There are plenty of activities to do with your stand-up paddleboard—whether it’s something low impact like yoga or exciting like fishing, with the right equipment, you can do just about anything. But what do you need before you head out with your paddleboard and your pole?
Before you even head out, it’s important to know some things about your board and what you can load onto it—or if your paddleboard can even withstand the weight of your necessary gear. Read on to find out more about what you may need out of your board, and the accessories you can add.
Setting Up your Fishing Paddleboard
Before you even start considering what accessories you may want to add to your paddleboard, it’s important to know whether your paddleboard will work for fishing. If your paddleboard is small, you may not have the space for the gear you need, and if it is not stable, you may end up falling into the water after fighting with that fish you’re trying to catch.
It doesn’t matter what kind of paddleboard you have—plastic, fiberglass or epoxy, or inflatable—but know that some are better than others depending on the complexity of your activity.
Plastic boards are very durable and hard to damage, but they are very heavy and drag in the water. Even so, they are easy to equip compared to the other types.
Epoxy or fiberglass boards aren’t as durable as their plastic counterparts, but they move fast and are much lighter. They can also be built larger, making them ideal for fishing.
Inflatable boards can be time-consuming, as you have to inflate them when you get to the water’s edge, which you may not want to do, as you end up losing valuable fishing time. They can also be too flexible in the middle, sinking a little where you stand or carry your gear, but inflatable boards are still a great option for those who need to limit their personal storage space.
Your board should also have either action mounts, where you can add equipment, or the ability to add action mounts. Newer stand-up paddleboards come with these action mounts since fishing is extremely popular on these boards, but make sure you have that option before you consider any of the following accessories.
1. Stand Up Paddleboard Seating
On those long sessions out on the water, you’re going to want to be comfortable, so having some sort of seating is one of the most important things you’ll need for your fishing rig.
A Larry Chair is a great option for this, as it is foldable, lightweight, and weather-resistant. While originally made for a kayak, it is a great option for your stand-up paddleboard. Make sure you consider the size of your board before you make this purchase, though, as you don’t want to get a chair that’s wider than your board.
2. Fishing Rod Holder
Many existing paddleboards today actually have threaded action mounts, which means you can attach holders and equipment directly to your paddleboard, including a fishing rod mount.
Some options for fishing rod holders that may be compatible with your action mounts include one from GiliSports, another from Nixy, and one from iRocker. Depending on what you’re looking for in a fishing rod holder, they are easily mountable, adjustable, and have locking mechanisms. If you have an older board, you can buy action mounts to add to your paddleboard to include a fishing rod holder on your rig. Make sure you find a fishing rod holder that works with your favorite fishing rod before you make a purchase, as, for some, one size does not fit all.
3. Paddle Holder
Much like the rod holder, having a paddle holder will make your life so much easier—you don’t have to worry about losing your paddle during your fishing session.
The Vamo Yak Attack and Paddle Port Paddle Holder Mount are made specifically for a stand-up paddleboard and can mount easily to your board.
4. Paddleboard Anchor
You’re going to want to stay in the same place when you’re out fishing, and you don’t want your board to move without your permission—to stop this from happening, you’ll need some sort of paddleboard anchor. You don’t want to get to that point where you’re reeling in that big fish and your board starts moving under your feet.
Getting an anchor kit for your paddleboard can stop this before it starts. While not being very heavy, these anchors usually weigh around 3.5 pounds or less. One consideration is the iRocker anchor kit—it comes with its very own bag with a rope and buoy. The Olivia & Aiden Grapnel Anchor and the Best Marine Kayak Anchor also come with their accessories and can be used for a kayak as well.
One important thing to remember is if you’re fishing in saltwater, make sure you find an anchor that is rust-resistant.
Do you know when the best time to paddleboard in the ocean is? Find out here.
5. Personal Flotation Device
Whatever activity you’re doing, whether it’s fishing, paddle boarding, or even simply windsurfing, having some sort of personal flotation device is the most important of any accessory that you may bring with you when you head out into the water. It doesn’t matter how well you can swim—even the strongest swimmers can benefit from the added safety of having a personal flotation device.
While it comes down to a personal choice of what kind of personal flotation device to use, there are many on the market to choose from. Impact vests can help when you’re heading out to your favorite fishing spot, protecting you from any potential injuries that can happen using your paddleboard.
ProLimit has a selection of floating vests and padded impact vests for those who need that sort of protection. Neil Pryde has both impact vests and flotation vests. Other options if you would like something less bulky, can use an inflatable belt. Small and fitting around your waist, it can be engaged when you pull on a tab to inflate it. The Onyx M-16 Inflatable Belt or the MTI Be16g Belt Pack are great choices if you wish to go this route.
6. Stand Up Paddleboard Leash
Another focus on personal safety, making sure you have some sort of paddle board leash can make your experience both a safe and calm one. Knowing if you fall off your board, you can easily reach it to get back on can reduce your anxiety and concern when going out into the water.
A paddleboard leash should be snug and comfortable. Consider the iRocker Leash, Own the Wave’s Premium SUP Leash, or BPS Storm Premium Surf SUP Leash for your own safety.
7. Dry Bag
You don’t know what kind of waters you might hit when you get out there on your paddleboard, so you’re going to want to make sure your gear is protected. If you’re bringing any electronic items out with you, protect them in a dry bag. Because you can’t control where the water splashes, you can be prepared for it by protecting your equipment in a dry bag.
Consider using the iRocker waterproof bag if you need a larger one to attach to your paddleboard. If you’re looking for something more portable and on your person, YETI SideKick Dry functions like a waist pack, keeping all your items close by.
8. Cooler
While you’re protecting your electronics in your dry bag, you can protect your hydration with a cooler. No one wants to drink warm liquids during your fishing trip, and it’s important to stay hydrated when you’re paddle boarding.
If you’re looking for a larger option, the YETI Roadie 20 is made for you. A tie-down function can be added for an additional price. If you’re looking to keep your setup small, you could also get a hard cooler to use as a seat instead of an actual paddleboard chair.
A smaller model would be the THURSTO 20 Can Deck Bag. This comes with S-hooks and D-rings in order to attach to your paddleboard deck.
9. Storage
Whether it’s simply a milk crate or your very own tackle box, you’re going to need somewhere to store the important items you’ll need when you head out to fish. Even using something as small as this Gander Outdoors utility box can keep your lures and hooks safe. You can also get a premium storage bag, like this Picifun Fishing Tackle bag, which can be used as a backpack, sling pack, chest bag, or tackle bag when not attached to your board.
Creating your own fishing set-up varies from person to person, but the previous nine accessories are key before you head out. Whether it’s keeping your drinks cold or finding a place to sit, you’re going to want your options covered so you can get the best catch of the day.
Please note: This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult a legal expert or medical professional to address your specific needs.