Homemade Fishing Rig for Kayaks

Follow a few basic guidelines to make a homemade fishing rig for your kayak. Keep in mind that you can either spend a lot of money to build a complex rig or build a simpler rig for much less money. It all depends on how much money you wish to spend, and how much gear you want to have.

  1. The Basics

    • For even the most basic rig, include at least one fishing rod holder, a rod leash or safety line so you don't lose your rod, a way to store your tackle box and an anchoring system.

    Rigging Your Fishing Gear

    • Once you've decided how much gear you plan to include in your system, perform the installation. You can flush mount and permanently install, while you can clamp others can be clamped to a milk crate or the edge of your seat. Secure a tackle box with a bungee cord, or strap it inside your dry storage area. Finally, attach an anchor weighing as little as 1 to 3 lbs. to your bow via a line that runs back to your seat.

    The Extras

    • If you wish to have more than just the basics in your homemade kayak rig, consider adding a bait bucket with an aerator. Add an electronic fish finder for fishing in deeper water, and a two-way radio for additional safety. Also consider a dry bag, stowed near your seat, to keep your wallet and other valuables dry in the unlikely event of a capsizing.

    Your Personal System

    • Every homemade fishing rig reflects the individual taste and needs of its owner. Therein lies the benefit of making your own—it provides a chance to design your own rig for the way you fish. Maybe you place the most value on comfort, in which case you could add a sun shade to your rig. Of if you prefer having a wider variety of lures as opposed to a trusted few, you could include a second, or even a third tackle box to your rig with extra bungee cords. Whatever your style of fishing, match your homemade rig to your fishing technique, and you'll have many enjoyable hours out on the water.