NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/809310
phone photography, for instance, kayak users were creating "selfie sticks" to take photos of themselves with their big catches. Some equip their vessels with an array of battery-powered accessories, including fish-finders, live- wells and communications equipment. As time goes on, manufacturers are taking note and offering such amenities as options from the factory. The most used tackle and gear storage item has been the milk crate, modified with rod holders. Now, tackle storage equipment that looks much similar to those crates is available from retailers. Safety and Special Regulations Even above the importance of carrying an extra paddle is the personal flotation device, more commonly known as the life jacket. Law requires each person aboard to have a life jacket. Many of today's manufacturers are designing life vests with kayak users in mind. The average kayaker spends a lot of time rowing from a seated position, so anything bulky in the back or under the arms may become uncomfortable after long periods on the water. Because of these considerations, modern inflatable life jackets are among the favorable options available for kayakers. Another safety consideration is visibility. If one is floating in waters frequented by motorized boats and other watercraft, it is imperative to be seen. Some buy brightly colored kayaks and clothing just for this reason. While Nebraska does not require kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft to be registered, some states do. Be sure to keep that in mind when crossing the border. Likewise, the new Aquatic Invasive Species stamp is not required for non-motorized kayaks, but other laws regarding the effort to prevent the spread of unwelcome species do apply. For instance, it is unlawful for a boat to leave a Nebraska body of water with any of that water or its aquatic vegetation. Join the Navy Whether you are planning to follow the lead of the Inuit by pursuing fish and game, or you just want to splash around the nearby pond with friends and family, today's kayak manufacturers surely have a model to suit your needs. With the utility, convenience and fun provided by this modest vessel, it is sure to be o n the water for hundreds of years to come. ■ Top of the line kayaks such as this Malibu Kayaks Stealth 14 are loaded with features: an internal livewell/bait tank, a large hatch with an additional seat, casting platform with convertible seating, and a deck that is designed for fishing. But the cost can set you back – retail price is $1,299. A kayak angler releases a largemouth bass at Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area south of Rushville. APRIL 2017 • NEBRASKAland 39 PHOTO BY JUSTIN HAAG