If you’re interested in kayak fishing but don’t know how to get started, Project Reel might be just what you’re searching for. The man behind Project Reel is Jeff Perez, a kayak angler in South Florida. He started this channel to answer common questions, provide gear reviews, how-to tips and tricks, and even fish recipes. Here, Jeff discusses the story behind Project Reel, the advantages to kayak fishing over powerboat fishing, and how he rigs his kayak.

Could you start by explaining where you live, the types of bodies of water you typically fish on, and the species you most commonly go after?

Jeff: I live in Southeast Florida, more specifically the Miami area. I have access to both freshwater and saltwater fishing as there are huge canal systems that lead out to Biscayne Bay and many small lakes, ponds, and miles of shoreline. Additionally, the Florida Keys are just a short drive away as is the western coast. So, it’s all a short drive here.

Jeff Perez

Depending on where I’m fishing, my usual targets are peacock bass, but on the freshwater side, you see a snook or a tarpon in there sometimes. From saltwater fishing, I’m pretty much just looking to bring home something for the table. Snappers are always welcome, but honestly with the variety of different species that we have in this state, I’m happy with anything that’s willing to take the bait and provide a good fight.

Are there a lot of mangrove areas in eastern Florida?

Jeff: Mostly the further you get inshore, the more you see. Further south in the Everglades like in the Flamingo area, there’s lots of mangroves. Sometimes you’ll be surrounded by mangroves, and then there’s other areas where it’s just open water. 

What kind of kayak do you use? How do you rig it and what gear do you use?

Jeff: I own a Nirvana Naidu 12 made by Nirvana Watersports, which is actually a local company. The reason I chose that particular kayak is because it was inexpensive and provides all the bells and whistles of other expensive kayak companies.

It’s a paddle kayak with a lot of room and a weight capacity of about 550 pounds, which gives me the option to go offshore. It has two rod holders built in and a rudder system you can control with foot pedals.

The Naidu 12 has plenty of storage to keep anything dry and has extra gear tracks which allow you to attach different accessories. I also use a trolley anchor system that lets me adjust the angle and position of the kayak. And when my arms get tired, I have a 36-pound thrust trolling motor from Newport Vessels and a battery. For fishing, I bring my tackle, fish nets, pliers, and a cooler. I use a regular, pretty inexpensive fishing pole.

Jeff

Do you have any electronics on your kayak, or do you go completely old school?

Jeff: Just old school right now, but I recommend Google Maps. When you’re going out fishing, just pick a spot, go out there, and explore.

What are some of the main experience differences kayak fishing versus a powerboat?

Jeff: The simple answer is accessibility. With kayaks being smaller, lighter, and sleeker, you can access a lot of the inland water bodies that are off-limits for powerboats and sometimes for those fishing from shore.

I’ve had days where I’ve been out there and I don’t see a single boat, kayak, or a person. It gives you a chance to reconnect with the outdoors and take in scenery that most people might not ever see because they don’t have access.

Kayak fishing also gives you a bit of an advantage because you’re being stealthy and you’re sneaking up on fish versus the noise generated by a powerboat. In my opinion, it’s stealth and accessibility that are the advantages of kayak fishing.

Could you offer some tips for people who might be interested in kayak fishing? What would you suggest for getting started?

Jeff: One of the most important things is safety. A kayak is small, and you want to pay attention to the weather, currents, and tides. You don’t want to get caught out there in a nasty storm or bad weather.

Prepare ahead of time and I always have a couple of first aid kits with me. Another tip is not to get overwhelmed by all of the gear out available on the market—you don’t need the most expensive gear to get started.

For example, I started with a used kayak that cost $100. After being out there for a while, I made up my mind as to what I needed to make myself more comfortable. That’s when I discovered Nirvana. I’m not sponsored by them or anything like that, but I think they’re great people with a great product.

Is it easy to get lost in Florida’s backwaters? Do you need navigational experience or familiarity with the area?

Jeff: Luckily with some of the areas I get into, there’s no need to have a lot of experience. Still, I would recommend you map your way out and be very careful of the path you take while you’re out there. It’s very easy to get lost and cell service is non-existent sometimes.

It’s also important not to go out alone. Go with a buddy or a couple friends so everyone can keep an eye out for each other. Usually, we’ll have VHF radios and we’ll stay in constant communication to make sure everyone is OK.

Keep in mind, kayaks are subject to most of the same US Coast Guard regulations that a powerboat is.

Jeff Perez is a proud member of the Hook’d Fishing Gear’s pro staff.

Also, follow Jeff and Project Reel on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.