With the recent rise in the popularity of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), many people have begun using their paddleboards for other recreational activities. While some choose to use their inflatable paddleboard to practice yoga at the local lake, others prefer paddling out into the river for a quick fishing trip. 

A Brief Overview of SUP Fishing

SUP fishing can be a great deal of fun, as well as being an excellent form of workout. As an activity, it is easy, affordable, and rewarding. This is because stand-up paddleboards are relatively small and portable. On them, you can access the nooks and crannies of a river or lake that you could never have reached, were you fishing on a bigger boat, canoe, or other type of watercraft.  

Fishing from an SUP board will allow you to do things you could never have done on a more traditional vessel like a boat. For one thing, standing up on your paddleboard will provide you with a great view of the water. This advantageous vantage point may even allow you to spot fish easier than if you were sitting down on a boat or kayak. 

Depending on your mood and preferences, you can go SUP fishing with a group of friends or by yourself. Standing and paddling can compel you to utilize muscle groups that you normally wouldn’t use on a fishing trip. Hence, SUP fishing is an effective form of workout, as well as being a relaxing recreational activity. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine an enjoyable fishing trip with friends, with a mildly challenging exercise session. 

To get the most out of SUP fishing, however, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind. Knowing what to do – and what to avoid – while out fishing with your paddleboard will help you stay focused and avoid any issues on the water. 

Tips for SUP Fishing

So, without further ado, let’s dive straight into some of the major do’s and don’ts of SUP fishing!

Do: Watch the Fishing Line

When you’re paddling around the lake, having fun on your inflatable paddleboard, it can be quite easy to get distracted and not notice it when a fish finally takes your bait. Therefore, it is critical to pay close attention to the fishing line at all times. Just notice how heavy the rod is with your bait, so you won’t miss it when the line gets heavier and sinks faster than usual, because you’ve finally caught a fish. 

Don’t: Carry Too Much Gear

While some gear is essential for a successful SUP fishing trip, too much of it can weigh down your paddleboard and hamper its maneuverability in the water. Too many hooks, rods, lines, sinkers, nets, reels, and lures can put an unsustainable amount of weight on the paddleboard, making it slow and unwieldy. When fishing on a paddleboard, you should stick to the fishing essentials as much as possible, and leave everything else at home. 

Do: Work with the Elements

Because most paddleboards are lightweight, they ride high on the surface of the water and can be easily affected by the direction of the winds and the currents. Therefore, you should pay close attention to the elements when choosing the location of your SUP fishing session. The more you can work with the tides, winds, and currents to steer you in the direction you want to go, the easier the paddling will be. 

Don’t: Lose Awareness of Your Surroundings 

When fishing on a paddleboard, you need to always remain alert and cognizant of your surroundings. You must pay close attention to the currents and the tides in order to maintain your balance and prevent yourself from falling into the water. In this sense, SUP fishing requires more attention and skill than fishing on a traditional vessel such as a boat or a kayak, as the latter can be relied upon to keep you afloat even if you’re momentarily distracted by a catch. 

Do: Spend Time Finding the Fish

One of the best aspects of SUP fishing is the visibility that it offers you. You can take your time paddling around and looking in the water, until you find the perfect spot to start fishing. You will often spot shallow-water fishes cruising along, close to the surface of the water, perfectly visible from your position on the paddleboard. You can paddle stealthily behind them until you find more fish, at which point you can cast your line into the water for the best results. 

Don’t: Forgo a Sturdy Anchor

You mustn’t forget to carry a small anchor with you, whenever you go SUP fishing. Paddleboards are light and maneuverable, designed specifically to glide effortlessly through the water. However, this can be a problem if a wind starts blowing when you’re trying to keep your paddleboard in position to make a strike. Dropping an anchor in the spot you’re trying to fish will keep the paddleboard from gliding off when the wind changes direction. 

In Summary

You can have a lot of fun SUP fishing if you invest in a high-quality paddleboard, anchor, leash, and adjustable paddle. With the right equipment, SUP fishing can be a great way to indulge a hobby, socialize with friends, and get some exercise – all at the same time!