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False flippers) propelling the kayak through the water with speed and ease, coming to a plane quickly, and reaching maximum speed with a minimum amount of effort. The key is in the drive pattern that with each step allows the “ flippers” to flex and take the shape of a propeller blade, then reverse its shape on the next alternat-ing step. Unlike the complete revolution of a normal propel-ler, the sweep-ing action al-lows the Mirage Drive to use the large and powerful blades in a shallower configuration. By using very short steps with the blades perpendicu-lar to the hull, you can easily propel the boat through the shallowest water. For landings, the blades can be “ tucked’ up and under the kayak. Steering is simple and ends the use of a paddle with a steering system positioned at arms length allowing instant control of a kick- up rudder. Another benefit is that you’ll be using the large muscles of the legs and hips that can generate much more power than one’s arms and back. These new- age kayaks are quiet, dry ( no dripping paddles), and leaves your arms free for fishing or even photography. Many of the newer kayak makers, like Hobie or Pelican, offer special features for the angler like; special enclosed hatches for stor-age, built-in rod holders, padded seats, electronic equip-ment mounts, bimini tops, anchors, catch bags, wider beams that increase stability, and out-riggers for even more stability in rough water. There are also kayaks with designs that are similar to the recreational sit- in ( SIK) and sit-on- top kayaks ( SOT) with a wider beam ( up to 36 inches) for increased lateral stability. One can see that stability is the key to fishing from a kayak and the more stable you are the more waters you can fish under less than ideal conditions. The fishing kayak allows access to areas where a boat can’t go like small ponds, rocky shallow water locations, narrow river channels, waters that don’t allow power outboards, and thru dense vegetation. The stealth approach that you can make in a kayak won’t scare the fish in the shallowest water. Any fishing technique that you can do in a “ normal” fishing boat can be done from a kayak. Kayak fishing is a rapidly growing sport with many companies now catering to this group of new- age anglers and their motor less water crafts. Now, with the huge expensive in gasoline for most fishing boats, kayaks are adding “ green” to fishing.