A routine day on the water takes a wild turn when a kayak angler accidentally hooks into an octopus–watch the unbelievable fight unfold on video.

We also break down why anglers are surprisingly happy to pay the sport fishing tax set to expire in 2026, and what it means for the future of fisheries and boating access. If you’re looking to level up your game, learn how big glide baits can tempt trophy trout, and get the inside scoop on Biloxi, Mississippi—an underrated Gulf Coast hotspot where inshore action, easy access and good times collide.

Finally, don’t miss the Spring 2026 edition of Kayak Angler, landing this April, packed with expert skills, proven tactics and smart gear insights to help you shake out the off-season. This new issue will help you hit the water with confidence and catch more fish. Hurry! Subscribe by March 1st to guarantee your copy.

The accidental catch of an octopus by a kayak angler is caught on video, and the fight is crazy to watch.

It is often said there are only two guarantees in life: death and taxes. Most people approach each event with the same enthusiasm. But anglers and fishing tackle manufacturers credit the Sport Fishing Restoration and Boating Trust Fund (SFRBTF) for bringing new life to fishing and boating. The fund is up for reauthorization this year, and everyone—from producers to consumers—is onboard with the fishing tackle excise tax.

Rob Shane, public affairs manager at the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), says, “It’s a unique industry-sponsored tax on ourselves.” Here’s how it works: Fishing equipment manufacturers add the cost of the tax to the product’s bottom line. Fishing equipment, including rod holders, reels, bait buckets and hooks, is taxed at 10 percent. Electric motors pay three percent. Motorboat fuel and imported boats also contribute. Anglers often don’t even realize they are paying the tax when they buy the product.

“We pay it willingly because the money is important to what we love to do,” Shane says.

Money collected from the tax is distributed to state fish and wildlife agencies. State officials award grants to fund access, conservation and education programs that benefit the angling community…

After discovering success targeting largemouth bass with big glide baits and swimbaits, I took my large profile lures trout fishing.

The Gulf Coast city of Biloxi, Mississippi is well known for its casinos and seafood, but the fishing is also diverse and easy to access.

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Want more gear reviews and tactics? The Spring 2026 issue is packed with expert skills, proven tactics and smart gear insights to help you shake out the off-season. This new issue will help you hit the water with confidence and catch more fish. Upgrade to a print subscription and enjoy high-quality print and digital archives.