Ryan Nakamura
Competitive SUP angler and technique coach specializing in inshore saltwater fishing from paddleboards.
One of the most effective yet underutilized techniques in SUP fishing is the controlled paddle drift. Instead of anchoring in one spot and hoping fish come to you, this method lets you systematically cover vast stretches of productive water while maintaining the stealth advantage of a paddleboard.
What Is a Paddle Drift?
A paddle drift uses wind and current to move your SUP along a predetermined path over fish-holding structure. You use occasional paddle strokes to control speed, direction, and positioning — keeping your lure in the strike zone for the maximum amount of time.
Setting Up Your Drift
Start by identifying the wind direction and current flow. Position your SUP upwind or up-current of the target area. The ideal drift speed is 0.3-0.8 mph — fast enough to cover water but slow enough to work your lure effectively.
If the wind is pushing you too fast, deploy a small drift sock or drag your anchor rope (without the anchor) to slow down. If you are moving too slowly, take a few paddle strokes to maintain momentum.
Rod and Lure Setup
For drift fishing, use a medium-light spinning rod in the 7-foot range. This gives you enough length for accurate casts while remaining manageable on the board. Soft plastic jerkbaits in the 4-5 inch range are ideal — they can be worked at various depths and have excellent action even at slow retrieve speeds.
Cast perpendicular to your drift direction, then let the natural movement of the board create a sweeping arc with your lure. This covers a wide swath of water with minimal effort.
Reading the Drift
Pay attention to where you get bites during each drift. Mark these spots mentally or with a GPS waypoint. After completing a drift, paddle back upwind and run the same line again, focusing on the productive zones. Often you will find that fish are concentrated along specific depth contours or structure edges.
Safety Considerations
Always wear your PFD and leash when drift fishing. You will be covering more water and potentially moving into unfamiliar areas. Keep your paddle secured with a paddle leash so both hands are free for fishing. Check your drift path before starting to ensure there are no hazards downwind.