Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks For 2 Person Yak Angling
Are you lonely in your kayak? Do you wish you had some company when paddling on the water? Do you wish you had someone to share that sweet prize catch with? Maybe you need to buy a tandem fishing kayak! If you think you do, then you're in luck. We have collated the best tandem fishing kayaks into one little convenient and helpful place.
Let's get started!
Tandem vs Solo
Solo or tandem? Lets discuss the pros and cons of one person and two-person kayaks to help you find the best tandem kayak for you.
Tandem Fishing
The first obvious pro for a tandem fishing kayak is the opportunity to take along a friend. Fishing can be a solo, calming and relaxing experience but can be equally as enjoyable in good company, especially if that good company can help you fish.
Think about it; your fishing partner can aid you in paddling, which, when synced up, can be both quicker and more efficient. They can keep the kayak still while you cast a line in the best fishing spot, and they can bring the picnic!
Solo Fishing
However, solo kayaks allow freedom for the kayaker to paddle wherever they want whenever they want and the speed they want to go at. Doesn't that sound liberating? You might think it might be better to buy a tandem because it's better to have more padded seats than one. After all, you can paddle in a tandem fishing kayak on your own, right? Although you technically can kayak on your own, it may generate an imbalance in the boat. This makes it much more difficult to control and, in turn, can cause it to be unsafe. This is why you must weigh up your needs before jumping into a tandem fishing kayak and floating away.
Solo Kayaks also have a wide range of choice when considering a specialty kayak such as one intended for fishing. There are loads of different options equipped with extras like fishing rod holders, extra storage hatches, and the ability to attach a trolling motor. Tandem fishing kayaks often have fewer models to choose from.
A widespread debate when purchasing tandem kayaks is whether it would be cheaper to get one tandem kayak or two solo fishing kayaks. Well, generally speaking, buying a tandem can feel like buying two for the price of one, and it is usually for comparable models cheaper than buying two kayaks of the same quality. So, if you plan on paddling with a friend more often than not, then perhaps a tandem fishing kayak would fit your needs best.
Rigged vs Unrigged
Rigged or Unrigged? (and we ain't talking about any election results!) This question depends on your preferences. Do you prefer a built-in rod holder (rigged) or to mount one yourself (unrigged)? This is what separates the big-boy specialty fishing kayaks from more inexpensive versions that you can adapt.
Sit-on-Top Kayaks vs Sit in Kayaks
Most fishing kayakers prefer the sit-on-top kayak for its freedom to wade while you fish or for the masses of legroom, and if you capsize, it just self drains! However, on the flip side of that, the sit-in fishing kayak usually has more storage capability and better protection for unpleasant weather.
Weight Capacity
It is essential to consider the weight capacity of your chosen tandem fishing kayak before purchase. After all, you don't want to buy a boat and hop in for a fishing trip with all your kit and passengers and find that you have to bail out water!
An average grown adult man weighs 200 pounds, and you find a kayak for two people with a weight capacity of 500 pounds, then it has enough capacity for two people and some kayaking gear. It would perhaps be useful to weigh your kit or as scary as it might be for some of us, it might also be worth stepping on the scales to figure out exactly how much weight is getting in the kayak.
Motor, Paddle or Pedals
Motor, paddle, or pedals. Just like planes, trains and automobiles, very different ways of transport but all will get you to where you want to go.
Pedal
For the majority of anglers, speed is not a significant concern; however, using a pedal kayak will enable you to cut across water faster and more efficiently than traditional paddling.
A pedal kayak also has an added benefit to helping get your kayak in position and keep it there hands-free. It means you can adjust your position with your feet while you have a line out.
However, it comes without saying a pedal drive calls for more underwater clearance for the fins to work. It also means sacrificing some space in the kayak.
Paddle
To paddle is easy, reliable and requires minimal maintenance, and it's nice to stick to the kayaking grassroots.
Traditional kayaks that use paddles are less expensive, with pedal kayaks often being four times the price as a paddle kayak.
One major downside is the juggling of fishing gear around the paddle, and also because you're not using your legs to pedal and using your arms to paddle as well as fish, your arms will tire quicker.
Motor
A motor is undoubtedly the fastest and most efficient option. It's easier to maneuver, and you're able to save your energy for fishing. On the downside, it is not eco-friendly, and it's more disruptive to the tranquillity of nature.
Size and Weight
Obviously, a two person kayak design is going to be bigger than a kayak built for one person, so there are some things to consider when purchasing a larger yak.
Living in a house beside a beautiful fishing lake would be a dream, but many of us don't have that luxury living in a town where you'll have to transport the kayak on top of your vehicle. You have to be prepared to transport a boat from 12 ft plus, as tandem kayaks vary in size from 12 ft up to 16 ft long.
The width of the kayak is essential to the overall stability. Your kayak will be more stable if it is wider.
The downside to a wide kayak is that it can be more challenging to paddle, and it will be slower because of the increased water surface contact.
It's important to consider the actual weight of your new tandem fishing kayak too! Most tandem kayaks weigh between 70-100 lbs.
Some of the models at the heavier end of the scale usually have extra pieces of equipment attached or more inbuilt features.
It's up to you to decide whether you are willing to sacrifice carrying or transporting a lightweight kayak for those must-have inbuilt cup holders or an upright padded seat.
Shape
The shape of the hull directly affects a tandem kayak in its performance, so let's peruse the different forms, shall we?
Rounded bottom - This hull is an excellent choice for intermediate paddlers. It's easy to get on and off the boat and tends to be a more stable option than a V-shaped hull.
V-shaped hull - A kayak with a V-shaped hull is easy to move and control. It's fast but also comes as the least stable of the hull options. They are best for long-distance kayaking and cutting across the water.
Flat bottomed - A flat bottomed tandem kayak is the best choice for a beginner. They are the most stable on the water; however, they are slower than the others and not recommended to fish in rough seas, rapids or in tough conditions.
Storage
Gone fishing, eh? Well, if you're going out on the water in the hopes of scoring that catch of the day, then you're going to want a place other than under your hat to store your tackle box, right? To find the best two-person fishing kayak for you, it's crucial to figure out how much gear you'll bring with you and how much storage you'll therefore need.
In a sit on top tandem kayak, it is common to find a storage hatch intended as a storage compartment and also bungee cord lashes to store your more waterproof gear and accessory.
A sit-in fishing kayak will commonly use shock cords and deck lashing.
Longer kayaks will usually have more storage space, generally with a storage space found in between you and the person you've decided to paddle with. So the length of your kayak could be an advantage.
Seating and Comfort
Without sounding obvious, you're going to be spending a lot of time in this boat, so you'll want something comfortable with the right support for your back and hips.
You might also want to consider multiple foot rests for some extra comfort.
Color
You might think considering something like the color is a tedious or flippant thing to care about, but if you are fishing, it's kind of important. I mean, you don't want to terrify the fish with a bright pink boat with green pineapple prints all over it, as stylish as that may sound.
There seems to be two color options that suit fishing. One is solid yellow, and the other is a camouflage print. There are, of course, other colors of kayak available.
Yellow can be a controversial color of a fishing kayak in the angling community. Some claim that it attracts the fish towards their boat while others think the opposite. One thing for sure is that it is a safe option to be easily spotted from a distance attracting attention more quickly in an emergency situation.
Camouflage is useful if you want to sneak up on the more sneaky fish and can also aid you if you dabble in bird hunting on the water.
The downside is the danger of going unnoticed in choppy or misty conditions, as it's very difficult to spot you.
Fishing Accessories
One more thing worth mentioning before we reveal our top picks for the best tandem fishing kayak is fishing accessories.
We already mentioned kayaks with features like multiple footrests; however, there are many features like multiple rod holders or a fishfinder attachment, you might want to look into before purchasing your boat.
Our List of the Top Tandem Fishing Kayaks for 2 People
And without further ado, here are our top picks for the best tandem fishing kayak!
1. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 Person Fishing Kayak
The Coleman Colorado fishing kayak is a 10 foot 9-inch inflatable kayak. Inflatable fishing kayak? Yes, we know what you're imagining - punctures, bailing out water, and getting wet. But, hear us out! This is a great kayak, and inflatable kayaks are actually durably made and are excellent if you are struggling with the transport issue and make up some of the best tandem fishing kayaks on the market.
This Coleman Colorado fishing kayak constructed with an 18 gauge PVC pipe frame and is reinforced with 1000 D tarpaulin on the bottom complete with 840 nylon cover making this fishing kayak super sturdy and durable.
Even if you were to hit a sharp rock, this kayak is equipped with multiple air chambers and a patented airtight system to melt away your puncture worries.
It's a good choice for fishing because it includes 'Berkley quick set Rod holders,' paddle holders, and can attach a trolling motor should you choose to customize.
The Coleman Colorado definitely has the anglers comfort in mind. The rod holders aid hands-free fishing, and adjustable seats make for a relaxing and comfortable fishing excursion with no structural worries when you're out on the water.
The Ocean Malibu Kayak is designed for a multitude of activities. You're able to confidently use this kayak as a lake, flat water, or ocean fishing kayak. Therefore, it's ideal for anything from fishing to diving.
It can comfortably paddle one person and can host two. No need to worry about transporting this bad boy, it's easily carried, weighing in at only 62 lbs and has a weight capacity of 550 lbs.
It also has multiple footrests to make sure the kayaker experiences maximum comfort and rear bucket hatches and also a large central storage hatch for keeping any extra fishing gear, and if you prefer to save your energy by using a motor this kayak has the ability to attach a trolling motor.
An excellent choice for any kayaker.
Strap in your bungee cords and lower your paddles, because this kayak is packed with extra features.
Not only does this boat have footrests, Yellowfin have exceeded expectations. These footrests are totally adjustable throughout their full range, ensuring the best fit.
It has plenty of storage space with two sealed hatches, and if you bring a flask of hot cocoa, you can enjoy a warming cup on the water using the built-in molded cupholders.
On top of that, you can hold your rods in the provided rod holders! Hands-free in the flush mount fishing pole holders will ensure a stress-free fishing trip, and the kayak also comes with two paddles and carry handles. This kayak really delivers, if you're willing to pay for it.
Lifetime is a brand well known for its fishing kayaks. Their kayaks are generally reasonably priced and designed to provide a durable, lightweight, and robust kayak.
The lifetime sport fisher is made from high-density polyethylene, making it no different from Lifetime's regular designs.
It sports multiple footrests is only 66 lbs while still remaining pretty darn tricky to flip over because of it's heightened stability.
However, the weight and width of the boat means that it won't be as fast as other kayaks.
If you're looking for a stable kayak with a durable build, the sport fisher is an excellent choice.
This tandem kayak model is of the sit-in variety and is 13.5 feet long and has a width of 31 inches.
This kayak performs well with two adults, but if you are specifically looking for the best tandem fishing kayak designed to provide stability for a single paddler, this one could be the best option. Its auto trim hull aids the weight and balance to allow solo paddlers.
The padded seats are adjustable, and the front seat is removable, creating more room for any extra kit, and this model also has adjustable footrests.
This kayak offers a great high-quality design, which you can expect to last through many a fishing trip.
The Best 2 Person Fishing Kayak
So, you've researched your options, read up on reviews and picked your features and still want to know what we think is the best tandem fishing kayak the kayaking world has to offer?
Well, ok, here it is...
Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 130T Tandem Sit On Top Kayak! This boat truly is laden with all the right features and a front runner for the best tandem fishing kayak. This truly is a great choice!
This kayak has so many features, it's got cup holders, rod holders, vibe hero seats, vibe phantom grip handles, adjustable footrests, adjustable seats, side bungee paddle parks, integrated top loading gear tracks, and mountains more. It's extremely popular!
Although this tandem kayak is of a higher price range, we think it's totally worth it!
There you have it, our top picks for the best tandem fishing kayaks, remember to make sure you're buying a kayak that fits your needs and enjoy your trip!