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The hull
Soul and spirit in one, the hull is the main component of a kayak.
These are almost all made of plastic, more specifically polyethylene. These relatively large one-piece polymer parts are not injected, but rotomolded, a process democratized by kayak brand RTM for large hollow plastic parts.
Polyethylene has many advantages, and is the right compromise between lightness, price, impact resistance, buoyancy and ease of installation. The hulls of fishing kayaks are particularly wide, for greater habitability and stability. Some manufacturers offer inflatable hulls with a smaller footprint for easier storage.
This less expensive type of hull is aimed primarily at occasional anglers or adventurers looking for space on the move. It takes longer to inflate, whereas a rigid hull can be ready in less than a minute! Beware of leaks and tears when fishing in crowded or shallow waters.
The hull, which is the immersed part of the hull, has undergone numerous improvements. The design is more accomplished, with the ambition of offering the best compromise between glide, stability and lightness.
The deck, too, has been designed with fishing in mind, making it more welcoming and allowing you to carry and place your equipment within easy reach.
The seat
Here, too, the democratization of kayak fishing and demand have led to a significant evolution in the seat. It's been reworked to offer greater comfort over long sessions, and more support without hindering the kayak angler's movements.
More and more suppliers are offering top-of-the-range optional seats in addition to their kayaks, to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers. On fishing kayaks, the seat is higher than on more traditional kayaks.
The relatively high center of gravity means that the hull is wide and very stable, so as not to capsize.
The advantages of kayaking over float tubing
The kayak is the missing link between the float tube, popularized in freshwater over the last 10 years, and traditional rowboats and boats, widely used in France.
1/ The kayak has a seat that allows the angler to be completely dry, unlike the float tube angler who has his legs in the water, yet is flush with the surface. This makes it easier and more pleasant to go out in cold winter weather. You don't need waders and flippers to get around, just your usual clothes.
2/ With the exception of inflatable kayaks, launching a kayak requires very little time and energy. No inflating, no fitting of waders or flippers. All you have to do is unhook the hull, and you're fishing in no time.
3/ The kayak will also be more discreet in clear or shallow water. The kayak's shallow draught means it's less intrusive and more discreet. It's even possible to fish vertically under the kayak in 1 m of water. This is virtually impossible with a float tube, where the fin tip comes right up to the fish.
4/ Kayaks can be used to cover long distances and fish in fast-flowing rivers. It is particularly relevant and agile in strong, relatively turbulent currents. It can cover large fishing areas.
5/ The kayak allows you to carry more equipment, water bottles, snacks... for longer outings...
Advantages over boat
1/ Kayaks can be launched almost anywhere. No need to launch. The lightest kayaks carry themselves for maximum autonomy. Logistics are simpler overall, and the kayak is "ready to fish" in a minute. No special vehicle is required for transport.
2/ In large lakes where internal combustion engines are prohibited, it offers navigation performance equivalent to (or even better than) a boat, with greater maneuverability and autonomy.
3/ Overall purchase and maintenance costs are lower than for a boat. It also requires less space for storage. All you need to do is rinse the hull. Fittings are also more affordable.
4/ The kayak is more discreet, less bulky and less noisy. It's the reference for shallow-water or clear-water fishing, whether in rivers or lakes.
5/ No need for a boating licence, whether in freshwater or at sea!
Apart from these comparisons, kayaking offers unique possibilities and sensations of gliding, freedom, sportiness and fun. As far as regulations are concerned, where boat fishing is possible, kayak fishing is possible. There are no particular restrictions, and this lightweight craft offers a great deal of freedom.
