Kayaking is one of our favorite activities, and it makes fishing much more fun. Not only do you get to fish, but you’re right on top of the water so you can easily touch the water that you’re fishing in. In order to participate in this fun activity though, you need a good fishing kayak.
Since there are many fishing kayaks on the market, we have created this list of the best fishing kayaks available according to our research. We’ve listed some of our favorite things about each kayak and hope that one of these kayaks will suit your needs.
Types of Fishing Kayaks
Sit-On Kayaks
Sit-on kayaks are just that. Kayaks that you sit on. They are open on top so that your legs are on top of the kayak instead of enclosed inside the kayak as they would be in a traditional kayak. These kayaks are usually wider than traditional kayaks and more stable so that you won’t worry as much about capsizing while trying to reel in your prized catch of the day.
Sit-In Kayaks
Sit-in kayaks are what you picture when someone says kayak. They are your traditional, narrow-bodied kayaks that you have to “sit in.” Your legs are enclosed under the front of the kayak, and your center of gravity is lower, which allows the kayak to be narrower and still maintain stability.
Pedal Fishing Kayaks
Pedal fishing kayaks combine the ease and speed of biking with the water maneuverability of a kayak. Instead of paddling like a typical kayak, you use pedals to move and a rudder to steer. The biggest benefit of a pedal kayak is that your hands are free for fishing. No longer will you need to set your paddle down to reel in a fish. Pedaling your kayak is also faster than paddling.
Tandem Kayaks
A tandem kayak is perfect if there are two of you fishing. Tandem kayaks let two people sit in a kayak, one in the front and one in the back. They come in both sit-in and sit-on styles. While fishing, one person can be casting while the other is steering/paddling.
Inflatable Kayaks
Inflatable kayaks are kayaks that only develop their shape once inflated with air. They are very compact when deflated, so they’re a great option for those without a lot of storage space. The cheapest models retail for around $200, but these models are typically less stable on the water and have a hard time turning with even the slightest amount of wind. For a few hundred dollars more, you can get a really good inflatable kayak that can withstand even slightly choppy waters.
Motorized Kayaks
Motorized kayaks give you the speed of a boat with the maneuverability of a kayak. Typically powered by a battery-powered motor on the back or front of the kayak, motorized kayaks also remove the need for paddles, so your hands are freer for catching fish. The main thing to watch out for with motorized kayaks is whether your state requires your motorized kayak to be registered.
What to Look For in Fishing Kayaks
One of the primary things that you have to do when looking for fishing kayaks is to identify each of their features. By knowing their vital characteristics, you are ensured that you are able to pick the fishing kayak that would suit your preferences. Here are two features you should look for when selecting the best fishing kayaks.
Stability of the Fishing Kayak
One of the first things that you should consider is the stability of the kayak. Ensure that your fishing kayak is stable enough to be maneuvered and padded. A wider and more stable kayak would suit those who have a big body or those who are frequent rivers and ponds. Narrower and less stable kayaks could be paddled easier.
Size of the Kayak
Another factor when finding a fishing kayak is the size (and weight) of the kayak. A solid-body kayak, like a typical sit-in kayak or a motorized kayak, requires quite a bit of space such as a garage or shed, while an inflatable kayak can fit just about anywhere. Ours fits in our closet.
Storage in the Kayak
Another factor that you should consider is storage in the kayak itself. Make sure that you find the fishing kayak with the right amount of room to place all of your necessities for fishing, including space for a cooler. It is worth noting that some models have live wells and integrated storage. Others have molded areas for external storage.
These are just some of the features that should be noted when looking for fishing kayaks. It is worth noting that awareness of the key features will make your job of choosing the most suitable fishing kayak easier and more convenient.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks
Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS
Made in the USA, the Sun Dolphin Journey SS has everything you could want in a sit-on fishing kayak. It’s made from ultradurable high-density polyethylene which makes it dent and scratch resistant. We love this kayak for how lightweight it is to carry (only 44 pounds and includes easy to use carrying handles).
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is constructed of UV-protected high-density polyethylene. It has multiple footrest positions for different size riders and a flat bottom for stability. It is also equipped with an adjustable padded seat back and a seat pad for comfort, two flush-mounted fishing rod holders, and front and rear shock cord straps. It also has two paddle cradles with shock cords, and front and rear t-handles for easy transport.
Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Fishing Kayak
The Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Fishing Kayak is a one-person sit-on fishing kayak with a dual position hero seat, offering great speed and stability. It includes two flush-mount rod holders and four integrated gear tracks for customized rigging. Additionally, it has a pre-installed toe-controlled rudder system that will save you energy during long paddles, strong currents, or windy days. This fishing kayak has multiple storage areas: a large center hole, a front oval hatch, a rear hatch, and a large bungee rear tank well.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
Sit-In Fishing Kayaks
Sun Dolphin Aruba 10-Foot Sit-in Kayak
The second fishing kayak on our list is the Sun Dolphin Aruba Kayak. It is equipped with a large open cockpit with an adjustable padded seat. The padded seat, in particular, has high back support. It further consists of convenient gear storage with shock cord deck rigging and a set of adjustable foot braces. This fishing kayak is made of polyethylene, rugged UV-stabilized Fortiflex high density, and a spray deflector collar.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
Sun Dolphin Excursion Fishing Kayak
Our next fishing kayak in the list is the Sun Dolphin Excursion Fishing Kayak. It is made up of rugged UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene. Characterized as lightweight and easy to carry, this fishing kayak is great for rivers and lakes. It tracks and paddles with ease while offering maximum stability. This fishing kayak consists of two flush mount rod holders and a swivel rod holder. It could come in three different colors and designs: gray swirl, olive, and sand.
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Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Vapor 10 Angler Fishing Kayak
Old Town is known for making reliable and long-lasting canoes and kayaks. Their Vapor 10 fishing kayak is no exception. It has a polyethylene hull with a roomy cockpit and outfitting. It consists of adjustable padded comfort flex seat, thigh pads, and adjustable foot braces that provide a comfortable seating area with exceptional boat control. The cockpit amenities include a molded-in cockpit tray, a molded-in paddle park, and a cup holder. Additional features include a stern day-well for storage, molded carry handles, skid plate, and drain plug.
Fishing Kayak With Pedals
Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak
Old Town is known for making high-quality canoes and kayaks. The Sportsman Salty PDL 120 is a classic pedal kayak. We found this kayak to be extremely intuitive to use and perfectly outfitted for our fishing trip. The included tackle box and rod holders were an added bonus.
Tandem Fishing Kayaks
Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak With Paddles
The Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak is equipped with a versatile design that would allow for solo or tandem paddling. It is designed with a ten-foot compact length for easy transport and storage. This fishing kayak includes three fishing rod holders and a rear storage hatch. This fishing kayak has a stable hull design with a weight capacity of 500 lbs. It could come in two colors: olive green and camouflage.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
BKC UH-TK181 Tandem Fishing Kayak
The BKC UH-TK181 Tandem Fishing Kayak is a two-person tandem sit on top fishing kayak. It has multiple waterproof storage areas for wallets and keys, among others. It has seven fishing rod holders, three of which are adjustable for convenience while the seven are flush-mounted for stability. It also includes two secure paddle parks that prevent the paddles from falling overboard when not in use. It also has four comfortable carrying handles for easy overland transport.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is made with an 18-gauge PVC that is rugged for lake use. Additionally, it is made up of 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover that provide durable protection from punctures. The multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay. Due to its Airtight System, this fishing kayak is guaranteed not to leak. Its Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders are adjustable for enhanced hands-free fishing. There’s a reason this is the best inflatable fishing kayak on our list.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Our last fishing kayak is the Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Fishing Kayak. A robust product, this fishing kayak is constructed with a rip-resistant 1000D PVS making it resistant to tear and leaks.It includes two adjustable seats, two vertical and four trolling rod holders, double-sided oars, and foot pump, among others. It is compact and lightweight without compromising the performance of the kayak. It is also easy to repair and adjust due to its three separate removable air chambers.
See Pricing and Details on Amazon
Motorized Fishing Kayaks
Old Town Sportsman 106
Another great Old Town kayak, the Sportsman 106 comes with a battery-powered trolling motor so that you can continue to fish without having to paddle. It comes with plenty of rod holders, a tackle box, and a fish finder mount.
BKCPK11 Solo Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak
This kayak by the Brooklyn Kayak Company (BKC) combines the benefits of a sit-on-top kayak with a convenient trolling motor to limit the need for paddling while trying to reel in your catch. It’s a great option for the budget-minded fisherman who wants the added motor.
Conclusion
These are just some of the great kayaks available. We recommend you continue researching to determine whether a particular fishing kayak will work for you.
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