flexing of the hull/deck, fatigue, body sensory (joints, head motion vs. body motion, directional information as it relates to the head position), rotation from casting/setting hooks/paddling, bending over to land fish, etc.

ENGAGE YOUR CORE

The key to maintaining your balance while in the kayak comes down to using your core muscles and legs. Your legs are used as shock absorbers and to help mitigate the sway caused by the water/kayak moving.

•Keep your feet as far apart in the kayak as possible.

•Keep your knees slightly bent and relaxed, do not lock your knees.

•Keep your legs slightly relaxed to allow you to shift the weight of your body from one to the other, or both as dictated by the sway motions.

•Engage your core muscles to trigger your voluntary and involuntary control of balance to help keep the center of mass over your base of support.

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The Center of Mass in the body changes as you move. The figure on left is with feet spread wide apart, the middle is with arms raised, and the far right is bent forward. Notice how the Center of Mass is affected as you move and change position.

Practicing your balance can help you gain the confidence to not only fish standing up, but also to paddle while standing.

PRACTICING YOUR BALANCE

These are exercises and techniques that can help you with your voluntary control of balance, that you can perform when not in the kayak.

•Stand with your eyes closed and focus on engaging your core to maintain balance.

•Stand on a bottom stair with heels or toes off the edge. Practice maintaining balance with eyes open.

•Next, close your eyes and see how well you can maintain that balance (remember to engage your core).

•Balance on one foot and bend slightly forward at the waist with your eyes open. When you feel confident in that, do it with your eyes closed. This is great for learning to keep balance while paddling. You can hold a paddle to help give you a sense of real-life application if desired.

•Balance on one foot and simulate casting and setting the hook with a rod in your hand. Engage your core on each cast and hook set. When you can do this on one foot, you should easily be able to do this on the kayak with both feet planted firmly on the deck.

ADDED BENEFITS

Tightening/Engaging your core can help alleviate knee pain, lessen lower back fatigue, and allow you to spend more time on the water. Exercises to help tighten and strengthen your core are found all over the internet, workout programs, and in nearly any fitness magazine. Please be sure to consult a physician as necessary before beginning any exercise programs.

I can attest to these benefits, being an Army Veteran, 10+ years as a bouncer, 20+ years in martial arts, and 4 years as a Rodeo Clown, my knees and lower back have taken some abuse. Without engaging my core, I

would not be able to stand and fish for very long at all, but when engaging it I can stay on the water, and my feet, for as long as needed.

MECHANICAL ASSISTANCE

There are many styles of chairs in the kayak market today. Most fishing kayaks designed for standing will have a lawn chair or camp-style chair that will allow you not only a comfortable place to sit but a raised platform from which to make standing less of an effort.

If you find yourself in need of some help standing up in your kayak, you can use a stand-assist strap.

This can attach at a forward point on the kayak to help lift and lower yourself from/to that comfortable chair. Please see the manufacturer’s recommendation on weight restrictions, use, and attachment points/ mounting requirements, etc., for their products.

To summarize, kayak anglers must maintain balance using core strength and legs. This is a very important thing to know when paddling because if you tighten/ stiffen your legs to gain balance, you will likely fall off.

If you feel tipsy while in the kayak, tighten your core/ abs, this will regain your balance quickly and prevent you from going for a swim. Standing is not always required when in the kayaks but having the skill to stand and fish confidently when needed is one that takes some practice and work.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Donald Dehm is a kayak angler with over 10 years of experience fishing from kayaks in the Southeast and Midwest. He teaches people the basics of kayaking, fly fishing, kayak fly fishing, and fly tying through his business Floating Feathers Kayak Fly Fishing School. Find out more about his school at kayakflyfishingschool.com

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

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45

T

he Crescent LiteTackle is the second in the line of fishing kayaks Crescent has developed over the last three years.

At just over 12 feet, it offers a console-free deck, nice appointments and is a completely made in the USA kayak, including the frame style seat. I got to spend some time with one of the LiteTackle fishing kayaks last weekend in conditions that started as calm and ended with 20+mph gusts. All the details are below but before we get there, here is what Crescent says about the LiteTackle.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

Words and Photos by Chris Payne ABOUT THE CRESCENT LITETACKLE In contrast to cluttered fishing kayaks on the market, the LiteTackle utilizes clean, refined design without limiting functionality.

The LiteTackle offers an open floor layout for casting and stand up paddling, a cockpit that fits a 55 gallon cooler to be used as an elevated seat, integrated accessory rails, one of a kind storage, and versatile bungee strap down systems. You can even clamp a trolling motor straight to the stern.

The LiteTackle sports a custom look, straight from the showroom floor. American Made and constructed of the highest quality resin available, the Lite Tackle is the best value on the market. The patented hull design commands the water from flat to moving, allowing you to fight the fish instead of the kayak.

SPECIFICATIONS

LENGTH 12′ 4″ WIDTH 34″ WEIGHT 75 LBS WEIGHT CAPACITY 450 LBS 47

THE GOOD

The Crescent LiteTackle is different than a lot of kayaks out there under the thousand dollar price point. It’s not imported but rather made in a factory here in the United States and is designed by kayak anglers, not recreational watercraft engineers. The appointments on the LiteTackle are on purpose and are utilitarian in nature with a touch of aesthetic flare.

The stability in this kayak is different than many models as it has primary and secondary stability while still including a significant rocker to keep the bow riding higher in the waves.

What that means for the paddler is a kayak that won’t slip out from underneath them if they lean, and a better tracking kayak that efficiently channels water under the boat, not into it.

It is my belief that a good many people will be able to stand and fish from this kayak. At 34 inches wide and with no intrusion of a console on the deck, your feet can go where it feels most comfortable with no limitations. The open deck is also great for fly anglers needing a clean deck to strip line.

The storage hatch upfront is big and able to accept a lot of gear under hull which is great for multi-day river camping excursions. I found the front hatch to be watertight in my time on the water with significant wave splash.

The tank well holds a crate just fine with room to spare and the squared-off stern allows for the addition of a trolling motor if you so desired without having to buy additional pieces and parts.

The seat I found comfortable, adjustable and a vast improvement over the prototype seat which had less curve in the backrest.

The handles and their placement on the LiteTackle are done intelligently by someone who has had to transport kayaks before The handles themselves are rigid and not the typical knuckle buster style.

Crescent LiteTackle Fishing Kayak Review Payne OutdoorsTypically with a good tracking kayak, the paddler will experience sluggish turning. The Crescent LiteTackle is an exception to that.

With a deep dig of the paddle, the kayak turns 90 degrees even with the wind. This lends itself to being able to not only perform in open water but in rivers as well.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

POINTS OF IMPROVEMENT

In the front hatch, there isn’t currently a bucket so smaller items may slide around in the hull if the kayak goes off parallel. I’d like to see a bucket accessory for the 2020 models that is easily removable.

The only other real gripe I have is with the seat height.

When seated, you get great performance in paddling because you are close to the water. This, in turn, might make it difficult for some folks to stand and sit while on the water without the addition of a stand assist strap. If there were a high seat position available that

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE CRESCENT LITETACKLE

After spending several hours in the Crescent LiteTackle and having paddled almost every sub $1k kayak on the market in the last five years, I can confidently say the Crescent is at the top of the list for best in class. As a paddle kayak with a frame seat, trolling motor ready, stand and fish ready, fly fishing capable, made in America, and only $899, if you haven’t looked at this kayak, you should. It won’t fit everyone’s needs, but it will check a lot of boxes for a lot of people.

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Winter 2019

I’d love to see future models with a deck mat. While the deck as currently designed is texturized enough to avoid slipping, a sound dampening mat would be a good addition.

raised the seat four to six inches, that would alleviate most needs for an assist. I will say though, this will probably only apply to the heavier and taller paddlers of the kayak.

REDFISH BONANZA

by Dustin Nichols

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Higher than normal tides have all of the bait fish and shrimp pushed deep into back lakes and marsh creeks. Cue the first decent frontal system and all hell breaks loose. High winds, especially with a little bet of west in them, will aid the tide in falling quicker than normal...

AKA “The Dump!”

So...what does the Sciaenops ocellatus (also known as the red fish, red bass, channel bass, and spottail bass) do when all that bait is pouring out of the marsh drains.

Well...they line up in the buffet line and overindulge. You can take advantage of this by fishing post-frontal conditions in back marsh lakes and drains. Make sure to study the area well to know you will not be “stuck in the muck” when the tide is flushed out.

Plus...one of the best benefits of fishing these areas by kayak is the ability to get shallow! You can reach those off the beaten path areas that boats cannot get to.

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all in Texas means changing weather patterns, high school football, and plenty of red fish action, if you are lucky enough to live near the coast.

KEY TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

GEAR/KAYAK SAFETY

Match lures to what bait is present. If the fish are feeding on small finger mullet, then have some smaller profile soft plastic swim baits handy. I tend to have a mix of light and darker colors dependent on water clarity.

The right gear goes along way when targeting reds.

Pick your rods that have some solid backbone that will help you turn those fish away from oyster shell or grass. A solid bait caster or spinning reel will work fine for you. 20lb braided line paired to 24 to 30” of fluorocarbon leader material will handle all those feisty red fish can dish out. A stake out pole that can double as as push pole is a great tool to have along with you. It will keep your kayak in position and hold you against the tidal flow keeping you on the fish.

Also, a top water walking bait will draw in the strikes.

There is nothing else like that top water explosion!

Can you see small shrimp jumping around? If so, a small shrimp imitation will do the trick.

Find the choke points. Red fish are going to key in on areas in the marsh where the back lakes funnel into creeks that connect them.

When that tide starts pulling out of those lakes and receding out of the grass, the fish will be staged in the drains waiting to ambush whatever bait comes their way.

Other fish will be present too. Don’t discount the possibility of catching them also! Look for flounder to hang around those same drains you will be targeting.

Remember your PFD’s and to let someone know your launch site on areas you will be fishing. This time of year is also the beginning of waterfowl season. That means the possibility of air boats that can get back into those same marsh areas you will be in. Mounting a flag and 360 degree light( Yak Attack and Rail Blaza have super nice ones) will help you stay visible to others on the water.

So get out and enjoy that red fish bonanza! Remember to stay alert and key in nervous water and fleeing bait fish or shrimp and cast to that area quickly. It could result in some drag screaming fun!

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

Weekly Schedule Mon: The OG Show Tues: Bass Fishing for Noobs Wed 1: Adventures with OutdoorWoman Wed 2: Chasin' The Tide Thurs: The Final Cast Fri: The Reel Down

Find us @:

www.paddlenfin.com 53

The

OUTDOOR

Gallery

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

PHOTO BY ROLAND PALACIOS 55

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

PHOTO BY WALLY SCHULZ 57

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

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Denes Szakacs Photography @Denesszakacsphotography 59

PHOTO BY RYAN LAMBERT Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

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Kayak Fishing Quarterly

pfd review N

by chris payne

otto matik

Winter 2019

nrs RS has been making one of the top PFDs on the market for kayak anglers for years in the Chinook. The only PFD solution the team at NRS hadn’t tackled moving into 2019 was an inflatable solution for those of us in the south who fish in 100-degree temps and high humidity.

requirements as a Type III life jacket when worn. (See Note below.)

Not only did NRS tackle the inflatable PFD offering in late summer but they did it twice. NRS now offers the Matik and Otto Matik inflatable PFDs. The Otto Matik is an auto inflating PFD and the Matik a manual. The PFD I’m reviewing for this article, is the Otto Matik, an auto-inflate PFD.

When deflated, the vest secures with a waist buckle and offers one adjustment point for a snug fit.

In the event of a swim, the water sensor will activate the pressurized CO2, inflating the integrated bladder.

The Otto Matik folds compactly into a low-profile horse-collar style jacket to give you on-demand flotation that doesn’t get in your way stand-up paddling, fishing or wading.

ABOUT THE NRS OTTO MATIK INFLATABLE PFD

Features a zippered pocket with internal tether for keys or a whistle plus a manual backup cord, mouth inflation valve, reflective accents and two attachment points.

This lightweight self-inflating PFD provides 22.5 lbs. of flotation and only meets U.S. Coast Guard

Includes a 24 gram CO2 cartridge. Replacement CO2 Re-Arming Kits (Item #40100.01) are sold separately.

CO2 cartridges are one-time-use only. It’s good practice to keep an extra CO2 cartridge on hand to rearm the PFD after each inflation.

An alternative to waist-belted PFDs, the low-profile NRS Otto Matik Inflatable PFD resembles a traditional lifevest with the compact convenience of an inflatable.

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Note: An inflatable PFD is certified by the US Coast Guard as a Type V PFD. However, it meets Coast Guard requirements for Type III PFDs when it is worn.

In other words, you must be wearing the deflated collar for it to qualify as a required flotation device.

THE GOOD : NRS OTTO MATIK PFD

At long last, we have an inflatable from NRS! I’ve waited several years for this and it didn’t disappoint.

Several things about this automatically inflatable PFD stuck out to me as great features.

The fit is great on the Otto Matik. It lays very flat against the body and isn’t hard to get on and off. It’s also very breathable and comfortable.

If it were on the outside where the pocket is it might be unreachable after inflation but on the interior, you could open the side panel to get to the knife when not inflated and then if inflated would be on the outside of the vest. An NRS CoPilot might be too heavy but the Neko might work.

FINAL THOUGHTS: NRS OTTO MATIK

The Otto Matik PFD is as good as any inflatable out there and at a lower price point than about half of the market listed at $180. The Matik will be in my line up for any water without rapids, powerboats, or quick strike dangers.

I tested it during a demo day with temperatures in the low 60s. I had it on for a little over five hours paddling, pedaling, being very active and didn’t sweat through my shirt where the Otto Matik had contact. That’s a great sign of breathability. Us folks in the heat down here really appreciate that.

The large pocket in the front has a key tether but I actually use it to hold my phone and license. It fits my iPhone X so it should fit a great majority of the phones out there. Even in a case.

I like the fact that the jacket opens via velcro and isn’t a damageable bladder that inflates outside of the jacket. The Otto Matik is very easy to repack and rearm should you need to use it inflated. While it’s inflated, the interior has reflective stripes to help you be found easier at night when a spotlight or flashlight might be used to search. You also have a manual inflation tube should the cartridge have a failure.

The D-rings are also a nice touch. I use it to hang my whistle from which is necessary to meet Texas law regarding kayak fishing.

An important note about sizing, the Otto Matik is made to accommodate a chest size between 30-52″ and a waist size between 30-58″.

POINTS OF IMPROVEMENT

I like the stripes that are reflective for night searches however, I think a good addition would either be fluorescent stripes in between the reflective stripes or making the Otto Matik in a colorway like bright lime green or safety orange.

I really don’t know if it’s possible or not but if it is, I’d love to see a four-way receptacle for a rescue knife on the internal of the Otto Matik where the stripes are located.

Kayak Fishing Quarterly

Winter 2019

65