How to Choose a Fishing Kayak: All You Need To Know
Kayak fishing has steadily grown in popularity in recent years as more anglers discover what an enjoyable and rewarding way it is to spend time on the water catching fish. There’s something special about being able to quietly paddle into remote backwaters and mangrove jungles that larger boats can’t access, giving you the chance to find fish in untouched waters. However, with so many different fishing kayak options on the market, deciding on the right one that matches your needs can seem daunting.
Fishing kayaks are kayaks designed specifically for anglers and differ from general purpose kayaks, canoes, and motorized fishing boats. Factors like intended use, propulsion method, storage solutions, and specialized features set them apart.
In this guide, I will explore the different kayak types and considerations that will help you select the model that best fits your fishing style and budget. My goal is to simplify the process and get you focused on the most important criteria so you can be prepared to hit the water in a kayak that amplifies your time fishing!
How to Choose a Fishing Kayak: All You Need to Know
When selecting a fishing kayak, there are several important factors to consider. The tips below will help you make the right choice!
Types of Fishing Kayaks: A Breakdown
The main types of fishing kayaks are sit-on-top, sit-in, and inflatable kayaks. Each has its advantages and limitations depending on your fishing needs and style.
Sit-on-top kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks are the most popular with kayak anglers because they provide the greatest versatility for fishing activities. These models allow fishermen to sit above the waterline for better mobility, visibility, and range of motion while fishing. Sit-on-top kayaks are also self-bailing, meaning any water that splashes or sprays into the kayak can safely drain through scupper holes without risk of swamping. However, sit-on-top kayaks typically do not shed water as efficiently as sit-in models, so anglers may get wetter in rougher conditions.
Sit-in kayaks
Sit-in kayaks are fully enclosed by decking and spray skirts. While the more contained hull design doesn’t allow for as much open-water motion and body positioning compared to sit-on-top models, sit-in kayaks provide superior weather protection from waves, wind, and spray. However, sit-in kayaks require you to manually empty any water that enters the cockpit through splashing or wave landing, which interrupts fishing. Stability for activities like standing while sight fishing may also be more limited.
Inflatable kayaks
Inflatable kayaks are ideal for anglers who need to transport their boat in smaller or less convenient vehicles due to storage space constraints. They pack down to a fraction of the size of hard-hulled kayaks for airline travel or fitting in small car trunks. Once inflated, modern inflatable kayaks provide similar performance, carrying capacity, comfort, and stability as hard kayaks. Made from heavy-duty PVC or Hypalon materials, they can withstand rocky rivers or pounding surf equally well. However, portable inflation pumps add budget and prep time that traditional kayaks don’t require.
Intended Use
Consider how you’ll primarily use the kayak–whether for fishing-specific activities or general recreation. For fishing small lakes and ponds, prioritize stability, storage and cargo space to comfortably carry tackle, coolers, rods and gear. On large bodies of water, emphasize hull designs that efficiently cover distances between fishing holes or spots.
In small streams, maneuverability allows squeezing through tight spots while fishing or exploring inland creeks and rivers. Surf and ocean paddling require durable sit-on-tops with self-bailing properties to handle waves and weather. If transporting heavy gear or paddling long distances, pedal or small electric motors can help anglers or recreational paddlers.
Otherwise, paddle power is sufficient for most inland use whether fishing smaller waters or casual recreational paddling. Match your priorities like stability, speed, agility or cargo space to your main intended activities like fishing, relaxation, exercise or adventure touring. Consider both anglers seeking versatile waters to fish as well as recreational kayakers looking for versatility in paddling environments and uses.
Propulsion Method
Paddle kayaks are the simplest and most common for beginning kayak anglers. They require physical exertion to paddle but don’t add mechanical complexity or potential maintenance issues. Many skilled kayak anglers still prefer paddle power for the exercise and simplicity.
Pedal-powered kayaks allow anglers to propel the boat with their feet using a drive system. This leaves hands free for fishing tasks like baiting hooks, landing fish, and rig changes. There are two main pedal drive types – some use bicycle pedals attached to the hull to turn a submerged propeller while others use rudder-like “flippers” that track side to side. Pedal kayaks enable anglers to travel farther and more efficiently to cover water.
New motorized fishing kayaks are also gaining popularity. They integrate small electric trolling motors mounted on the bow or transom. Some advanced anglers choose hybrid kayaks that incorporate both paddles and pedals/small motors for maximum flexibility. Paddles serve as backup propulsion or for delicate areas where motor noise could spook fish. But hybrids represent a more substantial upfront investment compared to basic paddle or pedal options.
Size and Seating
When deciding whether to select a 10, 12 or 14-foot fishing kayak, consider both your height/weight and intended cargo. Longer boats track straighter in open water but sacrifice some maneuverability, while shorter kayaks turn more tightly but may feel cramped. Make sure any kayak choice leaves adequate legroom and remains stable yet nimble for your physical sizing and gear needs. You can read more about this in my post on how to choose the best kayak based on weight.
Comfort is equally important, especially for all-day fishing missions. Many kayaks now feature padded, ergonomic seats with lumbar and thigh cushions similar to automotive versions. Some offer adjustable seat suspension or recline to reduce fatigue. For kayak anglers who invest many hours on the water, a comfortable seat can make the difference between an enjoyable outing and one cut short by a sore lower back or numb legs.
Special Features
Look for gear like mounted rod holders, fish finders, cup holders, and cargo space. Consider accessory mounting options for custom rigging. Storage hatches keep gear dry. Some kayaks integrate pedal drives, motors or adjustable seating nicely. Comfort items such as padded seats, backrests and adjustable foot braces allow anglers to remain in the kayak comfortably for extended periods on the water. Manufacturer reputation and customer reviews can also provide insight into durability, performance and quality of included features.
5 Best Fishing Kayaks to Consider
Sevylor QuickPak K1
The Sevylor QuickPak K1 is an inexpensive inflatable kayak that packs down into a backpack for simple portability. At just 20 pounds, it inflates within 5 minutes and its durable PVC construction can withstand repeated use on small lakes and calm rivers. For under $140, you get a stable fishing platform with comfortable seating, multiple air chambers for safety, and a storage area for gear. Its quick setup allows more time on the water, making it a great choice for beginner or occasional kayak anglers.
Advanced Elements Advancedframe Kayak
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame takes inflatable kayaks to a new performance level. Its unique composite frame creates a rigid shape that paddles like a hard shell without sacrificing inflation convenience. At 10 feet long, it can hold up to 400 pounds yet packs down small. Features include sturdy seating, multiple mounting points for accessories, and adjustable foot braces and backrests for comfort over long days on the water. Its $700+ price tag is worthwhile for serious kayak anglers seeking inflatable convenience with hard shell performance.
Perception Pescador Pro 12
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a tried and true sit-on-top fishing kayak that can handle lakes, bays or slow rivers. At 12 feet long and 275-pound weight capacity, it is large and stable enough for beginners yet maneuverable enough for veterans. Its plenty of built-in rigging allows rods to be positioned and secured exactly where needed. The comfortable seat and adjustable footpegs let anglers enjoy hours on the water. Robust build quality and tracking make it a great choice for both casual and serious kayak anglers looking to spend $1,000 or less.
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120
As one of the lightest and most nimble 12-foot kayaks, the Tarpon 120 is ideal for fishing coastal waters, lakes and slow rivers. Weighing only 55 lbs, it packs down easily for transport yet tracks straight and true on the water. Its rounded hull displaces waves nicely while multiple rod holders, generous storage and adjustable comfortable seating mean anglers can fish all day in solitude. At around $1,400, it is worth the investment for serious kayak anglers seeking elite performance.
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead is a highly capable inflatable fishing kayak that performs well beyond its category at an affordable $650 price point. Featuring a rugged 1000D layered PVC construction that can withstand impacts on waves, a rigid drop-stitch floor provides stability for casting, multiple secure gear tracks suit varied fixtures, ample dry storage balances gear accessibility, and an included dual-action pump allows effortless inflation and deflation in under 10 minutes. Its drainage scuppers and comfortable adjustable seat accompanied by a rigid and tracking design further shows its inflatable nature.
Choosing the right fishing kayak depends on your personal needs!
In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when selecting the best fishing kayak for your needs and intended use. Carefully evaluating criteria like stability, storage, maneuverability, specialized fishing features and comfort will help narrow options based on where and how you typically fish. Don’t forget to match your skill level and budget as well!
Doing thorough research on intended kayak attributes, reading reviews from experienced anglers and comparing top brands and models will lead you to a kayak that optimally suits your fishing style and environment. Following this advice will allow you to choose a watercraft that enhances rather than limits your time on the water with a rod in hand.
For more information on all things around canoes, paddle boards, kayaks, and so much more, stay tuned to my blog. I’m always available to give recommendations, reviews, and basic information you will need to know. If you found this particular post helpful, you might want to check out my posts on how to choose a paddleboard, the best water filters for your RV and how to clean RV water filters.
Stay hydrated,
Shashank Varma (Mr. Water Geek)