The 10 Best Fishing Kayaks: Types & How To Choose
Isn't it lovely casting a line into the wide-open water, with not a care in the world, living in the moment, while the sun sets over the horizon? The best thing about it is, you didn't have to tow a great big motorized fishing boat and humph it into the water because you read this article and bought the all singing all dancing best fishing kayak!
That's right. This buying guide will guide you into that blissful fishing dream so you can paddle to your favorite spot and fish the day away. Let's find the best fishing kayaks!
Different Types of Fishing Kayak
Sit-In
Sit-in fishing kayaks are pretty self-explanatory. They are kayaks that have a deep cockpit that you sit inside.
A significant advantage of a sit-in kayak for angling is it's a lightweight fishing kayak. This makes it easier to transport and fix to the top of your vehicle. Another benefit is because you are sitting inside the cockpit, you will be kept drier with the extra option of using a spray skirt, which will also keep you warmer. Nevertheless, we always recommend you dress for the temperature of the water, just in case there's any accidental capsizing.
Usually, a sit-in kayak will have more waterproof storage hatches too. However, you'll most definitely have to get out of your kayak to access them.
Sit-On-Top
A great feature of sit-on-top kayaks for fishing is they have the best stability. They have enough to allow you to stand up in the kayak while you fish. They also often have a seat that's wider and likely more comfortable than the sit-in models.
A sit on top fishing kayak also has more space to attach fishing gear using bungee straps or D rings, which is a reason suggesting this kayak type might be the best kayak for fishing. It's easier to get in and out of the kayak too!
The best thing about using sit on top kayaks to fish is that you don't need to have crazy kayaking skills to use it as an anglers kayak. They are straightforward to use, and if the boat should capsize, it's easier to get back into without having to take it to shore and tip out the water.
The sit-on-top kayaks are arguably the best kayaks for fishing.
Inflatable
Inflatable fishing kayak, you say? Aren't they easily punctured and pretty much a glorified floatie? The answer is no, inflatable fishing kayaks are surprisingly durable. Some are even designed to take on rough waters and rapids.
The best thing about inflatable fishing kayaks is that they are super transportable! That's right. You can paddle on them all day, and when your day comes to an end, simply deflate, pack away and throw in the trunk of your car. It's really that easy!
Many inflatable kayaks now come with fishing features like extra storage or fishing rod holders, making them even more attractive to the angling enthusiasts.
Pedal Drive Kayaks
Fishing kayaks with pedals are pretty simple. They use a pedal system underneath the boat's hull to move by winding your feet as if on a bicycle. These kayaks are useful for hands-free maneuvering, which is useful if you have a fishing rod in your hands, and you're drifting away from your catch, you can move the boat forward without compromising whatever is on the end of your line.
The downside to pedal kayaks is that you have to be careful of underwater obstacles and shallow water as the pedal mechanism protrudes underneath the boat and could get damaged.
Motorized
A lot of anglers swear by the motorized kayak. It offers the maneuverability of a kayak with the added convenience of a motor.
If you are looking at buying a fishing kayak with a motor attached, the main benefit is that you have no physical limits (other than petrol levels, of course) to the distance you can go.
The big downside is that it is not an eco-friendly option at all, so if you are trying to save the planet, maybe it's best to pick up the paddle!
Tandem
Do you get lonely out on the water? Want to have someone to talk to or share your prizewinning catch with? If the answer is yes, maybe the best fishing kayak for you is a tandem!
These kayaks allow you to take a friend along on your fishing trips. Whether it be bonding time with your son or daughter or relaxation with your friend or other half, it's a brilliant way to have fun and socialize.
Have You Considered Your Kayak Fishing Goals?
Have you thought about what kind of water you intend to go kayak fishing on? Is it fresh, salt, ponds, lakes, rivers, warm, cold, or puddles?
It would help if you thought about how much gear you are comfortable taking, whether it's everything and the kitchen sink or minimal kit.
Once you've set your kayak fishing goals, it'll start to become clear which types of fishing kayak you need and also which features you'd like to have.
Size Guide
Length and Width
Kayaks come in a wide range of lengths. They can be 10 feet long up to 16-feet long.
10 to 11-Feet Long Kayaks
These are suitable for fishing on lakes, calm conditions and slow-moving rivers. They tend to be a little wider and, therefore, more stable but are not the easiest to paddle for long distances.
12 to 13-Feet Long Kayaks
These kayaks tend to be better for a first new kayak, especially for those who wish to paddle on the sea. They are suitable for use as ocean fishing kayaks in moderate coastal conditions.
14 Foot Plus Fishing Kayaks
An angler kayak that is 14 foot or longer tend to be bought once you know exactly what type of kayaking you intend on doing. They tend to be long and skinny, making them fast and sleek, and able to deal with rough conditions.
The width of the kayak and the shape of the hull depicts the stability of the kayak. If the hull is wider and flat, then the kayak will be really stable. If the kayak is thin and the hull is skinny and pointed, the boat will be less stable but fast and able to cut through the water like butter.
Weight and Weight Capacity
The kayak's weight doesn't matter when you're out on the water, but it quickly becomes apparent when you are stuck, loading it onto the top of your car.
If you are fishing on your own, the last thing you want is a heavy kayak to humph on your own. If you plan on kitting your kayak out with a trolling motor mount, motor, anchors, and rudders, these additions will also contribute to the overall weight of the kayak unless you intend to take them all off every time you go out.
More importantly, you have to consider the weight capacity. The weight capacity refers to the amount of weight the kayak can take in the water. In order to calculate how much weight capacity you need without sinking, you'll need to step on the scale and add the total to all of your kit while also considering the mounts and rudders.
Other Things To Consider
Propulsion
Pedal versus paddle, which one to choose? Pedal propulsion mechanisms allow you to be hands-free while fishing and less tired when paddling long distances. However, this comes at the expense of them being heavy and not the most cost-efficient.
Storage
The best fishing kayak is bound to have ample storage for all your fishing goodies. This can come in the form of waterproof storage hatches or bungee straps and anchor points to attach your abundance of fishing gear.
Seating
The seating in the best fishing kayak will be comfortable, adjustable with excellent back support. Many kayaks have removable seating, so if you find it isn't meeting your expectations, you are able to upgrade the kayak seat to a more comfortable one.
Materials
Kayaks can be constructed out of lots of different construction materials, but the four main ones are single layer polyethylene, three-layer polyethylene, fiberglass, and kevlar carbon.
Single-layer polyethylene is resistant to weather conditions, abrasion, and is very durable.
Three-layer polyethylene kayaks have a sleek and tough surface making for a good glide when you're paddling. Also, the three layers provide a thick coat, which improves buoyancy and also insulation.
Fiberglass is a light material and therefore is more lightweight and easily transportable than the polyethylene.
Kevlar-Carbon is also lightweight and tends to be more resistant to abrasion, which comes at a higher price point.
Safety
When you're kayaking, it's always important to be safe on the water. This is why you have to consider your own kayaking skills when purchasing a fishing kayak. If you aren't used to paddling, it's a good idea to consider a more stable kayak.
Color
You might think considering the color of the kayak is purely aesthetic and silly, but actually, some colors are easier to spot in low light and misty conditions.
Colors also matter when fishing, as some colors like yellow, green, orange, and camouflage are said to attract more fish, whereas white is said to scare them away, and nobody wants the fish to go in the opposite direction from the line!
Portability
When you're searching for a new fishing kayak, you have to decide how portable you need it to be. For example, can you mount it on your car roof? Do you know how long a kayak can fit on your car roof? Maybe you'd prefer a pack away inflatable kayak.
Extra Features
Some kayaks specifically designed for fishing have some handy fishing features to make your trip easy-breezy.
For example, rod holders (to allow for hands-free fishing), the ability to mount a fishing finder GPS or trolling motor, paddle holders (so you don't lose your paddle when you're casting a line), or finally, adjustable footrests and seats (to ensure you are at maximum comfort while you're out fishing on the water).
The 10 Best Fishing Kayaks: Reviews
1. Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12
If you are looking for a kayak designed with the angler in mind, then the Hobie Mirage might be the best kayak for you!
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 is a sit-on-top kayak with mirage drive 180 turbo kick up pedal drive fins that will get you exactly where you want to go in no time!
You can take advantage of the view from the vantage ST seat, which keeps you comfortable with BOA lumbar support. You can forget back pain and sit in bliss while you cast your line or fish hands-free, making use of the handy H rail where you can mount rod holders, cupholders, mounting plates, or anything you want really. And while you're enjoying your hands-free experience, you won't need to worry about the boat veering off because the tracking on the Hobie Mirage really keeps things on the straight and narrow.
The Hobie Mirage pro angler has a 500 lb capacity leaving room for lots of extra storage, which is why it has two main storage hatches on the bow and stern. Both have liners and are sealed and ready to keep your valuables safe, whether they are water-resistant or not.
The Hobie Mirage pro angler truly makes fishing from kayaks a breeze.
Length 12 ft
Weight 128.5 lbs
Weight Capacity 500 lbs
The pelican catch 100 is a sit-on-top kayak ready and waiting to go fishing! It has excellent stability aided by its multi-chine flat hull. Speaking of stability, these boats are specifically designed as fly fishing and bass fishing kayaks so you can stand up and cast a line with no worry of capsizing.
These boats are made with three-layer polyethylene, making them extremely buoyant and lightweight to transport and carry.
The Pelican Catch comes with a handy storage hatch with a quick-lock system at the front of the boat, and if that's not enough for you, there's plenty of storage space on the outside of the boat using bungee cords.
It's comfortable, using an ergo-fit seating system, which is padded with a cushioned seat and adjustable backrest. Goodbye back pain!
So, this boat is durable, lightweight and if you're looking for kayaks for bass fishing, this could be your best option.
Length 10 foot
Weight 58 lbs
Weight Capacity 350 lbs
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a great all-around sit-on-top kayak. At 63 lbs, it's pretty easy to carry and transport.
The best thing about the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is the effective balance it achieves between stability, maneuverability, tracking and speed.
While you're out on the water, you won't have to worry about comfort because this boat has an ergonomically designed seating system. This seating system is adjustable even when you're seated. The bottom of the seat and the seat back are both adjustable to give you the best and most comfortable back support possible.
Storage in the front, party in the back! Or rather, storage in the front and bungee storage in the back, and plenty of it.
A handy feature on this boat is the paddle holder clip where you're able to store your paddle while you fish hands-free.
This kayak is a great crowd-pleasing boat for all types of angler.
Length 12 ft 3 in
Weight 63 lbs
Weight Capacity 350 lbs
If you're the kind of angler who tends to go to the local lake fishing haunt and not as keen to chase new scenery, then the old town predator could be for you.
This bad boy comes in at a heavyweight of 117 lbs, which will be cumbersome to carry yourself and put on the roof of your vehicle even with the helpful robust carry handles. The heavy weight is the price to pay for all the extra fishing features!
First of all, the old town predator has some super comfortable adjustable seating, and adjustable foot rests to suit even the tallest kayakers.
The PDL pedal drive system ensures the boat can instantly switch from forward to reverse to get where you need to go.
The old town predator has everything! It's got rod holders, excellent storage space at the front and back of the boat, EVA foam deck pads to aid stability when fishing from a standing position, a universal transducer mount if you want to mount a fish finder device, and lots more. This boat is the gadget anglers dream, and it better be for the money you part with for it!
Length 13 ft 2 in
Weight 117 lbs
Weight Capacity 500 lbs
Usually, it's more common to see sit-on-top kayaks dominating the fishing kayak market, but the Sun Dolphin is here to stand out!
One of the benefits you have when fishing from a sit-in kayak is the maneuverability, the cockpit protection against water, and the insulation it provides in cold weather.
The Sun Dolphin is made with high-quality polyethylene making it durable and has a surprising amount of storage, including a stern hatch, bungee straps, and a bungee water bottle holder.
The seat is adjustable and padded with high back support, and there shouldn't be any worry in transporting using it's convenient carry handles.
Length 10 ft
Weight 40 lbs
Weight Capacity 250 lbs
The native watercraft provides everything an angler could possibly wish for, but like the predator kayak, it comes at a price and a weight.
It weighs 108 lbs, the slayer propel is not the lightest, but it makes up for it in features. It has an incredible amount of storage space in its large hatch at the bow and plenty of bungee storage space at the stern.
Around the cockpit, there are three flush-mounted rod holders useful for when you want to fish hands-free and just pop your rods in the holders and grab a quick cup of cocoa. And while you're having your cocoa with the rod holders doing all the work, you can also enjoy the fully adjustable seating to ensure maximum comfort while you pedal.
If you're a standing angler, the slayer propel also has deck padding to aid your stability. However, the kayak is by no means unstable. It can easily handle choppy or rough water conditions, so you don't have to worry about wrestling with a big fish!
Length 13 ft 2 in
Weight 108 lbs
Weight Capacity 500 lbs
So, you want to bring along another angler on your fishing trip? The Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Kayak may be a good option for you.
No need to be salty with your paddling partner because this tandem kayak is perfect for kayak fishing in the sea, and if things get too salty, the boat only needs one person to paddle it.
Sit-on-top ocean angling kayaks tend to be stable, and buoyancy and this one is no exception. It proves to be a good choice if you're going to be paddling on calm rivers, lakes, and coastal bays.
One downside to this kayak is the lack of storage. There is enough space to bring a few dry bags or a tackle box for the day, but if you are planning on a weekend or a multiple day trip, it may become a bit of a problem.
Length 12 ft
Weight 57 lbs
Weight Capacity 425 lbs
Are you looking for a cheap kayak for fishing, or are you on a strict budget? The Pelican Sentinel 100X Inflatable Angler Raft may be the one for you.
Do not let the price put you off of this kayak. Despite its low price, it does not compromise on stability and durability.
This kayak has a slim design, which makes it pretty speedy in the water, and the sailing quality is better than you'd expect from an inflatable kayak.
One of the best things about inflatable kayaks is that they are incredibly transportable and convenient. Instead of struggling to lift your kayak on top of the roof of your car, you can quickly deflate and pack your kayak away before throwing it into your car trunk.
This kayak is made from thermoform plastic, making it sufficiently durable. It has three flush-mounted rod holders, one bottle holder, bungee storage, and tackle box storage with bungee straps.
This budget option is also relatively comfortable with cushioned seating and padded backrest, as well as adjustable foot rests.
A good option for the angler on a budget.
Length 10 ft
Weight 45 lbs
Weight Capacity 275 lbs
When it comes to fishing in a kayak, the Old Town Dirigo has you covered. This fish kayak is easy to maneuver on a recreational basis, paddling on slow-moving rivers and lakes.
The old town has a one-click shut storage hatch at the stern for any non-water resistant valuables or picnic to keep them safe and dry. For your larger fishing gear, there are bungee cords on the deck of the kayak and a sunken cup holder for all your early morning coffee needs.
The old town has a comfortable seat with a ventilated back to keep you cool on a hot, sweaty summer day, and with a glide track foot rest system, it'll keep you comfortable while you fish.
The fishing kayak is made with multiple layers of polyethylene, making it durable and flexible.
The old town is a great fishing kayak for all skill levels of anglers.
This inflatable tandem fishing kayak is ready for two keen anglers to get fishing! Who'd have thought that BIC, known for its pens, could pull off such an innovative inflatable fishing kayak?
It has rod holders, some bungee, and cockpit storage, and when you want to end the day and pack up your fishing kayak, it packs into a handy backpack, for any multi-terrain journeys.
For an inflatable kayak, it tracks quite well and is pretty maneuverable, and because of its semi-rigid hull, it's also sufficiently stable.
You can use this as a two-person boat, but if you want to use it for one person, you can and free up some space for extra storage.
This kayak is a solid crowd-pleasing fishing kayak that can outperform some lower end hard shell fishing kayaks.
Other Accessories
If you have bought your fishing kayak and are looking for one or two fishing accessories to set up your fishing kayak, then read on. We have explained precisely which features mean what.
Fishfinder
A fish finder, like a GPS system, can scan the water to detect underwater objects such as fish so then you are able to plant yourself in the most populated spot. However, it can be quite clunky and cumbersome for small boats like kayaks, which you will need to take into account if you plan on this being part of your kit.
Motors
Usually motors don't tend to come with kayaks, but many manufacturers design fishing kayaks to allow the boat to have one attached. Motors can be useful for long journeys and banishing limitations, but as we mentioned before, a fishing kayak with motor has an environmental cost.
Rod Holders
Rod holders are usually built-in sunken in holes at the sides of your kayak, but if you have a kayak that doesn't have rod holders, lots of kayaks have the capacity to mount your own.
Be careful though. Some people think they need loads of rod holders and can end up swamping themselves in rods, and they can start to resemble your very own prison bars. Two or three is more than enough for one kayak.
Rods
Every angler has their favorite size and length of the rod. You need to consider material and grip length as well as action, which refers to the curvature of the rod when it's under pressure or force, power, which refers to the rods ability to resist force, and test, which refers to the weight capacity the fishing line can take.
Anyone can go fishing. You can go fishing with a piece of wood with a string wrapped around with a hook on the end! However, if you're taking your kayak fishing seriously, you'll want to find the best rod(s) for you before taking them out on the water.
Our Top Pick Of The Best Fishing Kayaks
We've looked at one kayak after another, we've considered the rod holders, the tracking, and the stability, and we have concluded that the best fishing kayak on the market is the Old Town Predator PDL!
If you are willing to shell out for an angling kayak with all the fishing features your heart desires, then consider the old town predator. Its features are worth the money!
It has everything from rod holders to cupholders. It's comfortable because of its ergonomic adjustable seats and footrests. It comes accessory-ready with its built-in accessory tracks to install extra rod holders, a camera, or a fish finder device.
It's truly an excellent choice for a pedal paddler punting for a pedalo that packs a punch!