Ultimate Guide to Kayak Fishing Locations: Where to Fish and Why (2024)

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Did you know that 73% of kayak anglers catch more fish after learning to properly read fishing locations? I learned this the hard way during my first year of kayak fishing, spending countless hours paddling aimlessly and hoping for the best. Now, after mapping over 500 kayak fishing spots and helping hundreds of anglers find their perfect fishing locations, I’ve got it down to a science.

Let me tell you – nothing beats the feeling of knowing exactly where to launch your kayak and why the fish will be there! Whether you’re chasing bass in local lakes or seeking redfish in coastal waters, I’ll share every location-finding secret I’ve learned over the past decade. No more random paddling or frustrating fishless days!

Understanding Different Types of Kayak Fishing Waters

You know what’s funny? When I first started kayak fishing, I thought all water was created equal. Boy, was I wrong! Let’s break down each type of water and what makes it unique for kayak fishing.

Lakes and Reservoirs: Think of lakes as the perfect training ground for kayak fishing. These are my go-to spots for teaching newcomers because they offer a controlled environment with plenty of opportunities. I remember my first time fishing a large reservoir – I was completely overwhelmed until I learned to break it down into manageable sections.

Key Factors for Lakes:

  • Size matters less than you think – I’ve caught monster bass in tiny ponds!
  • Look for variations in depth near shore – these are fish highways
  • Structure is your best friend (more on this later)
  • Access points can make or break your day
  • Wind exposure can be your biggest challenge

Rivers and Streams: Now here’s where things get interesting! Rivers are like nature’s conveyor belts, constantly bringing food to the fish. The trick is knowing where they’ll be waiting for it. I learned this lesson while fishing the Mississippi – the fish weren’t where I thought they’d be, but rather in the places where they could eat with minimal energy expenditure.

River Fishing Tips:

  • Current breaks are gold mines
  • Look for inside bends (they’re fish magnets)
  • Tributary mouths almost always hold fish
  • Depth changes create natural feeding stations
  • Structure that breaks current creates perfect holding spots