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If you’re an angler who enjoys exploring new fishing spots, inflatable fishing kayaks will expand your options and allow you to go pretty much anywhere. Due to their inflatable nature, they are much more compact and portable compared to traditional hardshells. At the same time, the best inflatable fishing kayaks are stable, durable, and packed with fishing features.
Even more than standard inflatable models, your new angler kayak needs to be rugged and withstand abrasion, punctures, and impacts. On top of this, it’s a huge plus if the kayak is pre-equipped with rod holders and accessory gear mounts. To help you choose, we’ll present the best inflatable fishing kayaks that you can currently buy. Additionally, we’ll take a close look at their features so you can easily find the right one for your fishing style.
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Strong Duratex construction with drop-stitched seams
- Seven Scotty mounts for adding holders or accessories
- Built-in retractable skeg boosts tracking in deep water
- High weight capacity allows bringing a lot of equipment
- Comes with a rugged backpack for easier transportation
- Large storage space
Best For: All-Around Fishing
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet 8 inches
Width: 39 inches
Weight: 38 pounds 1.6 ounces
Material: Duratex PVC
Weight Capacity: 600 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag
EDITORS CHOICE
Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Excellent option for two people and a lot of fishing gear
- Strong PolyKrylar PVC hull withstands bumps and abrasion
- Works equally well in flat water and class III rapids
- Drain valves for easily eliminating water from the cockpit
- Front and rear handles for carrying the kayak
- Adjustable seats
Best For: Tandem Fishing
Paddlers: 2 or 3
Length: 12 feet 6 inches
Width: 34 inches
Folded Size: 31 x 19 x 8 inches
Weight: 32 pounds
Material: 38 mil PolyKrylar (K80 PVC)
Weight Capacity: 650 pounds
Accessories: Two Paddles, Foot Pump, Repair Kit, Carry Bag
BEST VALUE
Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Streamlined hull makes paddling very energy-efficient
- Cargo net on the bow for securing bags and other gear
- Two aluminum paddles included in the package (86 inches)
- Hi-Output Intex pump makes the setup quick and simple
- Bright green shell for higher visibility on the water
Best For: Calm Water
Paddlers: 2
Length: 11 feet 6 inches
Width: 30 inches
Folded Size: 23 x 17 x 14 inches
Weight: 35 pounds
Material: Vinyl
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Accessories: High-Output Pump, Paddles, Carry Bag
Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Two removable seats with a high back rest
- I-Beam floors with puncture and abrasion resistance
- Grab lines and handles on both ends for moving the kayak
- Fully NMMA certified with an ID from US Coast Guard
- Included hi-output pump makes setup quick and easy
Best For: Mild Rivers
Paddlers: 2
Length: 10 feet 3 inches
Width: 36 inches
Folded Size: 13.5 x 23.1 x 16.25 inches
Weight: 37 pounds
Material: Vinyl
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Accessories: Hand Pump, Paddles, Repair Kit, Carry Bag
Intex Excursion Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- High PSI inflation for rigidity that matches hardshells
- Two removable skegs improve tracking in deep water
- Mounting bracket on the front for attaching accessories
- Plastic footrests for both paddlers increase the leg comfort
- Rich accessory package (bag, gauge, pump, rod holders, paddles)
Best For: Fishing Comfort
Paddlers: 2
Length: 12 feet 7 inches
Width: 37 inches
Folded Size: 25.4 x 13.3 x 23.6 inches
Weight: 39 pounds
Material: 3-ply PVC
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag, Pressure Gauge, Rod Holders, Hi-Output Pump, Two Paddles
Sevylor Quikpak K5 Inflatable Angler Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Unique and innovative design (backpack transforms into a kayak)
- Lightest and easiest fishing kayak for carrying around
- Three-piece paddle and a hand pump included in the package
- Excellent buoyancy and stability when casting and reeling in
- Backpack cover doubles as a spray skirt to keep you dry
Best For: Easy Transportation
Paddlers: 1
Length: 10 feet
Width: 34 inches
Folded Size: 33.5 x 8.5 x 20 inches
Weight: 23 pounds
Material: 24-gauge PVC, Tarpaulin
Weight Capacity: 50 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag, Paddle, Hand Pump
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Inflatable Angler Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Impressive construction quality (PVC, nylon, and Tarpaulin)
- Completely airtight with double-threaded Boston valves
- Two Berkley rod holders with adjustable angles
- Mesh pockets on the sides for stashing small items
- Equipped with trolling motor fittings (sold separately)
Best For: Multiple Fishing Rods
Paddlers: 2
Length: 10 feet 9 inches
Width: 39 inches
Folded Size: 30.1 x 11.6 x 19.2 inches
Weight: 41 pounds
Material: 18-gauge PVC, 1000D Tarpaulin
Weight Capacity: 470 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag
Sevylor Big Basin Inflatable Angler Kayak
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Three adjustable seats for adult kayak anglers
- Excellent option for a family fishing trip
- Tarpaulin bottom for additional puncture resistance
- Separate air chambers (stays inflated if one is punctured)
- Good handling and maneuverability considering the size
Best For: Three Anglers
Paddlers: 3
Length: 12 feet 3 inches
Width: 37 inches
Folded Size: 18 x 10 x 24 inches
Weight: 34.8 pounds
Material: Heavy-Duty PVC, Tarpaulin
Weight Capacity: 490 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Puncture-resistant 21-gauge PVC construction
- NMMA certified design with a 360-pound capacity
- Spray covers on both sides keep the cockpit dry
- Double lock valves make inflation and deflation easy
- Adjustable seat back for leaning back and relaxing
- Multiple air chambers
Best For: Lakes
Paddlers: 2
Length: 10 feet 4 inches
Width: 36 inches
Weight: 19.36 pounds
Material: 21-gauge PVC
Weight Capacity: 360 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag
- What Makes This Inflatable Kayak For Fishing Stand Out
- Gear mounting bar for fish finders and rod holders
- Aluminum rib frame provides great rigidity and strength
- Abrasion pads prevent damage and increase durability
- Five separate inflatable chambers with a pressure relief valve
- Spacious bungee-corded stern storage fits even large bags
- High back seat
Best For: Moving Water (up to class III)
Paddlers: 1
Length: 9 feet 8 inches
Width: 35 inches
Folded Size: 30 x 17 x 10 inches
Weight: 41 pounds
Material: Multi-Layer PVC
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Accessories: Carry Bag, Repair Kit, Mounting Rail, Rod Holders, Manual
How To Choose An Inflatable Fishing Kayak – Buying Guide
Materials and Construction
Most inflatable fishing kayaks are made from heavy-duty PVC materials that offer the best balance between cost and durability. They are very strong and easily resist most hits and punctures. However, if your kayak is going to be exposed to harsher conditions, look for a model with a higher gauge rating that preferably comes with welded seams.
Dimensions (Length and Width)
Much like regular kayaks, the length and width of the best inflatable fishing kayaks determine its performance on the water. A longer kayak (over 10 feet) will be faster when going straight but slower when turning. Furthermore, longer inflatable fishing kayaks also offer more storage space inside. When it comes to width, most inflatables are fairly wide (30+ inches). However, some models exceed this number significantly and provide impressive stability when fishing on choppy water.
People and Weight Capacity
A good thing about inflatable fishing kayaks is that almost all of them come with a very high weight capacity (usually over 300 pounds). This is an important spec because it shows you how much gear you can bring without overloading the kayak. Some of the models we’ve featured are multi-person inflatable fishing kayaks that even allow you to bring along a fishing buddy in addition to all the rods and reels.
Ease Of Setup (Inflation/Deflation)
Generally speaking, all inflatable fishing kayaks are fairly easy to set up. Depending on the model, the setup process usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. In relation to this, the best inflatable fishing kayaks come with separate air chambers that prolong the setup time a bit but provide additional safety if the kayak is accidentally punctured.
FAQs
Q: What Are The Benefits From Inflatable Kayak Models?
The main benefit of inflatable fishing kayaks is the portability they offer. They don’t require large roof racks or trailers, but instead pack very compact and easily fit into the trunk of your car. In addition, they are generally a lot cheaper than traditional kayaks which can be a big upside if you’re on a limited budget.
Q: Why Fish Using An Inflatable Kayak?
You should choose fishing from an inflatable kayak because of the convenience it offers. Due to its compact nature, you’ll be able to get it down to the water faster and reach some places that you wouldn’t be able to with a traditional kayak. Modern inflatables are very tough, so you don’t have to worry about damaging them with hooks and pliers either.
Globo Surf Overview
Inflatable fishing kayaks open up a world of options when it comes to choosing a fishing location. Instead of hauling a heavy hardshell, you can take your top-rated inflatable angler kayak anywhere and cast a safe fishing anywhere.
More Kayak Reviews:
- Recreational Kayak
- Fishing Kayak Under 1000
- Tandem Fishing Kayak
- Beginner Kayak
- Kayak Seat
- Kayak For Lake
- Fishing Canoe
- Ocean Kayak
- Folding Kayak
- Kayak Anchor