- Read our review guidelines
What is the best fishing kayak?
We’re going to try to help you find the best fishing kayak as well as the right fishing kayak! But we need to be clear on this….there is not one kayak that can be recommended for everyone.
Fishing kayaks come in all different shapes and sizes and each type is designed to work better in certain conditions.
Quick Picks: Kayaks For Fishing
- Perception Pescador Pro 12.0 (best sit-on-top)
- Sea Eagle SE370K (best inflatable)
- BKC UH-TK181 (best tandem)
- Old Town Loon (best sit-in)
- Lifetime Sports Fisher (best budget)
For example, you might not have much space inside (or on top of) your car, so is it worth looking at an inflatable fishing kayak that deflates and packs away into a convenient small space?
Or do you intend mostly heading out fishing alone or with a friend or partner? Then you might want to think about opting for a tandem kayak (or maybe stick with two solo fishing kayaks!).
And then there’s the question of pedal vs paddle.
ENOUGH QUESTIONS ALREADY!!!
Let’s just get started with the most popular kayaks. Sit-on-top.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks
Sit-on top kayaks are also known as SOT (Sit-On Top). They can also be referred to by some as SOKs.
A sit on top kayak is designed for multi-purpose recreational pastimes, including general touring and diving or swimming off-shore. But they can be great as fishing kayaks. They have a molded depression on top and a sealed hull. But they can sometimes be a wet ride, as you’ll probably get splashed. They can also sometimes be motor powered if the kayak has the right mounting points, adding versatility.
Sit-on-tops are suitable for everyone and are popular fishing kayaks. They are very easy to get into and out of…perfect if you want to get out and do some wade fishing in shallow waters. Having an open top also makes it easy to store and access your fishing tackle and any other equipment you might have.
Pros
- Don’t feel confined when paddling
- Easy to get in and out of
- Great for very warm or hot conditions
- Generally more stable
- Can grab tools and move around much more easily
- Self-bailing
Cons
- You can get wet paddling
- May travel a little slower
SOTs are generally quite wide. This is good for stability, so they can be really good if you want to stand up for fly fishing or casting, reeling in, or when you need to grab anything from anywhere other than your seat.
> What About Sit-On Top Kayak Seats?
The disadvantage to having width is that you will travel slightly slower, but many anglers prefer fishing kayaks to be stable over speedy, as most anglers aren’t in a race!
This kayak angler certainly isn’t bothered!
The Best Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks
1: Perception Pescador Pro 12.0 Kayak (best fishing kayak overall)
- Length: 12 ft
- Width: 32.5 inches
- Depth: 14.5 inches
- Weight: 64 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
The Pescador is a 12 foot sit on top kayak which features a multi-chine hull design which should help keep you stable and assist with tracking, making it a great fishing kayak for a range of waters.
To help you on long fishing trips, the seat is removable and adjustable into two positions (upright and recline) for paddling and fishing. The seat also slides along rails to make space for standup fishing.
There’s a mesh-covered tankwell at the bow end. At the rear is a large storage area, covered with bungee rope to keep your essentials tied down. At the front of this well is a hatched compartment. You could store fishing rods in here or whatever else you intend carrying along that needs to stay dry.
There’s also a center consolewith cup holders for easy access. It might be ideal for a battery for any electronics you might want to bring (fish finder or a GPS etc). There’s a drink holder in front of the console.
The Pescador comes with two molded fishing rod holders just behind the seat. If you want more, you can add rod holders to the GearTrac rails on the sides of the cockpit. You could also add other gadgets to these rails – totally up to you.
Rest your feet on the fully adjustable braces for maximum comfort.
Pros
- Spacious deck
- Accessory tracks
- Removable seat
Cons
- Limited dry storage
2: Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler (best runner-up)
- Length: 13 foot 4 inches
- Width: 28 inches
- Weight: 56 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
The Prowler 13 Angler is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that’s designed for maximum stability, speed and efficiency, with its long and relatively narrow hull.
But despite its narrow hull, it’s also a stable vessel that can be ideal for fishing in lakes or the open ocean, with strong secondary stability for handling choppy conditions.
It features a large oval hatch at the bow, as well as a 6 inch hatch with insert, and benefits from a spacious rear tank well that’s ideal for storing your crate or cooler. There’s also a cup holder in the center and molded foot wells for different leg lengths.
This fishing kayak benefits from having two flush mounted rod holders. It also comes with a padded Comfort Plus seat with seat back and features bungee deck rigging for attaching other gear.
Pros
- Great for a range of conditions
- Efficient hull
- Stable fishing kayak
- Ample storage
Cons
- Not ideal for small creeks
- May not be as easy to transport due to length
3: Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 (best pedal fishing kayak)
- Length: 12 ft
- Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 105 pounds (128.5 pounds fully rigged)
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 is a pedal kayak that’s built for anglers who want to keep their hands-free. With a huge capacity of 500 lbs and plenty of storage, it could be the ideal craft for spending a full day on the water, or even taking on a multi-day fishing trip.
Featuring the MirageDrive 180 pedal system, the foot pedals on deck propel the dual “Kick Up” fins under the hull, so you can reach your destination quickly and without needing to paddle, giving you more time to fish. The fins kick up in shallow water to avoid damage.
You can attach plenty of other accessories to this sit on top kayak with the H-rail and there’s storage for up to 6 fishing rods, as well as a large bow storage hatch, a sealed rear hatch and a tackle tray management system. There’s plenty of options to mount fish finders too.
The adjustable seating system lets you sit slightly elevated off the deck for better sight fishing and you can even stand up to fish if you prefer, making use of the stable platform. This is one of the best fishing kayaks for serious anglers wanting a pedal powered craft that’s incredibly stable.
Pros
- Great accessory storage
- Kick-Up fins
- Pedal powered
- Elevated seating
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
> Our full Hobie Pro Angler review
4: Pelican Catch 120 Kayak (best for features)
- Length: 11 foot 8 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 69 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
The Pelican Catch 120 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that is designed for solid primary stability with a tunnel hull.
It features a spacious deck area that you can stand on while you reel in your catch and when it’s time to sit down there’s a comfortable mesh-backed seat that can be adjusted higher or lower to suit avid fishermen who want to sight cast. This can also be more convenient for paddling and fishing.
The Catch has molded in rod holders, a bow storage hatch for extra storage within the hull, a large rear tank well and a high capacity to let you bring along everything you’ll need for your trip.
Other features include the front, rear and side carry handles, which can make it easier to lift. Being just 11 foot 8 inches it may also be easier to transport as it should fit in the back of a full size pickup. Takes up to 400 lbs of weight and has excellent kayak stability.
Pros
- Tunnel hull for unmatched stability
- Standing deck
- Great storage
- Good capacity
Cons
- Not a lightweight kayak
5: Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 (Best For Sea And Ocean Fishing)
- Length: 10 ft
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 62 pounds (81 pounds fully rigged)
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
The Propel 10 is a pedal fishing kayak with a high load capacity that should be able to handle all the gear you’ll need for a day of salt water fishing (400 lbs in total).
It features a rotational pedal drive system that powers a propeller under the hull, meaning you’re hands-free for fishing or photography. It comes equipped with a hand controlled rudder system for convenient maneuvering and complete control, letting you venture farther from shore.
It’s fully equipped with a large oval hatch at the bow, and storage compartments at the stern with bungee cords and a small dry storage hatch. It also benefits from molded in rod holders and gear tracks for additional mounting points.
The Propel 10 is great on the ocean. There’s more sea and ocean kayaks here.
It has rock solid stability that can be ideal for a range of conditions, including rough seas, and features a padded flat deck for standing up, as well as a breathable, adjustable stadium style seat that can be comfortable for both paddling and fishing.
Pros
- Compact
- Rotational pedals
- Rudder
- Standing deck
Cons
- Heavy fully rigged
> We have more to say on the Propel 10 here
6: FeelFree Lure 10 Kayak (best value fishing kayak)
- Length: 10 ft
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 62 pounds (81 pounds fully rigged)
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
The FeelFree Lure 10 is an old favorite fishing kayak that comes with plenty of features to let you enjoy a successful day on the water. It’s compact and remarkably stable, with a spacious deck area that can allow you to stand and cast for that prized smallmouth bass.
This fishing kayak benefits from a Wheel in the Keel, so you can pull it safely along the ground and into the water to save you needing a replaceable skid plate. The Gravity Seat is designed for comfort and can be adjusted higher or lower to give you the best vantage point or paddling position.
There should be plenty of room for your gear with a rear storage area for your fishing crate and a large oval hatch at the front. It also comes with flush mount rod holders and front and rear gear tracks so you can add extra rod holders or accessories. It has many of the same features that you’ll find on higher end fishing kayaks as well as other features unique to FeelFree.
Pros
- Built-in wheel for hauling to the water
- Great storage for accessories
- High-low seating
- Stand and fish deck
Cons
- Not ideal for long trips
> Feelfree Lure 10 review in full
7: Lifetime Sport Fisher (best budget kayak)
- Length: 10 ft
- Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
This 10 foot PVC fishing kayak can be used for solo or tandem use (in fact 3 can fit on board).
This cheap fishing kayak is designed to be extremely stable, which makes it a good stand up fishing yak but only if you have perfect balance. There’s also scupper holes to drain any water from the cockpit area.
The molded seats are ergonomic with soft backrests, which makes it comfortable to sit in but you may not want to spend long periods sitting.
It has ditty trays and shock cord straps to hold your loose items, a six inch storage hatch and 4 conveniently placed fishing pole holders. This could be the best cheap fishing kayak on the market today and there are cup holders for each paddler.
Pros
- Good for flat water
- Tandem fishing kayak
- Built-in rod holders
Cons
- Seats are not great
- Limited storage
> Lifetime Sport Fisher – Read more here
We have more, if you want to learn more about the best SOT fishing kayaks specifically.
Sit-In Fishing Kayaks
Sit-in, also known as SIK kayaks (or sometimes SINK) have a cockpit (with seat), which sits enclosed within the kayak. Think of your legs being covered over by the shell/deck. Often a spray skirt is also used to cover the cockpit and keep the water out.
Sit-in kayaks are less popular for kayak fishing in general. Anglers who use them tend to fish in the sea. The reason for this is because they are better for keeping dry. So, if the waves are big or it’s very cold, a SIK could be for you as you will be protected from the elements by the cockpit and spray skirt.
Be warned though, you need to be an experienced kayaker if you’re heading out on anything moderate or rougher. Even if the surf is calm, you’ll be surprised how fast things can change.
Because you are sitting inside the cockpit, stability tends to improve. The lower center of gravity does make a difference. Turning and maneuvering is also enhanced, as more of your body can pivot against the ‘yak in order to direct more pressure into your strokes. These benefits may not be so important for the fishermen out there, rather for kayak purists.
Anglers find SIKs are more difficult to get into and out of, especially if you’re into wade fishing. It’s not much fun continuously getting in and out of a sit-in kayak at the best of times. Think about what it must be like with having waders on at the same time!
It’s also more difficult to access fishing equipment from rear storage areas when on the move so this may not always be the best kayak for fishing.
Pros
- Ok for surf, but you need to be very experienced
- Stable in rougher conditions
- Legs stay warmer on cold days
Cons
- Not as easy to get in & out of
- Access to gear is more difficult
- Not designed for fishing standing up
- Hot days can be very uncomfortable within the cockpit
Overall, we recommend sit-on-tops for kayaking fishing. It’s just a lot more practical overall. Keep the sit-ins for those who are into more hardcore recreation, like whitewater. SIKs do have some advantages though, so only you can decide for yourself what will be the right kayak.
The Best Sit-In Fishing Kayaks
1: Old Town Loon 120
- Length: 12 foot
- Width: 30 inches
- Weight: 54 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
One of the classic kayak brands. Old Town give us the Loon 120, which is a sit-inside recreational kayak that’s been designed with versatility in mind. It has a spacious cockpit to allow for easier movement and more comfortable seating when fishing.
The wide cockpit also features a removable work deck that can be ideal for storing accessories, a water bottle or tending to your catch. It has features a USB port to let you keep electronics charged up while you’re on the water, although you will need to purchase a battery separately.
There’s a storage hatch at the stern and plenty of bungee rigging for extra storage on the deck, plus rear storage areas for storing all your gear. The yak also benefits from a comfortable padded seat, thigh pads and adjustable foot braces.
Pros
- Removable work deck
- Spacious cockpit
- Comfortable seat
- Good deck storage
Cons
- No fishing rod storage
> The in-depth Old Town Loon 120 review
2: Sun Dolphin Excursion Sit-In Fishing Kayak (best sit-in fishing kayak overall)
- Length: 10 ft
- Width: 30 inches
- Depth: 13 inches
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
The Sun Dolphin Excursion fishing kayak has a UV-stabilized PVC (Polyethylene) body so it is durable and protected against peeling and paintwork fading.
10 feet long (there’s also a 12 ft version) and 30 inches wide, and coming in at 41 pounds, it’s fairly easy to carry around and could fit in the back of a pickup truck. And the good news is that it’s another ‘yak that’s difficult to flip over.
This small boat has two flush mount holders as well as a single swivel rod holder. There’s also a storage compartment and shock cord deck rigging. It also has adjustable footrests, so anyone can fit inside comfortably.
Comes in 3 colors: 2 are different shades of green and a brown sand shade. This might be the best fishing kayak if you’re on a tight budget.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight kayak
- Built-in rod holders
- Stable
Cons
- Low capacity
- Not built for speed
> Check out more on what we said about the Excursion here
What About Inflatable Fishing Kayaks?
Inflatable Fishing Kayaks are a popular option, suited more towards the recreational user. Yes, you may be thinking “Won’t I puncture the kayak with the fish hook or on a rock?”. Well they wouldn’t sell very well if they weren’t durable!
Inflatable kayaks are made to be very durable and very stable kayaks, and are mostly made from a combination of layers including PVC, nitrylon and haypalon. PVC is the most popular material. It’s quite durable, relatively light and cheaper than haypalon kayaks. Haypalon and nitrylon are tougher, but they are heavier and cost more.
Now we’re not going to lie to you. Top end inflatable fishing kayaks are generally not going to track as well as top end hard-shelled kayaks, but for most people out there they are perfectly good enough for tracking and changing course.
As such, they are an option worth considering if you occasionally fish or if you’re just getting into the hobby, but want to start buying your own stuff straight away (we always recommend renting kayaks before buying them).
Video: How To Inflate A Fishing Kayak
One of the big advantages of an inflatable fishing kayak is that they can be deflated, which makes them easier to transport around. The flip side of this is that you have to spend time and effort inflating and deflating the ‘yak every time you use it.
The more you go out on it, the more that pump is going to get used – hence why inflatable fishing kayaks are good options for occasional fishing folk.
Some users find inflatable fishing kayaks a pain because ideally, they should be dried before packing away, to help stop corrosion. So depending on your situation, you may need to get where you’re fishing, inflate, use, deflate, then repeat the inflate/deflate process when you get home in order to dry the fishing kayak out. This isn’t always the case, but it might be depending on your location and situation.
The Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
1: Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
- Length: 10 ft 9 inches
- Width: 39 inches
- Weight: 41 pound (in total)
- Weight Capacity: 470 pounds
Made with 18-gauge PVC, it’s designed to take a battering. The Colorado has a few features that other kayaks lack.
It contains multiple air chambers, which means if you do get a puncture only a section of the yak will deflate.
There are electric motor fittings, if you want to make it a motorized fishing kayak. It may not be suitable for a gas outboard motor Yes, sometimes all that paddling can get tiresome!
Customers overall are very happy with this yak. This is mainly because it has plenty of room for equipment and also because of how easy it is to inflate and deflate. This can be ideal for fishing in hard to reach lakes.
Pros
- Easy to transport
- Motor-ready
- Stable in a variety of conditions
Cons
- Not very roomy for two anglers
- Not built for speed
> We have more to say on the Colorado kayak here
2: Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Kayak
- Length: 9 ft 8 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
The Straitedge from Advanced Elements is designed for the solo fisherman.
Although it is technically an inflatable kayak, it does have an aluminum ribbed frame that helps give good shape to the kayak when inflated.
This is quite a short ‘yak (measuring in at 9’ 8”) but can carry up to 300 pounds, so it’s perfectly capable of taking the average built person and all the cargo you need for your fishing trip. It can be ideal for kayak fishing in hard to reach lakes.
Two storage areas are located at the front and rear with shock cord deck rigging. The available space isn’t going to be as good as a hard-shelled kayak, that’s the just the nature of the beast. But for an inflatable, it’s pretty good. The removable bar at the front can be used to place any gadgets you may have.
Two fishing rod holders are located right behind the seat.
A nice touch is the adjustable lumbar, which can be inflated to a level of your choosing.
Pros
- Good tracking
- Ideal for fishing in a range of waters
- Easy to transport and store
- Accessory mounts
Cons
- Limited storage
> More on the Straitedge range
We have more for you in our best inflatable fishing kayaks guide.
Tandem Fishing Kayaks: Paddling Together
If you want to share the load, you could go for a tandem fishing kayak (also known as a two person fishing kayak). Tandems are a great way to enjoy some company without needing two fishing kayaks!
They are a great way to introduce your kids, or spouse to fishing.
Beware though, your partner may not be as experienced or willing to paddle as you are, which can end up being more difficult than using solo kayaks. It really depends on your partner though! It may also be more difficult to keep your boat stable when there are two of you moving around.
Most anglers demand more space and may opt for a tandem for that reason.
The Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks
1: BKC UH-TK181 12.5 ft Kayak (best fishing tandem)
- Length: 12.5 ft
- Width: 30 inches
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 450 pounds
The Brooklyn Kayak Company UH-TK181 is the perfect kayak for all the avid anglers out there wanting to go out fishing with some company. It is of course a two person, two paddle kayak, capable of carrying up to 450 pounds in weight.
It’s not the lightest kayak (68 lbs), so you’ll probably need a buddy for car-topping it. It does have carry handles at the bow, stern and sides (the side handles double-up as paddle holders).
This twelve and a half foot kayak has open storage space at the rear with bungee cords as cover. Then there are two storage hatches, each in front of a seat. There are dedicated inserts that slot into each hatch to keep your water hating valuables free from getting wet.
It comes with adjustable 3 rod holders which can be placed in front of the paddlers. Any of these holders can be removed, giving you the option to fit other gadgets instead. There are a further 4 flush rod holders on the deck.
This one does come with 2 aluminum paddles, and two seats. There is the option to fit a trolling motor to the rear, if you’d prefer a motorized kayak.
Note that this isn’t the most stable kayak for standing on unless you have excellent balance. So, if you enjoy fishing while standing up on your ‘yak, you’re probably better off looking elsewhere.
Comes in 4 different colors: Blue, green, sand and gray.
Pros
- Removable rod holders
- Paddles included
- Motor-ready
- Two storage hatches
Cons
- Not built for standing
- Seats aren’t great for long trips
2: Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T
- Length: 12 foot 2 inches
- Width: 33 inches
- Weight: 72 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
The Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T is a tandem sit-on-top vessel that can be ideal for fishing with a friend in tow.
The Skipjack 120T benefits from having two adjustable seats, each with storage pockets, as well as two sealed hatches to keep smaller items safe and dry. There’s also a rear storage area with bungee cords and two molded in rod holders behind the rear seat.
It’s a stable yak that can be ideal for a range of conditions, including rivers and bays. There are three seating positions, which means you can paddle it on your own from the middle or you can bring along a smaller third person or your dog.
This craft also comes two paddles included so it could be the perfect boat for beginners.
Pros
- Versatile recreational kayak
- Stable
- Great for beginners
- Paddles included
Cons
- Not ideal for long trips
> Check out our review of the single and tandem version
3: Sea Eagle SE370K_P (best inflatable tandem fishing kayak)
- Length: 10 ft 8 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 32 pounds (for kayak)
- Weight Capacity: 650 pounds
This inflatable is an extremely lightweight and portable fishing kayak, weighing only 32 pounds. It can hold up to three people, with a lot more capacity than hard shell boats of the same size (650 pounds total), and has plenty of room for your fishing equipment and/or camping gear.
Customers report that it is a very solid and well-made yak that can be set up in around 30 minutes, and taking it down takes considerably less.
Can be used as a single or tandem boat and comes with a kayak paddle for each paddler.
Pros
- High load capacity
- Portable
- Great for flat and rough water
Cons
- Not very speedy
- No rod holders
> Read more on what we said about this Sea Eagle kayak
Read our full guide to tandem fishing kayaks
How To Choose A Fishing Kayak: Features To Consider
Stability
How stable is your fishing kayak?
The last thing you want to be worried about is tipping over when your mind is on grabbing the line or net as you’re reeling in bass. This is particularly the case if you prefer standing up. The most popular fishing kayaks are often made for prolonged periods of standing as well as sitting.
Wider fishing kayaks are generally going to be more stable. Also consider the hull. Flat and pontoon types are generally more stable and can be found on some of the best kayaks for fishing.
We have a whole article dedicated to hull designs if you want to learn more!
Storage
Try to choose a fishing kayak that at least has the storage options that you require. A lot of kayaks have front and rear storage, as well as hatches that can be used to store equipment that needs to be protected from water.
You’ll also want to store bait, tackle and possibly your rods as you paddle (unless you just leave them in rod holders). Just have a good think about what you might need before you purchase.
All the fishing kayaks listed here feature at least one rod holder, which are a must-have on all the best boats (the more expensive ones have more). Some holders are ‘flush’ mounted, meaning they are molded into the kayak, while others have adjustable rod holders, that often are detachable from the ‘yak.
Pimp My ‘Yak
Ok, this follows on from storage just nicely. Some fishing kayaks can easily be upgraded or you can add on cool accessories.
Check out this video to see how imaginative you can get.
For example, some fishing kayaks have options for rail storage. With these you can attach fish finders or extra rods, GPS, or anything else that you need to have fastened and that you can get your hands on fast. You might even want to film your day out, so why not add your GoPro?
Want a break from paddling? If your fishing kayak supports a trolling motor, you could add one to the stern. Motorized kayaks with an electric motor can be useful for kayak fishing. Or you could add a sail instead.
You can even get inventive and add your own kit regardless of included fittings.
A sail can be a handy addition to your fishing kayak as it can let you harness the power of the wind to move your yak across the water, meaning you could save your energy for more fishing when you reach your destination.
There are several types of sails, including smaller kayak sails that look like parachutes that are attached close to the front and help to pull you along. As long as you have enough of a breeze you could find you move much faster than paddlers without a sail.
One way you can update the look of your yak is by adding some LED lights to it. This can help keep you visible while you’re fishing at night or in low light conditions and it can look pretty cool too. You may even find that you can get lights that are designed to repel bugs, so you can keep on fishing without getting bitten.
If you’re yak’s not tricked out enough, you could add some outriggers to it to add some extra stability for when you’re fishing. This could let you stand up more easily to fish and could help you feel a little more at ease on rougher water.
Weight Is Important Too
This is important. You need to consider how much capacity the manufacturer recommends. Then deduct your own weight (and partner’s if going tandem) as well as any fishing tackle you intend taking.
Also remember to add extra weight for any gizmos, food or extra clothing you want to take. Heck, some people kayak for days, so you might even want to bring tents and camping equipment. In any case, just make sure you have done your sums when it comes to weight.
You should probably consider the weight of the fishing kayak itself. A lighter kayak is going to be easier to carry. The perfect fishing kayak may not be the easiest to transport on your own, so you may need accessories to haul it or to car top it. Many manufacturers state the extra weight of the kayak fully rigged, so keep that in mind, as many features can add to the weight of the boat.
Speed vs Turning
As a rule of thumb, you should consider the following:
1) Longer fishing kayaks are more efficient through the water which makes them faster.
2) Shorter fishing kayaks can manoeuvre and turn better.
Also consider the keel of the kayak. If looking from the side, the keel is more rounded, it should turn better. We don’t want to go too much into this now, as well-pronounced rounded keels are moving into the territory of whitewater kayaks – which are certainly more in tune with pure kayak fun than fishing!
Types Of Fishing Kayaks
Before you choose a fishing kayak, you need to decide which type is right for you.
There are two basic types:
SOT (Sit-On-Top)
The paddler(s) sits on top of the kayak. They are not enclosed and as such, access in and out of the kayak is made easier.
SIK (Sit-In Kayak)
The paddler(s) are enclosed within the kayak. Spray skirts can be used to keep the water away from the lower body.
What About Pedal Kayaks?
We lumped the pedal kayaks in with the sit-on-top fishing kayak reviews above. But here’s an explanation of what they’re all about…
Pedal kayaks can be useful for fishing as they offer hands-free fishing and allow you to focus more on the rod rather than worry about trying to paddle around.
A pedal kayak can also be easier to use, as you don’t necessarily need to learn paddling skills or know particular techniques. This means almost anyone can operate a pedal kayak.
Not only that, but it’s much easier to go forward and reverse with a pedal drive system (if it allows).
With a pedal yak you use your feet and legs to power you across the water, which can mean you can go faster than you might be able to with a paddle and with perhaps less effort, as your legs are usually naturally stronger than your arms.
5 Very Basic Kayak Fishing Tips That Beginners Should Know
Here are five tips for successful kayak fishing…
1) Go Prepared!
Aside from having some good fishing gear, make sure you have plenty of water, some food and sunscreen for those exposed parts of your body (it’s very easy to underestimate how strong the sun can be, particularly when it’s breezy). If for any reason you get stuck out away from dry land, it’s good to have these essentials should your excursion last longer than anticipated.
2) Stay Balanced
Sounds so obvious, but always keep your head up and be wary of where you are situated within the kayak and look out for any waves or obstacles that you might inadvertently run into. This is especially the case when you are standing!
3) Everything Should Float
Another obvious one, but so easy to forget. Basically anything that doesn’t float and falls out of the fishing kayak….sinks! For valuables, like phones, GPS etc, get yourself a waterproof bag that floats and secure within the kayak
4) Keep An Eye On The Weather
Make sure you know what the weather forecast predicts for the day. The last thing you want to happen is suddenly get caught in atrocious conditions when you are the one trying to do the catching!
5) Be Confident
This is especially true if you are a beginner. Make sure you are 100% confident in your fishing kayak before you venture out catching fish. As you get comfortable with your new kayak, stay close to land initially and gradually build up the distances you paddle, away from land.
> More kayak fishing tips here
Rounding Up
What fishing kayak you go for depends where you fish, your budget and how much experience you have as an angler.
In our opinion, the best fishing kayak is the Perception Pescador Pro 12.0. It’ s a sit-on-top kayak that manages to be spacious and has plenty of options for accessories.
The Old Town Loon is a great sit-in kayak, for those who prefer to be enclosed.
The Sea Eagle SE370K is a budget all-rounder for casual kayak anglers. Ii has inflatable convenience, is tandem, and it won’t break the bank.
And that’s it….
We hope that we’ve covered off the basics to help you make a more informed decision.
Overall, we recommend trying out as many fishing kayaks as you can, based on your requirements and check out our fishing kayak reviews. Take advantage of these if they are an option in your area. They will help to reduce the likelihood of buyer’s remorse and help you to find the best fishing kayak for you!
More:
You’re still with us, we’ll take that as a compliment! Do you enjoy fishing? Perhaps you have one of these kayaks or are thinking of getting one?
Why not let us know about it below…
Cool article and great selection of yaks! Thanks for sharing 😉
Nice article with great collection of kayaks.
Thanks Tanzeela