Of Paddles and Hooks: A Wildwood Water Tale

Hey there, fellow anglers and adventurers! It’s Teddy again, your friendly neighborhood kayak fishing enthusiast. Except… I’ve got some news. I’ve recently traded in my paddle and kayak (well, not completely) for something new: paddleboard fishing!

Yep, you heard that right. I’ve jumped on the paddleboard craze, and let me tell you—it’s been an absolute game-changer. If you’re curious about this unique way to fish or thinking about trying it yourself, let me share my experience so far.

Why Paddleboard Fishing?

At first, I was skeptical. I mean, a paddleboard? For fishing? I always thought they were more for yoga or leisurely paddles along the shore. But after seeing a few locals effortlessly casting lines from their boards, I decided to give it a shot.

What drew me in was the simplicity. A paddleboard offers an unparalleled connection to the water. You’re standing (or kneeling) right there on the surface, giving you an amazing vantage point to spot fish and truly feel like part of the environment. Plus, it’s lightweight, easy to transport, and allows you to access spots even kayaks might struggle to reach.

My First Paddleboard Fishing Trip

For my first trip, I chose the calm, shallow waters of Wildwood’s back bays. It’s a perfect spot for beginners—peaceful, scenic, and teeming with flounder and weakfish.

Getting started was a bit of a learning curve. Balancing while paddling was one thing, but balancing while casting? Let’s just say there was a lot of wobbling and one near-dunk into the water. (Pro tip: start with short, easy casts until you feel steady on your feet.)

Once I got the hang of it, though, it was incredible. Standing up gave me a clear view of the water, and I could spot fish I’d never have noticed from a kayak. I even managed to land a nice flounder—my first catch on a paddleboard!

What Makes Paddleboard Fishing Special

Here’s what I’ve come to love about fishing on a paddleboard:

The ViewBeing able to stand gives you a whole new perspective. You can see schools of fish, structure, and activity beneath the surface that you might miss otherwise.
The ChallengePaddleboard fishing is a full-body workout. It engages your core, improves balance, and keeps you focused. It’s like yoga meets fishing, and I’m here for it.
The SilencePaddleboards are incredibly quiet, so you can get closer to fish without spooking them. It’s perfect for sneaking up on those elusive bites.
The AdventureThere’s something about being so close to the water that makes every trip feel like an adventure. Whether I’m gliding through the bays or exploring a new inlet, paddleboard fishing keeps things exciting.

Tips for Paddleboard Fishing Beginners

If you’re thinking of giving paddleboard fishing a shot, here’s what I’ve learned so far:

Start in Calm WatersBegin in shallow, flat areas like the back bays or a calm inlet. This will help you get comfortable with balance and paddling.
Pack LightSpace is limited on a paddleboard, so bring only the essentials: a lightweight rod, a small tackle box, and maybe a cooler that doubles as a seat.
Use an AnchorA small, portable anchor is a lifesaver when you find a good spot and don’t want to drift.
Wear a Life JacketSafety first! Even if you’re a strong swimmer, a life jacket is a must when you’re out on the water.
Practice, Practice, PracticeBalancing, paddling, and fishing at the same time takes a little practice, but don’t get discouraged. Once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly rewarding.

What’s Next for Me?

Now that I’ve dipped my toes (literally) into paddleboard fishing, I’m hooked. I can’t wait to explore more of Wildwood’s waterways and maybe even try some ocean fishing on calmer days. Of course, my kayak isn’t going anywhere—there’s room in my heart (and my gear shed) for both.

If you see me out on the water, give me a wave—or better yet, join me! Paddleboard fishing has been a thrilling new chapter in my fishing adventures, and I’d love to share the stoke with you.

Tight lines and steady boards,Teddy 🎣🌊