A beginner-friendly checklist of essential gear and safety must-haves for a successful trip.

Kayak fishing is fast becoming one of Australia’s most accessible and rewarding ways to explore our coastal and inland waters. Whether you’re chasing flathead across the sandflats or stalking bream in sheltered estuaries, the right gear makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down the top essentials every kayak angler should bring along — with a focus on safety, storage, and gear that holds up in Australian conditions. If you’re wondering what you need to start kayak fishing, or just want to upgrade your setup, this list is for you.

1. Choosing the Right Kayak

Your kayak is your fishing platform – get it right and everything else gets easier.

Sit-On-Top Kayaks (SOT)

These are by far the most popular choice for kayak fishing — and for good reason.

Pros:

• Easy to get on and off — especially if you’re launching from the bank or jumping in after a capsize.
• Self-draining scupper holes make them safer in choppy or wet conditions.
• More deck space for mounting rod holders, fish finders, and storing gear.
• Higher seating position gives better casting angles and visibility.

Cons:

• Exposed to the elements — expect to get splashed.
• Can be slightly less stable in very windy conditions due to higher centre of gravity (depends on the design).

Sit-In Kayaks (SIK)

These are more traditional kayaks with a cockpit you sit inside.

Pros:

• Shelter from wind and water, which can be helpful in cold conditions.
• Lower centre of gravity provides better tracking and can feel more stable in narrow waterways.
• Often lighter and more efficient to paddle.

Cons:

• Harder to re-enter if capsized — which can be a safety concern offshore.
• Limited deck space for gear.
• More prone to water filling the cockpit without a spray skirt.

Bottom Line:

For most Aussie anglers — especially beginners — a sit-on-top kayak is the better all-around choice. They’re more versatile, easier to rig for fishing, and far safer if you happen to go overboard.

But if you’re fishing in colder southern climates or on still freshwater lakes, a sit-in kayak might offer just enough protection and efficiency to make it worth considering.

BCF and Anaconda are two popular places to buy new kayaks and equipment from.

2. Safety Equipment

Safety isn’t optional when you’re kayak fishing — it’s essential. Conditions can change fast, and having the right gear could be the difference between a close call and a call for help.

🦺 PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

A well-fitted, kayak-specific life jacket is a legal requirement in most Australian states — and it’s designed to move with you as you paddle or cast. Look for models with:

• Australian Standards compliance (AS4758)
• Mesh backs (to sit comfortably against high kayak seats)
• Quick-access pockets for safety gear or tackle

📢 Whistle & Light

These two items are often overlooked — but in many areas, they’re required by law. Use a:

• Waterproof headlamp or clip-on white light for visibility during low light, fog, or night sessions
• Pealess whistle (works when wet, never jams)

⚓ Anchor or Drift Chute

Wind or current can make fishing from a kayak frustrating — or unsafe. Bring a small:

• Folding anchor with a trolley system for precise positioning
• Drift chute (sea anchor) to slow your drift and stay in the strike zone longer

Tip: Always attach anchors and drags via quick-release clips — and never to your wrist or body.

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3. Fishing Gear Essentials

When space is limited and balance matters, every piece of gear should earn its place. The key to kayak fishing success isn’t carrying more — it’s carrying smarter.

🎣 Rod & Reel Combo

A medium-action spinning setup around 6’6”–7’ is ideal for most inshore and estuary conditions. Look for:

• Saltwater-resistant components
• A reel in the 2500–3000 size range (enough drag for flathead, bream, and snapper)
• Light braid (6–12lb) paired with fluorocarbon leader

🧰 Tackle Essentials

Keep it simple and stash only what you’ll realistically use:

• Soft plastics, paddle tails, and jerk shads
• Hardbody lures like minnows and vibes
• Jig heads, swivels, and a small roll of leader line
• Use a waterproof tackle tray to organize gear in your crate or underseat storage

🎯 Rod Holders

Mounted flush-mount or adjustable rod holders give you hands-free flexibility while trolling, paddling, or re-rigging. Bonus: add a rod leash to prevent accidental losses.

🕸️ Landing Net

A floating or telescopic net is a game-changer when fishing solo. Look for rubber-coated mesh to avoid hook snags and fish slime buildup.

Tip: Always rinse reels and tools with freshwater after each trip — salt buildup will destroy gear fast.

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4. Storage & Transport Solutions

A smart kayak fishing setup is all about efficiency. The more organised your gear, the less time you spend searching — and the more time you spend casting.

🧺 Milk Crate or Storage Box

The humble milk crate is a kayak angler’s best friend. Add custom PVC rod holders, zip ties, and bungee cords to:

• Store tackle trays, pliers, and spare gear
• Keep rods upright and secure
• Use crates that fit snugly in the rear tank well of sit-on-top kayaks

Pro tip: Line the inside with foam or mesh to stop rattling and damage.

💧 Dry Bags

Use small-to-medium dry bags to separate and protect your valuables:

• Phones (in waterproof pouches)
• Wallets and car keys
• Snacks, sunscreen, or first aid supplies

Transparent bags with roll-top closures are easy to pack and identify at a glance.

🚩 Trolley or Kayak Wheels

For beach launches, steep banks, or rocky paths, a collapsible kayak trolley makes a world of difference. Look for:

• Sand wheels for soft terrain
• Quick-strap or scupper hole mounts for fast loading
• Aluminum frames that resist rust and salt exposure

Bonus: Stow the trolley in your crate or behind your seat while fishing.

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5. Tech & Accessories

While not strictly essential, a few well-chosen accessories can take your kayak fishing experience to the next level — helping you find more fish, stay oriented, and capture every moment.

📡 Fish Finder / Sonar

Mounting a compact fish finder gives you a clear edge, especially when fishing new or deep water. Look for:

• DownScan or SideScan sonar to spot structure, bait, and fish
• Units with GPS mapping for marking productive spots
• Brands like Garmin, Lowrance, and Humminbird offer models perfect for kayak setups

Tip: Use a transducer arm mount or hull scupper install, depending on your kayak.

🎥 Action Camera

Capture your best moments with a waterproof GoPro or Osmo Action:

• Mount it on a boom or chest harness
• Use looping video mode to save memory
• Great for recording catches, scenery, or even reviewing technique later

📱 Phone Holder

A secure, waterproof phone mount gives you:

• Quick access to Navionics, Google Maps, or BOM radar
• Hands-free video calls or music
• Emergency contact ability if needed

Choose a mount that locks firmly and ideally floats if dislodged.

6. Local Regulations & Tide Knowledge — Fish Smarter, Stay Legal

Even the best gear won’t help if you’re fishing the wrong spot at the wrong time — or breaking local rules. A little local knowledge goes a long way toward a safe, successful trip.

🎫 Fishing Licences

In many parts of Australia, a recreational fishing licence is required. Requirements vary by state:

• WA, VIC, NSW & TAS all require licences for certain fishing activities
• Some areas have species-specific endorsements (e.g., rock lobster, abalone)
• Check for seasonal closures, bag limits, and gear restrictions

Pro tip: Keep a digital copy of your licence on your phone or printed in a dry bag.

🌊 Tides & Weather

Tide movement directly affects fish behaviour and kayak safety. Always check:

• Tide tables for launch and retrieval windows
• Wind and swell forecasts (especially in open coastal or estuary areas)
• Storm fronts or temperature drops, which can trigger fish activity — or trouble

🔗 Scroll down for links to your local tide charts and the Bureau of Meteorology marine weather portal.

Gear Summary Table

Conclusion

A successful kayak fishing trip starts with preparation — and having the right essentials on board keeps you safe, efficient, and ready to enjoy every moment on the water. From legally required safety gear like PFDs to clever tools like rod holders and dry storage, each item plays a vital role. Before your next launch, run through this checklist and make sure your setup suits the waters you’ll be fishing. And if you’re just getting started, be sure to check out our full Top 10 Kayak Fishing Mistakes and Top 6 Essentials for Kayak Fishing to get paddling with confidence.

Start small and work your way up. Most gear can be upgraded or added to over time

Also read:

• Top 10 Kayak Fishing Mistakes to Avoid
• Download our free Kayak Fishing Licence & Tide Reference