I agree 100% with Steve here. The casting advantages to the longer (9') rod when casting from a seated position far outweigh the challenges in landing fish.
I do as Steve does, only rather than reeling in on a loose drag (good idea by the way), I strip the last several feet of line in until the leader is near but never inside the tip-top. Then, when I think the fish is ready to be landed, I raise the rod tip while allowing the stripped in line to slip between my fingers and the cork which keeps the rod from bending like a candy cane (read - exploding!!!). As the rod straightens the line/leader connection is brought within easy reach and I am able to grab the leader and pull in the fish by hand. If the fish surges un-expectantly and takes off again, I let the leader go and grab the rod to continue the fight.
When fishing the Potomac or similar watersheds for the typically non-leader shy fish we target, I suggest using a pretty strong leader which will help in the landing process. I seldom use anything less than 0X which is approx. 16lb when targeting Bass and Stripers and the multitude of incidental species caught while fishing for these. In open water I may use up to 25lb, but like the 0X since it is easier and safer to break off snags in the kayak.
As an alternative, a long handled "guide" net may be a perfect solution for you if the above is uncomfortable. Just find a good way to stash/stow in on the boat. I prefer less rather than more equipment in the boat though.
Dan Davala
On Wed, Oct 23, 2013 at 6:42 PM, Steve <dubblehaul@waywardangler.com> wrote:
Bill,So, as I understand your question, it's an issue with landing the fish vs. casting. I use 9ft or longer rods in my kayak. The technique I use for boating a fish is to set the drag "loose" and bring the tip back far enough to grab the fly line or leader, then set the rod down between my legs, and then haul him in the remaining few feet by hand. It's similar to a Tenkara or Spey rod landing technique. You just don't want to reel him in too far - just far enough to reach the leader. Hey, if you touch the leader and he throws the hook or breaks off, it's technically still a caught fish.I don't think you need a shorter rod, unless you're fishing tight spots on small streams on foot. Where did you see where shorter rods are recommended? I'm curious to read about the logic behind it myself. I will admit it's harder to stow a longer rod when your paddling through weeds though.SteveOn Oct 23, 2013, at 2:31 PM, William Steinman <wbfsteinman@gmail.com> wrote:Howdy all,I would love to hear thoughts from the collective about using a shorter fly rod for 'yak fishing. I've had my kayak out a bunch with my 9' 4-weight Orvis Clearwater, and while I've been pretty productive, I've found it very awkward to land fish. I've read a number of articles on-line about advantages of slightly shorter rods (between 7' and 8') for kayak fishing, and before making a purchase, I thought I'd ask the group.Any wisdom is greatly appreciated! Thanks!Bill S.--
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