A lot of people would choose kayaks to fish since they can glide faster compared to most trolling motor boats, which allow you to be able to go to more fishing locations. And the faster your fishing kayak is, the better. However, do you have any idea what makes a fast fishing kayak?
Here are the basic elements which significantly affect the speed of a fast fishing kayak.
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Basically, a longer and narrower fishing kayak makes it faster, more efficient and easier to keep in a straight line while paddling or moving. On the other hand, a shorter and wider kayak will make your kayak run slower but more stable and easier to rotate.
If you’re using your kayak to go fishing, it’s smarter to invest in shorter kayaks which are around 9 to 12 feet long. Most kayaks in between are made for recreational activities besides fishing.
However, there will only be a significant change to speed if we’re talking about cutting off or adding 1-2 ft. to the length.
There are three different types of kayak symmetry, Sym, Fish and Swede. Among the three, the fish-form kayaks allow you to paddle it the fastest and most efficiently.
The longer the length of the hull is, the faster it can cruise. But as mentioned earlier, it will take a foot or two to generate significant change in speed.
For a human-powered water vehicle, reducing residual resistance is a great idea that creates just small waves as it cruises.
If you reduce the surface of the hull, it will result to lower frictional resistance which allow your kayak to go faster.
Most people neglect to see that it’s not just about the kayak that makes it go faster, it’s also about the proper techniques in paddling. It’s easy to paddle, but there are more efficient ways on how to improve speed.
Loosely grip the handle of your paddle so your upper arm should be relaxed. Also, make sure your upper hand is at about eye level all the time to keep the paddle in a vertical position. The stroke ends as your put down your hand on the same level your tummy is.