Tournament Off-Season
Well the holiday season is over, and I hope you all had a safe and wonderful holiday. It is crazy to think that the 2022 kayak tournament season is upon us! How do you prepare for the upcoming season? Organizing, rigging, cleaning, or map study?... Let me take you through my process to prepare for the upcoming season.
Cleaning and Organizing
Once the off season begins, I usually take some time off from fishing to spend time with the family. However, one of the most important processes I take to get ready for the next season is cleaning and organizing. Being able to clean tackle, lures, reels and other kayak accessories really does help in the long run. The worst feeling in the world is to be competing and then have something breakdown because you didn’t take the time out to service your equipment. Especially the anglers with the pedal drives. Fine tuning those pedals only ensures superior function. Once the cleaning is done, its time to get organized. For myself, this process usually takes the longest because I like to thoroughly go through my equipment. My main focus is really trying to restock all that has been used during the season, and then getting rid of extra tackle or lures that are not being used. Remember fishing is one of those sports where you want to be more efficient with the time you have.
Rigging
Once I have gone through the cleaning and organizing phase, I will begin to evaluate how things are rigged on my kayak. Again, being efficient on the water helps eliminate errors while competing and allows more time for my lure to be in the water. I am constantly asking myself, “What can I do to be more efficient, or Is there something I need to move in order to feel more comfortable while on the water?” The main idea is to make your kayak its own office space to be fully functional for your needs. There aren’t a lot of kayak shops out there that can provide precise rigging the way you want it, but Westbrook Supply Co. does a really good job at listening to your needs and makes it look clean.
Event Preparation
Finally, after completing the first two phases, the last thing is to start preparing for the upcoming tournament season. With so many online, club and national trail tournaments, it can be very overwhelming at times. Sitting down and compiling a list of tournaments that you will fish throughout the season will make it easier for map study, practice, travel plans and etc. Another important point is to read the rules of each tournament trail, so you won’t be caught off guard. This may seem tedious but it will definitely save you from getting disqualified.
Hopefully, this blog has given you an idea of preparation during the off season. If you are in need for kayak parts or accessories, head over to Westbrook Supply Co. website and check out what’s available or contact the shop and ask for Fletch!
IAN HAYNES
Ian has the Heart of a Lion. Don’t let the underdog size fool you as he is restless when it comes to putting in the work and the eagerness to learn. Ian is born and raised in Atlanta, Ga but now calls Rome, Ga. home with his wife and children.
Catching Bass to catch bass
A common problem…You have a tournament coming up in a couple of weeks, and you hear that the bass are biting a jig flipped around brush piles. So you think to yourself, “I can stand in a kayak, so I'm sure flipping a jig will be easy.” The problem is that you don't do it often, and you really aren't confident doing it. Ultimately, from boat handling, to bait presentation, to setting the hook and, most importantly, landing that 5 pounder once she is hooked up, you will probably try what you hear is working for an hour or so, and then go back to doing what you are comfortable doing. The key is practicing new techniques, and having a place to practice those techniques.
I'm confident in saying that it takes catching bass to catch bass. What I mean by this is that everyone should have water where they can just catch fish. Be it a stocked pond, creek, or a spot on a large lake only a few know about. Just having a place to try new techniques where you are likely to get bites. It's amazing how catching a few fish with a new technique will increase your confidence immensely on any body of water. Sometimes, it’s not about how many you’ve gone out and caught that day; it’s about the new techniques you used to catch them, and how those new techniques can help you in the future.
I hear the following all the time:
“I can't flip a jig standing in a kayak.”
“I can't throw a crankbait around heavy wood cover.”
“I can't skip a fluke under overhanging limbs or under docks.”
“I can't dropshot in a kayak.”
Here's the deal. I have gained a lot of confidence in these techniques on a private 6 acre pond. Yes, I learned to dropshot on a pond. I know it might seem odd, but it's amazing how you feel throwing a bait you have caught many fish on no matter where you are throwing it.
I imagine some of you are saying, "I don't have a spot like this." Well, it only takes a little effort. Finding these small private ponds and writing letters to the pond owners, knocking on doors, following fishing forums, and talking to local guides are a few tricks for finding these spots. I hope this helps you stay confident in your next tournament or fun fishing trip out, no matter what bait gets the job done.
–Craig Dye
CRAIG DYE
Craig is a Pro Staff member for Nucanoe, Bending Branches, St. Croix Rods, Dakota Lithium, Rogue Fishing, and Rapala.
First Look: Bonafide P127
Well it’s been a little over a week since my first ICAST, and to say it was a great experience is an understatement. Thanks to my Westbrook family, I was able to experience one of the biggest fishing events that happens each year (minus last year due to COVID). Walking around and seeing all the companies and their new products was something special and worth the experience.
Now let’s get to the surprise announcement by Bonafide Kayaks at ICAST: The New P127 Pedal Drive Kayak!
Yes, you read that right…Bonafide has come out with a pedal drive kayak! It’s been a long time coming and the request by many has been answered. I think the kayak industry was a little shocked due to statements saying that a pedal drive kayak was not in future plans. However, it’s here and I had the opportunity to see the P127 up close and gather my first impressions on the kayak.
The first thing I noticed about the P127 is how Bonafide kept a similar body design to the SS127. If you are familiar with the SS127, you know the versatility of the kayak and it’s many features. Now, think about dropping the Propel Drive smack-dab in the middle! Yep, the P127 just became the new ultimate fishability kayak with the options for Pedal, Power and Paddle(which I still love to do). As far as power, you have the ability to utilize the bow and stern mounting plates for either a MotorGuide Xi3 or Torqeedo. Like I mentioned earlier you can paddle if you choose not to pedal or use power.
Of course when you add something new, some changes have to occur in order to produce the best product. The P127 is definitely similar to the SS127, but there are some noticeable differences with the addition of the pedal drive. From the bow, you have the mounting plate for either a motor or front power pole. The hatch maybe a little shorter however, the storage bin is deep enough to possibly fit a 54ah Dakota Lithium battery for your electronics. Also there is still plenty of room inside to place rods, a power pole or whatever you want inside the kayak. From there, Bonafide added a transducer slot where the transducer can fit comfortably below the kayak and the wiring can slide through avoiding any damage. Above that, you can see where the drive will sit and lock into place. Moving on down into the deck area, you can see some similarities between the P127 and the SS127 with the amount of space for standing and operating while fishing. Finishing up around the bow and deck area are the additions of rod tip covers for staging and protecting rods.
Getting into the seating and stern areas, notable upgrades were integrated into the P127. The Hi Rise XL Width seat is new this year and was created to allow the angler to feel comfortable while pedaling. The seat will sit on two gear tracks for sliding forward and backwards. I know in my case the seat will probably sit a lot closer in order for me to reach the pedals..haha But I definitely believe someone on the tall side will feel just as comfortable with the amount of space on deck! On the seat, you have QuickDraw rod stagers which is a new addition. Below the seat, you have the ability to store an extra tackle box or two if needed. Also, did I forget to mention..(YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO USE THE PREVIOUS HI-RISE SEAT).
Moving to the stern, the tank well on the P127 appears to be somewhat smaller but still able to store YakAttack BlackPak or whatever fishing crate you use. Now with that, you may find it difficult to house a 100ah battery along with a crate if you were thinking about powering a trolling motor (again this is just a first impressions review). There also are two built in rod holders on each side of the tank well. Then behind the tankwell is the rudder control system for steering, and from my understanding this is a new system called the Spring Blade Rudder System. This new rudder is durable and if it were to bump something in the water like a log or rock, it will kick up.
Overall, this kayak seems to be well thought out and accommodates the angler in multiple ways. With its roots coming from the SS127, I don’t think there will be an issue with stability. The upgraded rudder system will allow this kayak to track better in the water. Also with Bonafide utilizing the Propel Pedal Drive system, just put this kayak at the top of the competition and is a must have going into the fall season. Specific details on the P127 can be found on the Bonafide website https://bonafidekayaks.com . If you’re thinking about purchasing the P127, reach out to Westbrook Supply Co and contact Fletch Griffin for ordering details.
-LilManBigFish-
“Fear only leads to future disappointments”
IAN HAYNES
Ian has the Heart of a Lion. Don’t let the underdog size fool you as he is restless when it comes to putting in the work and the eagerness to learn. Ian is born and raised in Atlanta, Ga but now calls Rome, Ga. home with his wife and children.
Closer Look: Cashion Rods
When we first learn how to fish, we really don’t pay attention to specific rod and reels we are using. All we want to do is be out on the water trying to catch the fish of a lifetime. However, at some point we then begin the process of wanting something a little more, something of more quality, and of course more expensive. As a tournament angler, I want the best of best to be competitive on the water, and also know my equipment is not going to fail me. One of the major tools a fisherman needs to catch fish is a rod, and my preferred choice of rods come from Cashion Fishing Rods.
Everyone that fishes with me knows the one bait that is always tied on is a chatterbait. Cashion Fishing has produced two of best chatterbait rods on the market: The Elite and The Icon Series Chatterbait Rods. These rods are top of the line when it comes to quality, sensitivity, weight and strength. There is not much difference in both rods except the Icon is built with more advanced material. When setting the hook, I don’t have to “jack the fish up” but instead let the rod do the work. There have been plenty of instances where a bass would follow the bait all the way to the kayak, leaving no time for a traditional hookset, but I can allow that rod to load up and basically get that fish to hook himself.
If you are in the market for a new rod or in particular a chatterbait rod, definitely check out Cashion Rods. I am very confident in their products and customer service has always been great! If you are local around the Atlanta area, come on down to Westbrook Supply Co. and check them out.
IAN HAYNES
Ian has the Heart of a Lion. Don’t let the underdog size fool you as he is restless when it comes to putting in the work and the eagerness to learn. Ian is born and raised in Atlanta, Ga but now calls Rome, Ga. home with his wife and children.
Closer Look: YakAttack
In this week’s blog we are going to talk about some pivotal products from YakAttack and how it can make you more efficient on the water. It’s very rare to find an angler (specifically a kayak angler) not to have a YakAttack product rigged on their kayak. Kayak anglers have relied on this American Company to outfit their rigs in order to suit their skills and personal preference.
So what are the popular products that kayak anglers use from YakAttack?.. Well just from observation and speaking with a few of my Westbrook Team Members, it appears that the YakAttack Leverage Landing Net, YakAttack RotoGrip Paddle Holder, YakAttack BlackPak and of course the MultiMount Cup Holder. Let’s take a look a quick look at each product.
The YakAttack Leverage Landing Net is one of the most versatile nets on the market. This net was design for kayak anglers in mind featuring a easy foldable design to create more room in your kayak. Most anglers will house their nets in a rod holder connected to the BlackPak or crate. The forearm grip creates stability and control while trying to land those giant fish and you don’t have to struggle with range of motion. Lastly, my favorite part is the rubber netting that helps with removing the stubborn treble hooks. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to cut treble hooks out of my old nylon net leaving baseball size holes.
Up next is the Roto Grip Paddle Holder and BlackPak. obviously we can conclude by looking at the name and it’s purpose for kayaking. However, I have two of these on my Bonafide 127 and use them for staging rods or holding my net in place on the deck. The BlackPak has plenty of options when it comes to the number of rods to carry or number of tackle boxes to hold inside. Every tournament angler will try and carry as many rods as possible without having to give up deck space and the BlackPak is perfect for that. There are up to 10 rod stations slots on the BlackPak and it’s simple installation. It also has enough room inside to hold plenty of those Plano Edge Series tackle boxes as it measures at 12”x16”x11”.
Lastly, lets take a look at what I believe to be the most versatile YakAttack product..the MultiMount Cup Holder. Of course the whole idea is to be used for storing your drinks however, I have found it for other purposes. For instance, if I needed to store extra hooks or weights for a specific technique I’m using, I can, allowing me to be more efficient on the water. Don’t have to worry about trying to get in the BlackPak shuffling for terminal tackle. The MultiMount Cup Holder can also be used for discarding worn out or tore up plastics, discarded line or even your tools (pliers, scissors, O-ring tool, etc.)
This blog is just a snippet into the great products YakAttack offers kayak anglers. YakAttack truly has the angler in mind and wants to ensure they bring a product to the market that has quality and effective for the customer. All YakAttack products are made right here in the USA and can be found on their website https://www.yakattack.us. Also, if you have any questions or looking to purchase locally, reach out to Westbrook Supply Co. and ask for Fletch!
IAN HAYNES
Ian has the Heart of a Lion. Don’t let the underdog size fool you as he is restless when it comes to putting in the work and the eagerness to learn. Ian is born and raised in Atlanta, Ga but now calls Rome, Ga. home with his wife and children.
Closer Look: Bonafide SS127
In this over flooded industry of kayaks, choosing a kayak can be overwhelming at times. Depending on experience and whether or not your are looking for a fishing kayak or recreational kayak, price points can range from as low as $200 to $ 5000. Of course I am here to talk about one of the premier fishing kayaks that keeps the angler in mind:
Bonafide SS127.
As an avid angler there are certain aspects in a kayak that I am looking for: stability, space and unlimited rigging ability.
When it comes to stability on the Bonafide SS127, its in the elite class of kayaks. As an angler, you want to make the most of your time on the water, and be precise when breaking down specific areas. My overall fishing confidence has gone up tremendously knowing that I don’t have to worry if this will be the day that I take bath in the lake and lose all my gear..or question will it perform in the river when bumping into stumps or rocks.. The Bonafide SS127 also gives you a peace of mind when trying to paddle standing up allowing you to get through the toughest areas.
Next for me was the amount of space on the Bonafide SS127. Coming from a kayak where the center console felt like it was up in my throat, this kayak has almost a complete open deck (with the exception of the Dry Pod). This gives me the ability to stand in comfort, walk to the front of the kayak to get into the hatch, or even turn around to get into my tackle box behind the seat. The other cool feature I like is the amount space inside SS127. I am able to store numerous rods, nets, clothes, extra tackle and even an 8 foot power pole stake. Now my truck doesn’t have to be another “one stop tackle shop”!
Lastly, the Bonafide SS127 gives any angler the opportunity to rig their kayak to fit their needs and options are endless. It comes power pole ready or you can add the Yakattack Swingblade rudder kit. The Yakattack Aluminum GearTracs are placed in specific areas to rig up cameras, tie downs eyelets, rod holders, paddle holders and my favorite the Yakattack Multimount Cup Holder. The Bonafide SS127 also has the option of mounting a motor like the Torqeedo Ultralight 1103 AC or even the MotorGuide Xi3 Trolling Motor (I expect this to be a huge trend on the tournament scene).
The versatility of the Bonafide SS127 is in a class of its own and again is in elite status. When Bonafide developed this kayak, they kept the angler in mind and created what they call “The Ultimate Fishability” kayak. The Bonafide retails at $1,699 MSRP. If you want an opportunity to demo the SS127 or have any other questions, come see us.
IAN HAYNES
Ian has the Heart of a Lion. Don’t let the underdog size fool you as he is restless when it comes to putting in the work and the eagerness to learn. Ian is born and raised in Atlanta, Ga but now calls Rome, Ga. home with his wife and children.
Westbrook Blog is Up and Running!
Check back here for blog posts from our team and industry insiders. We plan to cover a wide range of topics from new products, rigging ideas and tournament recaps.