Boat Fishing

If you already enjoy paddling a canoe or a kayak, fishing is another excuse to get out and enjoy some time on the water.

While you can fish from almost anything that floats, some boats are better than others. If fishing is your main goal, you might consider getting a float tube or kick boat that’s designed to take you to the fish. Because you propel these with swim fins, you get some exercise along the way.

There are lots of fishing-specific kayaks on the market today. These convenient, sit-on-top models are wide and stable and fitted with such fishing-specific amenities and rod holders. Sit-on-top kayaks are best in warmer weather when you can just wear a bathing suit. In spring, you’d need a wetsuit or, better yet, a dry suit to keep you comfortable.

Because I enjoy fly fishing, I usually prefer fishing from larger, more stable canoes. You sit higher up off the water than in a kayak. Kayaks are generally better for spin fishing. Almost any canoe will take you to places you can’t easily reach otherwise and will let you fish in dry comfort.

The way to really get some exercise from your fishing is to go out and troll a lure behind a rowboat. I have a rowing rig for a square-stern Coleman “Scanoe” that is just wonderful for a workout with fish. If you want to get really serious about it, Piantedosi Oars makes rowing rigs and oars that will fit in almost any canoe or small boat. Designed by Gary Piantedosi, an Olympic oarsman and MIT engineer, the systems turn any canoe or skiff into a sliding seat rowing boat. The Massachusetts company will  give demos.