Category Archives: Reviews

Reviews

The Ultimate Guide to Fishing with the BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait

If you’re an angler looking to elevate your game, the new BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait is a lure you don’t want to overlook. With cutting-edge design and premium features, this jerkbait is built to catch more bass, even in tough conditions. In this article, we’ll dive deep into why the BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait should be in your tackle box, including its key features, how to fish it, and the best conditions for success.

New Booyah Flashpoint Jerkbait
New Booyah Flashpoint Jerkbait

Get your Flash Point Jerkbait at Lurenet.com and save 15% with code KINCY15.

Why the BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait Stands Out

The BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait is designed for versatility and performance. Whether you’re targeting bass in spring or chasing bites during the fall transition, this lure delivers lifelike action and appeal. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • Advanced Internal Weight System: This jerkbait features an innovative weighting system that allows for long casts and a balanced, erratic swimming motion. This lifelike action is perfect for triggering reaction strikes from even the most lethargic bass.
  • Suspending Action: The Flash Point™ suspends in the water column, holding its position during pauses in the retrieve. This makes it ideal for cold-water situations or when bass are holding tight to structure.
  • Triple Hook Design: Equipped with three premium treble hooks, this lure ensures a higher hookup ratio. When a fish strikes, the hooks provide strong penetration, increasing your chances of landing the fish.
  • Realistic Detailing: The BOOYAH Flash Point™ is available in a variety of colors that mimic real baitfish, with realistic 3D eyes and a sleek body profile. This attention to detail helps you fool even the most discerning bass.

How to Fish the BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait

Fishing a jerkbait like the BOOYAH Flash Point requires the right technique to maximize its effectiveness. Here’s how to fish it for the best results:

1. Twitch, Pause, Twitch

The classic jerkbait retrieve involves twitching the rod tip to make the lure dart side to side, followed by pauses where the lure suspends in the water. This mimics an injured or fleeing baitfish, which is irresistible to bass.

  • Fast Twitching: Use fast, erratic twitches when the water is warmer or when bass are actively feeding. This aggressive action triggers reaction bites from fast-moving bass.
  • Slow and Steady: In cooler water or when the bass are more sluggish, slow down the retrieve. Let the jerkbait sit longer during pauses, giving lethargic fish time to strike.

2. Vary Your Cadence

Bass behavior changes throughout the day, so experiment with different cadences. Some days, a quick double-twitch followed by a long pause will entice a strike. On other days, a more consistent, rhythmic retrieve is the ticket.

3. Target Key Areas

The BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait excels when fished around points, weed lines, docks, and submerged structure where bass often ambush prey. Cast beyond your target and work the jerkbait back through high-percentage areas.

Best Conditions for Fishing the BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait

The BOOYAH Flash Point is highly effective year-round, but it shines in specific conditions:

1. Cooler Water Temperatures

Jerkbaits are known for being exceptional in cooler water, making this lure a go-to choice in spring and fall when water temperatures drop. The Flash Point™ suspends during pauses, making it ideal for targeting slow-moving bass in colder conditions.

2. Clear to Slightly Stained Water

The BOOYAH Flash Point Jerkbait excels in clear or slightly stained water where bass rely heavily on sight to locate prey. Its realistic design and sharp darting action are more visible in these conditions, triggering more strikes.

3. Windy Days

Wind stirs up the water and breaks up the surface, making bass less cautious and more aggressive. The erratic action of the Flash Point™ combined with a little chop on the water creates the perfect conditions for explosive strikes.

Best Gear for Fishing a Jerkbait

Having the right gear can make all the difference when fishing a jerkbait. Here’s the setup that works best for the BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait:

  • Rod: A 6’6″ to 7’0″ medium or medium-light casting rod with a fast action is ideal for jerking the rod tip and making the bait dart in the water.
  • Reel: Use a baitcasting reel with a moderate gear ratio (6.3:1 or 7.1:1). This provides the speed needed to control the retrieve while allowing for quick adjustments during the twitch-pause action.
  • Line: Fluorocarbon line (10-12 lb test) is recommended when fishing jerkbaits. Fluorocarbon sinks slightly, which helps keep the bait in the strike zone. Its low visibility also makes it ideal for clear-water situations.

Best Colors to Use for a Jerkbait

Choosing the right color can make a big difference in your fishing success. The BOOYAH Flash Point™ comes in a variety of colors that are effective in different conditions:

  • Natural Shad Patterns: These are perfect for clear water when bass are feeding on baitfish. Colors like Ghost Shad or Clear Shad work well in these conditions.
  • Bright or Chartreuse Colors: In slightly stained water or overcast conditions, brighter colors like Firetiger or Chartreuse Shad help bass locate the bait more easily.
  • Darker Colors: When fishing in low-light conditions or in darker water, opt for a color like Black Gold to create a stronger silhouette in the water.

Conclusion

The BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait is a game-changer for anglers looking to increase their catch rates, especially when targeting bass in cooler water. With its advanced internal weighting, realistic suspending action, and premium detailing, this jerkbait is built to perform under tough conditions. Whether you’re fishing during the fall transition or targeting bass in the spring, the Flash Point™ Jerkbait provides the perfect balance of versatility and effectiveness.

With the right technique, gear, and color selection, you can make the most of this powerful lure and enjoy more successful days on the water. Add the BOOYAH Flash Point™ Jerkbait to your tackle box and get ready for explosive strikes and more bass this season!

Reviews

Bank and Creek Winter Kit

Are you a passionate bank or creek angler, always on the lookout for the perfect tackle kit to enhance your fishing experience? Look no further than the Lurenet Bank and Creek Fishing Tackle Kit, a comprehensive set of baits designed to elevate your fishing game and help you make the most of your time on the water’s edge. In this article, we’ll explore the features and benefits of this all-in-one seasonal tackle kit, breaking down why it’s a must-have for every bank and creek angler.

Subscription Bag

Lurenet’s Bank & Creek fishing tackle kit provides seasonally relevant fishing lures, presentations, and color patterns for multi species fishing scenarios. Each lure was hand selected by bank fishing and creek fishing experts to assure each fishing tackle kit is comprised of value, quality and confidence.

Let’s delve into what makes this fishing bundle stand out:

  1. Diverse Lure Selection:
    • The kit includes a variety of lures, each designed to attract different species of fish commonly found in bank and creek environments. From vibrant crankbaits to versatile soft plastics, this kit covers the essentials.
    • The January-February kit includes some go-to winter baits such as the Booyah lipless one-knocker, Bomber Long A, Yum Ned Dinger, and Booyah Boo Jig. In total, there are 13 items in the current kit.
  2. Quality Construction:
    • Lurenet is renowned for its commitment to quality, and this tackle kit is no exception. Each lure is crafted with precision and durability in mind, ensuring they withstand the rigors of bank and creek fishing.
  3. Limited Edition Lures:
    • Each Lurenet Bank and Creek kit includes a few lures that are only available in the Bank and Creek lineup. Custom colors designed specifically for small water fishing environments are included.

Let’s explore how the Lurenet Bank and Creek Fishing Tackle Kit caters to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by bank and creek fishing:

  1. Shallow-Water Expertise:
    • The lures in this kit are ideal for fishing in shallower waters, where many bank and creek species thrive. Whether you’re targeting bass, panfish, or catfish, the kit provides the right tools for the job.
  2. Versatile Retrieval Techniques:
    • From slow retrieves to aggressive jerks, the diverse lures in the kit allow you to experiment with various retrieval techniques. Adapt to the behavior of the fish and increase your chances of a successful catch.
BAC_Header_Desktop.png

Winter Bank and Creek Kit

In conclusion, the Lurenet Bank and Creek Fishing Tackle Kit is more than just an assortment of lures – it’s a game-changer for bank and creek anglers looking to up their fishing prowess. With its diverse selection, quality construction, and tackle organization, this kit is a valuable investment for anyone passionate about angling in these unique environments. Elevate your bank and creek fishing experience today with the Lurenet Tackle Kit and unlock the potential of your favorite fishing spots.

Reviews

Spring Bank and Creek Fishing Kit from Lurenet – Review

As the winter season slowly transitions into spring, anglers like me eagerly await the chance to get back to the water. Spring bank and creek fishing is a fun way to catch fish of all types, and the right tackle kit can make all the difference. Enter Lurenet’s March/April Bank and Creek fishing tackle kit, a specially curated set of fishing lures, presentations, and color patterns designed to meet the needs of both novice and experienced anglers.

The YUM Hellgrammite makes a great river fishing bait in spring.
The YUM Hellgrammite makes a great river fishing bait in spring.

I was able to get my hands on a kit early and took it out fishing in February to check out some of the baits. Each lure in this kit was selected by industry bank and creek fishing experts, and they did a great job. The Bank and Creek fishing tackle kit includes a range of multi-species fishing scenarios, so you’ll always have the right lure to throw on a given day. And, there are some limited-edition custom color patterns, created exclusively by some of the best lure painters in the business. One of these is the new Norman Speed N Junior in craw with orange belly – killer color that I can’t wait to use all spring.

The Lurenet Bank & Creek fishing kit for March/April
The Lurenet Bank & Creek fishing kit for March/April

Inside the March kit, you’ll find a wide range of lures, including a Smithwick Floating Rattlin’ Rogue in Sunbeam Brim color, a Norman Speed N Jr. in Orange Belly Craw (exclusive custom color), a brand new product and color – YUM Hellgrammite in Copper Creek, a YUM 5″ Dinger in Junebug Red Flake (Lurenet Exclusive custom color), a War Eagle 5/16 oz Gold Finesse Spinnerbait in Coleslaw, a YUM Scottsboro 3” Swimbait in Sight Minnow, a YUM Wacky Tool, and a Pro-X – 1/0 Wacky hook in a 7-pack.

But this tackle kit is more than just a set of fishing lures. It also includes informative BITE SPEC lure guides, which will help you make the most out of each lure and how to fish it. The really cool feature I love is a limited-edition print of a Frank Scalish how-to illustration, numbered 1-300 – this edition on how to rig the Hellgrammite.

A package like this is a perfect seasonal selection for the beginner, novice, or expert angler. There are only 300 kits are available for each season, and they tend to sell out quickly.

If you shop on Lurenet.com for this kit or other baits, save 15% with the discount code KINCY15

Check out these recent articles:

Kayak Motor Battery Review – Amped Outdoors 24v 50Ah
Lipless Crankbait Tips for Bass Fishing / Limited Edition Baits
Reviews

Kayak Motor Battery Review – Amped Outdoors 24v 50Ah

If you are like me and recently added a motor to your kayak, you’re going to need a kayak motor battery to power you on the water. For a lightweight, and competitively priced 24v battery, look no further than the 50Ah LiFePO4 battery from Amped Outdoors. I contacted a few companies to ask for recommendations for a new kayak motor battery setup, and Amped Outdoors recommended this one and provided it for me to try out and review. Am glad they did, it was the one I was planning on buying anyway!

Kayak motor battery - Amped Outdoors Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
Amped Outdoors 24v 50Ah Kayak Motor Battery

First off, let’s talk about the technology behind this battery. LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries. For one, they have a longer lifespan – up to ten times longer in some cases. They also have a higher energy density, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller package. And because they’re made with lithium iron phosphate, they’re much safer than lithium-ion batteries because they are more stable and don’t overheat.

Kayak motor battery weight

What really sets this kayak motor battery apart is its lightweight design. Compare to other 24v 50Ah lithium iron phosphate batteries like ZPro (27lbs) and and Dakota Lithium (31.9lbs). The 23-pound Amped Outdoors version saves on weight and is easier to handle. Extra weight is never a good thing in the kayak, and this lightweight lithium battery is perfect for a kayak setup. On my Hobie Pro Angler, it’s providing power to Newport NK 180 motor.

Amped Outdoors battery with charger.

This kayak motor battery comes equipped with a durable waterproof case and a battery management system. The battery is protected from the elements, important for outdoor applications such as powering kayaks, RVs, boats, trolling motors and off-grid solar systems. This Amped Outdoors battery also has a built-in BMS (Battery Management System) which monitors the battery and ensures safe charging and discharging, extending the life of the battery.

How it is going for me

Kayak motor battery in battery box on kayak.

I’ve been using this battery for several trips on the water now. The Amped Outdoors battery is a reliable and dependable source of power. When I hit the throttle, it’s is responsive and solid. After each trip, I quick connect it to the Amped Outdoors 10A Fast Lithium Charger and it’s ready to go for the next time. To protect my battery and connections from the elements I use a hard sided Arctic Zone cooler from Walmart which has a strap and has pockets to store tools or whatever else I need to have handy.

Kayak motor battery bottom line

In conclusion, if you’re in need of a durable and reliable kayak motor battery, I highly recommend the 24v 50ah LiFePO4 battery from Amped Outdoors. This battery’s advanced technology, lightweight design, durable waterproof case, and built-in features make it a top choice for any kayak angler.

Check out these recent articles:

BENDING BRANCHES ANGLER PRO FISHING KAYAK PADDLE REVIEW

LIPLESS CRANKBAIT TIPS FOR BASS FISHING / LIMITED EDITION BAITS

BANK AND CREEK FISHING TIPS AND TACKLE KITS

Reviews

Bending Branches Angler Pro Fishing Kayak Paddle Review

The Angler Pro kayak fishing paddle is a must-have for any kayak angler. This high-quality paddle from Bending Branches is designed specifically for longer fishing excursions, making it the perfect choice for anglers who want to stay out on the water for extended periods of time.

Bending Branches Angler Pro Fishing Kayak Paddle
Bending Branches Angler Pro Kayak Paddle shown in ‘Radiant’ – Kayakfishingfocus.com

One of the key features of the Angler Pro Snap Button is its durable construction. Made from top-quality materials, this paddle is built to withstand the rigors of extended use. It features a lightweight, yet strong, carbon fiber shaft and a durable, fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade that can handle even the toughest conditions.

In addition to its durability, the Angler Pro kayak fishing paddle also offers a number of other benefits that make it a top choice for anglers. For example, the paddle’s unique snap-button ferrule allows for easy, tool-free adjustments to the feathering angle, making it easy to customize your paddling experience. Additionally, the snap-button design allows you to easily break down the paddle for transport and storage, making it a great choice for anglers who travel frequently.

Bending Branches Angler Pro Fishing Kayak Paddle
The Bending Branches Angler Pro is a strong, lightweight kayak fishing paddle – Kayakfishingfocus.com

Another great feature of the Angler Pro Snap Button is its comfortable grip. The paddle features a ribbed, T-grip handle that is ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue, making it easy to hold onto the paddle for extended periods of time.

This paddle is the most advanced, comfortable, lightweight and durable kayak fishing paddle I’ve ever used. It does have a high price-point, but is well worth it and made in the USA.

The Bending Branches Angler Pro kayak paddle is available in three stunning colors – Radiant, Glowtek and Copperhead. These are beautifully designed kayak paddles that add style to any angler’s setup but also provides high visibility for safety on the water.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality, durable paddle for your next fishing trip, the Angler Pro Snap Button paddle from Bending Branches is an excellent choice. With its durable construction, customizable feathering angle, and comfortable grip, it is sure to meet the needs of even the most demanding anglers.

Lipless Crankbait Tips for Bass Fishing / Limited Edition Baits

Reviews

Bank and Creek Fishing Tips and Tackle Kits

Bank and creek fishing can be a productive way to catch fish, whether a new or experienced angler. Creeks are typically smaller bodies of water and are home to a variety of fish species, such as bass, panfish, and trout.

Certain baits and colors can work better in a small river or creek at different times of year. The new Bait School Bank and Creek fishing kits are released frequently as limited-edition packs of seasonal baits for small water fishing. These are a great way for beginners to know they have what they need to take on bank and creek fishing.

Bait School Bank and Creek baits

Once you have your baits, it’s time to find a good spot to fish. Look for areas where the water is a bit deeper and there is cover for the fish to hide, such as logs or rocks. You can also try fishing near a drop-off or a calmer deeper pool next to where the current is stronger. Creek fishing changes frequently, so try different tactics to find what works that day.

One of the great things about these exclusive fishing kits is they come with tips and insights on how to use each individual bait to catch fish. There are always exclusive baits included designed to appeal to fish in these smaller bodies of water based on the common forage.

Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your local creek and for the type of fish you are trying to catch. These bank and creek fishing tips are straight from the experts who make the lures – so you don’t have to guess how to use them.

Lurenet Bank and Creek Fishing Kit – January/February

The January/February Bank and Creek fishing kit is out and has a limited run of 300 available. A Lurenet Bank and Creek kit not only includes 10 creek specific lures, but also everything you need. This includes a how-to guide and custom rigging illustration.

This edition of the Bank and Creek fishing kit are several exclusive colors along with some reliable go-to baits:

  • Cotton Cordell Super Spot 1/4 oz – Sriracha Craw (Exclusive custom color)
  • Norman Deep Tiny N – Chrome Pumpkinseed (Exclusive custom color)   
  • Cotton Cordell Big O 76 – Stickle Back Shad (Exclusive custom color)
  • YUM 4″ Dinger – GB Haze (Exclusive custom color)   
  • Road Runner Original Marabou – Chartreuse
  • Booyah Baby Boo Jig 3/16 oz – 3D Green Pumpkin
  • YUM Ned Craw – Brown Orange and YUM 5″ Finesse Worm – Ghillie Suit
  • YUM Ned Head 1/8 oz and 1/12 oz 3pk – Black (Exclusive product)

Get your Bait School Bank and Creek fishing kit at Lurenet.com now and use discount code KINCY15 to save 15% off your purchase.

Video: 6 lb Largemouth Bass caught on topwater.

Reviews

Kayak Fishing Measuring Board Showdown – Hawg Trough vs Ketch Board vs Fish Stik

2 Comments

When I started kayak fishing a few years ago, there was only one standard in measurement for kayak anglers – the classic Hawg Trough. Today kayak anglers have more options than ever for kayak fishing measuring boards, including two new players being accepted on tournament trails including NSKA and KBF, among others. What are the differences in each option and which one is the best? Keep reading as we review each of the three main competition measurement board options.

The Hawg Trough, Fish Stik and Ketch board are all solid kayak fishing measuring board options. photo: kayakfishingfocus.com
The Hawg Trough, Fish Stik and Ketch board are all solid kayak fishing measuring board options. photo: kayakfishingfocus.com

Hawg Trough Review – Jason Kincy

The most widely used and accepted kayak fishing measuring board around is the Hawg Trough. Widely available through local and national retailers, you can find the Hawg Trough for anywhere between $16 to $21 and often will come with a logo of a club or retailer already in place. I’ve been using a Hawg Trough since I began kayak fishing and have had good experiences overall. The Hawg Trough generally comes in white or hi-visibility yellow, with white being my preferred version. (I’m in the minority on that)

The Hawg Trough kayak fishing measuring board is the old-school method for kayak anglers to measure fish. Low cost and light weight are the best attributes of this board. - photo: kayakfishingfocus.com
The Hawg Trough kayak fishing measuring board is the old-school method for kayak anglers to measure fish. Low cost and light weight are the best attributes of this board. – photo: kayakfishingfocus.com

Hawg Troughs generally do not come with lines nor any flotation support, although new models area available pre-lined or with modifications to help it float. I’ve gotten pretty good at adding the lines, and if you mess up the permanent marker is easy to get off with some nail polish remover. As far as big fish go and breaking boards, I’ve measured some very large bass on it and have had no problems, it’s just a matter of making sure there’s some support. The light weight is a plus on my boat which is already weighted down with too much tackle and the lower price point allows me to have a backup board around just in case something happens.

For someone just starting out, it’s hard to beat the price and flexibility of the Hawg Trough.

Ketch Board Review – Dwain Batey

The next kayak fishing measuring board on our list is the heavy duty option from Ketch. When I first acquired one last year I wrote up this Ketch Board review. In this showdown of the kayak fishing measuring boards, Dwain Batey, avid Ketch Board user and kayak angler provides his breakdown.

The Ketch kayak fishing measuring board is the heavy duty option for kayak anglers, made of aluminum it is virtually indestructible.
The Ketch kayak fishing measuring board is the heavy duty option for kayak anglers, made of aluminum it is virtually indestructible.

“I bought my first Ketch Board on the last day of the 2018 KBF National Championship, and I’ve been nothing but impressed with the quality, durability and appearance of the board. After using it for almost a year now it looks just as good as it did when I first got the board.

The Ketch Board is not as price friendly as the other two boards in this review at $59.99 (with free shipping), but for an almost indestructible American made board with unmatched accuracy it’s well worth it, and with the 1/4” thick aluminum construction you’re never going to tear this thing up under normal conditions. Short of a car wreck or something crazy I can’t imagine how you’d ever hurt this thing.

As I mentioned Ketch Boards are 1/4” thick aluminum and engraved to within +/- .005” throughout the length of the board. The construction has many features to prevent board tampering, and they come in a wide range of colors. You can now even get your club’s logo or other custom laser engraved script on your board for an additional charge.

My one suggestion is that you put a light colored sticker on the fence where they fish’s nose touches especially on the darker colored boards so that it’s easier to tell if the nose is against the board for the Tournament Directors judging your fish.

The Ketch Board is heavy, and if I was worried about weight I would absolutely cut some somewhere else to make room for this board. It’s worth the weight to not have to worry about a breaking board If I catch a fish of a lifetime, or just happen to move wrong and put weight on the board. The black cradle that helps keep the fish centered on the board is also almost indestructible, I’ve yet to see anyone damage their cradle.

The Ketch Board absolutely doesn’t float, but has two holes for tethering it to your kayak. And they also sell a great color matched tethers from Never Lost Gear for just $12.00 that are coiled to stay out of your way.

If you want a top of the line board that you never have to worry about drawing the lines on, never have to worry about breaking, and is uncompromisingly American Made, Ketch Board is for you.”

Yak Gear Fish Stik Review – Tim Hotchkin

The final kayak fishing measuring board on the list is the Yak Gear Fish Stik, the only collapsible option approved by many tournament circuits. Tim Hotchkin, Natural State Kayak Anglers veteran and Fish Stik users provides his thoughts on this compact option.

The Yak Gear Fish Stik provides a big-time kayak fishing measuring board space which folds down for easy storage. - photo: kayakfishingfocus.com
The Yak Gear Fish Stik provides a big-time kayak fishing measuring board space which folds down for easy storage. – photo: kayakfishingfocus.com

“I have been using the Fish Stik since it was released and I like it a lot.  Some of the main benefits are:

  • Folds for storage and space.  I can often leave it under my seat so it’s not in the way while fishing.
  • Wider than other measuring boards I’ve used so I have less issues of fish coming off.
  • Floats which is nice as I have lost a few boards over the years due to knocking it off or dropping it when I dip it in the water before measuring.
  • It comes in 3 color options: Sunset (orange), white, and yellow.
The board does not come marked but a marker is included when you order one and the lines are raised pretty well so it’s easier to mark than others I’ve used before.  I know people get worried about durability due to hinges but I have measured several 20+ inch fish including my personal best that was around 24 inches and have never had an issue. “
Kayak Fishing Measuring Board Overview
 As you can see, all three kayak fishing measuring boards are excellent and quality options for anglers. I own a Ketch Board and a Hawg Trough and plan to use both this season. I’d love to try out a Fish Stik more extensively and do a more in-depth review sometime down the road.
Depending on what you are looking for, any of the three could work for you and do the job. Be sure to check the rules of your club or tournament trail to ensure which boards are accepted options.
As a final wrap-up, here are the overall strengths, weaknesses and specifications for each option:
Hawg Trough Kayak Fishing Measuring Board

Specs – 30″ long, 10-11 oz. weight, retail price $16-$22 depending on options and retailer.

Strengths – The Hawg Trough is lightweight, easy to use and inexpensive. Tried and true through thousands of kayak fishing tournaments.

Weaknesses – Weakness is literally the biggest problem for the Hawg Trough and could break if not careful. Most models don’t come pre-lined.

Ketch Kayak Fishing Measuring Board

Specs – 26″ long, 3 lb. weight, retail price $59.99 (engraving extra)

Strengths – Extreme durability, more manageable size, anti-tampering technology.

Weaknesses – Triple the weight of other options, more expensive and mixed reviews from TDs on ease of judging.

Yak Gear Fish Stik Measuring Board

Specs – 36″ long, 22 oz. weight, retail price $27.99-$33.99.

Strengths – Compact, floats, comes with lines and has some really good color options.

Weakness – Perception of accuracy due to hinges, length when unfolded can be a little unwieldy.
For another view on these kayak fishing measuring board options, read Chris Payne’s review from 2018.
= = = = = = = = = =
Reviews

Bending Branches Navigator Paddle – Review

I’ve never seen a paddle I love the looks of more than the new Bending Branches Navigator paddle. This new kayak paddle from Bending Branches sports a classic natural look but has the same feel and durability that makes Bending Branches paddles the best around.

The Bending Branches Angler Navigator Paddle is a work of natural art featuring a natural wood blade.

Bending Branches Navigator – A Natural Beauty

When Bending Branches shipped me the Navigator to try out, I was in awe as I opened the package and laid eyes upon the natural hardwood slats which make up the blade. The rich wood colors come from the Red Alder and roasted Basswood slats, which are protected by clear fiberglass. These blades looked so good, I wanted to hang them up and not use them…but that’s no fun.

Bending Branches Navigator On the Water

I have fished now with the Bending Branches Navigator several times and multiple people who have seen the paddle have commented how awesome it looks. But how does it work? Although the wood looks awesome, I was worried about weight and durability.

Bending Branches Navigator paddle looks great and rocks on the water.
Bending Branches Navigator paddle looks great and rocks on the water.

Even with the wooden slats, the Bending Branches Navigator comes in at an awesome 28 ounces, which is unbelievably lightweight. I have a Bending Branches Angler Pro which is a top of the line model and you really wouldn’t know there’s something different in your hands. The T-700 Carbon shaft is strong yet flexes like a dream.

When Bending Branches manufactured the Navigator, (Made in the USA!) they added a hardened Rockguard edge protector around the blade which helps keep it tight when pushing off of rocks and gravel. So far, only minor nicks are showing in the black edge and the wood still looks flawless.

Specifications and Availability

Looking for a paddle for the New Year or an awesome Christmas gift? Pick up the Bending Branches Navigator at your local Bending Branches dealer or order online from online retailers like Austin Kayak and Walmart.

Specifications:

  • Blade is 6.2″ x 20″ and a total of 96 square inches
  • Available in 210cm  220cm  230cm  240cm length
  • Weight 28 oz.

 

 

Reviews

How Hard Is It To Stand In A FeelFree Lure Kayak?

Special to Kayak Fishing Focus courtesy of Ethan Dhuyvetter.

As a 6’5 fisherman, I have always had some trouble with my “sea legs”. I honestly thought that firing crankbaits on windy points while operating a trolling motor was going to be the death of me while fishing competitively in college. Somehow, I managed to survive despite multiple instances where I nearly took a nose dive into the lake.

FeelFree Lure Kayak

So when it came to picking out a fishing kayak the year after I decided to part ways with my boat, I realized that it wasn’t going to be easy to find a watercraft which I can effectively stand in. After researching numerous kayaks which fit my price range, I took a leap of faith and ordered a FeelFree Lure 11.5 from an online retailer.

A couple weeks later, I picked it up at a random warehousing facility on my way to Lake Taneycomo, Missouri for some trout fishing with a couple of my college roommates. Being new to the kayak fishing game, I quickly realized that this wasn’t your ordinary kayak. It was heavy, stable, and incredibly comfortable. After a few hours on the water, I even tried standing….

Let’s fast forward 3.5 years to current day. I still have that exact kayak and feel like I could do a handstand in it. Well, that is, if I could do a handstand in the first place. But you get the point, standing in this kayak actually comes easy for me! Heck, during the spawn, I love to “paddle board” around in search of bedding bass.

Overall, I thought this would be a helpful article for those of you who are also skeptical. Hopefully this brief write-up paired with the video which I put together will help you realize that this FeelFree Lure kayak amongst many others on the market are incredibly stable and easy to stand in, even if you are 6’5.

Ethan Dhuyvetter runs a fishing YouTube channel (Online Outdoorsman) focused on inspiring others to spend more time outside.

Reviews

Stormr STRYKR Jacket Review

I just finished up my second late winter and early spring fishing season using my Stormr STRYKR Jacket on the worst weather days. It has kept me warm and functioning on the water in extreme conditions. Most recently this year in a KBF tournament on Lake Bull Shoals it protected me in windy and snowy weather with water temps in the 20s. Hours on the water were made much more comfortable with this piece of equipment.

The Stormr STRYKR jacket was great protection against the wind and snow on Bull Shoals. - kayakfishingfocus.com
The Stormr STRYKR jacket was great protection against the wind and snow on Bull Shoals. – kayakfishingfocus.com

When kayak fishing in freezing and windy conditions I wanted to have a jacket that was warm, stopped the wind but wasn’t too bulky to wear and move freely while in the kayak seat. The waterproof and windproof Stormr STRYKR jacket is an impenetrable shield against the elements.

Stormr STRYKR Jacket Specs

What makes the Stormr STRYKR jacket so effective in protecting against foul weather are the materials and construction. The water and windproof neoprene exterior is an excellent outer shell, while the fleece lined interior is comfortable and holds in body heat. This is the warmest thing I’ve ever owned – hands down. Many other elements contribute to the warmth and comfort:

  • Two-way Adjustable Hood
  • Fleece-Lined Interior
  • Non-Corrosive Splash Proof Zipper
  • Full-Length Interior Storm Flap
  • Glued, Blind-Stitched and Thermal Taped Seams
  • Internal Neoprene Cuffs
  • Abrasion Resistant Material for High-Use Areas
  • Adjustable Velcro Cuffs
  • Adjustable Waistband with Two Interior Cord Locks
Practical Usage and Functionality

As already stated, the jacket isn’t bulky or heavy, both a major benefit for a winter coat for the kayak angler. Aside from keeping me warm and protected, the jacket comes with many extras that were well thought out and make it easy to manage my gear. Some of my favorite features include all of the convenient pockets that allow me to safely store my phone, keys, and anything else I want to keep on me with easy access. Worried about wearing a jacket if going into the water? The Stormr STRYKR jacket has 5 lbs of positive buoyancy which, along with your PFD, will help keep you afloat if you capsize. Some of the other key convenience and safety features:

  • Interior Cell Phone Pocket
  • Two Chest Gear Pockets
  • Two Fleece-Lined, Waterproof Exterior Pockets with PU Coated Non-Corrosive Zippers
  • Two Interior Mesh Gear Pockets
  • Adjustable Waistband with Two Interior Cord Locks
  • Two D-Rings for accessories or kill switch tethers
  • 3M Reflective graphics for high visibility
  • Available in Smoke, Orange or Black and White edition
The Bottom Line

The Stormr STRYKR jacket is a top of the line foul weather solution for kayak fishing. It’s not cheap, but is a piece of equipment that will protect you for years on the water. The only negative I have on this jacket is I wish there was a way to remove the hood for days where I don’t need my head covered but want the warm jacket on my body. The hood will lie back and I don’t have to wear it, so not a big deal but it would be better if I could detach it.

Staying warm and protected in a jacket that also allows you to be nimble in your kayak is worth the investment. Before the next winter season comes, check out the Stormr STRYKR jacket for ultimate foul weather protection. I don’t use them, but Stormr also offers STRYKR bibs as well that would cover you head to toe.