Kayak Rigging

[harber01]

Just bought a new fishing kayak and was looking to put a fish finder on it.  Was wondering what the thoughts of the side imaging were for a kayak?  I tend to fish the Meramec and Big Rivers more than anything.  Any help appreciated.

[BassMaster#1]

I would just save the money and get a down imagine fish finder.  Dont take my kayaks out as much as myself and buddies have boats.  They both have downimaging and work very well

[Gavin]

Sounds like a waist of money if you fishing the Big & Meramec. Might be good in lakes, but the fewer gizmo's the better in a canoe or kayak...already have some fishing poles, have  a fish finder.

 

[Flysmallie]

I don't see the need on a river. I have one on my kayak but it stays at home if I'm on a river. 

[jpb2187]

I would agree with the others. Probably a little overkill and not really needed on the rivers. I try to pack as light as possible when floating. 

If you are hitting up lakes at all though, I think it could be pretty valuable. IMO I think the key to kayak modifications is ease of removal/set-up, so you can take it off if your going to the river, and set it right back up if you're going to the lake. 

[moguy1973]

I have an older Lowrance down imaging unit on my kayak and it's nice to know the water temp and the depth of the pool I'm in, esp when the water has the green tinge to it and you can't see the bottom.  Other than that I really don't use it to find fish.  You'd be fine with simple 2D unit if you want to know that info.  I haven't hooked mine up the last two times I've taken my kayak on a river.  Mostly because I've forgotten to charge the battery the night before.

[MOFishwater]

FWIW Dick's Sporting Goods has most of their kayaks on sale 33% off. Had I not already picked one up I'd be all over it. Cheapest I've seen them since I started looking a couple years ago. The Field and Stream one is $399 right now, $549 was the lowest I ever saw it go. Good time to blow some cash if you have been thinking about finding something to take up valuable garage space:)