The kayak, a small boat that is operated manually, is today available in several categories.
There are sea kayaks, whitewater kayaks, surf kayaks, racing kayaks and fishing kayaks.
Fishing kayaks have gained popularity in recent times especially in the warmer regions and they are designed similar to recreational sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks.
A unique feature of the fishing kayak is its wide 36-inch beams which increase lateral stability.
This stability is also increased by the outriggers which some fishing kayaks have.
The new Twinhull models, for example, offer enough stability to facilitate paddling and fishing during the standing position.
While kayaks were popular in the past mainly as a means of transport, today they have gained worldwide popularity with fishermen as they are appreciated to be sophisticated fishing equipment.
Not only are they easily available, fishing kayaks also take little storage space, are easy to launch and cost very little money as they are molded from polyethylene.
A modern fishing kayak allows for quick paddling and is equipped with electronic fish-finders, rod holders, hatches, catch bags and live-bait containers.
The benefits of fishing using kayaks are many.
As the angler is only a few inches above the waterline, an intimacy with the water is developed that would not be possible from the shore or larger lakes.
Because of their size, kayaks are easy to transport and maintain and enable access to any part of the harbor.
In addition, fishing kayaks are noiseless and therefore do not disturb the sensitive fishing grounds.
Proper kayaking skills are necessary to operate a fishing kayak.
Beginners are advised to start paddling in the lake, estuaries and harbors and to take classes or go fishing with experienced anglers before they can start kayak fishing.