Kayak Fishing Superstitions
by Ross C.
People from traditional Arctic cultures as well as fishers and sailors from all around the World have always held superstitious beliefs related to good or bad luck at sea and as to whether or not fish will be caught.
Listed below are thirteen superstitions that may or may not apply to modern day Kayak Fishing:
- When transporting or portaging kayaks the bow must always point forward;
- Eyes on the bow will help the kayak to see its way through bad conditions;
- An image of a smiling male face on the starboard side of the cockpit and a frowning female face on the port side will afford protection from the water spirits;
- Never board a kayak using the left foot first;
- Do not whistle at sea as this could increase wind strength;
- The presence of dolphins is a good omen;
- A "Lucky Fishing Charm" carried within the kayak or tied to the forward deck improves the chances of a good catch;
- Never carry bananas on board or a poor fishing day will be had;
- For the best fishing results always wear the same clothing as you did the last time you caught fish;
- On any outing, if you have caught no fish for a long time, then start eating to make them bite;
- On every new fishing day always release the first fish caught (even when fishing for food);
- A dropped knife when cleaning fish predicts good fishing next trip if it points to sea and bad fishing next trip if it points to land;
- Never expect to catch fish on Friday the thirteenth.