So what is the best fishing kayak? In my novice kayaking days as a beginner the amount of time I spent trying to find my first fishing kayak could have been markedly reduced if it was explained to me in simple to understand language. Let’s face it, when you know nothing and you are told to look for kayaks with ‘scuppers’ and ‘deck bungees’, you want to be able to converse with some seafaring dialogue and maybe wow your partner or family along the way.
So I am here to tell you don’t be scared, don’t fall in a big heap, don’t give up as I have examined 10 of the best fishing kayaks currently available from the major brands for both single seat (SS) and tandem. I have listed kayaks from the following well known brands: Sun Dolphin, Lifetime, Sevylor, Hobie, Ocean Kayak, Perception and Wilderness Systems in terms of customer reviews, value for money, and features on offer.
The Angler's 2017 Best Fishing Kayak Comparison Table
Kayak | Type | Seats | Length | Width | Capacity | *Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sun Dolphin Journey | Sit On Top | Single | 10 ft | 30" | 250 lbs. | Under $500 |
Ocean Kayak Prowler Angler | Sit On Top | Single | 13 ft | 28" | 450 lbs. | Under $1000 |
Perception Pescador Pilot | Sit On Top | Single | 12 ft. | 33" | 475 lbs. | Under $2000 |
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 | Sit On Top | Single | 10 ft. | 30" | 325 lbs. | Under $1000 |
Ocean Kayak Frenzy | Sit On Top | Single | 9 ft. | 31" | 325 lbs. | Under $500 |
Hobie Pro Angler | Sit On Top | Single | 14 ft. | 38" | 600 lbs. | ~ $3500 |
Sevylor Coleman Colorado | Inflatable | Tandem | 10 ft. | 39" | 470 lbs. | Under $500 |
Malibu Kayaks Stealth Fish and Dive | Sit On Top | Single | 14 ft. | 33" | 550 lbs. | ~ $1000 |
Lifetime Sport Fisher | Sit On Top | Tandem | 10 ft. | 36" | 500 lbs. | ~ $500 |
Sun Dolphin Excursion | Sit Inside | Single | 10 ft. | 30" | 250 lbs. | ~ $300 |
* Estimated Price on Amazon. Please check their product pages on Amazon for current up to date prices.
Buyers Guide to the Best Fishing Kayaks
Sit-On-Top or Sit Inside?
The two main types of kayaks are Sit-On-Top (SOT) and Sit-Inside (SIT). They both have a top (deck) and a bottom (hull), with the back (stern) and front (the bow). The deck is usually where the deck riggings or bungees are kept. These are the elastic cords that are arranged to secure your gear to the deck.
The biggest difference between the two types is that the sit inside kayaks are enclosed (cockpit). Both types have a seat and an area molded into the deck covering for the feet (foot wells). In some kayaks there may be some pedals that are adjustable for different leg lengths to make it more comfortable. A spray skirt is handy for rough waters where you are likely to take on water into the kayak. It fits around the paddler’s waist and stretches out to fit over the rim of the cockpit.
Advantages of Sit-On-Tops Kayaks
- ·sit-on-tops are made a little wider to compensate for the higher gravity, particularly if you need to standup.
- They are also easier to get in and out of in shallow water.
- Come with “scupper” holes to help with self-bailing, so will not sink if you get flipped over.
- More comfortable to use in warm water and weather.
Advantages of Sit-Inside Kayaks
- Sit-inside are more stable and can be recreational or used for touring (sea kayaks).
- Shelters you from the cold, and keep you out of the water.
- Will come with waterproof compartments for storing your gear.
- Can be more stable than SOT.
However, the one big disadvantage is if they flip over, and recovering your position can be difficult if the kayak fills with water.
Pedals or Paddles?
You may have a choice between pedals or paddles.
Pedal - Not as tiring as paddling, and can be faster. It also allows you to be more hands free when handling your fishing gear.
Paddling - Will provide you with more control, and is also less expensive than peddle models. A major drawback is trying to juggle the paddle while handling your fishing gear, so you may lose some control of the kayak.
Skegs or Rudder Tracking Devices ?
A rudder blade at the bottom of a kayak aids in the direction of the kayak. Another option is a skeg,a small fin that can act like a keel which can also keep you going straight.
Seat
There is no doubt you will want to avoid getting a sore back and behind while fishing. Having the best kayak seat is an important part of kayaking when it comes to comfort.
Storage and Transportation
You will need adequate storage for all your fishing gear, particularly a dry hatch which not only prevents your items from getting wet but also helps to protect them from the weather.
You will also have to transport the kayak from home to the water. The safest method is to have specialized roof racks on a car or buy a trolley that can be towed behind your car.
Dimensions
The length and weight of a kayak can be important depending on your own size, and how and where you will use it. While a long narrow kayak is fast; a shorter, wider kayak will be slower, but tends to offer better stability. These latter kayaks are the best fishing kayaks.
Number of Persons (Paddlers)
The best thing about kayaking is that you don’t have to go it alone if you don’t want to. You can take a friend or family member, or even your pet dog to keep you company by choosing a tandem kayak (two-person); or just go solo with a single. As with everything there are pros and cons.
A tandem kayak has to be larger, and older models don’t perform well with only one paddler. The biggest advantage to tandem fishing in a kayak is to have someone more experienced go out on the water with a beginner.
Other simple questions to consider
- Where will you be using your Kayak? Ocean, rivers, lakes?
- In the surf or flat waters?
- What is your experience level?
- What type of fishing will be done from your Kayak?
- What is your weight, height and fitness level, and possibly most importantly what do you want to achieve from your kayaking experience?
Best Fishing Kayaks under $500
1. SUN DOLPHIN JOURNEY
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit On top
BEST FOR: Lakes, Rivers, Beginners
LENGTH: 10 ft
WIDTH: 30”
WEIGHT: 44 lbs.
CAPACITY: 250 lbs.
FEATURES: Two flush mount rod holders and one swivel rod holder, adjustable foot rests, paddle holders to prevent them falling into the water, cell phone storage, PAC portable accessory carrier.
PADDLERS: Single
CONSTRUCTION: Hard Shell, Polyethylene
PROS: Lightweight, Good value in lower price range.
CONS: Can turn in opposite direction when stopped, but purchasing a rudder can keep it in place, If your over 6” feet tall you would be better getting a 12 foot version.
2. SEVYLOR COLEMAN COLORADO
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Inflatable
BEST FOR: Lake and river fishing
LENGTH: 10 ft
WIDTH: 39”
WEIGHT: 41 lbs.
CAPACITY: 470 lbs.
FEATURES: Airtight®No Leak system, Multiple air chambers so remains inflated if one chamber becomes punctured, thick tarpaulin bottom, Berkeley rod holders, pressure gauge so you know you have the right psi, skeg to ensure stability
No. PADDLERS: Two
PROPULSION: Paddle
CONSTRUCTION: 18-gauge PVC construction
SEAT TYPE: Seats are adjustable
COLORS: Green
PROS: Very portable, Carrying and transporting the kayak is great because it can be deflated easily and is very lightweight, you can fish with a friend or even take your pet dog with you, Can fit a trolling engine, price is comparable to hardshell kayaks without the hassle of finding a storage place, can easily remove a seat if you don’t have a second person.
CONS: Can be difficult to paddle without hitting the plastic mounts on the sides of the kayak.
3. SUN DOLPHIN EXCURSION
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-Inside
BEST FOR: Rivers and Lakes
LENGTH: 10 ft
WIDTH: 30”
WEIGHT: 41 lbs.
CAPACITY: 250 lbs.
FEATURES: Two flush mounted and one swivel rod holders, adjustable foot rests, protective thigh pads, large storage compartment, cup holder
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Pedal
CONSTRUCTION: High Density Polyethylene
SEAT TYPE: Padded seat back
PROS: Lightweight, tracks well in the water, good if you’re looking for a lower priced kayak.
CONS: Seat can be hard for some to sit which is easily fixed with a seat cushion.
4. OCEAN KAYAK FRENZY
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: rivers, lakes, ponds, ocean
LENGTH: 9 ft
WIDTH: 31”
WEIGHT: 44 lbs.
CAPACITY: 275-325 lbs.
FEATURES: Cup holder, molded foot wells, tank well, tri-form hull for stability and tracking, skid plate, bow and stern bungee storage big enough for a cooler,
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Paddle
CONSTRUCTION: Hard Shell polyethylene
SEAT TYPE: Comfort Plus seat
COLORS: envy, sunrise, yellow
PROS: Suitable for larger people, 4 scupper holes for drainage, adjustable foot wells to fit all leg lengths
CONS: Takes up room on a roof rack. May need to purchase a seat for added comfort, not the fastest
Best Fishing Kayaks under $1000
5. OCEAN KAYAK PROWLER ANGLER
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
LENGTH: 13 ft
WIDTH: 28”
WEIGHT: 56 lbs.
CAPACITY: 450 lbs.
FEATURES: Molded seat well with comfort seat back; two rod holders; transducer scupper, cup holders, paddle keepers on both sides with easy to pull tabs for release; plenty of storage with a 6” lock hatch and bow hatch, and large rear tank well that can accommodate tackle boxes, coolers and even SCUBA tanks.
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Paddle
CONSTRUCTION: Hard Shell
SEAT TYPE: Molded with comfort seat pad
COLORS: Brown Camo, Urban Camo
PROS: Optional rudder kit; Easy to transport, Stable
CONS: Water will splash into your boat. Seat not that comfortable but an upgrade is available.
6. WILDERNESS SYSTEMS TARPON 100
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: Surf play, streams, slow moving rivers, lakes, ponds, but can be used in class II rapids
LENGTH: 10 ft
WIDTH: 30”
WEIGHT: 55 lbs.
CAPACITY: 325lbs.
FEATURES: Two flush-mounted rod holders, SlideTrax Accessory System provides the ability to easily more rod holders or a go-pro mount, stern tankwell, adjustable foot brace which is better than molded foot rest, cup holder, scupper holes for self-bailing
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Paddle
CONSTRUCTION: Hard Shell polethylene
SEAT TYPE: Phase 3 AirPro MAX adjustable high/low seating
COLORS: Mango, Galaxy, Dusk, Midnight, Sonar
PROS: Great storage, large stern tankwell that can hold a cooler, short and easy to maneuver.
CONS: Not suitable for long trips, cup holder close to your feet.
Best Fishing Kayak around $1000
7. MALIBU KAYAKS STEALTH 14 FISH AND DIVE
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: For serious fishing
LENGTH: 14 ft
WIDTH: 33”
WEIGHT: 64 lbs.
CAPACITY: 550 lbs.
FEATURES: scupper plugs, bow and stern handles, 2 front and 2 rear rod holders, cup holder, adjustable foot track system, 3 piece bait tank system
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Pedal
CONSTRUCTION: Polyethylene
SEAT TYPE: X-Seat
PROS: Functional standing platform, draining trenches drain into scupper holes, plenty of storage and a bait live well.
CONS: To be honest I have not found any negative reviews on this kayak
Best Fishing Kayak under $2000
8. PERCEPTION PESCADOR PILOT 12.0
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds, Serious fishing
LENGTH: 12 ft
WIDTH: 33”
WEIGHT: 85 lbs.
CAPACITY: 475 lbs.
FEATURES: Captains Chair; Rudder, Cup holder; transducer scupper; bow and stern tank wells with bungee and mesh covers, rudder included
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Pedal
CONSTRUCTION: Hard Shell
COLORS: Moss camo, red tiger camo, sonic camo, sunset
PROS: Four molded rod holders, can fish, steer and pedal simultaneously.
CONS: Drive system needed some tweeks.
9. HOBIE PRO ANGLER 14
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: Advanced fishing
LENGTH: 14 ft
WIDTH: 38”
WEIGHT: 110 lbs.
CAPACITY: 600 lbs.
FEATURES: Cup holder, molded foot wells, tank well, tri-form hull for stability and tracking, skid plate, bow and stern bungee storage big enough for a cooler.
No. PADDLERS: Single
PROPULSION: Pedal
CONSTRUCTION: Rotomolded Polyethylene
SEAT TYPE: Adjustable seat-back with lumbar support
COLORS: olive
PROS: Suitable for larger people, 4 scupper holes for drainage, adjustable foot wells to fit all leg lengths
CONS: Takes up room on a roof rack. May need to purchase a seat for added comfort, not the fastest. The most expensive on our list but is good quality.
Best Fishing Kayak around $500
10. LIFETIME SPORT FISHER TANDEM
Check latest price on:
Amazon
TYPE: Sit-On-Top
BEST FOR: Advanced fishing
LENGTH: 10 ft
WIDTH: 36”
WEIGHT: 65 lbs.
CAPACITY: 500 lbs.
FEATURES: Adjustable foot rests, 3 fishing rod holders, scupper holes for self-drainage, front and rear carry handles, bungee cords, cup holder, sail hole, 6” storage hatch
No. PADDLERS: Seats up to 3
PROPULSION: Paddle
CONSTRUCTION: Roto-Molded Polyethylene
SEAT TYPE: Plastic molded ergonomic seats with padded back rests.
PROS: Lightweight and easy to transport, comes with 2 paddles, can accommodate a trolling motor.
CONS: bungee cords are a bit far from where you seat to reach your gear, rod holders don’t sit far enough from top of water.
Conclusion: The 2017 Best Fishing Kayak is..
The best fishing kayak on this list is definitely the Malibu Kayak Stealth. The features that sets this kayak apart from the others has to be the standing platform and bait live well. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other kayaks but it is also one of the longest which can accommodate those needing more leg room, as well as a stand out for its quality construction, and storage capacity. You can also purchase additional accessories that can be easily added if you really want to pimp it up.
The post The Best Fishing Kayak for 2017 – Reviews and How to Choose appeared first on Outdoor Adventure Geeks.
