Oh goody! The boy in me could finally try out real kayak fishing in Singapore as a friend kindly agreed to let me have a try out in his Kayak! Kayak fishing is consistently picking up pace in Singapore and so far, the authorities look to be very relaxed and supportive of the small community of Kayak fishing anglers in Singapore.
I hopped into my friend's native watercraft Kayak at Pasir Ris beach as Boatman Shawn (who also bought his own kayak) led me out on a special experience. As we "launched" (a term used for getting our kayaks into the water from the beach) from the beach, we saw other kayakers taking to the water - some of which are stored at Pasir Ris beach watercross itself. Great to see local businesses support the community! Now, the term "launch" may seem a little heavy but I can assure you, it is no mean feat to "launch"... well except my friend lent me his kayak wheels too and off we go!
There's nothing like Kayak fishing is there? You're the captain of your own craft and you take all credit for your good luck or mishaps! Well except that for this trip, Shawn was the one "bringing me fishing", and he should be the one getting all credit (bad or good)!
Here's a short goPro video to give you the all action kayak fishing
Boatman Shawn brought me to the ever popular Pulau Ubin which was a regular haunt for the kayak fishing community in Singapore. Pulau Ubin was a heaven since the brackish waters were rather sheltered from winds and the numerous kelongs around the island meant kayakers could take cover should there be rain or lightning. Popular spots around Pulau Ubin include Ketam Channel, Outward Bound Pulau Ubin, Punggol Dam, Lorong Halus and Pasir Ris in general (especially the blue barrels).
I think the number one issue with Kayak fishing that you will feel would be the low centre of gravity and the speed on which you seem to be travelling on! It was kind of weird not being able to move much of your body as you paddle away and as you paddle away, you don't want to stop! Hence, small adjustments to the rudder will go a long way in making sure you get to your intended spots as fast as possible. Of course, the ever impatient and excited me took some time to get used to this ha ha ha... but we soon broke out to the real stuff after some paddling and getting used to....
The fish was giving me little chance of getting line back and I exclaimed to Shawn that this might be a huge KBL... I could feel the weight of the beast underwater and knew this was quite a heavy fish. It was giving a few headshakes underwater but had yet took to open air. And well actually.... after awhile, it was getting a little unimpressive. After those few violent opening minutes of being dragged around, the fish was beginning to falter....
And.... then.... the rather anti climax ending to the whole episode greeted us... albeit with a splash but....
Shawn: "OMG AH SENG SIA!!!!! KNN AH SENG SIA!!!KNN!!!...
Well, here are the photos...of this future fish and chips...