Kayak Fishing the Adirondacks
For years, my adventures on the waterways of the Adirondacks were constrained by the need for a companion. Kayaking alone seemed daunting at first—hauling a canoe onto my vehicle was a physical challenge, and the thought of paddling long distances by myself often left me feeling exhausted before I even began. Meanwhile, I noticed more kayaks appearing on rooftops during the summer months, sparking a curiosity within me. I longed for the independence to venture out on the water alone and explore the wild beauty of the Adirondacks at my own pace.
A Newfound Freedom
Inspired by a friend who had long been an avid kayaker, I finally decided it was time to embrace this growing interest. With his encouragement, I took the plunge and started searching for a kayak. It wasn’t long before I came across a great deal on an Old Town kayak being sold by someone who no longer needed it. That purchase marked a significant turning point in my outdoor experiences, and with it, I embarked on my personal kayaking adventures in the Adirondacks.
Unique Experiences
From the very first time I paddled, I was hooked. The act of dipping my paddle into the cool, calm water felt meditative. Each stroke created soft ripples, sending droplets splashing back onto my wrist as I maneuvered the boat. The kayak effortlessly glided across the surface, creating a seamless connection between myself and the surroundings. In these moments, I felt a deep sense of tranquility.
Kayaking in the Adirondacks provides an entirely unique way to experience the landscape. As I moved further from the shoreline, the vibrant green forests and wildflowers gradually faded into the distance. The environment became quieter, and the only sounds that accompanied me were the rustling of leaves in the breeze, the occasional call of a bird, and the gentle sound of water against the hull of the kayak.
Advanced Techniques for Precision Kayak Fishing
As an experienced angler, one of the aspects I’ve come to appreciate about kayaking in the Adirondacks is the ability to fish with exceptional precision while maintaining stealth. Whether you’re casting into tight spaces or navigating around submerged structures, fine-tuning your kayak setup is crucial to your success.
Positioning for Perfect Casts
Kayak anglers who’ve spent time in the Adirondacks know the importance of using the current, wind, and surrounding features to your advantage. Use the natural drift of your kayak to position yourself for precise casts around drop-offs, submerged logs, and weed beds. The key here is to make small, subtle adjustments with your paddle and positioning to approach areas where fish are holding, without disturbing the environment.
Rod and Reel Setup for Accuracy
For targeting species like smallmouth bass in rocky shorelines or pike near submerged structures, a shorter, medium-light spinning rod (6’ to 7’) with a fast action tip allows for pinpoint accuracy and better sensitivity in detecting strikes. Pair this with a smooth reel and braided line for enhanced control and minimal stretch—critical when you’re working tight spaces or battling larger fish.
Using a Rudder for Micro-Adjustments
A kayak rudder is a game-changer when fishing in shallow waters or close to structures. It gives you the ability to make small, quiet adjustments without paddling and disrupting your position. When you’re trying to hold position near a promising fishing hole, having a rudder lets you maintain perfect control while staying undetected.
A Connection to Nature
There’s a special kind of freedom in kayaking—being in the “slow lane” allows for a deep, personal connection to nature. Time seems to slow down, and I’m able to fully immerse myself in the surrounding beauty. Every outing feels like an opportunity to disconnect from the demands of daily life, to enjoy the peace and stillness of the water. I can stop whenever I want, whether to appreciate the view, reflect in silence, or simply enjoy the calming sounds of the world around me.
Mastering Adirondack Species Behavior for Targeted Fishing
Kayaking has provided me with the opportunity to dive deeper into the behavior of Adirondack fish species, which in turn has made me a more successful and adaptive angler. Understanding where and when to target specific species based on seasonal behavior patterns is essential.
Smallmouth Bass in Low-Light Conditions
Smallmouth bass are highly active at dawn and dusk, especially near submerged structures, rock piles, and drop-offs. During these low-light conditions, I prefer finesse techniques like drop-shot rigs or ned rigs, allowing the bait to sink naturally and slowly through the water. The key here is to keep the presentation subtle and slow, mimicking the movements of small prey, which bass tend to strike more readily in these moments.
Targeting Pike with Precision Lures
Northern pike are aggressive predators and prefer ambushing prey near submerged structures like weed beds or drop-offs. For pike, large jerkbaits, spinnerbaits, or heavy spoons work well, particularly when the fish are hiding in deeper waters or around cover. The important thing with pike is to create a big splash and retrieve with authority, as the flash and vibration trigger the predator instinct.
Lake Trout in Cold, Deep Waters
Lake trout are often located in the deepest, cooler waters, particularly in the summer months. Vertical jigging with heavier jigs (1-2 oz) and soft plastics works well in these conditions. To increase your chances, target areas with underwater features such as deep drops or ledges, which trout frequent. Slowly work the jig through the water column, mimicking the slow, erratic movement of dying baitfish.
The Adventure Continues
With every kayaking adventure, I grow more connected to this wild, untamed region. The Adirondacks have transformed from a place I once observed from a distance into my personal playground—one I can explore at my own pace. The more I paddle, the more I discover, and with each journey, I am reminded of the joy and wonder that can be found in the simplest of moments spent on the water.
Advanced Safety and Self-Rescue Techniques for Solo Kayak Fishing
Even as an experienced kayaker, I never underestimate the potential risks of paddling solo on remote Adirondack waters. While the serenity of the environment can be overwhelming, it’s important to remain prepared for the unexpected.
Self-Rescue Drills in Remote Waters
Knowing how to rescue yourself after a capsize is an essential skill. I’ve made a habit of practicing my re-entry techniques, such as the “cowboy scramble” or the paddle-float rescue, in calm conditions before venturing out in more challenging environments. These drills have proven invaluable, especially when fishing on lakes where help might be miles away. Having the right technique allows me to recover quickly, ensuring I can continue my adventure without much disruption.
Navigation in Unfamiliar Terrain
Exploring more remote corners of the Adirondacks requires good navigation skills. Whether using a GPS or compass, I make sure to have a backup system to avoid getting disoriented. Some areas, especially near deep coves or islands, can look similar, so knowing my position and route is vital to staying safe.
Dealing with Larger Fish
Landing larger species like pike or lake trout requires extra care, as they tend to put up a significant fight. To manage this, I rely on a long-handled net and stabilize my kayak before attempting to land the fish. This ensures that I’m not losing balance while unhooking a large fish, preventing accidents and ensuring a safe release if I choose to practice catch and release.
Kayaking in the Adirondacks and Witnessing Nature’s Wonders
Kayaks can easily transport you to peaceful spots like Horseshoe Pond, where the beauty and stillness create a perfect environment for fishing and connecting with nature. These places have taught me the importance of understanding fish behavior and continuously improving my kayak setup to match my needs.
Original Article By Todd Mead
About The Author
Todd Mead is a life-long Adirondack deer hunter and author of two books – A Lifetime of Big Woods Memories and Backcountry Bucks. He is a competitive archer and former columnist for “Outdoors Magazine.” He has been a columnist for ”The Outdoors Gazette” and a member of the NYS Outdoor Writers’ Association. He is a big believer in the gift you give, when you take a kid fishing. Check out more from Todd at toddmead.com.
This article has been revised by Daniel O’Neill, an experienced angler and writer, to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. As a result, it may no longer reflect the original author’s views or intentions.
