Bass Wind Tactics, DIY Storage, Big Almaco

Good morning, Crew!

Whether you’ve just joined or have been with us a while, we’re glad to have you on board. This issue is full of hands-on tips, smart gear ideas, and real stories from the kayak seat.

Here’s what we’ve lined up this week:

• Smart ways to use spring wind to find hungry bass

• A DIY rod and tackle box build that won’t break the bank

• Big catfish setups straight from the Ascend 133X

• And more...

~ Kayak Fishing Guide Team

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THREE FISHING TIPS
How to Read the Wind for Bass Positioning in Springtime

If the wind’s blowing this spring, don’t fight it. Let it help you find the bass and make your kayak positioning work in your favor.

1. Hit the windy banks.
Baitfish get blown into shore, and that’s where bass go to feed. Fish the side of the lake the wind is pounding, especially if there’s cover nearby.

• Ripples hitting the bank are a good sign

• Cast into the wind and bring it back with the flow

• Focus on wood, grass, or rocks close to the bank

2. Let the wind do the drifting.
Drifting with the wind helps you move naturally and quietly. You’ll cover more water without spooking fish or burning energy.

• A drag chain or drift sock helps control speed

• Cast with the wind for better distance

• Keep your hands free and your bait in the water longer

3. When it calms down, switch spots.
After a windy spell or a cold front, bass often tuck into calmer water to rest. Don’t overlook protected pockets, even if they look quiet.

• Check the back sides of points or coves

• Fish slow and low with soft baits

• Let your bait sit longer than usual

Next time the breeze picks up, lean into it. The wind might just show you where the bass are hanging out.

BEST LINKS
Favorite Finds

➡️ Take a look at what’s been catching our eye online this week!

• Just getting started with kayak fishing? These beginner tips make things a whole lot easier. (Kayak Bass Magazine)

• Not sure which fishing kayak fits your style? This quick guide breaks it down so you don’t waste time or money. (OutdoorHub)

• Tournament fishing can be a blast, but there’s a bit to learn before your first cast. (On the Water)

KAYAK GEAR
DIY Kayak Storage, Rod Holders, and Tackle Box

If you’re looking to upgrade your kayak storage without spending a fortune, this $55 DIY project is worth checking out.

One angler turned a standard Plano storage box into a smart, low-cost solution for rod and gear storage on his Bonafide RS117.

• Used a Plano storage box as the main frame

• Added Amazon rod holders and 1/2" rubber spacers

• Secured everything with bungee loops and cord

The box isn’t watertight, but it keeps out splashes and light rain.

The setup fits snug in a rear tank well and gives you easy access to rods and tackle.

• Base measures 19.25" wide for a perfect fit

• Rods stay upright and organized

• Great for budget-minded anglers who like to tinker

Most anglers can comfortably fit 8 to 10 boxes with room left for pliers, soft plastics, or a small dry bag.

If you're handy and want more storage without breaking the bank, this kind of build might be right up your alley.

Let us know if you'd like a step-by-step guide in a future issue.

📷️: Hayden McCoy

KAYAK RIGS
Ascend 133x

Patrick’s Ascend 133X is built for big catfish. He runs eight rods when anchored and drops to six when he’s dragging baits.

He keeps it simple with live or dead bait and waits them out. The 133X is stable enough for him to stand and throw a 7-foot cast net and strong enough to handle a 50-pound cat.

• Uses multiple rod holders for full coverage

• Anchors up and fans baits wide

• Loves the kayak for its room and balance

If catfish are your target, this setup shows what’s possible from a kayak.

📷️: Patrick Gilliland

FRESHWATER CATCH
Smallmouth Bass

Here’s a solid smallmouth caught this spring by Michael near home docks.

When the water starts warming up, docks become prime spots as smallies move up to feed and look for structure.

Skip soft plastics like tubes or flukes into shady pockets, and fish the dock legs, corners, and ladders.

Focus on docks near rocky drop-offs or brush, where bass can stage before or after the spawn.

Stay quiet as you approach, especially in clear water.

Light line and finesse baits like a Ned rig or small swimbait can turn a follow into a strike when fish are a little cautious.

📷️: Michael Sawyer

SALTWATER CATCH
Almaco Jack

This Almaco Jack didn’t come easy, but that’s part of the fun. These fish hit hard, dig deep, and won’t give up until you do.

They’re usually hanging around wrecks, reef edges, or offshore structure. Drop a vertical jig or live bait into the zone and work it steady. And if they’re home, you’ll know fast.

Make sure your drag is set right and your gear’s in good shape. When an Almaco hits, it’s a full-on tug-of-war.

Top Tips for Catching Almaco Jacks:

• Use fast-action vertical jigs to trigger reaction bites near structure.

• Keep your bait moving—Almacos like a steady retrieve or a sharp jigging motion.

• Target early mornings or strong tide shifts when these fish feed more aggressively.

If you’re ready for a workout and a wild fight, Almaco Jack will give you all you can handle from the kayak.

📷️: Kayak FIshing Lanzarote

HUMOR
Fishing Memes

THAT’S A WRAP
Before You Go!

Thanks for being part of the Crew and for spending a few minutes with us today. We hope you picked up a tip or two you can use out on the water.

Enjoy your weekend, and if you get the chance, grab your kayak and make some casts.

~ Kayak Fishing Guide Team

As an Amazon Associate, Kayak Fishing Guide earns from qualifying purchases. This site also participates in other affiliate programs/sponsorships and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.