Best Fishing Kayaks

A fishing kayak allows you to combine the tranquility, skill and anticipation of fishing with the freedom, physicality and adrenaline of kayaking. Fishing kayaks vary widely in price, quality, features and functions.

There is quite a lot of specialization going on in the market. For better or for worse, we are truly spoiled for choice.

Whether you are shopping for your first fishing kayak or are an old hand at fishing in a kayak, buying a well-built reliable vessel that complements your needs and abilities will pay dividends in the long run. A sturdy high-quality kayak, if taken care of, can last you a lifetime and provide countless hours of great outdoors experiences.

We have five main types of kayaks on our list. They are: sit in, sit on, stand-up, pedal powered and inflatable kayaks.

They are all quite different in function as well as form. The one you choose should be based on factors such as the environment you will most often be kayak fishing in, weight and size restrictions, and many more.

• Rankings
• Finding a Fishing Kayak That Works for You
• Selection Criteria: How We Ranked the Best Fishing Kayaks
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Rankings & Reviews

Are You Going to Stand in the Kayak?

This is a really important question that you need to ask yourself before reaching for your credit card. The two main types of kayak are stand-up and sit-down vessels.

They are completely different in look, feel and function. Stand-up kayaks are wider and more stable than sit-down ones. However, they can be heavier, slower and less maneuverable.

Stand up fishing in a kayak requires a certain level of skill. It also allows you to fish a greater area by sight fishing. It lets you have more control over where and how you make your cast.

Sit down kayaks are better for beginners and anglers who value comfort and stability.

Stand up kayaks provide an extra dimension to kayak fishing. They can add a dose of adrenaline to your fishing trips.

On the other hand, they can be lacking in storage space and some safety features. For example, stand-up kayaks, unlike sitting kayaks, are often not self-bailing and can be difficult to paddle responsively.

How Will You Transport and Store Your Kayak?

In all the excitement about cherry picking your new fishing kayak, it can be easy to overlook the more mundane, practical aspects of your purchase.

While a large, heavy kayak may be just what you need on the water, it can be more of a hindrance if it does not fit well with your reality on dry land. Before purchasing any kayak, it is important to do a quick reality check.

Carefully measure the size of your garage or other space where you will be storing your kayak. Make sure that you have enough space to comfortably maneuver, store and un-mount your fishing kayak.

Imagine forking out a lot of cash on your dream kayak only to find out it cannot fit comfortably into your garage, or that it requires a ludicrous amount of manhandling.

The same applies for transportation: measuring and planning is key. Check the maximum load weight and recommended dimensions for your car/truck rack, and shop accordingly. If you have your heart set on a kayak that you cannot comfortably store and transport, it might be time to modify your search criteria.

How Much Storage Space Will You Need?

The storage space you will need in your fishing kayak will depend both on personal preference and the type of fishing you will be doing. Some people are minimalists and prefer carrying the bare minimum of supplies and equipment.

Others are more comfortable stocking up well, just in case. On the low end you should at least have space for safety essentials such as a first aid kit and emergency water supply.

The ideal storage space can also depend on the conditions you will be fishing in and amount of time you plan on spending on the water at one time. If you will be going on short fishing trips after work, you will require a lot less storage space than if you want to be on the water all day.

Camping enthusiasts can opt for the largest hulled kayaks that have ample space for both fishing and camping gear.

Last but not least, kayaks with more storage can be indispensable if you plan to keep your catch. There is, of course, a fine line between weight and speed. The more you are weighed down, the slower and less agile you will be in the water.

How Strong of a Kayaker Are You?

Physical strength and kayaking skill can both influence what vessel you should buy.

Wider kayaks are in general more stable than narrower ones and are a lot more difficult to tip. Sit-in kayaks offer a feeling of safety and stability. However, inexperienced kayakers might have problems if the vessel takes on water.

This problem can be remedied by buying a sit on top kayak that has a self-bailing system. This means that you are sitting above the level of the water.

The kayak has several plugs and holes in positions that use gravity to drain water from your boat. You can also do that with hand pumps. However, that can be stressful or complicated for rookies.

Your physical strength can also limit you in your choice of fishing kayak. If you have a lighter build or are not that strong, some heavier/larger models might be impractical. That is especially true if you will not have a pair of helping hands around.

Fishing kayaks are as varied as the waters you can paddle and fish in. Sheltered bodies of water like lakes or small ponds require a vastly different type of kayak than open water or white-water kayaking.

Calm waters do not require high maneuverability. You have the luxury of choosing a wide, long, comfortable vessel.

On the other hand, river and open water fishing kayaks need to be nimble and stable enough to handle tricky rapids or choppy waves.

Plan on paddling in extreme conditions? You should think about how your kayak reacts to tipping. How easy would it be to right in the event of capsizing?

Weather and water temperature are also important factors. Open kayaks are great for freedom of movement and accessibility.

However, you may get a bit wet when paddling. That is refreshing in summer but can be uncomfortable if the air and water temperature is low. If you live in colder climates, a closed hull kayak might be a better option.

How Many Rods Do You Use?

It’s pretty easy to set up multiple rods when fishing from the river bank. But that can be tricky in a kayak. To accommodate fishing with multiple rods simultaneously, your kayak needs both rod holders and ample room for storage.

Rod holders come as standard on all fishing kayaks. However, their number and layout can vary from model to model.

Several models have ample rod storage space. They are great for facilitating multiple rod fishing.

Type

All of the products on our list are classified by type, depending on the seating position in the kayak. The five main types are sit-in, sit-on-top, stand-up, pedal and inflatable kayaks.

Each of these types has its specific strengths and flaws. Those can depend on fishing conditions and personal preference.

The most user-friendly fishing kayaks are sit-on-top. That is thanks to their high stability and the fact that they are extremely easy to get in and out of.

In addition, you do not feel confined in them, as can be the case with other models. Another safety feature is that, should you fall into the water, they are easy to get back on.

While sit-on-top kayaks can leave you soaked, sit-in kayaks provide more protection. They are great for the fishermen who wants to stay dry in colder water.

They are also more hydro dynamic and are faster moving in the water. Therefore, they are the go-to model if you want to generate some speed.

A definite downside is that righting a flipped sit-in kayak can be an arduous task, or near impossible if it floods or you lack experience.

Stand-up kayaks are generally the widest models. They provide a stable platform on which you can stand in relative comfort.

If you prefer a standing to sitting stance when fishing, stand-up kayaks provide more visibility and an increased casting distance, allowing you to practice varied fishing techniques.

Inexperienced kayak fishers might have balance issues and feel unstable standing in a kayak, but the learning curve is not that steep.

Pedal kayaks are foot-operated. They do not require a paddle for operation.

There are two main types of drive systems. One uses a propeller similar to a boat. The other has a side to side motion resembling a fin.

Pedal kayaks require more water clearance and are generally more expensive than other types of kayak.

Inflatable Kayaks have always been an issue of heated debate among kayakers. Some love them some can’t stand them.

While they are insanely light and practical (they can inflate in a matter of minutes), they perform best in calm waters and might not be a good choice for open water use. They are a perfect choice if you have limited storage and transport options.

Length

Once you have decided on the type of fishing kayak you will be going for, the next characteristic to consider is the length and width of your vessel. The dimensions of your kayak affect the key performance factors of your kayak in the water. In addition, they affect ease of storage and transport outside the water.

A rule of thumb is that long and narrow kayaks accelerate faster and can reach greater speeds with more ease. Short and wide models are slower but more stable.

Wide and stable boats facilitate fly fishing and other more physical approaches but can be unsuited for covering a lot of distance. Long, narrow kayaks are great for covering a lot of ground. They can even be used to troll offshore.

Weight

The weight of your kayak is important for a variety of different reasons. Heavier kayaks can feel more stable in the water

That is great for beginners. However, they can be more sluggish than lighter models.

Keep in mind that the weight of your boat matters just as much out of the water, sometimes more so. That applies when you are lifting it out of the water or getting it on and off your car.

Storage is also an important factor. Some storage systems work better than others depending on your kayak’s weight.

Weight capacity

Each and every kayak has an official weight capacity. That can vary drastically from model to model.

Cheaper models tend to have lower weight capacities. A common misconception is that this number is the amount of weight you can safely put in your kayak and still be able to paddle comfortably.

The weight capacity is, in fact, simply the maximum weight you can put in a kayak without it sinking. If your weight along with the weight of your supplies is around the maximum weight capacity of your kayak, it will be sitting dangerously low in the water and make paddling almost impossible.

When paddling, kayaks inevitably get wet, and water is heavy. Therefore, it is prudent to factor this into your capacity calculations.

What size kayak do I need?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions. Finding the right answer can save you the inconvenience of ending up with a kayak that does not fit you well.

The stats you should pay attention to are width, length and carrying weight. In general, shorter kayaks are more nimble, while longer kayaks provide better tracking.

Regarding carrying weight, best practice is to add 150 lbs. to your body weight and use that number to know what weight capacity you should look for in a kayak. If you are not a gear junkie, and plan to travel light, you can take this number down to 100 lbs.

Leg room is another important consideration, especially if you are taller than average. Adjustable foot pegs are a great option to have for dialing in the leg distance you are more comfortable with.

Taller kayakers might feel more comfortable in a sit on top kayak than a closed deck one, as closed kayaks can be confining and uncomfortable on the knees.

I want to do more paddling than fishing (or vice versa). What model should I choose?

A common scenario is for a kayaker to transition into kayak fishing, and a vessel closer to a regular kayak is great for this purpose. A sit inside kayak allows you to paddle more smoothly and for greater distances, while providing ample room for fishing and storage space for supplies.

If you want to spend more of your time fishing, a sit on top kayak gives you a versatile and stable platform for casting, reeling and trolling. The most active fishermen can opt for models that they can stand on and fish much as they would from the river bank.

What paddle should I get?

When it comes to paddle size and shape, everyone has their own preference. The length of your paddle ultimately depends on two factors: your boat width and your height. There are a lot of great size charts available online that can help you figure out the right paddle length for you.

As far as materials are concerned, the three main combinations of blade and shaft materials, respectively, are nylon/carbon, fiberglass/fiberglass and plastic/aluminum.  Lighter paddles are easier to use, but the lower weight usually comes with a higher price tag.

The last thing to consider is shaft shape. The classic shaft shape is straight, and lets you paddle quickly but can leave the less experienced kayaker with blistered hands. If you value comfort over performance, you might consider getting a bent shaft has two kinked sections for more ergonomic handling.

How should I set up my seat?

The quality and set up of your kayak seat can have a huge impact on your comfort when you are out in the water. Fishing kayaks have straps that are used to adjust the level and rigidity of the seat.

Although loosening and lowering the seat might seem like a good laid back option, it can make paddling inefficient and unnecessarily tiring.

For the best in comfort and performance, tightening the straps on your seat and achieving an upright sitting position is highly recommended. In addition to this, many fishing kayak owners buy additional specialized cushions that minimize soreness on long rides without compromising performance.

Are fishing kayaks stable?

In general, fishing kayaks are more stable than ordinary kayaks, as they have to provide leverage when you are reeling in a big catch. Stability can vary greatly, and this is most influenced by kayak width.

Wider kayaks can be stable enough to comfortably stand on, while narrower models are built more for speed and should be operated in the seated position. However stable your kayak is, you should always be prepared for carrying out a self-rescue should you capsize.

Can a fish tow my kayak?

The cartoonish cliché can be true: fish can tow your kayak, and this is definitely an aspect of the sport that many kayakers enjoy. Even a small bass fish can tow your vessel as an impressive rate. Beginners, however, might not be used to this, and could feel anxious about not being in total control of their boat.

If you do hook a huge fish that starts pulling you out in a way that makes you uncomfortable, like to deep water for instance, it is best to cut the line and cut your losses.

Can I kayak if I have a bad back?

The short answer is, depends. If you paddling regularly, with good technique, you will strengthen your core muscles, so kayaking could end up improving your overall back health. On the flipside, bad paddling technique can strain your back unevenly and lead to further complications

There are models that are powered by foot pedals, so this might be a great option for those with bad backs. If you have a preexisting spinal condition, consult your physician as you would for any physical activity.

Can I put a motor on my kayak?

This is quite a common question, and in most cases, the answer is yes you can. Many manufacturers leave space at the back of the kayak, and there are plenty of lightweight efficient motors available on the market that are built specifically for kayaks.

Some kayaks are better equipped to deal with a motor than others. When you are installing a motor, be advised that you also need enough room for a battery to power it.

The models that are most well suited to having a motor installed have covered, raised battery mounts that keep the battery from getting wet from above as well as below, which is always a smart idea.

Be warned though, fishing kayak purists do not always look kindly on such modifications, the same way that avid cyclists see electric bikes as the worst thing to happen to the sport. In addition, you will probably have to register your kayak when you put a motor on it, the same way you would a boat. Check with your local water traffic regulations.

Should I buy a single or a tandem kayak?

This is a question that mostly comes down to personal taste, but there are definite advantages and disadvantages to tandem kayaks. Having some company on your fishing kayak can be fun, especially if you want to introduce your kids or friends to the sport.

For more sport-oriented kayak fishers, it might be more of a hindrance than a help to have a full grown adult with you on the water. Tandems can be cramped, and the close proximity can be a nuisance when casting rods and reeling in your catch.

Can you keep bait alive on the kayak?

Most fishing kayaks have a lot of storage space, so it is easy to carry live bait on your kayak. There are many bait tanks on the market that are specifically designed for use on kayaks.

If you do not want your bait tanks to take up space on your kayak, there are several off board solutions for carrying live bait by trailing it behind you.

To paddle or to peddle?

Pedaling, or foot propulsion to be more precise, has only recently been introduced into the world of kayak fishing. The first commercial pedal fishing kayak was released in 1997, and this type of kayak has become loved and loathed in equal part.

The main advantage of pedal powered kayaks is that you have your hands free for casting, reeling, trolling and baiting your hooks.

Putting away your paddle when you have reached your desired fishing spot can be tricky and time-consuming. Pedal kayaks come into their own on calm waters, as they are faster and less physically challenging to operate than paddle powered kayaks.

The pedal mechanism, however, take up a lot of space, and many kayak fishers do not want to sacrifice precious storage space. Another downside of pedaling is that pedal kayaks require more maintenance, and the pedal drive system is prone to malfunction.

Peddle kayaks are also significantly more expensive, and this puts off some buyers from the get go. Pedaling is arguably more disruptive than paddling, as an experienced kayak fisher can paddle in such a way that there is almost no splash to scare away fish.

Advanced maneuvers, such as the draw stroke (also known as side ladling) are impossible with a pedal kayak.

How do I maintain my kayak?

Modern kayaks are usually made of either polyethylene plastic or fiberglass, and both materials are relatively easy to maintain. Unlike wood, they are not susceptible to rot, but there are a few things you should do regularly to keep your kayak in ship shape.

Kayaks can take a fair amount of abuse, so you should look over the hull for any damage after every voyage. Most dents can be fixed in a very simple low tech way: leaving your vessel in the sun on a hot day will more often than not pop your kayak back into its original shape. Heaters can be used in colder months.

Rigging, such as perimeter lines and bungee cords, is usually the most prone to deterioration, so you should be vigilant in inspecting them, and replacing any damaged parts as soon as you see signs of wear. Fixing something on time is a lot easier than having it fail you on the water.

Cleanliness is next to godliness, and your kayak is no exception. You don’t have to go into great detail when cleaning your kayak, but a thorough spray down is recommended after each use to prevent dirt, mold and corrosion.

In addition to regular spray downs, scrub the inside and outside with a sponge and soapy water a couple of times a year and it should last you a lifetime.

Where should I store my kayak?

Your kayak will spend most of its time in storage, so it is good to put some thought into where you will be keeping it. Kayaks can be stored both indoors and outdoors, as long as they are kept out of direct sunlight.

Prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays will adversely affect the color, but even worse, can weaken the plastic and make your vessel prone to cracking and brittle.

If you are keeping your kayak in your garage, there are many storage solutions that are custom built to store kayaks safely; ranging from racks to ceiling hoists.

Be sure to cover your cockpit, to keep out critters, bugs and other undesirable organisms making your hull their home. Be sure to dry out the inside beforehand to ward off mold.

How do I pack for my fishing trip?

If you are big on gear, or plan to spend a longer time on the water, packing correctly is extremely important. Most people pack their kayaks on dry ground, but find that their setup is impractical in the water.

Before you push off into deep water, it is a good idea to test your setup in a pool or in shallower water. Practicing rolls will not only make you better prepared for an emergency, but will also test your storage system.

What should I pack in my kayak?

While every angler has his or her own preferred set up when it comes to rods, tackle and bait, there are a few things every kayak fisher should have on their boat.

A first aid kit is a must have, both for your peace of mind, and in case you come across someone in need of help. Investing in a quality dry bag or dry box will ensure all of your essentials are safe and dry, even in the event of a capsizing.

The next must have is a life jacket, and not only because they are a legal requirement in most places. Not only can it save your life in a tricky situation, but you can also give you a way to cool off in the water without having to use energy to stay afloat.

If you can, it is a good idea to try on the life jacket before purchasing it in order to get the size just right: snug but not uncomfortable is what you should be going for.

Bring water with you, no matter how short of a trip you are planning. It can get really hot out on the water, and dehydration is no fun. If you are kayaking on salt water, stock up with as much bottled water as you can. If you are on fresh water, iodine tablets or a water-filtering device will take care of all your hydration needs.

When kayak fishing, you are out in the sun all day and should protect yourself. Take sunscreen with you, and apply liberally. The water reflects a lot of UV rays, so paying attention to areas such as underneath your chin and nose can save you from irritating sunburn.

Last but not least on your list of must have items is a pump and sponge. While there are models that are self-bailing, you are bound to take on water at some point or another. At best it can leave you with a wet backside, and at worse can sink your kayak, so having a way to rid your boat of water is a must.