Field Notes

7 Kayak Fishing Mistakes That Cost Anglers More Fish Than They Realize
Discover the seven most common kayak fishing mistakes that lead to lost gear and missed catches, along with simple tips to create a safer, more organized, and more enjoyable fishing setup. Read more...
How to Read Water Before You Launch
Most people show up at the put-in, look at the water for about ten seconds, and get in.   That works until it doesn't.   Reading water before you launch is one of those skills that sounds technical but is mostly just paying attention. A few things to look for.   Current lines   Even on water that looks flat, current usually moves faster in the center than along the edges. If you're fishing, you want to position on the seam where fast water meets slow water. That's where bait... Read more...
5 Gear Mistakes That'll Ruin Your Next Paddling Trip (And How to Fix Them)
Every summer, thousands of paddlers hit the water underprepared. Not because they don't care — because nobody told them what actually matters until something went wrong.   Here are the five most common gear mistakes we see, and what to carry instead.   Leaving your phone unprotected Your phone goes in your pocket. Your kayak tips. Your phone is now dead. This happens constantly. A waterproof dry bag with a built-in phone window costs less than a screen replacement and keeps your camera, keys, and wallet bone dry even if... Read more...