The-Best-Fishing-Kayaks

From small ponds to open ocean waters, a fishing kayak provides unique access to all the best fishing spots. Unlike boats, fishing kayaks are easily portable, quiet, and aren’t bothered by weeds or shallow water. As a bonus, all of them can be used for recreational paddling too.

Since every angler has their own preference when it comes to gear and setup, fishing kayaks offer a wide array of designs and available features. In this article, you’re going to learn about everything the best fishing kayak can give you and hopefully find a model that you’ll love taking out on the water.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Old Town Loon 106

Old Town Loon 106


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Summary

The Old Town Loon 106 Fishing Kayak is the ultimate kayak for beginner and intermediate recreational paddlers. These kayaks for fishing combine all the right features to make your angling expeditions a breeze, especially on flat to slow-moving water. 

Construction

The kayaks combine a stable design with a comfortable adjustable seat and generously sized cockpit to guarantee all-day comfort. The kayaks integrate a sit-in design for a cozy and comfortable ride on the water. Further, the kayaks are built with a wide and flat hull that promotes a stable fishing experience whilst its sharp keel line improves tracking and gliding on glassy lakes. 

The three-layer polyethylene fabrication pairs with the hull design for extra stability on the water. The 3-layer polyethylene fabrication also gives the kayaks their UV and impact-resistant finish. They pair their ACS2 adjustable padded seat with thigh pads and foot braces that help stabilize you and facilitate long fatigue-free fishing sessions. 

Storage

The kayaks come with a Click Seal front hatch, bungee cords, and flush mounted rod holders to secure fishing gear, like tackle boxes and rods. To keep you connected with the outside world in the wilderness, the kayaks integrate a built-in charge port to help you power up your mobile phone, flashlights, and small essential devices.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Ideal for flat to slow moving water
  • The ide and flat hull facilitate improved stability when casting
  • Comfortable padded seat with back support
  • The seat incorporates thigh pads and foot braces to keep you stable when fishing
  • Integrated flush mounted fishing rod holders
  • Built-in USB ports to charge phones and other smaller devices
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Polyethylene
Length: 10’6”
Width: 31”
Deck height: 17.5”
Weight: 54 lbs.
Load capacity: 325 lbs

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Wilderness Systems ATAK 120

Wilderness Systems ATAK 120


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Summary

The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 Fishing Kayak is built with stability in mind for successful fishing.  These fishing kayaks are an improvement of the previous ATAK 140 model, catering to anglers who want a shorter kayak for easy maneuverability and responsiveness. Yet, they maintain features that optimize their stability on the water. 

Construction

This ATAK 120 model features an advanced tactical angling design that is compatible with a new Helix MD motor drive. A secondary transducer scupper is also added to the kayak to accommodate extra electronics like side scanning tech. On the other hand, its open customizable platform provides a wind shedding deck and promotes enhanced stability. 

Further, the kayak for fishing is designed with an improved rocker that allows it to effortlessly glide through water.  While maintaining a steady performance on the water, the kayak maintains comfort on board too. 

Storage

It is equipped with a patented suspension style AirPro Max seat you can adjust on the fly using its quick-release cam lever. The seat’s adjustable mechanism allows for a high, low, and recline position to help you achieve optimal visibility and stability. At the bottom, the XL adjustable, padded foot rests offer even more support with a single locking lever push. To securely store your fishing gear, the kayak has a large rear tank secured by adjustable bungees and gear straps, a circular stern hatch, and side tracks you can attach your gear.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Open customizable deck plan lets you enjoy the kayak the way you want
  • FlexPod OS design lets you mount a fish finder, battery, and transducer
  • Adjustable Phase 3 AirPro seating with back support, mesh fabric covers, and vented 3D foam
  • Generously sized accessory mounting area
  • Removable center easy access storage for items like water bottles
  • Packed in compact storage for easy managing on and off water
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Polyethylene
Length: 12’3”
Width: 35”
Deck height: 16”
Weight: 86 lbs.
Load capacity: 400 lbs

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3

BEST VALUE

Lifetime Tamarack 100

Lifetime Tamarack 100


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Summary

The Lifetime Tamarack 100 Fishing Kayak caters to anglers looking for a premium quality kayak with optimal performance at a fraction of the price. In fact, the kayak stands out amongst the cheapest in the fishing kayaks review. The budget-friendly model is designed with safety and stability features to make it one of the best fishing kayaks for long expeditions. 

Construction

The kayak’s most notable feature is its stable flat bottom designed with deep tracking channels and stability chine rails. The affordable fishing kayak is built from a high density polyethylene for enhanced rugged and UV protection. An adjustable padded seat with padded back support pairs well with the adjustable footrest to guarantee comfort during those long fishing trips. 

Storage

The kayak also comes with enough storage space to accommodate your fishing gear during the long hauls. It features front and rear shock cord straps, two 6-inch rear and center compartments, and a single paddle keeper with shock cords. Additionally, the kayak also integrates dual flush mounted fishing rod holders and one top mount fishing rod holder.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Built with safety and stability in mind
  • Equipped with a flat bottom with deep tracking channels and stability chine rails
  • Under deck hatch storage for sensitive items
  • Multiple foot rest positions to accommodate different paddler sizes
  • Single top mount fishing rod holder for added accessibility
  • Dual front and rear 6-inch storage compartments with bungee cords
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: High density polyethylene
Length: 12’
Width: 31”
Deck height: 14”
Weight: 54 lbs.
Load capacity: 275 lbs

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4

Pelican Sentinel 100X

Pelican Sentinel 100X


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Summary

The Pelican Sentinel 100X Fishing Kayak is the perfect option for paddlers who want to enjoy a relaxing fishing session on calm waters. The kayak features an ultra light but powerful design, resembling the performance of a fishing kayak with pedals. 

Construction

The angling kayak integrates a twin-arched multi-chine flat bottom that facilitates unmatched stability when casting and reeling. Moreover, a unique manufacturing process offers space for extra flotation into the hull which gives the kayak an even better performance on the water. This, in turn, allows the kayak to remain light without compromising its functionality. These sit on top fishing kayaks also feature a unique, proprietary multi-layer RAM-X fabrication that boosts its durability and ruggedness. The special construction allows the kayak to resist impact and breakage without adding weight to it.

Storage

A spacious cockpit design gives you enough room for a comfortable ride while making it easy to get on and off the kayak. Its lightweight profile pairs with its shorter length to make transport, storage, and maneuverability smooth when on water. The kayak comes with a special Exopak removable storage compartment that fits easily into its tank.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Ideal for relaxing on calm, slow moving water
  • Lightweight design for easy handling and maneuvers
  • Twin arched multi chine hull improves stability
  • Patented RAM-X material resists impact
  • Adjustable ERGO-Form backrest with padded seat cushion for optimal comfort
  • Integrated bottom scupper holes drain excess water for enhanced safety
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Polyethylene
Length: 9’6”
Width: 30”
Deck height: 13.2.5”
Weight: 44 lbs.
Load capacity: 275 lbs

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5

Perception Outlaw

Perception Outlaw


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Summary

If power is what you need for your next fishing trip, the Perception Outlaw fishing Kayak is certainly worth the investment. These fishing kayaks for sale cater to small to extra large paddlers without losing their full function. 

Construction

The fishing kayaks integrate a durable and high tensile polyethylene construction to resist the roughest condition. On the other hand, their optimized and elevated seating frame folds and detaches to give you more room. However, when set up, it maintains a comfortable padded platform. 

Storage

The fishing kayaks also come with a generous storage capacity. They comprise a large bow and stern tank that accommodates fishing crates and other gear. The dual barrel rod holders can store up to 4 fishing rods while the three solo mount recesses let you add mounts and accessory holders for more gear without needing any drilling. You will also find a 35L cooler storage space that doubles as a seat. You can also enjoy drinks and snacks on the go, thanks to the molded-in trays and cup holders.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Designed for small to heavy set paddlers
  • Generous load capacity
  • up to 4 built-in fishing rod holders
  • Multiple beverage and snack holders
  • uniquely designed stern and bow molded holders for easy transport
  • Side handles can also be used as gear tracks
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Polyethylene
Length: 11’6”
Width: 35”
Deck height: 8”
Weight: 77 lbs.
Load capacity: 425 lbs

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How To Choose A Fishing Kayak – Buying Guide

Fishing Features

One of the best things about getting a fishing kayak is that it comes with certain kayak fishing accessories that allow you to hit the water and cast the bait straight away. However, the amount of extra equipment you get varies significantly from one model to the other.

Most models come with Fishing rod holders, usually a pair of flush mounts behind the seat. Many higher-end models have more than two, and often also come with a swivel rod holder on the side.

If you’re not satisfied with what is provided, be sure to look for a kayak with plenty of gear tracks. Ranging from two to over six, these tracks allow you to mount not just high-quality rod holders from Scotty or YakAttack, but also custom mounts for electronic devices.

On the other hand, instead of buying custom mounts, some fishing kayaks have central consoles that have mounting points for various GPS units and fish finders. Lastly, a few kayaks like Hobie Mirage and Pescador Pilot come with pedal systems for keeping your hands free, while the Wilderness Systems ATAK sit-on-top kayak even allows installing a small trolling motor in the middle.

Storage Options

A successful day on the water/river often requires bringing a lot of different kayaking fishing gear so you can adapt to the conditions. Because of this, the kayak you choose needs to have enough organized storage.

Most top-rated fishing kayaks have a bungee-corded tank well behind the seat that allows you to store dry bags, milk crates, and larger tackle boxes. It’s a bonus if a kayak has an additional bungee area for smaller items you need close to hand.

As for dry storage, that is always a big plus. While not all fishing kayaks offer this, you’ll find that it’s a very useful addition. A dry storage hatch not only protects your valuables from water but also allows you to safely store rods inside the hull when you don’t need them.

Read our reviews of 2-person fishing kayaks:

Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Inflatable 2 Person Fishing Kayak

Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

 

Kayak Comfort

How-To-Choose-A-Fishing-Kayak

You might also love our: Saltwater Kayak Fishing Tips

Since you’ll probably spend several hours at a time in your fishing kayak, comfort is very high on the list of considerations when buying. This mostly depends on the seat, so we advise that you take a look at its design and adjustability.

The best kayak seat is ergonomic and gives you proper back support so you don’t get sore while sitting. Also, it’s a big advantage if it’s padded in specific areas so it feels softer to sit on. However, this shouldn’t compromise breathability, and having a little mesh will prevent you from sweating in the seat.

Furthermore, the seat needs to be adjustable. Most models allow you to change the backrest angle, but the premium seats can move in every direction to find the optimal position.

In addition to the chair, comfort also depends on the deck design. Generally speaking, it should be spacious, with adjustable footrests and enough space for stretching your legs.

Hull Design And Stability

For fishing kayaks, stability is a very important aspect. They shouldn’t rock too much while casting or reeling, and it’s ideal if they are stable enough to stand on. For this to be possible, the kayak needs to have a wide and flat hull.

While this sounds really nice, there is a trade-off – speed. A shorter and wider fishing kayak is going to be much slower on the rough water than a longer and narrower one. Getting both speed and stability isn’t easy, and you’ll usually have to choose between the two.

You might also be interested in our:

Detailed Fishing Kayak Setup Guide   

Kayak Crabbing Guide

Tips For Using Your Fishing Float Tube & Best Fishing Float Tube

Best Stand Up Fishing Kayaks

 

The closest thing to a compromise is a flat hull kayak with a sharp blow, like the Mirage Compass or the Tamarack Angler. We would advise that you choose stability over speed, as this will make a much larger difference when fishing on a kayak.

Benefits Of Kayak Fishing

Compared to fishing boats and other vessels, the best fishing kayaks have several advantages when it comes to catching fish. Some of these include:

  • Portability – Doesn’t require a trailer (you can carry or drag it to the water)
  • Noise Elimination – Allows you to relax in peace and quiet without scaring the fish
  • Cost Reduction – No batteries or gas required, making them more affordable
  • Wider Access Area – Able to reach remote areas that are unavailable to larger boats.

FAQs

What-Is-The-Best-Kayak-For-Beginner

Globo Surf Overview

Getting a fishing kayak is probably the best way to take your fishing adventures to a higher level. They provide quick and convenient access to your favorite fishing spot and allow you to arrange your fishing gear exactly how you like it. We hope our reviews helped you find an ideal model that will increase your catch on weakfishes too and put a smile on your face when fishing in a kayak.

More Fishing Kayak Reviews:

 

New to kayaking or have a kayak on our list? Let us know how you like it in the comment section below.