Just like the fish on the end of his line, Huy was immediately hooked when he first reeled in a fish from a kayak. For Huy, kayak fishing has brought a value to his life that is indescribable. It has connected his family friends, and offered a sense of freedom and adventure that he never found in any other type of fishing. Without further adieu please check out our 20 questions with Huy!
1. What is your name and what do you paddle?
My name is Huy, aka Huyfishin on Instagram and Youtube. I currently use a pedal kayak to fish which is the OldTown Bigwater 132. Its a big boat but super fast on the water.
2. Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in the quaint town of Whitecourt, Alberta, surrounded by tons of lakes and abundant fishing opportunities. One of my fondest memories is the time I spent on the water with my parents and sisters at Carson Pegasus Provincial Park which is only located 15 minutes out of town.
3. How long have you been kayak fishing and how did you get started?
My passion for kayak fishing began back in 2012 when I stumbled upon Jim Sammons' Kayak Fishing Show while watching the Fishing channel one morning. I was immediately hooked when I saw them catching marlin off Ocean Kayak prowlers, getting towed around by these massive fish. I knew I had to get one for myself, and it made so much sense since it was an inexpensive way to get on the water with the possibility of catching a fish the same length as your boat. I shared the video with my wife, and she ordered our first kayak, which was the Jackson Kayak Big Tuna, and we still own it to this day. It's a special boat that holds many fond memories, and we don't think we'll ever sell it.
4. Why do you choose to fish out of a kayak?
Kayak fishing is my preferred method of fishing because it offers the versatility of a big boat with the added benefits of being inexpensive and low maintenance. I can easily load it onto my jeep and take it wherever I want, whether it's a small stream, a large lake, or even the open ocean. The kayak community is also huge, so I can go fishing with a group of 15 kayak anglers and enjoy some great banter while we're at it. Overall, the kayak fishing experience is unparalleled, offering a sense of freedom and adventure that I've never found in any other type of fishing.
5. What is one thing kayak fishing has brought into your life that you would say has changed for the better?
Kayak fishing has brought so much happiness into my life, especially since my wife and I started doing it together. It's a shared hobby that has brought us closer together, and we both love the friendly competition that comes with trying to catch the biggest fish of the day. In fact, we even bought clicker counters to keep track of how many fish each of us caught in a day! It's amazing how such a simple activity can bring so much joy and excitement into our lives. Whether we're out on the water trying to catch a big one, or just spending time together in nature, kayak fishing has become an invaluable part of our lives.
6. From your perspective, has spending time outdoors and on the water helped you manage your daily challenges in life and why?
Kayak fishing has done wonders for my overall well-being. Not only has it improved my physical health, but it has also been a form of cheap therapy. Once I'm out on the water, nothing else seems to matter. It's like a long, meditative moment that allows me to disconnect from the stress of daily life. Throughout the work week it gives me something to look forward to. It helps me create a bucket list of things I would like to achieve and places I want to visit.
7. What would the perfect fishing kayak look like to you?
I have a vision of the perfect combination. It would have the spaciousness and hull shape of my Oldtown Bigwater, along with the convenience and versatility of a built-in OldTown autopilot motor. And to top it off, it would be as lightweight as the Hobie Mirage Lynx (minus the motor, of course). I may be dreaming big, but can you blame me? With such a kayak, I could have the best of both worlds - ample storage space, efficient propulsion, and easy manoeuvrability - all in one package. It may seem like a tall order, but a kayak enthusiast can dream, right? Am I asking for too much?
8. What is the biggest fish you have reeled in from a kayak?
To be honest, I'm not entirely sure of the exact measurements of my biggest catch. I'm not one to obsess over measurements as I'm already busy enough taking selfies with the fish. However, if I had to take an educated guess, I'd say my biggest catch to date was probably a 38-inch pike that I caught from my Jackson Kayak. But regardless of the measurements, the memory of that catch will stay with me forever.
9. If you had to fish with only one lure for the rest of your life what would it be?
If I had to choose just one lure to fish with for the rest of my life, without a doubt, it would be the Len Thompson 5 of Diamonds. This versatile lure has proven itself time and time again, and it can catch almost any fish species. In fact, I have so much confidence in this lure that if I found myself stranded on a deserted island, all I ask for is the 5 of diamonds lure and some paracord. At least i know I don't have to go to sleep hungry.
10. What is your dream fishing trip?
The Florida Keys! I've watched countless YouTube videos of this place and it looks absolutely breathtaking. It's definitely on my bucket list. I really want to walk the shallow flats, sip cocktails, and catch fish at this beautiful place.
11. Do you ice or fly fish as well?
Fishing is a passion that I enjoy in all forms, including ice fishing and fly fishing. There's something about the thrill of reeling in a fish through a hole in the ice that gives me a sense of accomplishment. I love the peacefulness of being on a frozen lake and the camaraderie of other ice fishers. On the other hand, fly fishing has been a more recent pursuit for me, and while I'm still an amateur, I'm quickly falling in love with the sport. There's a unique beauty in casting a delicate fly line and the challenge of enticing a fish to take the bait. Whether it's the cold of winter or the warmth of summer, I'm always eager to spend time on the water pursuing my passion for fishing.
12. What is the longest day of fishing from your kayak in one sitting been?
I've easily spent 12 hours on the kayak. Unless there is a food truck at the boat launch then i need to grab a poutine half way through the trip. I sometimes do that at Wabamun Lake. I get sucked into the poutine from a food truck called "Beach Eats"
13. Where is your favorite place to fish? Or one that isn't top secret?
When it comes to my favourite fishing spots, Spirit Bay Cheanuh Marina on Vancouver Island takes the top spot without a doubt. However, Cold Lake in Alberta comes in at a close second. These places are no secret!
14. What is your craziest on water experience or thing you have seen while paddling?
Me and my wife had a once-in-a-lifetime experience while paddling on our tandem Jackson kayak in the ocean. We were surrounded by humpback whales surfacing and doing laps around us, coming within just two car lengths away at times. It was truly amazing to witness one of these magnificent creatures breach the surface with its entire body and tail in the air. Fortunately, we were at a safe distance from the whale, definitely a moment we will never forget.
15. Do you recreationally kayak, SUP, Canoe or whitewater kayak as well?
Last year, I tried stand-up paddleboarding and I really enjoyed it. I'm not necessarily an extreme sports enthusiast, so white-water kayaking is definitely not my thing. However, I have been thinking about trying out kayak surfing at Jordan Beach or Tofino. It looks like a lot of fun and a great way to challenge myself without going too far out of my comfort zone. Who knows, maybe I'll even become a regular at the surf breaks! Can anyone recommend me a kayak for Kayak surfing?
16. Do you or are you involved in and community programs on or off the water?
At this time I am currently not in any program. However I do what I can do help the environment on my own time like simply picking up trash at the fishing destinations I go to. Time is my biggest battle. I work 6 days a week and Sundays my only day off so I try to spend it with my 1 year old at this time. Once I free up my schedule I will most likely join a program.
17. What is the best advice you would give someone who wants to get into kayak fishing?
Always wear a PFD/lifejacket. Join your local kayak fishing group on facebook, make some kayak fishing buddies and have fun. Best decision you will ever make!
18. Over the past few years how have you seen the rivers or lakes change, and what are you doing to try and protect it from an environmental standpoint?
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about an unfortunate increase in littering, leaving many areas covered with garbage. As someone who is passionate about preserving the environment, I am committed to doing my part in educating anglers on the importance of protecting our planet. I believe that it is crucial to spread awareness about the negative impacts of littering and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their waste. I hope to inspire a change in behavior and make a positive impact on the environment for generations to come.
19. Could you describe the feeling you get when you are on the water?
Being on the water provides me with a sense of peace and rejuvenation.
20. If you could describe kayak fishing in a single word, what would that word be?
Excitement
Shop AQ Outdoors Fishing Kayak Collection
AQ Outdoors Contact
Edmonton: (p) 780 463-4892 (e) info@aquabaticsedmonton.com
Calgary: (p) 403 288-9283 (e) info@aqoutdoors.com
