First yak trip ever in the morn

[AustinLA]

First trip in the morning ever. Any tips or stuff I need to be aware of? Thinking of either calc pt or Prien but open to ideas. Want to catch some reds not really concerned with trout.

[Swamp Rocket]

I've only fished the west side... Choupique bayou and west cove. I've had better luck in the marsh to the south of west cove. South of wc can get really shallow, depending on the tide. Lots of places to fish to the marsh south of wc, good opportunity for reds.

[eman]

Best tip i can give is make sure all rod n reels are tied to kayak until you are sure of your self.

[Swamp Rocket]

^^^ x1000
Must haves: leashes (for pretty much everything), fish grip, needle nose plyers, landing net, and pfd. Other than that, it pretty much takes you a few trips to realize everything you need and how you want everything set up.
The marsh to the south of the wc launch is good because only paddle craft and boats under trolling motor power are allowed. The lack of boat traffic is one less thing you have to worry about.

[Gottogo49]

Yep, I agree marshes around WC is a good first choice.
Cal pt is a zoo on Saturday and this is the 4th of July tournament reschedule weekend.
Best to have your first few trips where you are not fighting boat wakes.
Prien is OK if you get out early.
Hog Island is good for a future trip but you will be fighting boat wakes there.
Some big bay boats don't even slow down.
If you bring your phone secure it in a waterproof container.
I have learned some of these things the hard way.

[RAGINJROB]

Dont bring too much on your maiden voyage. Be careful when reaching behind for things behind you. Most people loose balance then. May be easier to turn sideways and put feet in water and then reach to the side, like when trying to put fish in ice chest.

Good luck!

[sparkyc4]

How did you do??

[AustinLA]

Trip ended up getting canceled due to a buddy backing out. But I hope to go soon.