Kite fishing represents one of the most unique challenges in the fishing community. No matter the type of boat you own, just a few extra pieces of equipment enable you to experience capturing the wiliest, craftiest predatory fish in any chosen body of water. The method of kite fishing is built on the premise of suspending live, wiggling bait from a heavy kite line that hovers just above the water. The kite line functions as a kind of organizational anchor for the fishing lines which extend from individual rods, pass through separate evenly spaced release clips along the kite line, and end in bait that rests tantalizingly on the surface. Because the presence of kite and fishing line touching the water is minimized, fish are less likely to be spooked.
The heavy kite rod typical to kite fishing is 3-4 feet in length with only one guide ring on its tip. One or two kite line guides can be used, with the top guide being stronger and having a wide enough diameter to endure impact against the ring when the kite line is retracted. Kite fishing line type varies by weight and durability. Anglers commonly prefer braid line for its thin, light properties that enable the kite to fly with less wind. However, braided kite line is rougher and more dangerous to handle. Too much tension can slice an angler’s hands, and backlash is more difficult to remove.
Electric reels can make kite fishing more enjoyable. The kite line is difficult to crank in manually, often weighing between 80 to 100 lbs. An electric reel reduces tough, slow work and leaves the angler’s hands free to reel in those big surface-feeding fish.
No matter your level of experience, kite fishing can be tailored to your level of expertise and challenge preference. You may choose to utilize a single kite line or, if you run a fishing crew, two kite lines off of opposing corners or ends of your fishing boat. Likewise, depending on the number of people on your crew and your own experience, you can attach up to three release clips on each kite line. This means that it’s possible to have six fishing rods and lines in play at any given time from a single boat.
Of course, arguably the most challenging aspect of kite fishing is the one element anglers have no control over: wind. But don’t let this discourage you! There are several methods for counteracting gentle winds of a given location or day. First, you will want to change the weight of your kite line; a heavier kite line is needed for gusty days and a lighter is needed (as light as 30 lbs) for days with less wind. Attaching a helium balloon to the back of your kite keeps it aloft in spite of variable conditions. And letting out or reeling in the line in response to wind current can ensure the bait stays in optimal position on the surface.
If you choose not to attach a helium balloon, your kite will inevitably fall into the drink at some point. When this occurs, it will likely sink. Cranking in a kite that has dipped below the water’s surface wastes valuable kite fishing time and can damage kite components if pulled against the force of the water too quickly. Incorporating fishing cork into the kite or attaching an inflated party balloon to the back ensures the kite stays afloat, minimizing energy and kite damage in the process of cranking it back in.
There is no better place to face the challenges of kite fishing and attempt to reel in a worthy adversary than in cold coastal waters of Canada. Prince Edward Island prospers with the greatest population and largest bluefin tuna in the world. Whether you are an experienced angler looking for your next great challenge or a first timer hoping to learn about the sport,Scott Bruce Tuna Charters will provide the equipment and the experience necessary to plan an exciting kite fishing adventure!
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