Fishing can be as simple as a rod, a reel, and a lure. But to get the most out of your time on the water, a bit of additional gear is welcome. From pliers to help you remove hooks, to electronics to keep you on the fish, fun doesn’t need to be complicated. A few smart choices, carefully considered, can help you have a great time without breaking your budget.
To help you find a few things to add to your angling arsenal, we’ve searched high and low for the best fishing accessories. Take a look at the excellent products and see if one fits the bill for you.
Best Kayak Fishing Accessories
Anchor – Best Kayak Anchor
It features four large, cupped flukes that fold against the shaft under a metal collar. A simple twist of the collar allows you to stow or release its flukes, and while easy to deploy, Best’s anchor is only 12” x 3” when the flukes are folded-up.
It bites well in sand, mud, rock, and oyster beds, and users report excellent service from this top-notch product. Just be sure to use plenty of line to allow the anchor to lay against the bottom where the flukes can do their work.
Check out our guide for purchasing a kayak anchor!
Fishing Paddle – Bending Branches Angler Classic
Bending Branches’ Angler Classic is a design fishermen can count on. Built long enough for wide fishing kayaks, it’s adjustable to get just the right length you need for your arms, ”˜yak, and seat height.
It’s available in two lengths, 230-245 centimeters and 240-255 centimeters, and weighs just 2.1 pounds. Most paddlers will find that this allows a good fit, while still accommodating fishing ”˜yaks.
And with infinite feathering adjustability, too, it’s as versatile and customizable as they come.
The Angler Classic’s straight fiberglass shaft is incredibly strong, allowing you to use your paddle as a push pole when needed, and its fiberglass-reinforced plastic blades are durable enough to see you through all your adventures. They also sport handy line-catching notches, extending your reach to recover snags.
Kayak Cart – Bonnlo Kayak Cart
In contrast to many of its competitors, Bonnlo’s kayak cart comes with easy-rolling, quiet wheels that can handle everything from asphalt to sand. It’s strong, too, with a 150-pound weight limit, so there’s no concern that even the heaviest kayaks will overload it.
It comes with two 5-foot bungees and a 12-foot ratcheting tie-down strap as well, so you’ll have everything you need to get your ”˜yak to the water.
Its wheels come off by removing a single cotter pin, and the frame folds down to make it simple to store and transport. That’s a thoughtful design feature that you’ll appreciate when you’re using–and not using–Bonnlo’s cart.
Kayak Crate – Bigant Kayak Crate
BigAnt’s kayak crates take the simple plastic crate to the next level. Snap-together sides ensure strength, while also allowing these crates to collapse down to a fraction of their full-size when you don’t need them.
That makes them easy to store. And if you have more than one, and want to keep your gear in place, they stack beautifully, as the tops and bottoms are designed to nest.
Available in three sizes, BigAnt has a crate that’s just right for you. The smallest size is 15.6” x 11.6” x 10.2”. The medium measures 21.3” x 14.2” x 11.8”. And the large is fully 28.7” x 16.5” x 13.8”. Measure your stern well carefully to get the best fit.
Rod and Paddle Leash – CK Rod and Paddle Leash Set
CK’s rod and paddle leash set is more than a great buy. It comes with two rod leashes and one paddle leash, saving you the trouble of buying each separately. Better yet, these are very high-quality products, made from long-wearing, durable, non-stretch fabric. They come with a simple snap carabiner to allow you to secure your gear to your kayak and remove it just as easily.
Users report that these are a strong and dependable way to make sure you keep your rods and paddles on deck.
Dry Bag – Earth Pak Dry Bag
To guarantee that delicate electronics or anything else that can’t stand water isn’t forced to, one of Earth Pak’s dry bags is a solid choice.
Available in a wide assortment of sizes, ranging from 10L to 55L, the right bag for your needs should be easy to find. A rainbow of colors are offered, too, so take your pick!
Made from 500 denier PVC, Earth Pak’s dry bags are tough, durable, and entirely waterproof. The smaller sizes come with a single shoulder strap, but for everything over 30L, expect two backpack style straps to help you carry the weight.
Customers report that these dry bags really work, and you can feel secure knowing that your valuables are safely stowed away.
Stringer – ForEverlast G2 Pro Stringer
If you’d like to keep your catch, you basically have two options: a stringer or a cooler. Everyone knows how coolers work, but if you’re new to fishing, you may be unfamiliar with stringers.
They hold your catch by passing material through the gill slits of your fish, keeping them alive but in place. This turns the water around your kayak into a giant cooler for your live fish, saving precious space on deck for other gear.
ForEverlast’s G2 Pro is an awesome update of the traditional design. Two metal spikes are connected by 15 feet of cord that’s strong, tangle-free, and low friction.
That makes adding and culling fish really easy, and this stringer won’t be a hassle to use even when full. But perhaps the best feature is its large buoy that keeps the stringer afloat. Just by clipping the float to your ”˜yak, you get a larger “cooler” than any you can buy.
Fishfinder – Humminbird HELIX 5 CHIRP GPS G2 PT
But this premium tech packs a premium price, so if you’re sticking to a tight budget, this is probably not the best option.
That said, if you’re willing to swallow the bill, you’d be hard-pressed to find a nicer piece of high-tech help. Equipped to impress, it uses military-grade CHIRP sonar penetrating fully 1,500 feet of water. For fishermen who take to the salt, that’s an important feature.
Offering a 5-inch screen with fantastic resolution, display visibility is awesome, delivering crisp, clear images even in full sun. The Helix 5 uses a transom mounted transducer, and can be powered either by a large 12v marine battery or a smaller power pack.
Drift Sock – Lindy Fisherman’s Series Drift Sock
Often, users find that drift socks cut drift speed in half, giving them twice as much time fishing. And they offer two advantages over an anchor: they’re light and easily stored, and they function in any depth of water.
Lindy makes drift socks for a variety of uses and watercraft, and they’re a trusted name in the business. Made from tough, coated nylon to resist fraying, tearing, and punctures, you can count on the Lindy Fisherman’s Series even in shallow water. Just clip the sock to your ”˜yak and toss it in the water.
The size sock you’ll need for your ”˜yak depends on the conditions you face.
Knife – Ontario RAT 2 folding knife
Ontario’s RAT 2 is a legendary folding knife, renowned for its bomb-proof toughness and quality. At the heart of this knife is a 2.75-inch drop-point blade made from AUS-8 steel.
It’s easy to sharpen and holds a wicked edge, and because of its composition, it can take the abuse of salt water. It will develop rust if it’s not cared for–most good steels will–but by ”˜care,’ we’re talking about a quick rinse in fresh water, and some air drying once you get home!
Easy to deploy with either hand, the RAT 2’s blade is secured by one of the best liner locks in the business. Ergonomics are excellent as well, and with deep but comfortable jimping to secure your thumb, you can be sure of your grip, even when your hands are slimy and bloody. And at just 2.8 ounces, this clippable knife won’t be noticed until it’s needed.
Recognized by many in the knife world as the best buy at this price point, you can be sure that you won’t be disappointed.
Pliers – Piscifun Aluminum Fishing Pliers
Piscifun’s aluminum pliers are a great option for fishing, and a decided improvement over the pair you can get at your local hardware store.
With an aluminum body, they keep rust at bay, but armed with titanium-coated stainless steel teeth and carbide cutters, they can get the job done. And because they come with an attached telescoping lanyard, you don’t need to worry about dropping them into the water.
I’ve used standard pliers on the water before, and without a spring to force them open, they were a real pain to handle one-handed. Piscifun’s pliers are backed by a strong spring, meaning they’re easy to use when you’ve got a wriggling fish in your other hand. And the finger-grooved handle provides a sure grip, an essential feature that makes this tool just that much better.
Tackle Bag – Piscifun Water-Resistant Tackle Bag
Made from 100 denier nylon, it’s tough, durable, and long-wearing. It uses a single shoulder strap for carrying, and sports plenty of D-rings and attachment options.
Its primary compartment measures 12” x 8.7” x 4.3”, and having used a similar pack, I can tell you that it can hold a surprising amount of gear. For instance, two Plano ProLatch 23650-52 Stowaway Boxes are no problem.
And because it’s not as large as a full size tackle box or bag, it’s easy to stow on deck, sling over the back of your seat, or drop at your feet for easy access.
Check out our guide and top picks for the best tackle bag
Landing Net – Plusinno Landing Net
Plusinno’s landing net is available in four sizes, allowing you to choose the one that’s best for you. Their smallest model is equipped with a 12-inch hoop and a fixed 27.5-inch handle.
But they offer three options with telescoping handles, featuring your choice of a 16-inch, 17-inch, or 20-inch net diameter. These extend your reach from 38 inches on the smallest size to 59 inches on the largest model.
Plusinno’s handles and hoops are made from lightweight aluminum, and their specially designed nets won’t harm fish or detach scales, which is ideal for anglers who prefer to catch and release. Customers report that these nets are super-strong, so no worries if you land a big one!
Visibility Aid – Railblaza Visibility Kit II
Not only are kayaks low in the water, making them hard to spot from powerboats, but some of the best times to catch fish are in low-light conditions. Dusk, dawn, and night are prime feeding times–making them prime fishing times, too!
It’s important that you remain visible if you’re fishing in water with traffic, and Railblaza’s Visibility Kit is a great choice. Meeting all US Coast Guard 2NM requirements, you can depend on this kit to keep you safe.
It mounts to a Railblaza bracket attached to your deck, and features a three-part pole that allows you to adjust the height of its high-visibility flag and light. That’s a nice touch, and this adjustability lets you choose three heights. You can also dispense the pole altogether, and just run the light if you wish.
That light is the heart of this system. Waterproof to three feet, it uses three AA batteries to power it for a full 25 hours at its maximum brightness, 160 hours at 50 percent, and 200 hours while flashing.
Rod Holder – Scotty #230 Powerlock Rod Holder
Scotty’s removable universal cradle can accommodate virtually any rod and reel combination, and it’s adjustable by a full 360 degrees. It offers a secure lock, too, so no need to worry about losing your gear in rough water.
The quality is excellent on this budget-friendly product, and you can expect problem-free use for years of angling adventure.
PFD – Stohlquist Fisherman Personal Floatation Device
A PFD is an essential piece of gear, and no one should leave shore without one on. But anglers demand a little something extra from their PFDs, and the Stohlquist Fisherman delivers.
Featuring a high-back design that rides above the seat on your kayak, it puts comfort first to encourage you to wear it. With eight straps that adjust to nearly any body shape, you should be able to get a near-custom fit.
But what really shines on the Stohlquist are the mounting options and storage for gear. There’s plenty of space for everything, from pliers to lures to extra line. With two large molded EVA pockets, this is a PFD that can carry almost everything you need for a day chasing fish.
It’s tough, too. With an outer shell constructed from 500 denier Cordura® nylon, you can count on it to last.
Available in orange and green in sizes ranging from S/M (33”- 39”) to XXL (46” – 52”), we recommend the brighter of the two colors for high-visibility.
Kayak Cooler – Yeti Hopper Flip 12
A cooler full of ice and a few bottles of water or Gatorade can really save a hot afternoon from the heat. Staying hydrated matters, and a refreshing drink is always welcome when the sun’s out and the fishing’s on.
Yeti makes premium coolers, so don’t be shocked by the price tag on the Hopper Flip 12. But you get what you pay for here, and this cooler is as good as they come.
Large enough for even the longest fishing trip, the Hopper won’t leak–and it won’t let your water get warm, either! And soft and pliable, it can be stuffed into spaces where a hard cooler just can’t fit, keeping your beverages within arm’s reach.
Measuring just 21.6” x 10” x 11”, this cooler can hold 12 cans and the ice to keep them frosty. Quality is excellent, and details like the zipper are top-notch.
Fish Grips – YakGear’s Fish Grip “JR”
As the fish fights in your grip, that treble hook is moving around a lot, right next to your fingers! Second, some species offer you a mouth full of sharp teeth, and lipping them just isn’t a good idea from the get-go.
Fish grips solve both problems, and Yak Gears are light, buoyant, and inexpensive. Made from high-strength plastic with stainless innards, these grippers won’t tear the mouths of the fish, making them ideal for catch and release anglers.
They come with an attached lanyard and are easy to open and close with one hand. Users rave about these, so you can be sure you won’t be disappointed.
Measuring Device – YakGear Fish Stik
YakGear’s Fish Stik is an ideal tool for kayak anglers. Most hard measuring devices are too long and too bulky for kayakers, but the Fish Stik collapses to a minimum length of 12 inches.
Fully expanded, it can measure fish as long as 36 inches, and you’re not likely to need more length than that!
Made from durable plastic, it’s lightweight, rugged, and easy-to-read. If you like, it can be attached to a Railblaza pivot kit so that you can swing it out to measure and stow it away when you return to fishing.
You can also store YakGear’s Fish Grip “JR” inside the Fish Stik, giving you just that bit of extra space for other gear.
Conclusion
As you can see, none of these products are frivolous after-thoughts, and each has an essential place on your kayak. They fill specific needs, and if you’ve run into a problem on the water, you probably saw a solution on this list.
One (or more!) of these products may be just the thing you were looking for to finish rigging your ”˜yak for angling, and we’re happy to help you have more fun the next time you go fishing.
