Fishing from a stand-up paddle board, or SUP fishing, is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing trends among anglers. Combining the thrill of paddling with the satisfaction of catching fish, it offers a unique, accessible, and affordable way to fish almost anywhere.

Whether you’re brand-new to paddle boarding, just starting out with fishing, or simply curious about a fresh way to combine the two, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From choosing the right board and gear to mastering techniques and staying safe, here’s how to start SUP fishing like a pro.

SUP fishing is simply fishing from a stand-up paddle board. Unlike traditional boats, paddle boards allow anglers to slip into shallow waters, hidden coves, and secluded backwaters that larger craft can’t reach. It emphasizes stealth, mobility, and simplicity, making it ideal for freshwater lakes, coastal flats, rivers, and calm bays.

On the water, you can either stand or kneel on a wide, stable board, paddle quietly to your chosen fishing spot, and then cast directly from your SUP. Some fishing-specific boards even come equipped with rod holders, gear mounts, and coolers, turning your board into a lightweight but capable fishing machine.

SUP fishing offers several unique advantages over kayaks, canoes, or motorboats:

• Stealth: Paddle boards glide almost silently, allowing you to approach fish without spooking them.

• Access: SUP fishing allows anglers to reach shallow waters that boats cannot, including backwater flats, tidal creeks, and weed-choked lakes.

• Exercise: Paddling provides a low-impact workout, strengthening your core, shoulders, and legs.

• Affordability: A SUP fishing setup is usually less expensive than boats or even many kayaks.

• Simplicity: With minimal gear and quick setup, you can be on the water faster and cover more ground in less time.

For anglers looking to simplify their experience while adding adventure, SUP fishing is the perfect fit.

Selecting the right board makes all the difference. Here’s what to look for in a SUP designed for fishing:

1. Stability
   Fishing requires balance, especially when casting or fighting a fish. Boards at least 34 inches wide provide a rock-solid platform.

2. Weight Capacity
   Add up your body weight plus the weight of all your gear. Choose a board rated for at least 300 pounds to ensure safety and stability.

3. Attachment Points
   Look for D-rings, mounts, or tie-down points for rod holders, coolers, and tackle storage.

4. Deck Pad
   A full-length, grippy deck pad offers comfort for standing or kneeling and keeps footing secure, even when wet.

5. Inflatable vs. Hard Board

   • Inflatable boards: Portable, lightweight, and durable enough to bounce off rocks or docks. Easy to transport and store.

   • Hard boards: Faster and more rigid but harder to move and store.

Boards like the Glide O2 Angler 2.0 are built specifically for SUP fishing, offering durability, stability, and integrated mounts for gear.

Setting up your board properly makes SUP fishing more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s the gear checklist:

• Paddle: A lightweight, adjustable paddle. Some convert into kayak-style double blades for seated paddling.

• Anchor System: A small anchor, stake-out pole, or sand spear helps hold position against current or wind.

• Rod Holders: Keep your hands free while paddling or handling a catch.

• Cooler: Doubles as a seat and storage for bait, drinks, and fish.

• Tackle Storage: Dry bags or waterproof boxes for lures, hooks, and pliers.

• Leash: Always wear a leash so your board doesn’t drift away if you fall in.

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device): Required by law in many areas and essential for safety.

Optional add-ons: fish finders, bungee tie-downs, dry bags, waterproof phone cases, and action camera mounts for filming your catches.

The beauty of SUP fishing is that you can fish almost anywhere. Popular environments include:

• Freshwater lakes: Perfect for targeting bass, crappie, and pike.

• Rivers: Great for trout, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

• Coastal flats: Target redfish, snook, and bonefish in shallow waters.

• Mangroves & estuaries: Prime habitat for snook, tarpon, and flounder.

• Mountain reservoirs: Known for trout, kokanee salmon, and panfish.

Beginners should stick to calm, protected waters before advancing to tidal creeks, rivers with current, or windier coastal environments.

Mastering technique helps maximize your catch and minimize frustration:

• Position Yourself Strategically: Paddle upwind or against the current, then drift naturally over your target zone.

• Silent Paddling: Use smooth, controlled strokes to minimize splash and noise. Fish are sensitive to disturbance.

• Cast While Kneeling First: Kneeling provides better balance when learning, especially with heavier lures or bigger fish.

• Anchor Smartly: Use an anchor in windy conditions or moving water to stay in the strike zone.

• Travel Light: Bring only what you need—fewer items mean less clutter and less chance of losing gear.

Because you’re combining fishing gear with paddle boarding, safety becomes even more important:

• Always check weather, wind, and tides before heading out.

• Wear your PFD at all times.

• Tell someone your paddle plan and estimated return time.

• Avoid crowded boat channels or areas with heavy motorboat traffic.

• Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and use polarized sunglasses for better visibility.

Safety isn’t just about you when SUP fishing —it ensures you can fish more often, with more confidence, season after season.

SUP fishing blends the freedom of paddling with the excitement of fishing. It brings you closer to nature, sharpens your angling skills, and makes every catch feel more rewarding. With the right paddle board, the proper gear, and a little practice, SUP fishing quickly becomes one of the most satisfying ways to spend time on the water.

Unlike boats, SUPs give you independence and simplicity—launch almost anywhere, paddle quietly into your favorite spot, and enjoy fishing at your own pace. You’ll get exercise, relaxation, and adventure all in one session.

At Glide SUP, we’ve designed SUP fishing paddle boards built to handle real-world adventures. Whether you’re chasing bass on a calm lake or redfish on a coastal flat, our boards are built for stability, durability, and performance.

👉 Explore Glide’s Fishing Paddle Boards

Related Links:

• Mako Fishing Paddle Board

• Angler SUP Board Guide

• Paddle Board Safety: 15 Essential Tips