Fishing from the shore gets you the required number of fish, but it’s not as invigorating or exciting as fishing from a kayak. Kayaks are environmentally friendly, less expensive, and completely safe alternatives to motorized boats that let you roam in the sea whilst also catching fish every now and then. You can enjoy a warm sunny day or chilly weather out in the sun with the help of a fishing kayak.
With so many options on the market right now, it can be difficult to get your hands on the best fishing kayak, but don’t worry, we have you covered.
Below is the ultimate guide to fishing kayaks that you need. It not only includes the top models on the market, but it also includes a very informative buying guide for your convenience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Fishing Kayaks
- OUR TOP PICK: Lifetime 10 Foot
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
- BEST FISHING KAYAK UNDER $500: Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
Comparison Chart of the Best Fishing Kayaks
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What is a Fishing Kayak?
Fishing kayaks have been on the market for quite some time now, but what they are and why they are useful is something not many people understand.
A fishing kayak is basically a type of watercraft that is designed for open water fishing. It is also used for accessing superior fishing grounds. Once you know which ground is the best, you can simply stop your kayak there and fish for as long as you desire.
These kayaks then also hold all the fish that you have caught. Most of them come with storage spaces and coolers that allow you to store fish and then transport them back to the shore.
Originally, these were made from animal skin, but that practice has long been abandoned. Now they are made from durable material that keeps them floating for a longer time.
What Size of Kayak Do I Need For Fishing?
Kayaks aren’t very large and normally don’t take up much space, but to make the most of your fishing experience, it is important that you pick the right size. This will depend on a few factors such as your weight, the number of people who accompany you, the kind of fish you catch, and the number of fish you wish to transport in a single cycle.
Longer kayaks tend to be thinner, and their major advantage is that they are faster in the sea. This is ensured by their ability to cut through the water easily. These will come in handy if you like the thrill of fishing and want to have an adrenaline rush during the activity.
On the other hand, there are wider kayaks that aren’t very long but come with their fair share of advantages. They are more stable and offer more space for storage.
So the choice of what length to buy will depend on your personal preference. If you are a professional angler, you should definitely invest in a wider and more spacious kayak. However, if you do this occasionally, and for fun, then you might want to spend more to get a longer one.
Lifetime 10 Foot
How to Choose a Fishing Kayak
The market is bombarded with high-end products that make the decision of picking only one very hard. But if you know some important factors and reasons why they are important, then the choice becomes fairly easy. Here is how you should choose your fishing kayak.
Pedaled or Motor Kayak
The choice between these two can be a hard one, as most people go for a pedal one, only because they can’t afford a motorized boat. But understand that the advantages of a motorboat are more compared to a pedaled boat. Moreover, the latter will require a lot of your energy, which might prevent you from investing too much in fishing.
Loading Capacity
When it comes to kayaks, the loading capacity is one of the first things to look out for. You will need a lot of space to keep your fishing gear, as well as, food and water for your voyage into the sea.
In addition to this, you will also have to store all the fish you catch in the same kayak, so make sure you are well equipped. Kayaks usually come with a loading capacity of 200 to 1000lbs. This will depend on the budget and size.
Number of Seats
Most anglers try to go into the sea alone, but if you are not a solo traveler and require a companion or two, then you need to ensure your kayak has enough seats to accommodate the extra people. Most fishing kayaks will hold only one person, but slightly larger ones can also accommodate 2-3 people easily.
Water Safety
Safety should be the first on the list of priorities. It is important to remember that fishing kayaks are completely safe, however, you need to be careful that you don’t make stupid decisions in the water. To be on the safer side, always opt for more durable kayaks that offer greater stability, and can hold their ground in the water.
Review of the Best Fishing Kayaks
We mentioned all the important factors first, so by the time you reach this section, you are well equipped with what to look out for. Here is a list of the top fishing kayaks on the market. These aren’t only the best ones in terms of space and storage but also excel in many other features, so let’s take a look.
Best Overall:
Lifetime 10 Foot
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are overwhelmed by the amazing quality of this fishing kayak. Lifetime kayaks stay true to their name and provide models that can last a lifetime, such as this one. It is extra strong and contains all the necessary accessories needed for a successful trip to the sea. This includes 2 double-sided paddles, paddle brackets, 3 fishing pole holders, and paddle clips.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Models that offer higher load capacity often end up being less durable and hence get damaged more easily, but thankfully, this isn’t the case with a Lifetime fishing kayak. It is blow melded from the best high-density polyethylene. This provides it with additional strength and durability, which is needed to keep the kayak stable and floating at all times.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a relatively large fishing kayak, so it should be used by fishermen who work in groups. It can accommodate 3 people very comfortably. Moreover, it has a high relative loading capacity, which means you can use it professionally. In every cycle, you can store fishing equipment and fish easily. It also contains a large storage space to help with this.
Bottom Line
With its riveting design and its high durability, there is no wonder that this kayak gets the top position on our list and is considered the best overall. It is made with high-density polyethylene, which gives it durability. This, coupled with the 5-year warranty, helps make it the most reliable model on the market.
Not only that, but it also helps accommodate more people than other kayaks, which further increases its appeal.
Best for the Money:
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The model has garnered huge praise from all recent buyers who have applauded its lightweight yet strong design. They also like the open cockpit, which allows for better storage and adjustable seats that let you relax and have a good time. But the best feature, according to recent buyers, is the high affordability of the model.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Among many other things, this model is mostly known for its unidirectional stability. With a relatively lower price, one would expect a less durable model, but that’s not the case with Intex kayak. It is made with strong polyethylene, which adds to its strength and durability. All this ensures the model stands its ground in the water.
Who Will Use This Most
Fishermen who like to add a touch of modernity to their kayaks will love this model. It is not only a very fun kayak, but its durable design also makes it a smooth one. You can travel on it solo or take your dog along and enjoy a peaceful day at sea while also catching a lot of different fish.
Bottom Line
Products that offer efficiency, as well as affordability, do end up appealing to users more. Intex fishing kayak is known for its bright yellow color, and it’s relatively lighter weight, which makes it suitable for transportation. Moreover, it is one of the most comfortable models out there that offer room for stretching and relaxing your feet.
Best Fishing Kayak Under $500:
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found a lifetime companion in this Lifetime fishing kayak. This model comes with multiple footrest positions that all cater to all different foot size riders. This is important as it diversifies the usage of the model and allows multiple people to use it simultaneously. Moreover, buyers are also pleased with the high durability construction, which increases their trust in the brand.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Lifetime’s focus on providing its users with comfort and convenience is what makes this model stand out in the crowd. It comes with padded seat backs that offer greater adjustability. Not only that, but its seat pads are also really soft and hence, add to your comfort. Moreover, the front and rear shock cord straps keep you secure, and the differently positioned handles let you change your sides and relax.
Who Will Use This Most
Those who don’t want to spend too much on their first kayak will like investing in this. It comes with deep hull tucking and stable chain rails that are useful for outfitting the kayak. Not only that, but the model also offers 2 separate storage compartments, which makes it suitable for different kinds of fish.
Moreover, since it offers different feet positioning, all your friends and your companions can also use it comfortably.
Bottom Line
Kayaks can be really expensive at times, but if you look hard enough, you might come across a superior model that is under $500. Lifetime fishing kayak is a reliable brand that offers high-end construction and a stable interior. Not only that, but it also comes with 2 separate storage compartments and chain rails that offer greater stability. All this, coupled with a high warranty, really makes this model a great one.
Best Sit on Top Fishing Kayak:
Perception Pescador Pro 12
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It’s hard to appeal to recent buyers, especially ones who have a hard time choosing the best product. The model comes with a skid plate that is easily replaceable. It also pulls your kayak forward easily without causing any damage or fear. Buyers have also praised the inclusion of different gears that makes their job easier.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Perception kayak is mostly known for its removable pro seat option that makes more room for storage. It also includes 2 level seat adjustments that allow you to make a number of changes to how you operate. The breathable mesh is another important feature of the model that lets you breathe cool air while you rest on the shore.
Who Will Use This Most
People who have large requirements for storage will make the most use of the large storage spaces that this kayak has to offer. It comes with a large front and rear open storage space that comes with bungee lashings to keep coolers, tackles, and all the necessary gear that you might need on your voyage.
Bottom Line
Sit-on kayaks aren’t as popular as sit-in kayaks. This is because there aren’t many quality products out there that provide comfort and convenience to its fishermen. But this model is completely different as it includes all the advantages of a brilliant kayak. It comes with amazing buoyancy that keeps it floating even in the toughest of weather.
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak:
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are thrilled to get their hands on this superior inflatable kayak. Its tough laminated construction material not only adds to the strength of the model but also provides it with high durability. Buyers have also praised the less relative weight of the model, which aids in its portability. All this, coupled with a faster speed, makes it a fan favorite.
Why it Stands Out to Us
People don’t usually use kayaks because they are afraid for their own safety. There are rumors surrounding kayaks that they flip easily and can be destroyed on impact. But lucky for you, these things won’t happen with Intex kayak. It is totally secure and is free from any abrasions. It also offers high resistance against impact, which makes it reliable.
Who Will Use This Most
Those who fish in both shallow and deep water will make good use of this kayak. This is because it comes with 2 separate skews that can be used in deep water but can be removed in shallow water. Moreover, it is a high-pressure inflation boat that gives anglers greater stability in all kinds of fishing ponds. Not only that, the boat offers a mounting bracket, which can also be removed anytime.
Bottom Line
Fishing kayaks need to be inflatable, and this process shouldn’t take up too much time. It is known for its easy operation. It hardly takes any time to inflate it, and its outfitting is also made very easy thanks to its stable design. Its load capacity is also relatively higher, which makes it worthy of a position on this list.
6. Sun Dolphin Bali SS
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
With this model, recent buyers get increased stability, high expandability, and a plethora of other features, and hence it is only natural to assume that they are pleased with the product. Recent buyers particularly like the comfortable seating positions that add to their convenience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most noteworthy feature of this kayak has to be its lightweight and compact design. It is a long kayak, which makes it a fast one. Yet its lightweight design makes it easy to transport and carry around. Moreover, its longer length also allows it to cut through water easily, thus making it suitable to be used in rivers and lakes and any secluded fishing spots that exist nearby.
Who Will Use This Most
People who don’t like to be confined in very tight spaces will love using this model. Unlike some other fishing kayaks, this one comes with an open cockpit that allows easy entry and exit to and from the kayak. Moreover, it contains an open tank that offers expandable storage, hence you can use it for recreational as well as professional use.
Bottom Line
Stability, durability, and convenience come together to make this a successful fishing kayak for everyday use. It is not only extremely lightweight but also very easy to transport from one place to another. The open tank gives you more options for expandability, and the adjustable seats and foot braces add to your comfort. It has a low warranty, but it makes up for it by providing greater stability.
Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000:
Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 100
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers love the comfort that this kayak offers, mainly because of its focus on dual position and greater expandability, but that’s not all. Buyers have also praised the inclusion of greater storage space for keeping the necessary equipment on board. There are also greater numbers of compartments that allow you to keep separate hot and cold food items separately.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The model stands out to us because of its greater need for providing comfort and convenience to all fishermen. It comes with a stable design that can penetrate any water body. Moreover, it has a speed hull design and nimble tracking that allow you to find fish in a quicker way.
Who Will Use This Most
People with a greater need for durability are going to make the most use of this model. It is stable and strong despite its longer length. You can go in the roughest of waters without worrying about your kayaks flipping or tearing out. Moreover, due to the longer length of the model, it is also relatively faster, which further adds to the appeal.
Bottom Line
This is slightly more expensive than other models, but its higher price is justified by the inclusion of 4 flush mount rod holders and other accessories that you need for fishing. It is also lightweight and relatively compact, which ensures that you can carry the kayak around easily.
All in all, if you are fine with spending a few extra bucks in return for greater comfort, then this is the model for you.
Best Ocean Fishing Kayak:
Ocean Kayak Malibu
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Those who were looking for a safe and spacious kayak are thrilled to get their hands on this one. It is a true family kayak with room for two adults, a child, and even a dog. Its patented overlapping foot bracing also offers comfortable positioning of the feat, a feature most loved by buyers. Moreover, the model is easy to operate, which further makes it a trustworthy kayak.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Higher comfort is what stands out in this kayak. There are so many models out there whose prime focus is to assist the fishing process, but they don’t have any feature that prioritizes the comfort of the fishermen. Ocean kayak is a breath of fresh air as it offers 4 different adjustability options and 3 different seating positions that make all the fishermen feel at home, even at sea.
Who Will Use This Most
This fishing kayak is specially designed for rough waters where there is a greater chance of unpredictable weather and possible accidents. To help keep fishermen safe and secure, the model comes with high abrasion and impact resistance. This not only adds to the stability of the kayak but also puts your mind at ease during the trip.
Bottom Line
Ocean kayak is winning hearts by providing customers with exemplary features like high load capacity and a variety of seating options. This not only keeps fishermen secure and comfortable but also allows them to enjoy their sessions. Moreover, the kayak is known for offering greater abrasion and impact resistance, which makes it stand out in the crowd.
Best Tandem Fishing Kayak:
Brooklyn Kayak Company TK219
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The Brooklyn fishing kayak is made for your next fishing adventure with your friends. It has everything that you need for a successful trip, including all the accessories like paddles, fishing rod holders, and storage compartments. This, coupled with extra load capacity, keeps all the recent buyers very happy and satisfied.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Among many other reasons, this model mainly stands out to us because of its built-in rod holders. These are designed with 4 different flush mount kayak rods that offer higher adjustability. These also allow you and your companions to keep multiple baited lines in deep water for as long as you want. This will obviously allow you to catch more fish in relatively less time.
Who Will Use This Most
With a length of 12 feet, this model offers space for 2 people who can sit inside comfortably. It has a load capacity of 440 pounds, which means you can keep all your fishing equipment and your fish easily inside. This length ensures that the kayak can cut through the water and run at a faster speed hence decreasing the amount of time needed for you to reach fishing areas.
Bottom Line
It’s hard to find a tandem model that offers so many perks, but this fishing kayak sure does. Its superior paddle parks offer you greater maneuverability, and its strong rod holders are built-in. Not only that, but its storage space is also wide and offers full water resistance, which ensures your fish or your fishing equipment does not get damaged after coming in contact with any water.
Best Beginner Fishing Kayak:
Sun Dolphin Excursion
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Beginners who were wary of trying out a new mode of transport are now completely at ease after using this spectacular kayak for the first time. They have praised the high stability that it has to offer. This, coupled with the model’s high durability, makes it one of the best ones on the market.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The model comes with all the accessories you need to carry the most fish or just enjoy the activity, and that is why it stands out to us too. It is suitable for both lakes and rivers because it comes with different pedals, fishing rods, and greater adjustability options. This helps beginners not worry about additional equipment on their first trip with it.
Who Will Use This Most
For new fishermen, going in deep water, especially on a kayak, can be really scary. This is also true if you are a professional but only using it for the first time. This model will suit you best as it comes with easy-to-use instructions. Moreover, it is lightweight and very easy to carry around. For new users, it also offers comfortable tracks and paddles that will make them feel at home.
Bottom Line
With easy adjustability and compact design, this model truly offers the best convenience and comfort to new users. It comes with all the necessary accessories that fishermen need to have a successful fishing trip. Not just that, it is also known for being super stable, which will put the beginner’s mind at ease as they won’t have to fear the kayak flipping or breaking.
How to Outfit a Kayak For Fishing
Since fishing doesn’t offer much space, it is important that you outfit your kayak the right way. It is not a very difficult process, especially for professional anglers, however, new fishermen might find it a bit challenging, but don’t worry. You just have to follow a few simple steps mentioned below to outfit your kayak in no time.
1. Gathering Equipment - The first step to outfitting your kayak is to gather the right equipment. The basic item that you will need for the purpose is rod holders. This will secure your fishing rod while trolling, paddling, or fishing.
There are different types of rod holders on the market, such as adjustable and flush-mounted rod holders. You can choose either of these to hold your fishing rod steadily.
2. Seating - Before you go out in the sea, make sure the seat you install inside your kayak is a comfortable one. This is important not only because it gives you a place to rest but also because it decides how much space you will have to keep your equipment.
3. Anchor Rig - A good anchor rig will help secure your kayak to one single spot during the whole process. Apart from that, it will also come in handy when you want to fish systematically in a rather large area. It helps cover larger grounds efficiently.
You need to also ensure that your anchor line is up to its maximum depth. The dead side of the anchor line should be carefully passed through the trolley ring that is attached to your kayak.
4. Drift Chute - Outfitting your kayak also requires a drift chute. This is necessary if you intend to go deeper into the sea and catch larger fish. You can also use a drift chute to slow down if you are drifting while fishing. If you get your hands on a large fish, then with a drift chute, you can ensure that the fish doesn’t toss you around.
These are the basics of outfitting you need to look out for. To know more, watch this video below.
Comparison Overview
Kayaks are very popular, but they aren’t the only popular alternative to large boats that exist on the market. Many people don’t invest in kayaks because they are apprehensive about some of its features. Here is a comparison between different types and comparisons between canoes and kayaks. We hope this helps out clearing any confusion that you might have.
Sit on vs Sit in Kayak For Fishing
Although these are both kayak types, they sure come with a lot of differences that set them apart. A sit-on kayak will let you sit on top, which means you will be at a relatively higher position. This will require you to paddle from a higher position, which might be difficult and often more energy-consuming.
However, sit-on kayaks can be relatively cheaper and easier to afford. Sit-in kayaks, on the other hand, allow you to go deeper into the water and ensure the paddle is near. But a major drawback to them is that they are relatively expensive.
Canoe vs Kayak Fishing
Some people aren’t aware of what a canoe is. These are similar to kayaks, but they require you to sit at a higher position. They also require you to bend your legs in an upward direction and then move around. You can move around in a canoe much more easily than you would in a kayak.
A kayak, on the other hand, comes with two-bladed paddles which, when not in use, need to be fastened along the deck. In order to move inside a kayak, you need to put the fishing pole down and then pick up the paddle. Comparatively, kayaks tend to be more lightweight and easy to transport and travel with.
Conclusion
Unless you are a very professional fisherman that requires catching very large fish every single day, a good fishing kayak will fit your needs very suitably. These come in different shapes and sizes. Long and thin ones tend to be faster, whereas the thick and wide ones tend to be more stable. They can also be bought in different, very appealing colors that might look great to onlookers.
Kayak fishing has been around for decades, but there have been great advancements made in how these amazing boats work now. They are completely safe and environmentally friendly. So, the next time you feel like going into the sea, make sure to try one of these fishing kayaks first. It will completely change the way you fish.
People Also Ask
Fishing kayaks haven’t only appealed to fishermen and anglers, but even people who like to fish recreationally are interested in buying these safe and useful boats. Their interest in the product has compelled them to bombard the internet with questions. We have tried answering some of the popular ones to help you make a better choice.
How Much is a Fishing Kayak?
You wouldn’t believe the price variation of fishing kayaks that exists on the market. There are models that cost as low as $100, and then there are other models that cost about $1000. So before you decide which model for investing in, make sure it has the features worth your money.
What Size Paddle For Fishing Kayak?
This depends on what kind of paddler you are. If you are an active or athletic paddler and there is open water in front of you, then you are more likely to size it around 10 cm to 230 cm. If you are a relatively more relaxed angler and frequently use the fixed high seat option, then you might have to size it to 260 cm.
What's the Difference Between a Kayak and Fishing Kayak?
As the name suggests, a fishing kayak is made primarily for the purpose of catching fish, hence all its features accommodate the fishermen’s needs. A wide recreational kayak, on the other hand, tends to accommodate more people and does not often come with large storage areas.
Do Kayaks Flip Easily?
People wouldn’t want kayaks if they flipped easily, so the simple answer to this question is no. They are very stable boats that do not flip even in the face of harsh climates. They can also hold their ground more easily with the help of a drift chute. Moreover, the level of stability will also depend on the model you end up buying.
Is Kayak Fishing Dangerous?
Kayak fishing is anything but dangerous, given you invest in a quality product. Low priced and cheaper products tend to be unstable and do not offer the level of comfort that a good kayak will. They also tend to flip more easily, making them more dangerous. So before you decide on the model, make sure you check all its features first.
How Much Do Fishing Kayaks Weigh?
This feature also depends on which model you buy and how long it is. Most kayaks that you find on the market and in this review too will weigh somewhere between 35 and 65 pounds. But when you buy a kayak with additional seats, it can also weigh up to 100 pounds.
Kayak Reviews
Below are all our buyer guides surrounding kayaks. To make your experience a bit smoother, we have organized them in one place. Feel free to browse through a few and find exactly what you're looking for.
Thanks for reading.
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