KAYAK FISHING
Pair your two favorite outdoor activities together with kayak fishing!
HOW TO CHOOSE A KAYAK
Read articles from our Angler & Boater magazine to help you decide which boat is best for you!
KAYAK FISHING TIPS
This guide will get you kayak fishing in a flash with a list of equipment and helpful tips.
KAYAK FISHING SAFETY GEAR
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Life Jackets on board for all passengers and must be worn for paddlers 12 and under and worn by everyone on paddleboards, canoes and kayaks and all boats less than 16 feet in length from Nov 1- April 30.
*On Pittsburgh District United States Army Corps of Engineers lakes (only), everyone in boats less than 16 feet in length and in all canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards
Night Lights. Paddlers must carry a white light that is either hand-held or installed and ready to be diplayed in time to avoid collision. All boats must show required lights between the hours of sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility, such as fog and heavy rain. Navigation lights are designed to identify the type of boat and its situation (underway, direction of travel, at anchor, etc.) on the water. Boats underway include drifting boats. Night boaters should carry spare bulbs, fuses, batteries, and a flashlight.
Registration or launch permit for kayak, canoe, paddleboard. Paddlers accessing PFBC launch areas and PA State Park launch areas can get registration or a launch permit online or at an issuing agent.
Sound-Producing Devices. Operators of unpowered boats (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards) are required to carry a device capable of sounding a prolonged blast for 4-6 seconds that can be heard by another boat operator in time to avoid a collision.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
- A change of clothes
- A dry bag
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
MAKE A FLOAT PLAN. A written statement that details your intended trip and is provided to a relative, friend, neighbor, or marina operator. Include specifics about the boat, equipment, crew, and departure and arrival times.
For additional safe practices when kayaking, visit Paddlesports Safety.