8 Best Kayak for Fishing Review & Buyer´s Guide for 2023
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you may be looking for the best fishing kayak. Are you? If yes, you are in the right place.
For some people, fishing is not just a hobby or job; it’s a passion which makes them happy.
If you’re one of those people, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about fishing kayaks.
Even though kayaks are more popular for recreational activities, but you can also use it for fishing, provided you have the right kayak.
Simply put, if you plan to go fishing, first you would have to select the best kayak for fishing.
Fortunately, you can choose from many models and types of kayaks available, but some of them are specifically designed for fishing.
To be specific, fishing kayaks have a space allocated for all your accessories and fishing equipment.
Most of them also allow you to locate yourself in the sea, having GPS receivers and running lights.
Yes, you’re right, these features are specifically for fishing purposes.
Don’t worry about high prices, the availability of so many kayaks from different manufacturers has increased the competition, meaning kayaks won’t be heavy on your pockets if you know where to look.
The increasing trend for fishing demands for different types of fishing kayaks.
However, if different available types are confusing you, don’t worry. We’ll guide you through all types, variations, the purpose of kayaks, to help you find the best fishing kayak.
Selection of the Best Fishing Kayaks – Top 8 in 2023
| Image | Product | Type | Check Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |  | BKC RA220 | Sit on Top |  |
| 2. |  | Perception Pescador Pro 12 | Sit on Top | |
| 3. |  | Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 130T | Sit on Top | |
| 4. |  | Sun Dolphin Aruba SS | Sit -in | |
| 5. |  | Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 | Tandem | |
| 6. |  | Perception Pescador Pilot 12 | Pedal | |
| 7. |  | BKC UH-TK181 | Tandem | |
| 8. |  | Intex Excursion Pro Kayak | Inflatable | |
Best Fishing Kayaks Reviews
It’s time for you to make a choice, which means looking at the potential options available to you.
Don’t worry; we have done everything for you. Here we have the top 8 kayaks for fishing listed for you.
1. Brooklyn Kayak Company – BKC RA220 – Best Kayak for Fishing
Does this name sound familiar to you? It might because whenever you search for the best fishing kayak, this kayak appears on the top results.
The reason why everyone wants to get their hands on this kayak is because of its features and of course, the brand name. RA220 is manufactured by Brooklyn Kayak Company, a popular brand based in New Jersey, United States.
It’s specifically for introverts who like to enjoy their own company. One of its most prominent features is rudder control, as it has a foot pedal, helping you take control of the kayak in water easily.
Next up is the waterproof storage. It comes with a huge storage capacity that allows you to pack for a multiple-day trip easily.
Moving on, it comes with commendable standup stability, allowing you to stand in water for long hours without the fear of falling overboard.
If you’re wondering about the paddling rods, it has twin-mount rod holders attached to the kayak. However, as far as the weight is concerned, it’s quite heavy, approximately 80 lbs. If you think you can manage, then go ahead with your purchase without worry.
2. Perception Pescador Pro 12 – Top Fishing Kayak
Perception Pescador Pro 12 is designed by Perception Kayaks based in the United States. This company is famous for offering kayaks with reliable performance.
To accommodate you in the best possible way, perception kayaks add some personal touches to your kayaks, making them unique and admirable.
It’s a sit-on-top kayak as you can adjust the seat as per your requirements. For instance, if you want to paddle comfortably, you have an option to lower down your chair.
It also gives you an option to store your rods inside the molded rod holders to improve your fishing experience. Do you want to know what the best part is? It also comes with Coast Guard-compliant hull identification number.
If you want to pack a lot for a long fishing day, this kayak has a lot of storage space. It has a large rear front and back area to store everything you need.
However, you can’t take this kayak to deep-sea or into fast-moving waters as they are only for lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers.
Therefore, rather getting an unsuitable kayak for yourself, make sure to look into a detailed fishing kayak review to know about the kayak better.
3. Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 130T – 2 Person Fishing Kayak
You’re probably searching for the best kayak. Vibe Kayak Yellowfin 130T could be the one for you. It is manufactured of Vibe Kayaks, popular for dedicated paddling kayaks for both fishing and recreational activities.
If you’re a lively person, then you may be fond of colors, and yes, yellowfin 130T comes in three different colors. Not just this, but you also have an option to mix and match your paddle with the kayak. Great, isn’t it?
If you’re looking forward to its features, this is a kayak for two people. So, get up and find yourself an enthusiastic fishing partner. But no worries, if you can’t find one because it has a center seat, that can be used for solo paddling.
It has adjustable foot braces, so you can adjust them the way you feel comfortable. It also has trays, specifically for holding food, water bottles, and also your mobile phones.
Moreover, it’s made up of high-density polyethylene, ensuring its durability. It’s quite exciting to know this, but yes, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
However, no skid plate comes along with this kayak, that means you’ll have to be very careful in shallow water.
4. Sun Dolphin Aruba SS – Sit-in Fishing Kayak
By now, you must know about Sun Dolphin. Yes, they are the one who makes kayaks by using high UV polyethylene. All of their kayaks are manufactured in the United States, including Aruba SS.
The distinct feature is its weight. It’s very light, meaning you can carry it anywhere you want. To be exact, it’s approximately 50 pounds, sounds good, right?
It’s a sit-in kayak, specifically to enjoy your own company while fishing. It consists of storage compartments, having no threat of water leakage.
Along with this, it has portable accessory storage, making space for your gadgets and snacks. You can also have a shock cord deck rigging to keep your water bottle conveniently.
You would be surprised to know, Aruba SS can hold approximately 395lbs, which is insanely great. Moreover, it comes with protective thigh pads, essential for a smooth journey.
However, if you’re an expert angler, this isn’t for you because it’s more of a recreational kayak, designed for casual anglers.
You need to make sure that you go across a couple of reviews because every fishing kayak review can contribute towards your purchase decision.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gmdovPwsBM[/embed]
5. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 – Tandem Kayak for Fishing
Just like the name, this kayak is also extremely overwhelming. Vibe Kayaks are manufacturing these kayaks in China.
It comes with a design suitable for fast water and heavy waves in the sea. For all creativity freaks, it comes in four different colors.
To explore its features, let’s begin with its load capacity. It can carry up to 425lbs, meaning you can store all kinds of equipment and other extra material too, especially if you’re stepping out for a long day.
Secondly, it has a toe control rudder. This makes your whole journey feasible because it helps you fish faster and at the same time, saves energy in windy and rainy days.
But you know what else? It has a premium seat designed for you, known as the breathable fabric hero seat. The comfortable seating would eliminate any fatigue and exhaustion.
It is widely recognized for the best-in-class engineered stability. It doesn’t matter how long your kayak is standing on the water, it would remain stable throughout. All the expert anglers out there, this one for you.
However, it’s quite expensive, but if you’re willing to make an investment, it’s a perfect option.
6. Perception Pescador Pilot 12 – Pedal Fishing Kayak
Perception Pescador is one of the greatest inventions by Perception Kayaks. They are manufacturing a wide variety of kayaks for recreational and fishing purposes in the United States.
Pescador Pilot 12 is a popular option because it’s suitable for pedaling on lakes, as well as rivers. Hence, you can use it for recreational activities and fishing at the same time.
Do you want to know what’s so unique about it? It has a Pilot Pedal Drive propeller system, allowing it to reverse and drive freely.
It is a sit-on-top fishing kayak, making a lot of storage capacity. You can utilize it for storing equipment, gear, accessories, and more.
This kayak allows you for all-day-long fishing because of its comfortable seat. If you feel tired, you also have an option to tilt your seat for a relaxing experience, while pedaling.
It comes with pedals. You can use your hands-free because your legs are working to move the kayak. Yes, you’re right, it makes fishing so simple and easy.
We know, it’s scary to invest in something so costly, but it comes with a five-year warranty, meaning you can get it fixed and exchanged anytime, but within five years.
7. Brooklyn Kayak Company – BKC UH-TK181
You all may be wondering, why tandem kayaks are nowhere to be seen? Well, here you go, BKC UH-TK181 is a tandem kayak, manufactured by Brooklyn Kayak Company.
They hold expertise in manufacturing both types of kayaks, recreational and fishing. The molding, assembling, and manufacturing of all kayaks takes place in New Jersey, United States.
It comes with the seven-rod holders, yes, you got it right, seven! These seven-rod holders are divided into three fishing rod holders and four flush-mounted rod holders.
Are you curious to know about the storage space? If yes, it has waterproof storage hatches, allowing you to place your wallet, mobile phone safely. Moreover, there’s a secure cargo area to store large equipment and other accessories.
What’s next? It’s right that you can take a friend along for fishing on this kayak, but make sure your friend doesn’t mind a sit-on-top kayak. T
o enhance your experience, it comes with twin paddle rests and allows you to free your hands without the fear of losing balance. It has got everything to provide you with a smooth and feasible fishing journey.
Are you still skeptical? If yes, it comes in six different colors and is the best kayak for fishing. It allows you to go fishing in lakes, rivers, and oceans as well.
8. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak – Inflatable Kayak for Fishing
Intex Excursion has introduced a tandem, inflatable kayak. You won’t believe it, but many people love this kayak. Intex is known for manufacturing pools, air furniture, and float toys, based in the United States. The excursion pro kayak is one of the most popular products of Intex.
You can consider it a recreational kayak, but it is suitable for fishing also. With this kayak, you can not only enjoy your friends’ good company, but you can also adjust the seating as per your preferences.
Moreover, it’s made up of Super-Tough laminate material with polyester, eliminating all your safety concerns. To comfort you more, it is certified from the airlock.
Are you wondering what’s so different about this kayak? Well, it’s inflatable, meaning you can pump out the air, once you have used it. You can easily carry it anywhere you want. You can even place it inside your car. This makes it pretty portable, no?
Apart from this, it has commendable storage space and can carry up to 400 lbs. To accommodate you better, it has two floor-mounted footrests and inflatable booster that would help you elevate your seat for a better vision and more comfort.
However, if you’re an expert angler, you can explore more options around you to search for the best fishing kayak.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Kayak
You know about different types of kayaks, the best ones out there in the market, it’s time that you know what your requirements are? Here’s a list of things you need to consider before buying a Kayak.
Type: I’ve discussed the types of kayaks you will find in the markets today. The key to choose the right one depends on your comfort level and criteria.
All of these have their pros and cons, but if say the stability s your major concern, I would suggest the sit on top one.
While if you are experienced in the field and prefer to have more control, then the sit-inside kayak is just the one.
Stability: You need to consider this before anything else because the stability of the kayak comes first. You might come across kayaks that pushes you into a fear of falling anytime.
These are the kayaks with poor stability. You don’t want to have poor fishing experience just because of the wrong kayak. So, here’s a tip, look for kayaks with a wider hull because they would eliminate your fear of falling.
Weight: You may come across a kayak with amazing features, but heavyweight. Lifting an 80 lbs kayak is not easy at all. You would have to reconsider every time you think of fishing.
Also, a heavy kayak would be very difficult to carry with out a kayak cart. Always look for kayaks that weigh 30 lbs to 40 lbs. It won’t just be convenient, but it would help you maintain balance too.
Storage: All that heavy gear needs storage space and you need a place to keep your food and other belongings in the kayak. Selecting the right kayak also requires a little look into the storage space you get with the unit.
You’d definitely want to take all that expensive gear with you that you just bought while you are fishing right? So look for good space, storage compartments and organized spaces that meet your requirements.
Many kayaks also have hooks or separate hatches for keeping your clothes or other expensive equipment, you wouldn’t want to get wet.
Capacity: The kayak may have space for one or two people. If you plan on taking a quiet trip by yourself, the single person capacity will do just great, whereas if you wish to spend the day with your partner or friend, the kayak with the capacity for two is just the deal.
There are also some models that provide sitting space for three! The top fishing kayaks have all the features that make them comfortable, lasting and fast yet stable, just what you need for the purpose.
Seat: I just cannot emphasize comfort enough when it comes to the selection of the kayak. Fishing takes time, it’s the serenity and peace that surrounds you that makes the experience all worth the while. So while you are at it, the last thing you’d want would be an achy back at the end of the day.
My two cents look for good support, padded and comfortable for the long hours at the job.
Price: By now, you’re aware of how many kayaks are available in the market. There’s a kayak for every price range, but we would never suggest you opt for a cheaper one. It would be affordable, but not durable.
Therefore, look for kayaks with moderate price levels, not too high and not too low. Rest depends on your budget and how much you’re willing to spend.
Different Types of Kayaks
You have so many choices available when it comes to choosing the style of your kayak. You may also get confused between the types of kayaks available in the market. To guide you better, check out quick detail on some of the most popular types of kayaks.
- Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak
If you’re a beginner to the world of fishing, this is your kayak. It’s different from the rest of the kayaks due to its mounted seat on the top. However, the seat is very solid, eliminating any safety concerns.
It also consists of holes, specifically for water drainage. If you’re a person who likes carrying a lot of things, the deck of this kayak can be divided into compartments, making it feasible for you to carry your accessories.
As suitable this kayak is for beginners, it’s also convenient for expert paddlers due to its amazing stability compared to other kayaks. It helps you maintain balance with ease because it has a higher center of gravity.
Even though this kayak is popular, it has some drawbacks as well. For example, the sit-on-top kayak has molded tops, meaning you have less space for storing your gear.
- Sit-in Fishing Kayak
Some of you might be scared of water yet are fond of fishing. Sit-in fishing kayak allows you to rest inside an enclosed cockpit, rather than being above the water level
Let’s look into what makes it different from the sit-on-top kayak. It has a lower center of gravity, meaning you won’t have to paddle hard. The smooth paddling allows you to go for all-day fishing. Some of you may get conscious of sun exposure. In that case, this kayak exposes you relatively less to the sun because you’re inside the cockpit.
Moreover, it helps you maintain a proper balance in windy days. If you’re concerned about the water coming inside the cockpit, well, it has an in-built drainage system. The water would only come inside if the waves are too high. However, it can be difficult to maintain stability because it has a lower center of gravity.
- Tandem Fishing Kayak
Some of you may be extroverts; spending time alone is usually like a nightmare for you. Catering to your needs, tandem fishing kayak allows you to go fishing with your partner, friend or spouse. Yes, it’s a kayak for two persons.
If you’re new to fishing kayaks, tandem kayak also allows you to learn from an experienced paddler. You can just sit and follow the instructions. You’ll learn more quickly under guidance than paddling alone.
These kayaks are heavier than the rest of the kayaks because they’re for two people. The heavy weight enhances its stability and accommodation. It’s available in both types, sit-in, and sit-on, enabling you to choose as per your feasibility.
However, always remember it’s a two-person kayak, making it very difficult to manage single-handedly. Therefore, you need to get someone to accompany you.
- Pedal Fishing Kayak
Sometimes, it’s okay to be confused because we are here to give you all the answers. Pedal Fishing Kayak is one of the latest innovations in kayaks. It has eliminated the function of paddling; instead, you get to use your legs to pedal the kayak, just like you pedal a bike. Simple, isn’t it?
The main purpose of this kayak is to enable people to go fishing easily. With paddling kayaks, your both hands are busy paddling to move the kayak, but due to this new innovation, it allows you to use your hands properly for fishing only.
Not only it makes fishing feasible, but also relaxing, because paddling continuously for hours can be very tiring.However, as these are new in markets, they could cost you an arm. If you have a budget, these are just the right fit.
- Inflatable Fishing Kayak
You must have heard of inflatable water toys; this kayak is somewhat like that. If you’re looking for recreational activities, then this kayak would help you go on fishing conveniently. It comes in different colors and styles. It’s specifically for those of you who want to spend some fun holidays at the lake.
Do you want to know what makes it different? It’s not constrained by temperature, so no matter if it’s freezing cold or scorching hot, you can still take it for fishing.
Well, the best thing about these kayaks is, they are available for every price range. So, don’t worry if you’re short of money, the diversified price range would allow you to grab a kayak within your budget. Due to its versatility, it’s the top-rated fishing kayak.
To all expert anglers, it’s not for you. It’s only for those of you who like to go fishing rarely. Do keep in mind, these kayaks are not a great choice when you’re opting for lake paddling.
- Bass Fishing Kayak
No, this is not just some other fishing kayak, it’s specifically for fast water. You know the waves are too high and fast half of the year, does that mean you stop fishing. No, right? Bass fishing kayak is narrow shaped and fast-moving, specifically designed for such water conditions. Usually, when people go deep into the sea, this is the kayak which they use.
Yes, you can take your fishing partner along because it’s also a kayak for two people, a tandem kayak. If you’re thinking about getting a bass fishing kayak, make sure to select the one that is tight enough, but also offers some amount of stability to stand in water.
Top Brands Offering Best Fishing Kayaks
If you’re brand conscious, then this part is for you. Here are the top 6 brands manufacturing the top rated fishing kayak.
- Old Town Canoes and Kayaks
You must have heard this name because it is the oldest company producing canoes, owned by Johnson Outdoors. It has been in the industry for more than a century, starting from 1898. Surprising, isn’t it
In the beginning, it only produced canoes and paddles in the United States. Later, they expanded their operations and started producing kayaks in 1995. Now, they are famously known for manufacturing the best kayaks out there.
- Advanced Elements
Advanced Elements has established in modern times, 2007 in California. Within a few years, it gained a large chunk of the market share of kayaks.
You may have heard your friends boasting about their kayaks from advanced elements because it’s nothing less than a status symbol. To enlighten you a bit, this is the company that came up with the idea of inflatable kayaks.
- Ocean Kayaks
If you’re wondering where you could find pedal fishing kayaks, this is your place. The brand offers the best kayak with pedals.
Ocean Kayak is based in New Zealand and owned by Johnson Outdoors. They have gained recognition for their creative and innovative kayaks. You won’t believe it, but they have a record of producing 200 kayaks in a day, in the early 1970s.
- Sun Dolphin
Sun Dolphin offers you all types of kayaks, recreational kayak or fishing kayak, they have it all.
Do you want to know why the kayaks manufactured by Sun Dolphins are different? They use high UV polyethene, making the kayak hard enough and durable. The material is so solid that no amount of heat or rain can damage it, due to which Sun Dolphins is the most recognized company in the US for manufacturing the best kayak for fishing.
- Wilderness Company
If you’re looking for a kayak with high stability, then start surfing through Wilderness Company’s website.
This company is famous for producing kayaks with rudder, beneficial for stability as well as steering. Based in the US, the brand manufactures a wide range of kayaks, including sit-in, sit-on-top, tandem kayaks and many more. Not just this, but they also have a range of boats available.
- Intex
Since inflatable kayaks are a thing now, Intex is bent on to produce the top quality and some of the very best inflatable kayaks for fishing. It also has pools, airbeds, and the likes, all of which are made to last.
The Intex kayaks are affordable, safe and quite comfortable, and not to forget ultimately convenient to keep and maintain.
- Vibe Kayaks
Vibe Kayaks is another US-based offering a wide range of outdoor and recreational gear, including kayaks. Even though founded recently back in 2013 if compared with other brands, but it ranks among the top brands within a few years due to high-quality kayaks and option it offers.
When it comes to design and value for money, kayaks from Vibe Kayaks are hard to match. Their most popular designs come with two seats, tandem kayaks. They offer high-quality built, making their kayaks last for decades.
- Brooklyn Kayak Company – BKC
BKC, also known as Brooklyn Kayak Company, is also among the most popular global brands for kayaks. As the name reflects, the brand is based in Brooklyn, US.
They are known for their high-end kayaks, available in different styles and models. Even though their kayaks are often pricey, the quality you get for the price is unmatched.
Last Thoughts about the Best Kayak for Fishing
Yes, it’s true, finding a suitable fishing kayak is not easy because you’ve so many options available. Therefore, you need to start step by step.
Look into how many different types of kayaks are there, whether you want to go fishing alone or with a friend. Go to shops and see how a sit-in kayak is different from a sit-on-top kayak. Trust us, all this count.
We know, it may be confusing, but it’s okay, we are here to guide you through. Before digging into kayaks, look into your requirements, whether you’re an expert angler or you want a kayak for some recreational activity.
Ask questions to yourself, and once you know what you want, we have listed all the brands selling kayaks, along with the best available kayaks.
Apart from weight, price, and stability, you need to look for fishing kayak review before you make your final purchase.
Reviews tell you things which brands don’t, so make sure to dig in — wishing you good luck on your journey of purchasing a kayak.
Remember: “Bait the hook well. This fish will bite.” Shakespeare