Fishing In Real Life: Interview with Kristian Kolflat (Part 2)

Kristian Kolflat is the Tournament Director for the Kayak Anglers Tournament Series (KATS) one of, if not, the best kayak bass fishing tournament series out there. The series has been run by Austin Canoe and Kayak, the Retailer of the Year in the 2012 Kayak Anglers Choice Awards, and is affiliated with Austin Kayak Fishing, which finished second in 2012, for Kayak Fishing Forum of the Year. I guess what I am saying is that Kristian is involved with a few of the biggest and best groups in kayak fishing. He is also a dedicated saltwater angler, and great kayak fisherman in his own right. I was able to talk this busy man into an interview. To read Part 1 of the Interview, go here: Interview with Kristian Kolflat (Part 1)

Here is Part Two of the Interview:

PK: Steve Garcia pretty much ran away with the title of KATS Angler of the Year in 2012. What do you think put him so far ahead of the field, a field that is full of amazing bass anglers? Who do you think has a shot at the 2013 title? Is there anyone who might not receive much attention, but that could jump up and surprise everyone in claiming the 2013 AOY title?

KK: Steve Garcia is a skilled bass angler and earned every minute of his glory last year. He would be the best person to ask what really put him ahead, but my best guess it is the many hours he was able to invest in pre-fishing for each event and also his perseverance. You never see Steve come in early whether he already holds 100 inch-plus stringer or the weather is unbearable. He understands that sometimes the .25 inches can make the difference between winning and losing.

I believe we have several very talented individuals in the current KATS roster and I think we will see a more competitive season this year. A number of our anglers placed several times last year and some came winning out of the blue. You cannot predict the winners but you can certainly bet that those who are passionate and have the time to dedicate to the season will come out on top. Take a look at the top 15 names from last year and you will see many of those again this year, along with some new ones I bet.

PK: Are there any changes coming to KATS in 2013, if so...can you announce them yet?

KK: There will definitely be some changes coming this year. You will see a new division being added. We want to give the pro's a chance to really compete with each other so we have made the amateur division more like a semi-pro, and then added a beginners division. If you consistently perform at these events and/or win, you should be fishing pro. If you perform on a less predictable basis or are just not quite there yet, sign up as an amateur. The beginner division will be for those individuals who have never competed before or do this for mostly fun, you can expect that any size fish will count in this division.

With the changes in the format there will be accompanying changes in payout structure. The Pro division will remain a cash only payout, while the semi-pro will become a payout structure based on the number of participants just like the pro but with a smaller contribution and the payouts being in ACK gift cards rather than cash. This allows folks to use their winnings to purchase anything ACK carries, rather than winning an item that doesn't fit, they already have or don't need, or just don't like. The beginners division will receive gear prize packages.

A few rule changes will be clarified and a few other changes to the tourney format can be expected. All of this is still in the works so please understand these changes are not yet set in stone!

PK: Any chance that we could incorporate some form of river based tournament in KATS anytime, or are the logistics of that just too difficult?

KK: That sounds like a lot of fun. There are tons of great ideas for KATS that have been suggested by the competitors. As KATS grows I am sure you will see more and more of these incorporated. I think a river based tourney would be a lot of fun, but logistically challenging. It is definitely something to explore.

PK: Does KATS have any desire or thoughts of expanding beyond the Central Texas Region?

KK: My vision for KATS is one where it becomes a regional event. For example, you could have a north, south, west, east and central Texas KATS division. Each one runs its own series by the same rules, format, etc. At the end of the series you have a Classic that is comprised of the top performing anglers (maybe even on regional teams). It would be awesome but we are a ways away from this becoming a reality. I would imagine that if this year/season goes well you could expect more talk of regional expansion.

PK: There is no doubt that the sport of kayak fishing has exploded in popularity over the past few years. In your opinion, what are the major reasons for this rapid growth?

KK: The economy is certainly a factor. Gas guzzling powerboats, registrations, maintenance, tune ups, trailering, and storage is impossible to compete with a almost hassle-free kayak. Not only that but you can get to places that are inaccessible to most powerboats and you connect with natural and wildlife aspects in a much different way. Much more coverage with forums, media, and recognition by fellow anglers has also led to the expansion. Plus, it's just cool!

PK: What is the main issue facing kayak fishing in the future? Is it protection of the water, protection of the fish, access to waters, or what?

KK: I think you will ultimately see the same type of issues that you see now. As more and more people join the sports the pressures will transfer to the kayaking world. A thousand people on a kayak is still better than thousand people on a powerboat but I hope that environmental protections are considered in the same way. As much as we all love sharing this cool concept with others, we will all be frustrated when you see 30 kayaks at your put in spot.

PK: Ok, now quick answer.

PK: I am a rod guy, my whole trip revolves around what rods I am going to bring. If you could choose just one, what is your favorite rod?

KK: So far I have been very pleased with my Falcon rods outfitted with Penn reels.

PK: What is your favorite lure?

KK: I have had great luck with a Rapala baby bass in freshwater, a Top Dog Jr. in saltwater, and the caddis in fly fishing.

PK: Who has been your favorite fishing partner?

KK: My younger brother Dylan. He has persevered through long enduring kayak days as a young kid, begged me to take him fishing, and asked me for advice. He has always been a positive optimistic angler and I will never forget the happy faces he made as kid. Many anglers in the KATS series have had to chance to meet him as he voluntarily came out to camp out and lend me a hand with several tournaments. Not bad for a busy high school sophomore on the wrestling team with numerous girls chasing him at any given moment.

PK: Who is the best angler that you have had the chance to fish with?

KK: Luckily I have had the opportunity to fish with many skilled anglers.

PK: Who is one person you would love to take fishing, dead or alive?

KK: I think it would be interesting to fish with Ted Roosevelt.

PK: Thanks again for the interview, Kristian.