The-Best-River-Fly-Fishing-Kayaks

For many anglers, fishing on a river is a lot more appealing than fishing on a lake. However, it also requires a different type of kayak – one that can handle moving water and provide you with the stability you need when casting. With the right kayak for river fishing, you’ll discover that fly fishing can be incredibly exciting and enjoyable.

A good river kayak should have many of the same qualities as standard flatwater angler kayaks – stability, comfort, and useful fishing accessories. To help you make the right choice, this article will take a look at the best fly fishing kayaks available and explain everything you should consider when buying one.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Old Town Topwater 106

Old Town Topwater 106


VIEW PRICE ON REI
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

Stable, comfortable, and packed with great features, the Old Town Topwater 106 is the best fly fishing kayak for recreational anglers. Measuring 10 feet and 6 inches, it’s fairly compact and guarantees good maneuverability on the water. On top of this, it’s also perfectly safe for standing up which gives you an even better fishing experience.

Hull and Deck Design

The entire body of the Topwater 106 kayak is made from rotomolded polyethylene that shows excellent durability even with harsher use. Besides high-quality materials, the hull form is one of the main things that makes it one of the best fly fishing kayaks. Thanks to its Double U pontoon shape, it offers a level of stability that most other kayaks can’t match.

Fishing Features

Equipped with rod holders, gear tracks, and spacious gear storage, the Old Town Topwater 106 is ready to hit the water straight away. As a bonus, it also features a universal transducer mount that makes installing a fish finder easy. Finally, you’ll also get an extra-breathable ElementAir seat with different positions for fishing and paddling.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Comfortable ElementAir seat with a high and low position
  • EVA foam deck pads for secure footing when standing
  • Double-U hull with a pontoon shape that prevents flipping
  • Extra-large tankwell for packing milk crates and large gear
  • Transducer mount makes fish finder installation easy and quick
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Stability and Tracking
Kayak Type: Sit On Top
Paddlers: 1
Length: 10 feet 6 inches
Width: 34.5 inches
Weight: 73 pounds
Material: Rotomolded Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 440 pounds

View More By Sun Dolphin »
2

EDITORS CHOICE

Pelican Sentinel 100X

Pelican Sentinel 100X


check latest price
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

The Pelican Sentinel 100X is an ideal choice if you’re after a river fishing kayak that is compact and easily portable. Despite being a bit shorter than most other models, it’s comfortable for any paddler size. While primarily a fishing kayak, the advantage of this one is that it paddles very easily so you can use it for recreation too.

Hull and Deck Design

Owing to its Twin-arched multi-chine hull, the Sentinel 100X maintains excellent stability even on choppy water. To ensure durability and impact-resistance, the kayak is made from patented RAM-X premium polyethylene. While the deck layout is pretty standard, the design and style are very modern and stand out when compared to other fishing kayaks.

Fishing Features

The ErgoLounge seating system features extra-thick cushioning and a high level of adjustability to provide an impressive comfort level throughout the day. Other great features include a dog platform, molded footrests, bottle holders, and a 13-liter ExoShell storage compartment for packing your gear.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • ErgoLounge seats work great for long fishing sessions
  • Anti-slip carpet for extra safety when standing up
  • Paddle holders on the sides for securing the paddles
  • ExoShell dry storage compartment behind the seat
  • Premium RAM-X hull withstands abrasion and rough use
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Slow-Moving Rivers
Kayak Type: Sit On Top
Paddlers: 1
Length: 9 feet 6 inches
Width: 30 inches
Weight: 41.8 pounds
Material: RAM-X Premium (Triple-Layer Polyethylene)
Maximum Capacity: 275 pounds

View More By Pelican »
3

BEST VALUE

Intex Explorer K2

Intex Explorer K2


check latest price
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

If your kayak budget is a bit limited and you want the best value for a reasonable price, the Intex Explorer K2 is the best fly fishing kayak to get. Thanks to its inflatable nature, this tandem kayak is fantastic to take anywhere with you. Unlike traditional hardshells, it doesn’t require a roof rack or trailer for transportation which opens up a lot of options when choosing a fishing spot.

Hull and Cockpit Design

Made from extra-tough vinyl, the Explorer K2 easily withstands hits and bumps that can be common on the river. The kayak consists of three separate air chambers, so even if one of them is damaged it won’t sink. The cockpit is very spacious with enough room for two adult paddlers and a decent amount of equipment.

Fishing Features

While the kayak isn’t pre-equipped with rod holders or gear tracks, you can easily mount these on the sides if you want. The kayak comes with splash guards on both ends to keep you dry while paddling, as well as a removable skeg that greatly improves tracking.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • I-Beam floor construction provides rigidity and durability
  • Three separate air chambers for safety if one is punctured
  • Removable skeg for improving tracking while paddling
  • Enough space in the cockpit for two adult anglers
  • Comes with two paddles and a pump in the package
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Tandem Fishing
Kayak Type: Inflatable
Paddlers: 2
Length: 10 feet 3 inches
Width: 36 inches
Weight: 37 pounds
Material: Vinyl
Maximum Capacity: 400 pounds

View More By Intex »
4

Sun Dolphin Aruba 10

Sun Dolphin Aruba 10


CHECK LATEST PRICE
See River / Fly Fishing Kayak Owner Feedback >>
Summary

The Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a compact and functional sit-inside kayak that works equally well for fishing and leisurely paddling. The detail that makes it a great choice for rivers is its V-shaped hull that handles class II rapids impressively well. In addition, the kayak is very easy to control and allows you to move around effortlessly.

Hull and Cockpit Design

The UV-protected HDPE hull makes the Aruba 10 kayak one of the toughest models on the market. Even though the hull isn’t flat, it provides very good stability so even beginners can enjoy it. While the cockpit is not the largest one around, it will comfortably accommodate most adults.

Fishing Features

Despite lacking special fishing features by default, this kayak offers you several options for mounting gear holders on the sides or in front of the cockpit. On the other hand, the storage compartment behind the seat allows you to bring everything you need for fly fishing.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Dry storage behind the seat for rods and tackle boxes
  • V-shaped hull performs really well in class II rapids
  • Spacious enough even for taller kayakers and some gear
  • Adjustable foot braces ensure good leg comfort
  • Great for beginner anglers who prefer sit-in fishing kayaks
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Small Rapids
Kayak Type: Sit-In
Paddlers: 1
Length: 10 feet
Width: 30 inches
Weight: 40 pounds
Material: UV-protected HDPE
Maximum Capacity: 250 pounds

View More By Lifetime »
5

Sevylor Coleman Colorado

Sevylor Coleman Colorado


check latest price
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

Made from rugged 18-gauge PVC and equipped with several Berkley rod holders, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is the ultimate inflatable kayak for any type of fishing. As a bonus, it’s a tandem model, so you can even share your day on the river with a fishing buddy.

Hull and Deck Design

In addition to the PVC we’ve mentioned, the Colorado features two more materials for reinforcement – 1000D Tarpaulin on the bottom for resisting abrasion and 840D nylon on the body for resisting punctures from hooks and other sharp items. The kayak consists of multiple air chambers and each one comes with a Boston valve for easy inflation and deflation.

Fishing Features

Unlike most other inflatable fly fishing kayaks, this one comes pre-equipped with useful fishing features. Besides the rod holders that we’ve mentioned, it also features mesh pockets and D-rings on the walls for organizing your gear. Last but not least, there is a mount in the back so you can even install a trolling motor.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Designed with multiple air chambers to increase safety
  • 1000D Tarpaulin bottom resists punctures and damage
  • Double-threaded Boston valve prevents air leaking
  • D-rings and mesh pockets make organizing gear easy
  • Berkley Quick Set rod holders with adjustable angles
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Fishing Accessories
Kayak Type: Inflatable
Paddlers: 2
Length: 10 feet 9 inches
Width: 39 inches
Weight: 41 pounds
Material: 18-gauge PVC, 1000D Tarpaulin
Maximum Capacity: 470 pounds

View More By Sevylor »
6

Perception Pescador Pro 12

Perception Pescador Pro 12


CHECK LATEST PRICE
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

For those of you who appreciate comfort above anything else, the Perception Pescador Pro 12 is going to be the perfect fly fishing kayak. This model comes with the fantastic lawn chair style adjustable seat that easily switches between fishing and paddling mode. In addition, it’s equipped with a lot of great fishing features.

Hull and Deck Design

Leak-proof and constructed in one piece, the HDPE hull of the Pescador Pro 12 can withstand a lot of abuse on the water. When talking about the shape, it’s fairly wide and flat and has impressive stability. In addition to slow-moving rivers, you can also use this kayak for fishing on lakes and ponds.

Fishing Features

The features we’ve mentioned include a couple of built-in rod holders behind the seat as well as two gear tracks for attaching accessory mounts. Finally, the center of the kayak comes with a fish finder console that makes fish finder installation quick and easy.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • High-quality mesh seat with 2 adjustable positions
  • Easily adjustable foot braces for different kayaker height
  • HDPE hull is very buoyant and resistant to UV rays
  • Gear tracks on the sides for attaching fly fishing gear
  • Central console allows simple fish finder installation
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-Day Comfort
Kayak Type: Sit On Top
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet
Width: 32.5 inches
Weight: 64 pounds
Material: High-Density Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 375 pounds

View More By Ocean Kayak »
7

Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB

Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB


VIEW PRICE ON REI
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

Its unique design makes the Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB suitable for any type of adventure – from fly fishing on the river to multi-day touring on the lake. It’s a large single-person kayak with a tapered bow and extra-long waterline that makes it very fast and easy to paddle.

Hull and Deck Design

Constructed from tough Duratex tubes with drop-stitched seams, the Blackfoot Angler is perhaps one of the best fly fishing kayaks when it comes to leak-resistance. At 39 inches wide, it provides excellent stability even if you get into faster currents. 

Fishing Features

When talking about features, we must mention the 7 Scotty mounts that are spread throughout the kayak. They make it very easy to attach not only rod holders, but also any other type of fishing accessory you might need. As an inflatable, the kayak doesn’t have organized storage but comes with splash guards on both ends to keep your gear dry.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Built-in retractable skeg for better tracking
  • Duratex tubes with excellent puncture-resistance
  • Integrated Scotty mounts for adding rod holders
  • Rugged backpack for easily carrying the kayak
  • Package includes a fishing cooler and four rod holders
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Flatwater Fly Fishing
Kayak Type: Inflatable
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet 8 inches
Width: 39 inches
Weight: 38 pounds 1.6 ounces
Material: Duratex PVC
Maximum Capacity: 600 pounds

View More By Wilderness Systems »
8

Jackson Kayak Kilroy HD 13

Jackson Kayak Kilroy HD 13


VIEW PRICE ON BACKCOUNTRY
See Customer Owner Feedback >>
Summary

The Jackson Kayak Kilroy HD 13 features a wide and flat hull that makes it one of the most stable river fishing kayaks that you’ll come across. It’s perfectly safe for standing up, and even comes equipped with a soft standing pad that prevents slipping. On top of this, it’s very easy to customize and install new fishing accessories.

Hull and Deck Design

A thing we really like about the Kilroy HD 13 is its deck design – it’s completely open and offers a wide central space for standing as well as flat bow and stern areas for storing bags and larger fishing equipment. In addition to a width of 36 inches, the hull of this kayak measures almost 13 feet in length which makes it very fast on the water.

Fishing Features

To make your fishing sessions more convenient, the kayak comes with an organized rod storage with room for up to 4 rods. Finally, the Hi-Lo Ergo seat provides ergonomic support and allows a high level of adjustability for an ideal sitting position.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Built-in rod storage fits up to 4 fishing rods
  • Spacious deck with enough room to stretch legs
  • Stable hull allows standing up when casting and reeling
  • Standing pad prevents you from slipping when wet
  • Hi-Lo Ergo seat stays comfortable throughout the day
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Storage Capacity
Kayak Type: Sit On Top
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet 10 inches
Width: 36 inches
Weight: 93 pounds
Material: Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 450 pounds

View More By Hobie »

How To Choose The Best Fly Fishing Kayak – Buying Guide

What-makes-a-good-fishing-kayak

Where Do You Fish?

This is a very important question to ask yourself during your search because a river kayak will behave itself differently than a lake model. For fast-moving water, a more covered deck could be a better option since it will help protect you from splashing. If the water is slow and calm, a sit on top is better because it will allow you to turn around and even stand up when fishing.

Shape And Size

If you predominantly fish in rivers, you should look for a boat that is shorter and wider to provide you with more stability. The additional balance will help you confidently maneuver fast currents. Since you will be paddling a medium distance, a short to medium kayak length will give you the speed and efficiency that your arms will appreciate.

Stability

The stability of your kayak is particularly important if you’re mostly going to use it for fishing. The combination of a moving river and the motion when casting a rod can easily destabilize a regular kayak. Because of this, we advise that you look for a wide model that comes with a flat hull for primary stability.

Standing Up

If you’re the type of angler who prefers standing up when casting and reeling, you need a kayak that allows you to do this without tipping. While this isn’t completely universal, we advise that you look for a kayak that is at least 33 inches wide.

Moreover, you might enjoy:

6 Best Modular Fishing Kayaks 

10 Best Kayak Fishing Nets

 

 

Comfort

Fishing requires patience, which often means spending long hours on the water. Because of this, the kayak you choose needs to be comfortable for an entire day of fishing. It’s ideal if the model you choose comes with a padded adjustable seat and foot braces that will provide a comfortable leg position.

Storage And Weight Capacity

Regardless of the type of fishing you enjoy, your kayak needs to have a good weight capacity and enough space for storing fishing equipment. Because of this, we like it when a river kayak comes with several storage compartments to easily organize bait, kayak fishing rods, and tackle boxes.

Deck Design

For fly fishing, sit on top kayaks are the ideal choice because they feature an open deck instead of a cockpit. The main benefit of this type of deck is all the additional storage space that you’re getting. In addition, there will be a lot more space for your legs. On the other hand, a closed deck won’t be as comfortable but will give you better water protection.

Single Product Fishing Kayaks:

 

FAQs

Can_A_Fish_Pull_You_Out_Of_Your_Kayak

Q: Can A Fish Pull You Out Of Your Kayak?

A: 

Yes, a fish can theoretically pull you out of your kayak. Luckily, this only happens if you’re not careful or your kayak is not set up correctly. To prevent this, the first thing you should do is balance the kayak properly. If the weight is distributed evenly, you won’t have to worry about losing your balance even when standing up as the kayak won’t rock to one side.

If you’re after large fish in the ocean, it’s also a good idea to add an anchor to the kayak setup. In relation to this, make sure that the anchor you choose can cope with the currents of the water.

Q: Where Do You Put The Fish That You Catch?

A: 

There are two options for storing fish, and whether you’ll use one or the other generally depends on the set-up of your kayak. If you have room on-board, the best option is to use a cooler. While you can buy special fish coolers, you can also use a regular cooler if you pack it with enough ice or keep it cold in some other way.

As an alternative, you can also use an insulated bag on your deck. The bag will sit in front of you, so it may be easier to get in without having to stand up.

Q: Can I Put a Motor On My Fishing Kayak?

A: 

Yes, if your kayak comes with a space for a motor mount. However, make sure that the motor is compatible with your kayak model. If there isn’t a dedicated space for mounting a motor, we don’t recommend using aftermarket mounts as this can damage the kayak in the process.

Globo Surf Overview

Fishing in the middle of the river is fun, dynamic, and allows you to have a much bigger catch compared to standing on the shore. Because of this, it’s much better to jump in a kayak and get closer to the action. With the help of our river kayak reviews, we’re certain that you’ll be able to find the best fly fishing kayak to make every fishing session a success.

More Fishing Kayaks:

 Fishing Kayak’s Guides: