Whether you are new to an area or you are just getting into fishing, finding a boat to fish out of can be a challenge to say the least. Most skiffs and flats boats often come with a hefty price tag. Costs of guided trips can add up fast. Being without a boat can make getting to do quality fishing feel like an impossible or hopeless task. When watching skiffs jump from one flat to another, it seems impossible to find a place to fish but there is still plenty of fishing to be had. Kayaks and paddleboards provide access to water and many desired species of fish can be caught right off the beach at times. When to fish a beach and where to take a paddleboard varies drastically throughout the country and the world, but here are some pointers to help get you started.
Paddleboards and kayaks
These are a more cost effective way to get on the water without an engine. Each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Kayaks put you lower to the water and keep you in a seated position, making it harder to cast. Larger fishing kayaks double as paddleboards and it is safe to stand in them. Generally the larger the boat the larger the price tag. Stand up kayaks sometimes require a truck or a trailer to transport. Paddleboards can be harder to paddle and be less efficient, but provide for easier casting due to the fact that you are already standing. Companies like Bote and Jackson Kayak are making fishing specific paddleboards, complete with tackle racks to hold your rods.
Choosing can be difficult because there are many factors besides price that come into play. How easy is it to transport and store? How quiet is it on the water? How far can does it need to go for a giving outing? If you struggle with balance, a kayak is the way to go. Both of these options work well for fishing mangroves and intercoastal waterways. While they are far more affordable than a boat, they can still be pricey. A decent inflatable board starts around a $ 1,000 and a fully kitted fishing board running upwards of $2,000. Some of the larger stand up fishing kayaks approach the $3000 range if you load it with options.
Remember to follow U.S Coast Guard Regulation and bring out a PFD (life Jacket). It’s better to lose your rod than your life if you tip over.
Walk the Beach
Striped bass, snook, redfish and even the occasional tarpon can be found cruising the beach. During winter months many shrimp runs occur as well as baitfish migrations. Often times predatory fish make their way to the beach to feed. When fishing the beach remember to cover a lot of water if you do not know where the fish will be. This means walk the beach, always looking for fish or bait balls. The more water you explore, the greater your odds of seeing a fish are.
Catching a fish crashing on the shore can be incredibly exciting. When targeting any fish try and figure out what they are feeding on. It may sound obvious but it can be important. When fish are keyed in on something like sardines, they will often only eat flies that look exactly like the bait fish. Remember, the predatory fish are there for a reason, to eat something specific, so match the hatch. Nothing is more frustrating than throwing a fly in front of a hungry fish and watch it swim by.
The beach provides for stability and room for backcasting so don’t be afraid to throw some line. If you know where fish will be hanging out a ladder can be an option. Standing on a ladder makes spotting fish easier and can make casting easier by putting you high above the water. But be careful, ladders can become unstable and sketchy. A stripping basket can become your best friend, keeping all of your line ready to cast and organized in front of you. Not every angler enjoys using a stripping basket, but they are worth a try.
Most importantly, wherever you are, make sure that fishing is allowed on the beach you plan on fishing at.
Talk to the local fly shop
If you can find a fly shop near by, walk in and pick their brain. They are usually more than happy to point you in the right direction. Some fly shops are more friendly and more helpful than others. However most will genuinely help you out, they love fishing just like us and want to talk about it. Keep in mind that a fly shop will not tell you their favorite secret spot, but any fishing spot is better than none. But no matter what type of help you receive, do not walk out of the store empty handed, that is simply rude. At least pick up a few flies or somthing and thank them for their help.
Make friends
Easier said than done most of the time. Not everyone you meet will be happy to take you out on their boat. Even if they are scheduling and availability will undoubtedly diminish your time on the water. Odds are if you live near water you can find someone that has access to a skiff and convince them to take you fishing. Do not take access to a boat for granted, sometimes being “that” guy who is gracious and respectful gets you the invite. Remember some simple boat etiquette if you do score a ride.
- Always offer to pay for gas
- Always buy beer
- You can not thank whoever took you out on their boat enough
Remember that if you are on someone’s boat, follow their rules. If they say no shoes, then don’t wear your shoes. Keep in mind, most shoes scuff up the deck of the boat anyway. Bring food and drink if you have enough notice and make sure you don’t make poling difficult for the captain. Quite sure if you move erratically and make someone fall off the poling platform, it will likely be your last day on that boat. Alway offer to help clean their boat after you use it as well, it not today, then sometime.
Not being able to get on a skiff should not take away your time on the water. Grab your rod and get after it!
