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In the world of angling, the right equipment can make all the difference.
And when it comes to chasing bass, the choice of kayak is paramount.
Check out the top contenders for the title of the “Best Bass Fishing Kayak”, ensuring your next fishing adventure is a “reel” success.
Can’t wait for the winner? My top pick is the Wilderness Systems Radar 135 because of its performance, spacious deck, and customization options.
Top Picks:
- Wilderness Systems Radar 135 (Best Overall)
- Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 (Best Pedal Kayak)
- Perception Outlaw 11.5 (Best Stand-Up Fishing Kayak)
- Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 (Most Stable)
- Sea Eagle 385FTA FastTrack Angler (Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak)
- Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 (Best Motorized Kayak)
- BKC TK122U Tandem Angler Kayak (Best Tandem Kayak)
- Vibe Sea Ghost 110 (Best For Rivers And Streams)
- Jackson Kayak Coosa FD (Best For Trolling)
- Pelican BassCreek 100XP Angler (Best Budget)
Top 17 Best Bass Fishing Kayaks Reviewed
1: Wilderness Systems Radar 135 (best overall)
- Length: 13 foot 6 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Depth: 15.5 inches
- Weight: 90 pounds
- Weight capacity: 475 pounds
The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 is the best bass fishing kayak, in my opinion, because of its customizable deck and tri-powered capabilities.
This can be a great choice if you’re looking for versatility, as this kayak can be customized to suit your fishing environment.
It’s compatible with the Helix Motor Drive and Pedal Drive systems (both sold separately), giving you the freedom to choose how you get to your next fishing hole.
It has excellent storage space. And it’s packed with lots of features, including SlideTrax rails.
It’s also compatible with down-imaging and side-scanning sonar fish finders (sold separately), with the built-in transducer scupper.
One thing that this kayak doesn’t have is built-in rod holders. But the gear tracks let you add your own for more convenient positioning.
Pros
- Tri-powered capabilities
- Customizable deck
- Lots of storage
Cons
- No rod holders
2: Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 (best pedal kayak)
- Length: 13 foot 2 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 122 pounds (assembled)
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is a large, spacious fishing kayak that features an award-winning pedal drive system. This makes it an excellent choice for trolling for bass, as it’s easy to maintain a consistent speed and it can cover a lot of water.
Being over 13 feet long, this is an ideal kayak for bass fishing in large lakes and bays.
The forward and reverse rotational pedal drive means you can reach your honey hole faster. The included rudder also helps you to maintain direction or hold your position in currents and wind.
The elevated seat is comfortable for all day fishing, with added lumbar support.
This is a big fishing kayak with plenty of space for gear.
But this is not a lightweight kayak. It’s also pretty expensive.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Award-winning pedal drive
- Great for large lakes
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
3: Perception Outlaw 11.5 (best stand-up fishing kayak)
- Length: 11 foot 6 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Weight: 77 pounds
- Weight capacity: 425 pounds
The Perception Outlaw is an affordable fishing kayak that’s built for stability, with a wide standing platform and deck padding for added grip for safe standing. It won our best standing kayak list.
One of the best features of this fishing kayak is the stowaway seat. This gives you a walkable deck, so you can fish without gear getting in the way.
This is an incredibly stable kayak that’s perfect for bass fishing in lakes, ponds, and flatwater rivers. It’s easy to maneuver both on and off the water.
You’ll find two double-barrel rod holders, bow and stern tankwells, plus several molded trays to store tackle.
The Outlaw isn’t feature-packed but it does have gear tracks in the side carry handles. It also lacks foot braces because of the walkable deck.
Pros
- Made for standing
- Stowaway seat
Cons
- No footrests
> Full Perception Outlaw 11.5 review
4: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 (most stable)
- Length: 12 foot 3 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Depth: 16 inches
- Weight: 86 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 features an award-winning hull design.
This is a versatile fishing kayak that can handle both flatwater and moving water, with added rocker in the hull for navigating rougher conditions.
This is an ultra-stable kayak, with a wide hull that’s easy to stand up on, even for taller and larger paddlers. But it’s not fast.
You can install your own accessories using the multiple gear tracks and mount them in the most convenient spot for your bass fishing style. There’s also a removable Flex Pod console for a fish finder, transducer, and battery (electronics not included).
A downside to this kayak is that it doesn’t have any rod holders as standard.
Pros
- Great for large paddlers
- Extremely stable
Cons
- No flush-mounted rod holders
5: Sea Eagle 385FTA FastTrack Angler (best inflatable fishing kayak)
- Length: 12 foot 6 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Depth: 9.5 inches (tube diameter)
- Weight: 45 pounds
- Weight capacity: 635 pounds
The Sea Eagle 385 FastTrack Angler is a durable boat and won our top inflatable fishing kayak title.
It features a tough non-slip EVA padding on the floor so it can handle dropped lures and hooks.
It also benefits from having a drop-stitch floor for added stability and improved performance on all waters. However, it’s not as efficient over water as some of the hardshell kayaks.
This durable kayak is lightweight and easy to haul.
It has a huge 635-pound capacity, with plenty of space for fishing gear.
There’s no dry storage, but there are spray covers at the bow and stern with bungees to keep items secure.
Pros
- Drop-stitch floor
- High capacity
Cons
- Slow
- No dry storage
6: Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 (best motorized kayak)
- Length: 12 foot
- Width: 37 inches
- Weight: 152 pounds (assembled)
- Weight capacity: 558 pounds
The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is one of the most advanced fishing kayaks out there. But it’s not cheap. It’s also very heavy and very wide (which can be good for stabilization and bad for moving around).
This bass fishing machine can handle both fresh and saltwater with its Minn Kota electric motor that’s ideal for trolling for big bass.
It features Spot-Lock technology that holds the kayak in place at your honey hole, even in currents and wind, so you can focus on catching fish. It even comes with a remote to control the kayak with the touch of a button.
This can be a great bass fishing kayak for large lakes and coastal bays, as you can cut through choppy water and wind more easily with the electric motor.
You’ll find flush-mount rod holders, 72 inches of gear tracks, and a large rear tank well. The comfortable, height-adjustable seat is great for sight fishing.
Pros
- Remote controlled motor
- Great for fishing in wind and currents
- High-low seat
Cons
- Pricey
- Very heavy
7: BKC TK122U Tandem Angler Kayak (best tandem kayak)
- Length: 12 foot 8 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Depth: 17 inches
- Weight: 74 pounds
- Weight capacity: 770 pounds
The BKC TK122U is one of the best bass-fishing kayaks if you want to kayak fish with a partner.
This two-person kayak features two framed seats. It also includes two paddles.
There are two flush mount rod holders and two swivel mount rod holders. Plus, each paddler has access to a watertight storage hatch and there are gear tracks available to each paddler.
However, if you and your fishing buddy are two large guys, this may not offer enough space. There’s not a lot of legroom for the front paddler, so it may suit you better if you plan to paddle with a smaller person or a child.
Pros
- Two framed seats
- Storage hatches
Cons
- Not the most spacious
8: Old Town Topwater 106 (best for rivers and streams)
- Length: 10 foot 6 inches
- Width: 34.5 inches
- Depth: 11 inches
- Weight: 73 pounds
- Weight capacity: 440 pounds
The Old Town Topwater 106 is a compact kayak that’s ideal for targeting bass in rivers and narrow creeks, as well as ponds. It’s our favorite river fishing kayak.
The Double-U hull provides sufficient stability for stand-up casting and the EVA foam deck provides traction for safe standing.
But it’s not the most efficient kayak for covering large bodies of water.
This is easy to paddle and easily maneuverable, making it great for all skill levels. It also has excellent rod and tackle storage and benefits from having a universal transducer mounting system for installing a fish finder (not included).
The rear cargo deck is very large considering the compact size of the kayak. It has gear tracks toward the front of the kayak for accessory mount
Pros
- Good tackle and rod management
- Stable pontoon-style hull
- Great for small bodies of water
Cons
- Not the most efficient hull
9: Jackson Kayak Coosa FD (best for trolling)
- Length: 12 foot 7 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Depth: 13 inches
- Weight: 128.5 pounds (with seat and pedal drive)
- Weight capacity: 450 pounds
The Jackson Coosa FD is great for trolling for bass and other species.
This features the Flex Drive Mark IV pedal drive system that’s designed to automatically retract into the hull when landing on shorelines and in shallow water.
It has a comfortable seat that can be adjusted forward and back as well as offering high and low positions.
You’ll find plenty of options for mounting accessories. Plus, there’s universal rod staging that works for all types of rods, including fly rods if you want to try fly fishing for bass.
There’s lots of space on this boat. But it can be very difficult to carry. The hull on its own weighs 109 pounds.
Pros
- Retractable pedal drive
- Good rod and tackle management
Cons
- Very heavy
10: Pelican BassCreek 100XP Angler (best budget)
- Length: 10 foot
- Width: 30.5 inches
- Depth: 16 inches
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Weight capacity: 325 pounds
The Pelican BassCreek Angler is a budget-friendly bass fishing kayak. It’s a great choice for beginners looking for a basic kayak that won’t break the bank.
It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to haul on your own.
Because of its short length, I find this kayak better suited to bass fishing in slow-moving rivers and ponds.
It features two molded-in rod holders and an adjustable rod holder, plus there are two hatches and a rear cargo deck.
It’s not the most comfortable kayak for long periods, as the seat is pretty basic. But there are adjustable foot pegs to help with posture.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Basic seat
> More Pelican kayaks reviewed
11: Jackson Kayak Bite Angler
- Length: 11 foot 6 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Depth: 11 inches
- Weight: 74 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
The Jackson Bite Angler is one of the best bass fishing kayaks if you prefer an open-concept deck. This very wide, spacious deck allows for complete walkability, giving you the freedom to stand up for fishing and moving around.
Because of its wide hull, this is not the fastest kayak.
The flat deck allows for increased legroom. There’s also ample storage at the bow and stern for a cooler or fishing crate.
There are two built-in rod holders and multiple mounting points for installing accessories (sold separately), giving you the chance to personalize the kayak to suit your bass fishing game. But the open-concept deck means built-in features are minimal.
Pros
- Customizable
- Walkable deck
- Comfortable seating system
Cons
- Slow
- Minimal features
> Full Jackson Bite Angler review
13: Vibe Sea Ghost 110
- Length: 11 foot 6 inches
- Width: 33 inches
- Weight: 84 pounds (fully rigged)
- Weight capacity: 425 pounds
The Vibe Sea Ghost 110 is a compact kayak that’s easy to maneuver in narrow rivers and streams. It also has a toe-controlled rudder to help you navigate through currents.
This can handle just about any type of water, making it a versatile kayak for any bass fishing trip.
It’s got all the features you would expect to find on a larger kayak but in a small, more convenient package.
The comfortable seat offers high-low positioning and breathable mesh fabric. There’s also adjustable back support.
Despite its compact length, it’s pretty heavy, so it’s not the easiest to car-top on your own.
Pros
- Turns quickly
- Excellent tackle storage options
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- Heavy
13: Perception Pescador Pro 12
- Length: 12 foot
- Width: 32.5 inches
- Depth: 14.5 inches
- Weight: 64 pounds
- Weight capacity: 375 pounds
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is an entry-level fishing kayak that can be ideal for both new anglers and new paddlers.
This sit-inside fishing kayak can be easily customized to suit the needs of more experienced anglers, with gear tracks on the sides to install your essential equipment.
You’ll find a fish finder console in the center with battery storage. There are also integrated rod holders behind the seat. Plus there’s a paddle holder at the bow.
This has a decent combination of speed and stability, with good tracking on flatwater lakes. It’s not built for standing up. It’s a little narrower than some of the others of the same length, which may affect the stability if you try to stand.
Pros
- Good for beginners
- Customizable
- Battery storage
Cons
- Not for standing
14: FeelFree Lure 10 V2
- Length: 10 foot
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 77 pounds (without seat)
- Weight capacity: 375 pounds
The FeelFree Lure 10 V2 is a small kayak with big kayak energy. It’s packed with features, including a sonar pod, Uni-Track accessory rails, rod holders, and a padded standing platform with a stand-assist strap.
One of the best features of this kayak is the Wheel in the Keel, so you can pull it to the water easily. Because it’s not the lightest boat to lift.
Another fantastic feature is the Gravity seat, which is multi-height adjustable and padded for support. This makes it one of the most comfortable seats for long days on the water.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Standing deck
- Wheel in the keel
Cons
- Heavy
15: Hobie Mirage Compass
- Length: 12 foot
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
The Hobie Mirage Compass is a pedal kayak that allows for hands-free propulsion. This can be a great choice for a variety of anglers, including beginners, as it comes complete with a paddle.
The Hobie Mirage Drive 180 pedal system features Kick-Up fins that automatically flip up in the shallows. The pedal system features forward and reverse, making it easy to maneuver.
The Hobie Mirage Compass benefits from having rod holders and accessory mounts. It also has a transducer scupper and decent storage space.
It’s not the easiest to carry and only has front and rear toggle handles, which isn’t great when it weighs almost 70 pounds.
Pros
- Pedal drive
- Paddle included
Cons
- Not easy to carry
16: Old Town Loon 126 Angler
- Length: 12 foot 6 inches
- Width: 31 inches
- Depth: 17.25 inches
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Weight capacity: 450 pounds
The Old Town Loon 126 Angler is a sit-inside kayak that can be ideal for a bass fishing trip in colder waters. It has an oversized cockpit with a removable work deck, so you can easily organize your tackle while seated.
The work deck also benefits from having a USB port so you can connect to a battery (not included) to keep your gadgets charged.
The seat is very comfortable with padding and support, plus an adjustable backrest.
You’ll find integrated rod holders and a large stern hatch.
But this sit-inside kayak is probably not the best choice for beginners, as it may feel more tippy than sit-on-top kayaks.
Pros
- Comfortable
- USB port
Cons
- Not for beginners
17: Pelican Catch Mode 110
- Length: 10 foot 8 inches
- Width: 34.5 inches
- Depth: 16.5 inches
- Weight: 63 pounds
- Weight capacity: 375 pounds
The Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a compact kayak that boasts a high level of stability with the benefit of an affordable price tag, making it ideal for beginners.
This is a very stable bass fishing kayak that benefits from having a pontoon hull. This makes it great for standing up, allowing for easier casting and retrieving.
You’ll also find a padded deck. The flat deck makes it much easier to stand up in, as there’s nothing to get in the way of your feet.
It has excellent storage for its compact size. But the features are basic, so don’t expect top-of-the-line quality.
Pros
- Pontoon hull design
- Standing platform
Cons
- Basic fishing features
How Do I Choose A Kayak For Bass Fishing?
Stability For Standing
Maximum stability is a key feature to look for in any bass fishing kayak. A stable boat will allow you to stand to cast comfortably and land big bass without tipping over.
Traction pads or deck padding on a durable kayak can be a good indicator that the kayak is engineered for standing up. The best bass fishing kayaks for standing will usually have a flat deck with nothing to get in the way of your feet.
Deck padding has a dual purpose, as this also helps to minimize noise from your deck, so you don’t scare the fish away before you approach.
Wider kayaks will tend to offer the greatest stability, especially for standing.
Comfort For Sitting Long Hours
You’re probably already aware that a bass fishing trip is not usually over quickly. It can be a slow process. This means you need to make sure you have a comfortable perch.
An elevated seat can usually give you a better vantage point for targeting bass. It’s also a good idea to look for a seat with an adjustable backrest so that you can tailor the level of recline or improve the lumbar support.
Some kayak seats offer high-low positioning. This can let you lower the seat for more efficient paddling and raise it while you’re waiting for a bite.
Other features that can improve your comfort levels while bass fishing include cup holders and adjustable footrests.
Customization Options
Being able to customize a kayak is important to many bass anglers. One of the main advantages of personalizing your kayak is that you can add electronics and accessories that are tailored to your specific needs.
A fish finder can be an essential accessory for a successful bass fishing adventure. This lets you see where the bass are hiding so you can choose the right lure and cast your line to the right spot.
Check out the best fish finders here.
Many angler kayaks have scuppers to accommodate transducers, with some also having battery storage space.
Gear tracks or accessory rails can let you install accessories without drilling into the hull. This means they’re easy to install but also easy to remove and reposition.
Most kayaks that are built for fishing will usually have gear tracks already installed. Additional rod holders can also be installed using gear tracks.
However, if you opt for an inflatable fishing kayak, it will generally not have accessory tracks. But it may have other mounting points.
Another useful addition to an angler kayak is a trolling motor. Many bass kayaks, but not all, will have mounting points at the stern to allow you to install trolling motors.
Space (And Capacity) For Gear
Fishing storage space is important for most bass anglers, especially safe rod storage and a paddle holder to keep your paddle safe while fishing.
Most angling kayaks will have a storage deck to accommodate a fishing crate or a cooler. A few kayaks will also have dry storage. This can be useful for keeping smaller tackle and valuables below deck.
Battery storage is also a good feature to have if you plan to use electronics on the water. You can also use battery boxes.
Remember to check the maximum load capacity of the kayak, as this may affect how much gear you’re able to bring (don’t forget to include your own body weight).
Generally speaking, angler kayaks have a higher capacity than typical recreational kayaks to allow you to bring along heavy fishing equipment.
An inflatable kayak will usually have a higher capacity than a hardshell kayak.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bass Fishing Kayaks
What Is The Best Rod Length For Kayak Bass Fishing?
Rods that are around 6 to 7 feet long can be ideal for kayak fishing for bass.
Check out some of the best kayak fishing rods.
Is A Pedal Or Paddle Kayak Better For Bass Fishing?
You will usually still need a paddle for a pedal kayak.
A pedal kayak can cover water faster and hands-free, and it can also be easier to maintain speed for trolling.
A paddle kayak requires less maintenance and can usually access shallower zones.
Are Sit-On-Top Kayaks Better For Bass Fishing Than Sit-Inside Models?
Sit-on-tops are better for bass fishing.
Sit-on-top fishing kayaks allow for more freedom of movement and tend to have more space on deck with the potential to stand up.
Can I Install Electronics, Like Fish Finders, On Bass Fishing Kayaks?
Yes, most fishing kayaks will have dedicated spots where you can mount a fish finder or other electronics.
Some kayaks will have battery storage and transducer scuppers to accommodate gadgets.
Video: How To Add A Fish Finder To Your Kayak
How Do I Choose The Right Paddle For Kayak Bass Fishing?
Kayak fishing paddles can be useful for kayak bass fishing, as these tend to have hooks for line retrieval.
The kayak paddle length you need will depend on the width of your kayak.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Bass Fishing From A Kayak?
You should always wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and tell someone where you’re going.
Concluding Our Best Bass Fishing Kayak
The best kayak for bass fishing is the Wilderness Systems Radar 135. With tri-powered capabilities, this can meet the needs of even the most experienced fisherman. It’s also easy to customize, with plenty of space for serious bass anglers.
My runner-up pick, and winner of the best pedal kayak, is the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL. While this is a heavy and pricey kayak, it makes up for it in space and performance.
Another excellent choice is the more affordable Perception Outlaw, with its stable hull and walkable deck.
Remember to check these kayaks out for yourself to make sure you choose the right kayak.
