Paddle or pedal, yaks superb fishing machines - Charleston Post Courier
Much as flats boats did only a few decades ago, kayaks and similar human-powered fishing platforms have made a huge impact on the way Lowcountry anglers stalk their prey. “With all the waterways, shallows and mud flats we have, the kayak is the perfect watercraft to get out and explore,” said “Dolphin Dave” Hamilton, manager of Time Out Sports in Mount Pleasant. Not only are they perfect for stalking redfish, trout and flounder, kayaks also are perfect for freshwater fishermen after largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and bream. In addition to kayaks (sit inside or sit on tops), the same breed of fishermen also employ canoes (old school) and stand-up paddleboards (the latest). The majority of fishermen like the sit on tops, which allow them to carry more equipment and, with the proper craft, stand up to look for fish. “A lot of people call it going over to the dark side, but I find myself leaning more and more toward the dark side these days. In the late 1990s, Hobie introduced the Mirage Drive, a system by which kayakers could propel their craft by pedaling, much like pedaling a bike. Hamilton said a good kayak rigged for fishing can be purchased in the $600 range, while the Hobie Pro Angler sells for about. Source: www.postandcourier.com
