Ideas for a Fishing Canoe

Even a basic canoe can be converted into an effective fishing canoe.

Fishing is a relaxing hobby where you have the opportunity to get out in the peace and quiet of the open waters, either alone or with friends. A canoe allows for a simple fishing trip for one or two fisherman, but requires some special considerations for riggings to ensure best results.

Comfort

Many fishing trips take place over the course of an entire day out on the water. While canoes can be purchased with comfortable seats, many feature more economical and basic designs, which can grow uncomfortable after hours of sitting. Bringing a padded cushion with you, which can be placed on the seat or on the floor if you wish to fish while kneeling in the bottom of the canoe, can make your day much more enjoyable.

Waterproofing

The flat bottoms and the lack of elevated spaces in a canoe leave them susceptible to water building up in the bottom, which can damage unprotected items. Anything that is not water-safe, such as electronics or food and drink, should be stored in waterproof bags, so that should water build up in the bottom of your canoe, they will be protected.

Fishing Gear

For a successful fishing trip, many different elements are needed to ensure that you are prepared for any problems that arise. The simplest way to rig a canoe to hold your fishing gear is with an old milk crate. The interior of the crate can secure your tackle box, lunch and other assorted tools that do not fit in your box. PVC pipe secured to the corners with zip ties makes for great rod holders.

Securing the Gear

Leaving your gear loose in the bottom of your canoe can work for you, but it also leaves you susceptible to the gear moving around as you are paddling, which can potentially lead to damage. The best method of securing the gear to your canoe is to use tie-down straps or bungee cords, to ensure that every item placed in the canoe is snug during movement.

Motors

Although motors are not essential for canoe fishing, for those looking to travel a great distance, or simply have less work in their day of relaxing, they are an option for providing propulsion. For flat-backed canoes, rear-mounted engines are available, while pointed canoes will require the use of a side-mounted engine.

References

• Bass Pro: Outfitting your Fishing Canoe