Gear
I've only ever used second-hand kayaks. I like stuff that's been tested and that I don't have to be too worried about breaking. The rest is new, but I go for the lower end of gear that can still hold up. If you have the money, splurge on a new carbon kayak with Shimano reels. If not, I highly recommend the setup I've got.
Here's what I bring:
- 3 fishing rods with Penn reels and 30lb braid lines, secured with home made lanyards
- Gaff
- Bait, preferably already rigged up
- Sounder battery in Sistema box
- Coffee (600ml) - more important than bait
- Water (750ml), which I rarely drink
- Silicone bag for spare rigs, slugs, scissors, fishing license, microfibre towel (brown).
- Silicone bag for sunnies, spare batteries, headlight microfibre towel (blue).
- Stainless steel long hook remover / pliers (aluminium pliers work but are a bit weak)
- Fish grip for dealing with sharks
- Ikejime fish spike (this thing is amazing, don't use your knife)
- Rust proof knife (anything metal will rust, use ceramic or wash and dry it each time)
- Microfibre dish drying mat to put under fish - to keep it cool and soak up blood (keeping it PG)
- Lightweight jacket if it's cold
That's it. The kayak is heavy as it is. Only bring what you absolutely need!