There’s no shortage of kayak fishing gear out there, but not all of it deserves a spot on your kayak. Over the years, I’ve found a handful of accessories that just make life on the water easier, safer, or more comfortable. Here are 10 kayak accessories that I think are seriously underrated.
Dad Joke of the Week What did the ocean say to the shore? Nothing. It just waved. |
Let’s get into it.
| ACCESSORY RUNDOWN · Issue #32 |
The 10 kayak accessories actually worth grabbing
By Jay Valentin · Thursday, September 11, 2026
Just dropped a new video walking through 15+ accessories I've picked up over the years. Got some really nice feedback on it, so I figured I'd bring the highlights here too.
Ten below, quick note on each so you know why it earns the space in your kayak. Some of these will be old news if you've been at this a while, no shame in skipping to the ones you don't have yet. If you're newer, this is the shortlist that saves you a couple seasons of figuring things out the hard way.
Full walkthrough is at the bottom whenever you want the deeper dive.
| The Rundown |
10 accessories that earn their spot
Roughly in order of how often I reach for them. Prices from the last time I checked.
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While it's still on Kickstarter The Ventral inflatable fishing platform is still $1,500 off retail. Early-bird $2,499 (retail $3,999). Fits under a bungee, 600 lb capacity, GPS anchor lock, electric motor built in. If a stable second boat for glass-calm fall mornings is on your radar, this is that boat. Back the Ventral on Kickstarter → |
Kayak Fishing Dads Retreat Lake Marion, SC · Nov 5–8, 2026Three nights on Santee Cooper. Three dinners. Group fishing all three days. Fireside Q&As with kayak creators. Swag bag and gear raffles. Shared cabin, your own bed.
kfdretreat.com · questions? just reply. |
VIDEO SPOTLIGHT · THE FULL WALKTHROUGH |
I've Tried a TON of Kayak Gear... These Are Actually Worth It
The full 15+ item walkthrough. Skip the intro and jump to any item — I break down what it does, why it lasted, and what's not worth the money.
| Watch on YouTube → |
| Brag Board |
The frog technique still works
Terry hit some water up north with his buddy Matt Kern and dusted off a technique he hadn't touched in 25 years. Fish agreed.
 Photo — Terry Dohr, KFD group Want to be featured next week? Hit reply with a photo from your last trip and a one-line story. Best submission goes in the next issue. |
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See you on the water. Tight lines!
Jay