Why You Need to Do Paddleboard Fishing
Even though paddleboarding has been around since ancient times, it is a relatively new and very popular sport today. Apparently, you don’t have to just paddle around either. I’ve seen paddleboarders racing, spearfishing, snorkeling, lobstering, wake surfing — even doing Yoga. I’ve done all kinds of paddleboarding, but I definitely enjoy the advantages of paddleboard fishing. Here are some reasons why:
Accessibility: You can Do paddleboard fishing in pretty much any body of water — lake, ocean, bay, river, pond. You also can get to places that are hard to access via boat (ie: mangroves, tall reeds, etc.).
The Height Advantage: It’s easier to cast your line standing up. Plus, the higher you are, the better you can see potholes, mud boils, grass beds, and fish moving around. Best thing: you can sneak right up on them or cast your line right at them. Sight casting is like fishing and hunting — it’s the best of both worlds. Bam!
Mobility: Paddleboards are easy to transport and load/unload. Just plop the board in the water and you’re good to go.
Exercise: With paddleboarding, I get a full-body workout and I get to catch fish — it’s a win-win!
What Kind of Paddleboard is Best for Fishing?: Get a paddleboard that is big, wide, thick, and long for better stability (and a place to put your cooler and rod holders).
Rent or Buy?: If you’ve never been on a paddleboard, I highly recommend you rent one first. If you plan on buying one, the good news is paddleboards have become more affordable due to their popularity over the years, and used ones are a lot more available than ever before.
Important Tip: Hit the waters early or late in the day. And make sure to check the weather because strong winds make getting back to shore a real issue (see above video). Also, stay away from heavily boat-trafficked areas.
Best Time of Year to Do Paddleboard Fishing: Any time of year in Florida, baby!
Love to fish? Tag your pics with @howtodoflorida on Instagram and Facebook and don’t forget to hashtag #howtodoflorida
Accessibility: You can Do paddleboard fishing in pretty much any body of water — lake, ocean, bay, river, pond. You also can get to places that are hard to access via boat (ie: mangroves, tall reeds, etc.).
The Height Advantage: It’s easier to cast your line standing up. Plus, the higher you are, the better you can see potholes, mud boils, grass beds, and fish moving around. Best thing: you can sneak right up on them or cast your line right at them. Sight casting is like fishing and hunting — it’s the best of both worlds. Bam!
Mobility: Paddleboards are easy to transport and load/unload. Just plop the board in the water and you’re good to go.
Exercise: With paddleboarding, I get a full-body workout and I get to catch fish — it’s a win-win!
What Kind of Paddleboard is Best for Fishing?: Get a paddleboard that is big, wide, thick, and long for better stability (and a place to put your cooler and rod holders).
Rent or Buy?: If you’ve never been on a paddleboard, I highly recommend you rent one first. If you plan on buying one, the good news is paddleboards have become more affordable due to their popularity over the years, and used ones are a lot more available than ever before.
Important Tip: Hit the waters early or late in the day. And make sure to check the weather because strong winds make getting back to shore a real issue (see above video). Also, stay away from heavily boat-trafficked areas.
Best Time of Year to Do Paddleboard Fishing: Any time of year in Florida, baby!
Love to fish? Tag your pics with @howtodoflorida on Instagram and Facebook and don’t forget to hashtag #howtodoflorida
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About the Host/Creator
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As a native Floridian, Chad Crawford has always loved his home state, and he’s made it his mission to share it with the world. He’s often called Florida’s Ambassador for this very reason. Emmy award-winning how to Do florida with Chad Crawford began as a way to combine Chad’s passions – filmmaking, Florida, and literally anything outdoors – but has evolved into a passion project. The more he travels the state, meeting people whose livelihood is the land (and water), the more aware he has become of the issues facing Florida – namely the water crisis. He has worked alongside Florida Fish and Wildlife, Coastal Conservation Association, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Department of Agriculture, Everglades Foundation, Captains for Clean Water, and author Richard Louv in directed efforts to help preserve Florida’s natural resources, and to communicate how we can all be part of solving the environmental problems the state is facing today.
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Recognizing that the next generation needs be part of this conversation, he created an Emmy award-winning kids’ show, The Outsiders Club. The series is geared toward kids and young families, takes place outdoors, and educates viewers in a fun and meaningful way about how they can care for Florida’s environment. Chad uses his platforms to create fans of Florida, but more importantly, he’s interested in creating advocates for Florida. He often says, “When people experience the real Florida they are more likely to take interest in the issues that affect it.” His famous sign-off “Get out and Do Florida” has incited a movement of people, stoking renewed interest in our state’s environmental issues. He encourages his fans to both enjoy Florida and be part of preserving its resources, saying, “If we all do just a little, well, that’s a lot.” Chad and his wife live in Central Florida with their four children.
Want Chad to speak at your event?
Check out Chad’s blog
Want Chad to speak at your event?
Check out Chad’s blog