A good kayak is only the start. With the right accessories you gain comfort, safety and catches. Here are the essentials to rig out your fishing kayak, from the most basic to the ones that make the difference, and the order in which to add them.

Where to start: safety first (a life jacket), and to fish better, a fish finder and a good seat. The rest — rod holders, trolley, rudder, storage and motor — you add according to your fishing.

Galaxy fishing kayak fitted with a fish finder, rod holders and a seat
A well-equipped kayak multiplies your comfort and your catches.

1. Safety (first of all)

  • ✔ Life jacket: compulsory and non-negotiable. There are specific models, including for children.
  • ✔ Nautical clothing to suit the season (for example, dry trousers for cold water).

2. Fish finder / GPS

Garmin fish finder mounted on a Railblaza support on a kayak
A fish finder helps you read the bottom and structure and locate the fish.

Finding the fish is half the battle. A fish finder shows you the bottom, structure and fish:

  • ✔ Garmin Striker Vivid: a range with built-in GPS and CHIRP ClearVü sonar, excellent for starting to "read" the water (with 4" to 9" screens).
  • ✔ For those who want the latest, live sonar (LiveScope) systems.
  • ✔ You'll need a Railblaza mount to fit it, plus a spot for the transducer.

3. Rod holders and rails

To fish comfortably you need your rods within reach. Rod holders and Railblaza rails and platforms let you mount rod holders, supports and accessories wherever you want, modularly and without drilling: for example, a rotating platform on a Starport base.

4. A comfortable seat

On long days, the seat is key. A good seat (high or low depending on your fishing) prevents back discomfort and lets you fish for longer. Check the options compatible with your model.

5. Transport: trolley

Transport trolley for a fishing kayak
A transport trolley saves your back from the car to the water.

A transport trolley saves your back when carrying the kayak from the car to the water. Essential if your kayak is large or if you fish alone.

6. Rudder

The rudder improves control and tracking, especially in wind. Galaxy has spare parts and upgrades (such as larger rudder versions) for many models.

7. Storage and waterproofing

Boxes and cases to keep your gear dry and organised: from a rectangular box for tackle to waterproof cases for what mustn't get wet (phone, keys, documents).

8. Motor (optional)

If you want range, a lithium electric motor is the star upgrade: you go further with less effort. You can see the 3li motors available for kayaks.

Tip: don't buy everything at once. Start with safety, a fish finder and a seat, try your kayak on a few outings, and add the rest as you work out what you're missing for your type of fishing.

Frequently asked questions

Which accessory should I buy first?

The life jacket (safety) and, to fish better, a fish finder and a good seat. The rest you add according to your fishing and your budget.

Do I need rails to mount accessories?

Railblaza rails and platforms make it much easier to mount a fish finder, rod holders and supports modularly and tidily, without drilling the kayak.

Is a fish finder worth it to start with?

Yes: even a basic one helps you understand the bottom and locate fish. It's one of the upgrades that gives the most return for what it costs.

Rig out your fishing kayak.

Discover all the Galaxy kayak accessories and get the most out of your outings.

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