Modular kayaks are truly something unique – they offer the strength and rigidity of a traditional hardshell while being much easier to transport and store. As their name suggests, they consist of several independent pieces that easily snap together once you reach the water.
Besides convenient transportation, modular kayaks have another huge benefit – they easily convert from a solo to a tandem or even a multi-person kayak for family adventures. In this article, you’ll learn all about the best modular kayaks on the market, and hopefully find a new and exciting alternative to a regular kayak.
OUR TOP PICK
Point 65° N Martini GTX Tandem Modular Fishing Kayak
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Snap-Tap assembly system for adding or removing sections
- Roomy cockpit with thigh pads and lots of legroom
- Two large dry storage hatches keep your gear dry
- AIR-Backrest seat with EVA foam for top-level comfort
- Fixed skeg and flush rudder for improved tracking
Sections: 3
Paddlers: 2
Total Length: 13 feet 8 inches
Front: 5 feet 9 inches
Middle: 5 feet 4 inches
Back: 4 feet 8 inches
Width: 27.6 inches
Capacity: 530 pounds
Weight: 77 pounds
EDITORS CHOICE
Point 65° N Apollo Tandem
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Three 4ft 7in sections are convenient and easy to carry
- Large storage tankwells at the bow and stern
- Design allows adding multiple middle sections (2+ kayakers)
- Open deck with room for large kayakers
- Rigid body made of HTP (High-Performance Thermoplastic)
Sections: 3
Paddlers: 2
Total Length: 12 feet 9 inches
Front: 4 feet 7 inches
Middle: 4 feet 7 inches
Back: 4 feet 7 inches
Width: 24 inches
Capacity: 440 pounds
Weight: 67 pounds
BEST VALUE
Point 65° N Apollo Solo
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Shorter length (8ft 10in) makes it incredibly maneuverable
- Molded-in footwells for a secure and comfy leg position
- Abundance of storage space (front and back tankwells)
- Compatible with Apollo mid-sections (sold separately)
- Two-section design fits easily even in smaller trunks
Sections: 2
Paddlers: 1
Total Length: 8 feet 10 inches
Front: 4 feet 7 inches
Back: 4 feet 7 inches
Width: 24.2 inches
Capacity: 220 pounds
Weight: 40 pounds
Point 65° N Tequila! GTX Solo
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- One of the fastest sit-on-top kayaks available
- Comfortable AIR seat with EVA foam support
- Lifted seating position for keeping you dry
- Large storage tankwell with bungee cords
- Easy to expand with Tequila middle sections
Sections: 2
Paddlers: 1
Total Length: 9 feet 8 inches</span
Front: 5 feet 5.8 inches
Back: 5 feet 5.4 inches
Width: 29.5 inches
Capacity: 265 pounds
Weight: 48.5 pounds
Point 65° N Martini GTX Solo
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Spacious cockpit with thigh pads on the sides
- Narrow design makes it great for touring
- Two storage hatches keep your gear dry
- Rudder system to make tracking easier
- AIR-Backrest with a high degree of adjustability
Sections: 2
Paddlers: 1
Total Length: 9 feet 4 inches
Front: 5 feet 9 inches
Back: 4 feet 8 inches
Width: 27.6 inches
Capacity: 265 pounds
Weight: 48.5 pounds
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Breaks apart easily for carrying and packing
- Hull shape provides a balance between stability and speed
- Very responsive and easy to handle on the water
- Compatible with additional middle sections from Snap Kayaks
- Dual wet storage areas (tankwell + bungee-corded deck)
Sections: 2
Paddlers: 1
Total Length: 8 feet 8 inches
Front: 5 feet 9 inches
Back: 3 feet 2 inches
Width: 30 inches
Capacity: 225 pounds
Weight: 48 pounds
How To Choose A Modular Fishing Kayak – Buying Guide
Design and Assembly
The design of a modular kayak is pretty unique by itself – it’s a full-size hardshell kayak that can be broken apart into several sections. However, the number of sections and the connecting system varies from one model to the other, so this is worth considering when buying.
All models we’ve featured in our modular fishing kayak reviews come with either two (solo) or three sections (tandem). Depending on the model, the length of individual sections ranges anywhere from 4.5 to 5.5 feet, which can make a big difference when packing them in a trunk.
When talking about the assembly, it’s ideal if the process is quick and results in a secure connection. For example, all the Point 65° N models we talked about come with the patented Snap-Tap system that takes only seconds to assemble. While there are other options out there, be sure to pay attention to their design and strength.
Weight Capacity
Generally speaking, even the best modular kayaks have a lower weight capacity than regular fishing or sit-on-top kayaks. Because of this, you often won’t be able to load them up with as much gear as you would perhaps like. All put-together kayaks can support the weight of the kayaker (or two), but you may encounter a problem if you have heavy equipment.
As a potential solution, you could convert your solo modular kayak into a tandem but use the second seat for storage. However, even though modular kayaks have a lower weight capacity, this doesn’t stop them from being ranked as top-rated fishing kayaks.
Length and Width
Both the speed and the stability of a kayak are affected by its shape. For this reason, it’s important to think about how and where you’re going to use your sectional kayak. A longer but narrower kayak is going to be faster (better for longer trips), while a shorter and wider one is more stable (better for fishing).
In relation to this, modular solo and modular tandem kayaks are usually not designed for large waves or rough seas. They tend to be between 8 and 15 feet long, which makes them better suited for rivers and lakes. However, in case you plan to go touring, the Point 65° N Martini GTX the best modular kayak to get.
Sit-in vs. Sit-on-top
Much like regular kayaks, modular kayaks come in two different styles – sit-in and sit-on-top. Each style has its own advantages, and you should choose based on how you plan to use the kayak.
Sit-on-top: In these kayaks, the paddler sits on top of the deck and is exposed to wind and splashing. However, these kayaks tend to be more stable and are easier to get in and out. When talking about the best modular fishing kayak, this is the type that most anglers prefer.
Sit-in: These are better suited for advanced paddlers because they are faster but more difficult to handle. Here, the paddler sits inside a fairly confined space inside the kayak (cockpit). Sit-in kayaks offer a completely different experience and are capable of handling rougher waters.
Hull Type
The hull of a kayak is the bottom part that sits in the water. Its shape affects the stability and how easily the kayak cuts through the water. There are 4 main types, which can also be found on modular kayaks.
Rounded: This option is balanced well which makes it pretty efficient at cutting through the water. If you’re unsure what to get, this is a good all-around option.
V-Shaped: Most commonly found on sit-in kayaks, the V-shaped hull is the least stable. These cut through the water exceptionally well and are ideally suited for long-distance paddling.
Flat: Very stable hulls, designed to prevent flipping regardless of the situation. Very common on angler kayaks that allow you to stand up when fishing.
Pontoon: The widest option and an ideal base for people looking to haul in a big catch. However, these can be very slow and sluggish.
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Extras and Accessories
Regardless of the model you choose, the extra features will make the adventure even more enjoyable. While even the best modular kayaks are not packed with features like some premium fishing models, they can still have useful additions like rod holders, comfy seats with backrests, paddles, or tracking systems.
For example, many of the top-rated modular fishing kayaks come with padded adjustable seats that provide a high level of comfort even on longer rides. Another big plus is a rudder system that not only helps with steering but significantly improves tracking too.
Single Product Fishing Kayaks:
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak Review
- Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Inflatable 2 Person Fishing Kayak Review
FAQs
Q: What Is A Modular Kayak?
A modular kayak is a type of kayak that consists of several individual sections that snap together to form the unit. This is a huge advantage when it comes to transportation (very easy to carry in pieces), and also makes it possible to change the number of kayakers by adding or removing sections in the middle.
Q: What Are The Benefits Of Using A Modular Kayak?
The main advantage is the size – several individual sections require much less space than a one-piece model. This allows you to fit them in a trunk or store them in a closet at home. Another advantage is their versatility – you can transform them from a solo to a tandem by simply adding or removing sections.
Q: How To Put The Pieces Together?
Putting together a modular kayak is incredibly easy – the only thing you have to do is snap the pieces together and tighten the joints. The connections are very strong and don’t get flimsy in the water, but the kayak breaks down in seconds once you unlock it.
Globosurf Overview
Modular fishing kayaks are a new and exciting type of kayak that works as a real alternative to standard sit-on-tops. Their innovative design offers a lot of perks for all of you who struggle with storing and transporting regular kayaks.
On top of this, they can also easily convert from a tandem to a solo and vice versa. If you’re looking for an easier way to get on the water, having the best modular kayak is the perfect solution.
More Kayak Reviews:
- Tandem Fishing Kayaks
- Fishing Float Tube
- Stand Up Fishing Kayaks
- Ocean Fishing Kayaks
- Kayak Paddles For Fishing
- Kayak Fishing Accessories
- Pedal Fishing Kayaks
- Kayak Fishing Rods
- River / Fly Fishing Kayaks
- Kayak Fishing Nets
- Kayak Knives
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