Best_Motorized_Kayaks

If you enjoy spending time in your kayak but aren’t all that crazy about the exercise, you should check the new trend in kayaking – motorized fishing kayaks. Not only do they save you energy for other activities (fishing or taking photos) but they also make the kayak a lot faster when going to your favorite spot.

While you could argue that any boat with an outboard can do this job, a motorized kayak is much easier to transport, a lot more agile, and keeps you closer to the action. In this article, we’re going to present the best motorized kayaks available and hopefully help you choose your new favorite way to get around on the water.

1

OUR TOP PICK

ClearYup Remote Control Electric

ClearYup Remote Control Electric


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Summary

By pairing a beautiful see-through hull with a powerful trolling motor, the ClearYup Electric Motorized Kayak established itself as the best kayak with motor for any water adventure. On top of this, you’ll also get a remote control that gives you the easiest control of the motor and its operation.

Motor Performance

The built-in motor has 55 pounds of thrust which is more than enough for this type of kayak. By construction, it’s an electric-powered kayak motor that requires a 12A circuit, meaning you can use any standard marine battery. However, it’s certainly a big plus that an 80Ah battery is already included in the package, allowing you to use the kayak straight away.

Materials and Design

Made of 8mm thick polycarbonate, the ClearYup kayak is tough and ready to tackle even harsher conditions on the water. But the best thing about it is its 85-91% transparency – a feature that gives you a unique insight into everything that happens under the boat.

Features and Accessories

Besides the high-capacity battery we’ve mentioned, the ClearYup tandem kayak with motor also includes several other great accessories. For example, you’ll get two full-size seats that are very comfy to sit in but can be easily removed when transporting the kayak. In addition, the package comes with a pair of paddles as an alternative to the motor.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Equipped with a powerful 55-pound trolling motor
  • Unique polycarbonate hull allows you to see in the water
  • Tandem kayak with enough room for two adults
  • High-capacity 80Ah battery included in the package
  • Performs well in all types of water (lake, sea, or ocean)
  • Designed to provide maximum stability
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Motor: 55lbs Trolling Motor 
Length: 10 feet 3 inches
Width: 35 inches
Weight: 62 pounds (without battery)
Material: Polycarbonate
Maximum Capacity: 440 pounds

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Wilderness Systems Radar 115

Wilderness Systems Radar 115


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Summary

If fishing is your favorite activity on the water, Wilderness Systems Radar 115 is going to blow you away. Designed to cater to every angler’s desire, the Radar 115 comes loaded with features like rod holders, gear tracks, and an abundance of organized storage. However, the best thing about this model is that it offers three power options – paddles, pedals, and a kayak motor.

Motor Compatibility

While a motor is not included in the package, the Radar 115 comes with a console in the middle for easy installation. It’s compatible with the Helix MD motor drive from Wilderness Systems, which has a range of about 20 miles and a runtime of 8 hours. The speed is pretty good too, as this small motor can propel your kayak up to 6 miles per hour.

Materials and Design

The rugged hull of this kayak uses the S.M.A.R.T. technology that makes it agile and maneuverable on one hand, but also stable enough to stand up. As for storage, this top rated kayak with motor comes with two dry hatches and a large tankwell in the back. Finally, its Phase 3 AirPro seat guarantees comfort throughout the day.

Features and Accessories

The feature we like most about this kayak are the SlideTrax gear tracks on the sides that allow you to mount anything from custom holders to various fish finders. In addition, you’ll also get four secure rod holders so your hands can remain free while fishing.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Compatible with Helix MD Drive motor from Wilderness Systems
  • Three different drive options – paddle, pedal, or motor
  • Wide and stable platform for safely standing when fishing
  • Comfortable AirPro Max seat with 3 adjustable levels
  • Abundance of rod holders, gear tracks, and device mounts
  • Adjustable seat
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Motor: Not Included, Compatible with Helix MD Drive
Length: 11 feet 6 inches
Width: 34.5 inches
Weight: 85 pounds
Material: High-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 450 pounds

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3

BEST VALUE

Classic Accessories Colorado XT

Classic Accessories Colorado XT


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Summary

The greatest thing about the Classic Accessories Colorado XT is its unparalleled stability. Designed as a pontoon boat, it completely eliminates any fear of tipping. While it doesn’t come with a motor included, it’s perhaps the most convenient model if you plan to install a trolling motor yourself. Add its fantastic price to the mix, and you get a motorized fishing kayak that delivers exceptional value for money.

Motor Compatibility

Thanks to the dedicated motor mounts on the back, you can easily equip this fishing kayak with trolling motor. And, to make reaching the handle more convenient, you can mount it in two different positions – left or right. Considering that the boat itself isn’t too heavy, it will work well even with smaller and mid-sized motors.

Materials and Design

The design of the Colorado XT is very interesting – the powder-coated steel frame gives it strength and durability, while the inflatable side tubes make it very easy to pack. Each pontoon tube is exactly 9 feet long and it’s made of abrasion-resistant PVC that is hard to puncture.

Features and Accessories

To make transportation easier, Classic Accessories equips this boat with a wheel for pushing instead of carrying. Storage is also pretty generous and you can pack all the gear you need in the provided gear bags. Lastly, it’s the only model in our motorized kayak reviews that comes with two long aluminum oars as an alternative to the motor.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Works with any type of kayak trolling motor
  • Two mounting positions on the back (left and right)
  • Transport wheel included for moving the boat
  • Pontoon design greatly improves the stability
  • Removable gear bags allow you to customize the storage
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Motor: Not Included, Compatible with Trolling Motors
Length: 9 feet
Width: 56 inches
Weight: 77 pounds
Material: Abrasion-resistant PVC, Nylon
Maximum Capacity: 400 pounds

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4

Fissot 1-Person Folding

Fissot 1-Person Folding


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Summary

The refreshing design of the Fissot folding motorized kayak is something that anglers will particularly enjoy. Its built-in trolling motor delivers up to 40 pounds of thrust, so moving around the water is effortless. On top of this, the Fissot kayak comes with retractable side stabilizers which, once open, provide top-level stability for standing up safely.

Motor Performance

Like we’ve mentioned, the built-in motor on this electric powered kayak has 40 pounds of thrust. This is very good relative to its size and results in a top speed that goes up to 10 miles per hour. While a battery is not included, the kayak is compatible with any standard 12-volt marine unit. In relation to this, the boat comes with a dedicated compartment for storing the battery.

Materials and Design

The hull of this kayak is made from high-quality polyethylene that is complemented by rust-resistant hardware for increased durability. However, the main perk of getting this boat is its great design – the wings on the sides make it next to impossible to tip, while the holding bar in the middle gives you the required support when standing.

Features and Accessories

In addition to the holding bar, the Fissot kayak also comes with a padded seat, two swiveling rod holders, and a large storage hatch at the bow. One of the additions we like most is its sophisticated foot-controlled rudder system that makes steering and tracking very smooth.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Built-in 40-pound electric motor goes up to 10km/h
  • System is compatible with any standard 12-volt battery
  • Retractable side wings significantly increase stability
  • Bar in the middle offers support when standing up
  • Rudder system easily controlled with your feet
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Motor: 40lbs Electric Motor
Length: 10 feet 10 inches
Width: 33.5 inches
Weight: 105.8 pounds
Material: Linear Low-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 552 pounds

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5

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100


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Summary

Stable, versatile, and affordable, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is a great fishing kayak if you want a good performer without spending thousands of dollars. It’s not a motorized fishing kayak by default, but Lifetime makes it easy to install any fishing kayak motor that you like. 

Motor Compatibility

Even though it doesn’t have a dedicated mount for an electric motor, the shape of the stern makes any upgrade possible. The Tamarack Angler 100 weighs just over 100 pounds, so you can even get away even with a smaller electric motor if you’re not bringing lots of gear.

Materials and Design

The hull of this sit-on-top kayak is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with additional UV protection, so you know you can count on top-level durability. As for the design, this motor-powered kayak is made with a sharp bow and a built-in skeg to help with tracking, while its wide hull improves the overall stability when fishing.

Features and Accessories

When it comes to features, the Tamarack Angler 100 seems to have everything you need for a great day on the water. The padded seat has an adjustable backrest for improved comfort, while the molded-in footwells allow you to find the ideal leg position. On top of this, this kayak comes with plenty of storage space (both open and dry), as well as three rod holders.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Works well with all standard kayak trolling motors
  • Plenty of storage space for your fishing gear
  • Three rod holders (two flush mounts + one swivel)
  • Sit-on-top with an open deck and multiple footrests
  • HDPE construction with excellent UV resistance
  • High weight capacity
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Motor: Not Included, Compatible with Trolling Motors
Length: 10 feet
Width: 31 inches
Weight: 51 pounds
Material: High-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 275 pounds

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How To Choose A Motorized Kayak – Buying Guide

How_To_Choose_A__Motorized_Kayak

Motor Performance and Compatibility

As you’ve had the chance to see, you can either get a kayak with a built-in motor or choose a motor-ready kayak and add one yourself. A model with a built-in motor might be more expensive, but it eliminates the headache of choosing and installing a motor on your kayak.

All motors on motorized fishing kayaks have a thrust rating – the power a unit has when propelling your boat. Keep in mind that in addition to the boat itself, the motor also needs to move your own weight as well as the gear you have on-board. When choosing a motor, the rule of thumb is to have 2 pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of boat weight.

Battery Requirements

Unlike outboard engines, electric motors on motorized kayaks require batteries to work. While some models like the ClearYup kayak come with a battery included, you’ll usually have to buy one yourself.

Most smaller motors use a single 12-volt marine battery. However, keep in mind that if you plan to use a more powerful motor (80+ lbs) you’ll need a system of two or even three batteries.

An additional concern is where you’re going to store the battery. It’s probably best (most convenient) if your motorized kayak comes with a dedicated compartment where the battery can be protected and stay out of your way.

Storage Capacity

Storage is an important general consideration, and motorized fishing kayaks are not an exception. Since these are mostly used for fishing, they need to have enough space for all your fishing gear.

We would always recommend that you get a kayak with some type of dry storage that allows you to keep more sensitive items protected from splashing and water damage. On the other hand, many good motorized kayaks for fishing also have spacious tank wells that make it possible to bring full-size crates with gear. 

Kayak Size and Weight

Size and weight are going to have a large impact on the kayak’s stability and agility. Larger (wider) motorized kayaks are generally more stable on the water, which is going to be a big advantage for beginners. However, this often comes at the cost of maneuverability and agility.

On the other hand, a longer and narrower kayak for fishing isn’t going to give you the same level of stability, but it’s going to be a lot more exciting to handle. This will add a lot more fun and allow faster turns and a more exhilarating experience.

Features and Accessories

Even if you have a motorized kayak, certain features can make it even more enjoyable. First and foremost, you should think about how you are going to control the motor. Standard trolling motors require you to turn around and use the handle, but the best motorized kayaks on our list (ClearYup) comes with remote control for controlling the motor operation.

While most motors have a runtime of well over 10 hours, it’s not a bad idea to have a backup and not get stranded in the middle of the lake. In light of this, it’s a big plus if the manufacturer also includes paddles with the purchase. Other useful features on motorized kayaks include various rod holders, gear mounts, and anchor trolleys.

Projected Budget

Unfortunately, motorized fishing kayaks can be quite expensive and exceed your planned budget. Models with built-in motors and other sophisticated features can have a very high price tag which may be too much for some kayakers. 

If you are in this category, a more budget-friendly option is to get a standard angler kayak and equip it with an electric motor of your choice.

FAQs

Why_Choose_Motorized_Kayak

Q: Why Choose A Kayak With A Motor?

A: 

The main reason to do this is saving energy and avoiding paddling. Motorized fishing kayaks use electric motors to power the boat, so you won’t have to paddle endlessly to reach the fishing spot. On top of this, the motor makes your kayak much faster so you’ll save a lot of time too.

Q: Can I Add Motor To My Regular Kayak?

A: 

Yes, you can add a motor to almost any kayak. However, you have to be very careful and check if a particular motor matches your fish kayak, and which mounting options you have (whether you have to drill holes). In addition, pay attention to the motor power too – a larger kayak loaded with more equipment is going to require a stronger motor.

Q: Can You Put An Electric Motor On A Kayak?

A: 

While it depends on the design of a particular kayak, most models can be fitted with an electric trolling motor. However, always check whether the kayak has a mounting point and whether the electric motor itself comes with the right mounting system (it’s not the same for regular and inflatable boats).

Globo Surf Overview

Using motor power to propel your kayak is probably the best way to get around while saving energy. It gets you to your destination much faster and allows you to explore waters that would otherwise be too far away. We hope that, using the info from our reviews and guide, you’ll be able to find a motorized kayak that will take your adventures to a new level.

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