Best Stand Up Kayak For Fishing – Top 5 in 2023 [Reviewed]
Most people assume kayaks are just for sitting in and paddling comfortably. While that is true to some extent, there are kayaks that you can stand on too.
These are essentially sit on top kayaks i.e. they have a seat on top but there are two platforms to stand on too, hence the name.
The best stand up kayak for fishing is for the anglers that are a bit more adventurous.
Some individuals prefer fishing standing up so for them a stand up kayak is the best way to go fishing on lakes and rivers.
Stand up kayaks usually, have a large width and a flat hull. The width is big enough to provide the stability you will need standing up.
Selection of the 5 Best Stand up Fishing Kayak
Image | Product | Check Price | |
---|---|---|---|
1 | ![]() | Lifetime Tandem Kayak | ![]() |
2 | ![]() | Hobie Pro Angler 14 | ![]() |
3 | ![]() | Sun Dolphin Bali SS | ![]() |
4 | ![]() | Ocean Kayak Stand Up Paddleboard | ![]() |
5 | ![]() | BKC - Tandem Sit On Top | ![]() |
Stand Up Fishing Kayak Reviews:
1. Lifetime Two Person Tandem Kayak
This tandem kayak from Lifetime is 10 foot in length. It is a rugged kayak made from UV Protected High-Density Polyethylene. It tracks quite well thanks to its flat hull design. There are multiple foot-rest positions that cater to different size riders. It can accommodate a weight of 500 pounds.
It is the best stand up kayak for fishing that comes complete with all the parts you will need on your fishing expeditions.
The package includes two double-sided pedals, two padded backrests, three fishing pole holders, paddle clips, and one six-foot storage hatch. You can choose between two striking colors: olive green and camouflage.
Two people can comfortably sit or stand on top of this kayak but its maximum capacity is three persons. Since it is from Lifetime, a well-known kayak manufacturer, you can be sure about the quality of materials and construction.
2. Hobie Pro Angler 14
Hobie Pro Angler 14 pedal kayak is not your regular fishing kayak as it is designed for the most serious anglers. They have left no features behind in Pro Angler 14.
It is ideal for standing up with its flat and wide hull. Few of the main features are open cargo space, built-in rod holders (2 vertical rod holders, 4 horizontal rod holders, and 4 flush-mounted rod holder), and an easy access liner front hatch. It features the signature Mirage Drive to give anglers hands-free movement.
The weight of the kayak is 145.5 pounds and it can withstand a weight of 600 pounds. The vantage seating is quite comfortable for when you get tired standing up and want to sit down for a bit.
This kayak is a big improvement over the previous models and the company Hobie has fixed in virtually everything an angler could need on the waters. For this reason, it is a highly expensive kayak that is best for those anglers who go stand up kayak fishing quite often.
3. Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-On-Top Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Bali SS is a popular sit-on-top kayak that is also the best stand up kayak. It works great as a stand-up kayak because of its high stability. The design and shape of this kayak provide great stability even on rough waters. It is lightweight too and hence, portable. You can easily bring it to any lake or river you like.
The storage compartment has shock cord deck rigging and the Portable Accessory Carrier (PAC) also adds more storage.
The sit-on-top seat of this kayak is roomy and comfortable enough. There are adjustable foot-braces and thigh-pads.
This is a 12-foot kayak that comes in a few bright colors. The weight capacity is pretty high too at 395 pounds. What makes this the best stand up fishing kayak is that it versatile and high-quality without being overly expensive.
4. Ocean Kayak Stand Up Paddleboard
This is a versatile modern design kayak where you can fish both sitting down and standing up. Since it is a stand up kayak, its hull is designed to cut through waves through displacement style bow and integrated fins.
The padded flat bottomed footwells make it extra safe to stand up on the kayak to fish. For stand up kayak fishing in open waters, this is probably the best option.
As for storage, the stem deck bungee gives the ease to store all your fishing gear. It is a sturdy board that is made from high-quality polyethylene. The bow and stem handles and the side-mounted carry handles make it quite easy when you need to transport it.
The area where you place your feet has a texture so that there is enough friction between the board and your feet to keep you stable. In terms of design and look, it truly is the best stand up kayak.
5. Brooklyn Kayak Company 2-Person Tandem Sit On Top Kayak
This kayak is an angler’s dream kayak. It has seven rod holders, three of which are articulated rod holders while four are flush-mounted rod holders. It is the best stand up fishing kayak to go kayak fishing with your friends.
Two people can comfortably sit or stand on this stable kayak. There are two paddle stands that allow you to have your hands free every once in a while.
The rear cargo area has a bungee tie-down system to secure all the gear. There are waterproof storage hatches as well and they are position in the middle for easy access. You can access these while standing up.
This kayak looks quite cool too with textures. In length, it is 12 foot 5 inches which are long enough to make its tracking well. It will easily last for years to come provided its strength and stability.
Last Thoughts about the Best Stand Up Kayak for Fishing
The best stand up kayak for fishing is the one that is durable, stable, and ideally within your budget.
There are both affordable as well as professional options and it comes down to you whether it is just a hobby for you or more.
All of the above kayaks come from brands that have been in the business for decades and have a lot of experience in designing these kayaks.
That means that you can only expect the best performance from them. If you are a beginner at stand up kayak fishing, you might need some time getting used to it.