Hunting from a Kayak

[Boarmaster]

A few test runs fully loaded are most necessary. I would want the weight of the deer to be carried as low in the boat as possible. Not tied to the topside. If I was hauling whole field dressed deer I would want a canoe or nu-canoe style watercraft. That way I could get the weigh resting on the bottom of the boat. If I’m boning out then I could load the meat bags thru the front hatch into the bottom of the boat. Where your weight is in your yak affects how it handles. If you have a rear gear well you could split up the meat and gear to balance. I think its all about planning and testing to avoid a wet azz or worse.

 

[stumpfinder]

don't just have a lifejacket, wear it. tether your bow/gear to the kayak. if you are going to be pretty far or remote, bring a drybag with emergency clothes and source of fire. Hypothermia is a real threat. All the sitka gear in the world wont keep you warm if go swimming in it.

 

[FredH]

I feel the trend towards Kayaks has put canoes in much less use than they used to be and it is sad because for hunting they are much better suited. Carry far more and still easy to paddle.