Best_Stand_Up_Fishing_Kayaks

As an angler, you certainly know that stability is one of the most important qualities of a fishing kayak. Stand up fishing kayaks take this to an even higher level and allow you to confidently stand on the deck when casting or reeling in the catch. Thanks to this, you’ll feel a lot more comfortable when handling the rod so you can focus on fishing without worrying whether you’ll fall over.

If you’re after stability Hull of the boat design is the most important aspect when choosing one. Kayaks you can stand up in usually have a fairly flat hull that offers excellent primary stability and won’t flip even with uneven load distribution. In these reviews, we’ll check out the best stand up fishing kayaks available and explain how each of them can make your fishing adventures safer and more enjoyable.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Hobie Mirage Compass

Hobie Mirage Compass


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Summary

The combination of a stable hull, a fantastic seat, and a sophisticated MirageDrive pedal system makes the Hobie Mirage Compass the best standing fishing kayak that you can currently buy. The fantastic pedal system will get you to your favorite fishing spot faster while leaving your arms free to hold a fishing rod.

Hull and Deck Design

Made from rotomolded polyethylene, the hull of the Mirage Compass can withstand even harsh water conditions. While it’s mostly flat, the sharp bow easily cuts through the water and makes it pretty fast too. The deck is open and spacious, equipped with a breathable mesh seat that’s lifted for a better fishing position.

Fishing Features

To ensure you have a great day on the water, the kayak comes with several interesting features – two flush mount rod holders behind the seat, a paddle holder, and two gear tracks on the sides that allow mounting various fishing equipment. On top of this, a sealed hatch and two large tankwells allow you to easily pack and organize your gear.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • MirageDrive pedal system makes moving around easy
  • Spring-loaded hand-controlled rudder for easy steering
  • H-Track gear mounts on the sides for securing accessories
  • Two large tankwells and a sealed hatch for packing gear
  • Two-piece fiberglass paddle included (as a backup)
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Pedaling (MirageDrive system)
Type: Sit On Top Kayak
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet
Width: 34 inches
Weight: 87 pounds
Material: Rotomolded Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 400 pounds

2

EDITORS CHOICE

Perception Pescador Pro 12

Perception Pescador Pro 12


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Summary

If you’re the type of angler that appreciates comfort above anything else, the Perception Pescador Pro 12 stand up kayak is an excellent choice. The lawn chair style mesh seat is not only soft and breathable, but also allows you to adjust it both horizontally and vertically. In addition, the flat and wide hull maintains the kayak balance impressively well.

Hull and Deck Design

The HDPE body of the Pescador Pro 12 kayak is made entirely in one piece which increases its rigidity and overall durability. As for the deck, it’s nicely organized with enough space for both sitting and standing. As a bonus, it comes with easily adjustable foot braces.

Fishing Features

When talking about fishing features, the Pescador Pro 12 has everything you need to hit the water straight away. You’ll get two flush mount rod holders behind the seat for resting the rods, as well as two gear tracks on the sides for attaching mounts. Additionally, the kayak comes with a central console that makes fish finder installation easy.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Spacious and comfortable for all-day fishing
  • Plenty of open and closed storage for your gear
  • Mesh seat is easily removable when packing
  • Leakproof and UV-resistant HDPE construction
  • Skid plate allows you to drag the kayak
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

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

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3

BEST VALUE

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 120

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 120


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Summary

For those of you after something a bit more affordable, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 120 offers the ideal balance between price and quality. Even though it’s the most budget-friendly model in our stand up fishing kayak reviews, the material quality and durability of this kayak can be compared to any higher-end model.

Hull and Deck Design

The Tamarack Angler is constructed from UV-resistant HDPE and won’t get damaged even with frequent rough use. The 12-foot long hull measures 31 inches wide, which is more than enough to give the kayak excellent primary stability and allow you to stand up without the fear of capsizing.

Fishing Features

Equipped with two flush mounts and one swivel rod holder, the Tamarack Angler 120 makes it possible to cast several lines simultaneously. If you get tired while standing, the adjustable seat and molded-in footwells will provide excellent sitting comfort too. Lastly, the kayak features bungee-corded storage areas at both ends for stashing bulkier gear.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Deep tracks and a molded-in skeg for better tracking
  • Sharp bow design makes the kayak fast and responsive
  • Three built-in rod holders for hands-free fishing
  • Stability rails and a flat hull prevent the kayak from tipping
  • Self-bailing scupper holes eliminate water from the deck
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Speed and Tracking
Type: Sit On Top Kayak
Paddlers: 1
Length: 10 feet
Width: 31 inches
Weight: 52 pounds
Material: HDPE
Maximum Capacity: 275 pounds

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4

Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB

Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB


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Summary

The Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 125 HB is an excellent option if you want a more portable fishing kayak that you can take anywhere. As you can see, this is an inflatable model, which means that it packs very compact and doesn’t require racks or trailers for transportation. At the same time, it’s perfectly adapted for fishing and guarantees a great time on the water.

Hull and Deck Design

To make the kayak resistant to abrasion and punctures, the hull is made from high-quality Duratex PVC. In addition, it also features a drop-stitch construction that provides more structural strength. Unlike other inflatables, this top rated standing fishing kayak measures 39 inches in width and makes standing perfectly safe.

Fishing Features

One of the things that we really like about this model is that it’s equipped with a total of seven Scotty mounts which allows you to attach any type of fishing accessory you need. While the kayak doesn’t come with an air pump, the package does include a travel backpack to make transportation a lot easier.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Impressive weight capacity allows bringing extra gear
  • Equipped with a fishing cooler and four rod holders
  • Packs down in a compact backpack for transportation
  • Built-in skeg can be retracted in shallow water
  • Splash guard on the bow helps keep the kayak dry
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

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

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5

Wilderness Systems ATAK 120

Wilderness Systems ATAK 120


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Summary

Fast, stable, and equipped with fantastic features, the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is the perfect standing on top fishing kayak for anglers who want to take their fishing game to a higher level. A detail that stands out about this model is its extra-large deck that is lined with non-slip pads to prevent you from slipping when the kayak gets wet.

Hull and Deck Design

At 12 feet long, the ATAK 120 is a bit longer than most other stand up kayaks. This is actually a good thing because it provides you with more deck space and makes the kayak faster when cutting through the water. Combine this with sliding XL foot braces and an easily-adjustable Phase 3 AirPro Max comfortable seat, and you’ll get the ultimate fishing vessel.

Fishing Features

The ATAK 120 kayak comes with several SlideTrax gear tracks spread throughout the kayak to make attaching rod holders and fish finders easy. On top of this, its Flex Pod OS space allows you to install a motor, a transducer, a battery, or anything else. Finally, you’ll also get several storage options including large tankwells, dry hatches, and a utility console.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Large and open platform for comfort while standing
  • Phase 3 AirPro Max seat provides all-day comfort
  • Flex Pod OS allows installing a fish finder or a motor
  • Six SlideTrax gear tracks for adding fishing accessories
  • Utility console for holding drinks and stashing small items
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Coastal Waters
Type: Sit On Top Kayak
Paddlers: 1
Length: 12 feet 3 inches
Width: 35 inches
Weight: 86 pounds
Material: Polyethylene
Maximum Capacity: 400 pounds

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6

Emotion Stealth Pro Angler 118

Emotion Stealth Pro Angler 118


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Summary

The Emotion Stealth Pro Angler 118 is a high-end angler kayak that allows you to enjoy fishing on both rivers and lakes. Its modern deck design provides an abundance of space for both yourself and the gear you’re bringing, while the built-in accessories make fishing more enjoyable. On top of this, it also looks fantastic so it’s guaranteed to stand out on the water.

Hull and Deck Design

Owing to its unique Combination Tunnel hull, the Stealth Pro Angler cuts easily through the water surface without losing its course. The hull is 32 inches wide and provides exceptional primary stability so you can safely stand up without rocking the kayak too much. Furthermore, the kayak features a Deck Channel draining system and seven scupper holes to prevent flooding.

Fishing Features

We like that this kayak comes with six 12-inch YakAttack gear tracks, allowing you to customize it however you want. In addition, the Stealth Pro Angler also features two flush mount rod holders behind the seat, as well as two Flambeau tackle boxes next to it. Last but not least, you can also count on an abundance of open and closed storage.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Six gear tracks for easily mounting fishing accessories
  • Foam-reinforced deck improves buoyancy and strength
  • Three seat positions – high (fishing), low (paddling), and recline
  • Two Flambeau tackle boxes and two rod holders included
  • Large bow storage hatch with a waterproof seal
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Mounting Fishing Accessories
Type: Sit On Top Kayak
Paddlers: 1
Length: 11 feet 8 inches
Width: 32 inches
Weight: 85 pounds
Material: HDPE
Maximum Capacity: 375 pounds

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How To Choose The Best Stand Up Kayak For Fishing  – Buying Guide

How_to_Choose_Stand-Up_Fishing_Kayaks

Stability

When talking about specialized fishing kayaks, stability is perhaps the most important quality that the boat should have. While it’s not a given, wider kayaks tend to be more stable than narrower ones. Therefore, if you’re not very confident about maintaining your balance while holding your fishing pole, you should go for a wider standing fishing kayak.

It’s also worth noticing that most stand up fishing kayaks are hardshells and that inflatables are generally not safe for standing. The reason for this is the difference in hull rigidity between these two types of kayaks. However, some inflatable models like the Blackfoot Angler are exceptionally stable and safe for standing.

Comfort

Since you’ll be spending multiple hours at a time on your stand up kayak, comfort plays a big role. The most important consideration here is seat quality. Even though we’re talking about stand up kayaks, you’ll still spend the majority of your time sitting down. Because of this, we advise that you look for a breathable and comfortable seat that has several height adjustments to provide a more natural fishing position.

Entry And Exit

One of the biggest upsides of this type of kayak is that it’s incredibly easy to get in and out of. All of them come with an open deck design so you can simply step into the kayak without tipping it over. Still, some models go a step further than others and even feature stability chines that will prevent rocking when entering and exiting the kayak.

Length

Much like any other kayak type, a longer hull means that the kayak can attain a higher speed on the water. On the other hand, it also usually means decreased stability. Since we’re talking about stand up fishing kayaks, we would advise against getting a model that is significantly longer than 12 feet such as Lifetime Tamarack Angler.

Width

As we’ve pointed out, a wider fish kayak is more stable than a narrower one. Because of this, the best stand up fishing kayaks tend to be wider than standard recreational models. When talking about numbers, a kayak that measures 32 inches or wider should do a nice job when fishing.

Weight

Due to the number of accessories, fishing kayaks are often heavier than standard models, and carrying them can be a problem. Because of this, you should always check the model weight and see if you can transport it to the water. On the other hand, if a kayak is too light it might be less stable.

Depending on the materials and design, a stand up kayak for fishing can weigh anywhere from 30 to 100 pounds. If you’re after something lighter, we would suggest that you choose an inflatable model like the Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler. Fully rigged kayaks like the Hobie Mirage Compass and Wilderness Systems ATAK can weigh between 85 and 100 pounds which can be a problem for some anglers.

On-Board Storage

When preparing for a fishing adventure, you’ll need to pack a lot of equipment in the kayak. Because of this, the model you choose needs to have plenty of organized storage on-board. First and foremost, it’s a plus if it has large tankwells in the front and back that will allow you to pack bulkier gear like crates and large bags.

In addition, a few dry hatches will significantly expand your options when packing gear because you’ll be able to keep sensitive items protected. You must distribute the weight equally when packing, so you don’t compromise the kayak’s balance and make it less stable.

Accessories

To make fishing easier and more successful, many of the best stand up fishing kayaks come with built-in accessories. Perhaps the most common addition are various types of rod holders (fixed and rotating) that allow you to rest the rod while waiting for the fish to bite.

Gear tracks can also be very useful, especially if you want to add more sophisticated rod holders, GPS units, or Kayak Fish Finders Many models feature a customizable central console that makes fish finder and transducer installation incredibly easy. Finally, some kayaks like the Hobie Mirage Compass even come with a pedal system that makes moving around very simple while leaving your hands completely free.

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FAQs

What_Are_the_Benefits_of_Kayak_Fishing

Q: What Are the Benefits of Kayak Fishing?

A: 

The main benefit of kayak fishing is accessing waters that would be unavailable from a standard boat, not to mention fishing from the shore. A standing fishing kayak is a dream come true for most anglers because it works as a floating platform that allows you to easily fish in your favorite spot on the water.

Q: Why a Stand-up Fishing Kayak?

A: 

Because it provides a lot more options when fishing. Unlike standard kayaks, stand up kayaks to fish won’t tip when you get up from your seat to cast or reel in. Thanks to this, fishing is a lot more efficient. In addition, it’s also a lot more comfortable because you can turn and move without fear of capsizing.

Q: Are Stand Up Fishing Kayaks Safe?

A: 

Yes, stand-up kayaks for fishing are among the safest kayaks that you can get. In addition to exceptional primary stability, many of these even come with straps for securing your feet while standing. However, you should still wear a life jacket and make sure to use the kayak how the manufacturer specified.

Q: What If I Fall in The Water?

A: 

Due to the hull design, the chances of falling over are very slim. Even if you somehow manage to fall in, you’re not at risk of drowning. As long as you’re wearing a life jacket, you are perfectly safe. All kayaks you can stand up in are very stable, so you should have no problem climbing back inside.

Q: Where Do I Keep My Catch?

A: 

If you plan to eat the fish you catch, you must refrigerate it immediately. Because of this, it’s best that you bring a cooler filled with ice for keeping your catch. Most of the kayaks we’ve reviewed come with large storage tankwells so you won’t have issues fitting standard-sized coolers.

Q: Can You Stand In A Fishing Kayak?

A: 

While it depends on the particular model, most fishing kayaks are safe for standing up when casting the bait and reeling in the catch. As we’ve pointed out, fishing kayaks usually come with wide beams that provide excellent primary stability and prevent the kayak from tipping over.

Globo Surf Overview

Being able to stand on your kayak gives you a lot more flexibility when casting and generally makes fishing more enjoyable. As you’ve had the chance to see, not every kayak is safe for standing up. However, the best stand-up fishing kayaks on our list are tried and tested to keep you safe even if you move around a lot. From our point of view, being able to do this completely changes the fishing experience and we would recommend everyone to give it a try.

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