KAYAK FISHING SAFETY

It's very common for someone to strike up a conversation with me when they see the kayak...they are highly curious about kayak fishing and often say they've been thinking about giving it a try. Sometimes it is a long-time angler who wants a new challenge and sometimes it is an individual new to fishing who is looking for affordable access to good water. Always great to meet and talk to people who are interested in the sport and one of the most common questions is, "What do I need to get started?"
To help out beginner kayak fishermen or those who think they may want to give it a try, here is a list of the basics you will need for successful and safe kayak fishing:
1. Kayak - When choosing your kayak for fishing, please look at kayaks specifically designed for fishing. These are generally more stable and come with storage and accessory rails you will want to have for your gear.
2. Paddle - A good paddle is your means of movement on the water. My advice here is to buy the best paddle you can afford. Better paddles are lighter, have a flexible shaft, and the most durable blades. A lighter and better paddle will help you avoid fatigue and will be easier on your shoulders and arms in the long run. 
3. Safety gear - Make sure you have a comfortable PFD (personal flotation device), safety whistle, sun protection, visibility flag, and light if you'll be out in the dark. Other safety gear could include a flashlight, knife, and length of rope for emergencies. Water and some snacks will keep you hydrated and your energy up. Wear your PFD at all times!
4. Tackle Box - Most kayak anglers use a standard milk crate on the back of the kayak to hold tackle bags or boxes and other necessities. You can also add some very inexpensive rod holders to the crate to hold your rods. There are some high-end crates or crate kits available, but almost any milk crate will work just fine.
5. Fishing tackle - One of the great challenges in kayak fishing is planning and selecting what you can actually fit on your Kayak out on the water. Rods, reels, and your favourite lures should cover most of your catching needs. Take care in choosing what you pack, there's not room for everything!
6. Anchor - For some, you may want to have a tool to help you hold position in wind or light current therefore an anchor trolley and anchor is essential. 
7. Camera - Keep a visual record of your adventures and the fish you catch! 
These are some of the basics for getting started.
8. Clothing-
On hot summer days I would wear a short wet suit and a quick drying T-shirt. I would also carry a wind breaker in a dry bag as the weather can change quickly. However I wear swim shorts, dry trousers, waterproof and windproof top, wetsuit socks and boots most of the year as it is not often the weather reaches those great temperatures. It is also important to consider the water temperature as this will be a lot colder than the air temperature.
On really cold days I wear a thermal under wetsuit under my wetsuit,dry trousers and Drytop to keep warm. I also wear thick warm socks with wetsuit boots.  
9. VHF Radio- There are many different radios on the market so shop around. Just remember keep it on your person at all times out on the water. If you leave it on the kayak when anchored up and you fall off, you'll just float away in the tide from what could save your life