Can You Go Fishing on a Paddle Board?

Jul 01, 2026
NIXY Fishing Rod Holder Quad Mount, 360-degree adjustable SUP and kayak rod mount

Yes, you can fish from a paddle board, and a wide, stable one makes a surprisingly good fishing platform once you add a rod holder and a way to stay put. Paddle board fishing has grown fast because a SUP gets you into shallow flats, coves, and weed lines that a boat cannot reach, and it does it quietly.

The first thing that matters is stability. A wider, longer board holds a steadier platform for casting and reeling, and gives you deck space for a cooler, a crate, or a seat. Boards in the 34 inch wide range, like a touring or all-around SUP, give most anglers room to stand and fight a fish without feeling tippy.

The second thing is rigging. You want your hands free to cast, so a mounted rod holder is the piece that turns a board into a fishing setup. From there you can add an anchor to hold position over a spot, a dry bag for your phone and tackle, and a seat for the long sits.

NIXY Fishing Rod Holder - Quad Mounting Screw - NIXY Sports

The NIXY Fishing Rod Holder Quad Mount ($23) is a 360-degree adjustable holder that screws to your board's accessory mounts, so your rod rides secure while you paddle to the next spot and swings into place when you are ready to cast. For the rest of your kit, the accessories collection has the anchor, dry bags, and seats that round out a fishing rig.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of paddle board is best for fishing? A wide, stable board with plenty of deck space. Touring and all-around boards around 34 inches wide give you the most room to stand, cast, and carry gear.

Do you sit or stand to fish from a SUP? Both work. Standing gives you a better view into the water for sight fishing. Adding a seat lets you sit and rest on longer days or in wind.

How do you keep a paddle board in one spot to fish? Use an anchor. A small grapnel or weight anchor holds your board over a spot so you are not constantly drifting off the fish.

Can you mount more than one rod? Yes. A rod holder with multiple mounting points lets you set up more than one rod, which is handy when you want a second line out while you work the first.