Great YouTube intro! I'm in the same boat (literally). Got a 2019 Outback, and have been braving the winter- been out about 7 times so far & here's what I've found:
1. Get a stand up leash. I found a floating dog leash that works VERY well- it's round, and flexes a bit- cheap too:
https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Dog-Comfo ... +dog+leash2. I fish a busy waterway, so a flag is a must & I devised a cheap solution- buy a teloscopic tour guide pole on Amazon ($7)
https://www.amazon.com/SODIAL-Meters-Te ... uide+polesZiptie a short length of CPVC 3/4" to your crate- the foam grip on the handle fits inside PERFECTLY. I replaced the stock metal clips with zipties so it doesn't rattle. I added a small flag- It's small, light, collapsable and it WORKS-all for under $20.
3. The paddle bungee is fine on the water- I thought about replacing it too, but as little as you'll need your paddle, it's a low priority.
4. The biggest improvement is the addition of Sidekicks. These absolutely transform the Yak into a VERY stable standing platform, and allow you to punch through some swells too- I've been out in 20 knot winds, with 2-3' rolling swells without any concerns. The waves break over the bow, and drain right into the drive hole- I hear a lot of people commenting on the low hull vs. the older outback, and I'll take the splash over the reduced profile to the wind any day.