The best way to catch fish is to go where the fish are, and that inevitably means spending time on the water. While you could rent a boat (or tag along with a friend who already owns one), a fishing kayak makes for a great long-term investment. The best fishing kayaks are more than simple plastic boats—they’re tools that give you anywhere, anytime access to more water and fish.
The best fishing kayaks make it easy to fish your favorite waterways. Rotational-molded cooler
Not unlike a hunting blind, a fishing kayak serves as your home base that stores essential equipment, including your fishing rods, tackle boxes filled with bass lures and a quality fish finder. Compared to a motor boat, a kayak is much lighter, quieter and more versatile. And while traditional kayaks are designed for general recreation, fishing kayaks are purpose-built to improve stability, comfort and storage space.
We’ve sifted through the best fishing kayaks on the market, highlighting some of the top options with a particular focus on criteria like size, cost and weight. And for your kayak fishing questions, we spoke with Ric Burnley, editor of Kayak Angler Magazine and author of The Complete Kayak Fisherman, to get the lowdown on the latest industry trends and answers to all your queries. Scroll to the end of the article for insights from him.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 85 pounds | Length: 12 feet | Weight capacity: 500 pounds
The Old Town Sportsman 120 is a classic, versatile fishing kayak with plenty to offer advanced and aspiring anglers. While it is on the heavier side at 85 pounds—and costly at $1,450—it comes with everything you’ll need and the design should last a lifetime. The plush, adjustable seat makes it easy to fish for hours, while the double-U pontoon-style hull makes for a stable and silent ride through the water. This kayak also features two tracks on which to mount accessories such as a cooler or additional tackle box, and it boasts a universal transducer mounting system so you can easily bring along a fish finder to track down your catch.
Old Town did well to add accessories, including a paddle clip on the side of the hull to keep your paddle in place while fishing, as well as cushioned floor pads, rod holders and a custom tackle box. Compared to the competition, this kayak offers sound stability with plenty of storage space and a number of dedicated mounting points that are sure to come in handy. With a total weight capacity of 500 pounds, it also holds more weight than most fishing kayaks on the market.
Style: Sit-in | Weight: 3.6 pounds | Length: 7.16 feet | Weight capacity: 250 pounds
The Alpacka Raft Scout is a lightweight, easy-to-inflate pack raft that is ideal for fishing on a dedicated backpacking trip. Perfect for accessing lakes and rivers where traditional fishing kayaks can't go, it weighs a mere 3.6 pounds and can easily roll into a compact storage bag before fitting in your backpack. It takes about five minutes to inflate using an airbag that attaches to the inflation valve.
The Scout comes with an inflatable seat and enough legroom for an angler up to six foot, two inches tall. The inflatable design is made from 210d nylon tube fabric and has a durable floor with 420d material for added durability. Small, light and easy to use, the Scout is handmade in Mancos, Colorado.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 50.9 pounds | Length: 12 feet | Weight capacity: 275 pounds
For less than $400, Lifetime’s Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak provides all the basics. Constructed of high-density, UV-protected polyethylene, it’s surprisingly strong and stable in the water despite a wallet-friendly price. It features an adjustable seat pad and back to improve comfort and support while paddling and fishing, as well as a top-mounted rod holder and front and rear cord straps to secure boxes or gear. The kayak is 10 feet long and weighs 52 pounds, so it’s relatively easy for one person to transport. It comes with a paddle, which is a great way to start kayak fishing on the cheap.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 62 pounds | Length: 11 feet | Weight capacity: 500 pounds
Pedal kayaks present a real advantage—powered by a fin pedal drive system that frees up your hands for more fishing, the Reel Yak Pedal Kayak easily maneuvers through the water without getting stuck in grass or debris below the surface. The “W” shaped hull is stable enough to stand on as a fishing platform, and it has four mounting rails for fishing rod holders or a fish finder.
The kayak has a cushioned stadium-style seat and adjustable backrest for additional support. The entire setup, sans gear, weighs 62 pounds, which is easy to carry with secure handles. The boat can support up to 500 pounds, allowing you to bring all of your gear along, or even your dog should your pup enjoy the open water as much as you do.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 60 pounds | Length: 10 feet | Weight capacity: 500 pounds
When you want to bring a friend along for a day of kayak fishing, the Lifetime Sport Tandem Kayak can easily accommodate the two of you. Measuring 10 feet long and weighing just 60 pounds, this tandem can support up to two adults and gear with a max capacity of 500 pounds.
It has an innovative tunnel hull configuration that helps keep the kayak stable while still maneuverable, and includes rod holders, a rear hatch and multiple footrests. It also comes with two paddles so it’s ready to go right out of the box. But the really nice thing about the Lifetime Tandem is that you can set it up for one person or two, so it’s versatile enough for different setups. At less than $800, this is a great hardshell kayak for two talented anglers.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 64 pounds | Length: 12 feet | Weight capacity: 375 pounds
If you prefer a sit-on-top style kayak, the Perception Pescador 12 is for you; it’s a solid model that’s up for the task of navigating the water in search of more fish. Featuring a well-structured seat for a comfortable ride and fishing experience, there are plenty of storage options that allow to bring all your gear, including an open front hatch in the hull and a rear tank for dry gear. The ride is stable and works great for fishing on slow rivers or streams. It’s constructed from one piece of roto-molded, high-density polyethylene that makes it a strong, durable raft with a solid strength-to-weight ratio. The 12-foot profile can support up to 375 pounds and it weighs 64 pounds in total.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 104 pounds | Length: 12 feet | Weight capacity: 450 pounds
When it comes to saltwater fishing, you need a kayak that’s up to the task. Similar in many ways to the Old Town Sportsman 120 (our choice for best overall kayak), the Old Town Sportman Salty PDL 120 is great for coastal fishing adventures thanks to the 12-foot hull that’s designed to maneuver in strong, moving water. In addition, it weighs only 104 pounds, making it easy to paddle such a sizable raft.
The kayak has a forward and reverse pedal drive system that offers hands-free navigating, though you can also remove the pedal system (which recovers 19 pounds) if you’d rather paddle by hand. There’s plenty of storage space and accessory tracks for all your gear, and the kayak has a solid seat with adequate lumbar support for long days on the water. The kayak can support up to 450 pounds, which should be more than enough for those rare deep sea catches.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 89 pounds | Length: 12.5 feet | Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Inflatable kayaks have the distinct advantage of being easier to transport and store—they break down and stash in a trunk or closet, and they fit in a car or SUV. The Bote Lono Aero line of inflatable kayaks comes in a convenient backpack, making it easy to get to and from the water. But because it’s sometimes harder to navigate an inflatable kayak, Bote also makes the Apex Pedal Drive Rudder System that adds an element of versatility to an otherwise traditional kayak setup. The design can operate on its own as a standup paddleboard or kayak without the pedal drive, but by adding the optional pedal drive, anglers can take their fishing to the next level and explore uncharted territory. The stable base is ideal for fishing, and it comes with Mangepod—a magnetic base that acts as a system that secures Bote drinkware in place while on the water.
Style: Sit-in | Weight: 57 pounds | Length: 17 feet | Weight capacity: 325 pounds
For open-water kayak fishing, you need a boat that is longer, narrower, and easier to paddle for long distances in choppy water. The Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Kayak checks all of those boxes and more. The 17-foot long and 22-inch wide polyethylene kayak weighs a mere 57 pounds and includes a padded foam seat. The full-size stern hatch and day hatch will keep your gear secure and dry while adding flotation to your offshore fishing expeditions.
This kayak also offers adjustable padded thigh braces along with SlideLock adjustable foot braces to keep you comfortable while paddling through open water. It also has a TruTrak adjustable skeg system meaning it has good tracking even in strong currents or high winds.
Style: Sit-in | Weight: 32 pounds | Length: 19 feet | Weight capacity: 650 pounds
If you are bringing three anglers, you may, in the words of Chief Brody, need a bigger boat. The Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayak has a spot for everyone. The kayak weighs only 32 pounds but can support up to 650 pounds. It is even rated for Class III whitewater rapids if your fishing adventure takes a turn down some fast waters.
The kayak includes Deluxe Kayak Seats for better back support while paddling. It also includes paddles, a foot pump, and a carry bag. The Sea Eagle has two skegs on the bottom for easier tracking and speed while moving around the lake or river. Coming in at under $300, it's a boat to get the team out on the water fishing without breaking the bank.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 45 pounds | Length: 12 feet | Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Bote pioneered the concept of a stand up paddleboard-style platform for fishing. The result is the Rackham Aero platform that is ideal for paddling around a lake and casting for fish. What is really special here is that the Rackham Areo is so versatile that it can convert to kayak mode with BOTE's Aero SUP Paddle seat and the kayak paddle.
The Aero is Bote’s full-sized fishing expedition platform, compatible with the APEX Pedal Drive system making it easier to get around. Since it is inflatable, it makes transportation and storage super easy with this paddle board. The SUP/kayak design also has lots of great accessory options from the removable padded seat to the Mangepod-compatible drinkwear and accessory holding system. With this one boat, you can paddle, pedal and stand up all in one while fishing.
Style: Sit-on | Weight: 46 pounds | Length: 9.5 feet | Weight capacity: 300 pounds
If you’re in the market for one kayak that the entire family can easily use—both for for fishing and just for fun—the Perception Tribe 9.5 kayak is a good option. The sit-on-top design of this kayak makes it easy and intuitive to use and paddle. It comes solo mount-ready so anglers already have a spot for their rods. It also has easy supply and gear access so you can bring along all the tackle boxes and coolers one may need for a day on the water. With a weight limit of 300 pounds, the kayak should be well-suited for anyone from kids to adults. And at 46 pounds it is relatively light when it comes to fishing kayaks.
When you’re ready to invest in a fishing kayak, you’ll need to consider a number of factors that will influence your experience on the water. Burnley has weighed in on the most important considerations to take into account when selecting the right fishing kayak.
There are more kayak types on the market today than ever before, but the most common types include sit-on-top, sit-inside, inflatable and pedal-driven kayaks. The one that’s right for you is mostly a matter of preference, but where you intend to fish can help you decide. Sit-on-top kayaks are ideal in calmer waters, while sit-inside kayaks fare better in open water. Inflatable kayaks perform well on rivers or ponds, while pedal-driven kayaks free up your hands. An open-water kayak that is designed for long distances looks different from a kayak for stand-up fishing or for operating in sheltered water. Ric believes that for long distances and all-day fishing, a pedal or motor kayak may be best. Or, to keep it simple, go with a paddle kayak that is easy to rig and use.
Longer kayaks are generally faster and more stable, whereas shorter kayaks are more maneuverable. Consider your intended use to determine what kayak length you need.
Ensure that the kayak has enough weight capacity to support your body weight and any fishing gear you intend to bring along. Most hard-sided fishing kayaks support up to 500 pounds, while inflatable kayaks support a little less.
A stable kayak is important for fishing, as it will allow you to cast and reel in a fish without tipping over. Larger kayaks with wider platforms offer more stability, but they may be less maneuverable. Smaller kayaks, on the other hand, aren’t quite as stable, especially in rough or moving waters.
Look for a kayak that has enough storage space for your fishing gear, food, water and other essentials. Larger kayaks offer more storage space and mounting points, though they may be a bit harder to maneuver as a result of all the heavy gear you’re likely to bring. If you have a massive yard and cavernous garage, Ric notes your options will be broader than if you are staying in an apartment with a porch. Make sure you buy a fishing kayak that fits with your lifestyle at home.
“Many people choose a fishing kayak for easy transport and storage. Inflatable or folding kayaks are the most convenient—these compact boats fit in a closet or car trunk. However, inflatable and folding kayaks take some work to assemble, and unfortunately, they are also slower and more difficult to maneuver,” says Burnley.
Consider the comfort of the kayak, including the seat, backrest and footrest. These elements should be adjustable and provide adequate support during long fishing trips. High-end kayaks will feature plush padding, additional lumbar support and greater adjustability, whereas budget-friendly kayaks will offer less versatility.
Consider how easy it is to transport and store your kayak, especially if you plan to fish in different locations. Most models weigh less than 100 pounds, but others, like the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120, weigh over 100 pounds as a result of their length, storage space and various bells and whistles. Burnley notes that putting a kayak in a pickup truck with a trailer looks different from in the hatchback of your car. Do you have a roof rack ready to carry the kayak to and from the water or just a bicycle trailer? The answers to these important questions play into what size kayak you will get and how big it can be.
When it comes to ease of use and maintenance, Burnley recommends a paddle kayak if you’re in need of a lightweight frame that makes storage and transportation a breeze. Pedal kayaks, on the other hand, require a little more skill and energy to operate, but they make kayak fishing a no-brainer. “The frame seat is as comfortable as a lawn chair and pedaling takes less energy to go farther,” notes Burnley. “Simply sit back, kick the pedals, and control direction with the rudder.”
Burnley is also quick to point out that motorized kayaks are all the rage right now. Adding an electric motor to the mix makes kayak fishing a lot easier because electric outboards quickly and efficiently zoom to the fishing spot or use a modified trolling motor to maneuver around the fishing grounds like a pro.
The enclosed cockpit of a sit-in kayak provides protection from the elements, notes Burnley. These boats are less stable, and they don’t offer as much space for tackle and gear. Sit-in kayaks also lack mounting points for rod holders and electronics.
“Serious kayak anglers choose a sit-on-top kayak,” says Burnley. “Sit-on-top kayaks are more comfortable, easier to enter and exit and provide plenty of space for tackle and gear. A sit-on-top kayak is more stable with a large, wide seat. Space behind the seat fits a storage crate and inside the hull is room for more tackle and gear. Open space around the seat and cockpit is perfect for mounting rod holders, electronics, and other accessories.”
In general, the difference between sea kayaks and lake kayaks comes from the build of the boat. A kayak designed for the sea will typically be narrower and longer in its shape compared to a shorter wider kayak designed for a lake. The reason: A longer, narrow boat will cut through choppy waters better while carrying more gear. Often, ocean kayaks will cover many more miles of shoreline than a typical lake kayak would.
Also, when it comes to that storage space keep in mind that an ocean kayak may need to be covered more as waves can roll into the boat and get gear wetter than a typical lake kayak may encounter. Having a hatch or covered area can be helpful for storing dry goods in the ocean environment. In general, an ocean kayak is faced with a broader environment on the open water.
In general, a sea kayak can handle a lake better than a lake kayak can manage the sea. The narrow, long design of a sea kayak also makes it a bit easier to paddle and control in the ocean. As a result, you’ll probably find that a sea kayak may be challenging in a river due to the length and lack of nimbleness when it comes to turning.
So when it comes to selecting the right kayak for you, consider what sort of conditions you will be using the boat in and how much gear you will need to carry with you. If you are going to be on choppy open water covering lots of miles, a sea or ocean kayak such as the Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Kayak could be a good option.
On the other hand, if your fishing is going to be on smaller bodies of water with less gear and miles to cover, consider something like the Perception Tribe kayak, where you can just sit on top and fish. Just make sure that whatever kayak you go with that it is safe for the area you plan to use for fishing. And always wear the proper flotation device when using a kayak.
I write about digital assets trends and am a leading creator of the Forbes Digital Assets tools and functionality our viewers require. I support the generation of relevant, curated investor content using a variety of digital assets data. Apart from my responsibilities as Director of Data and Analytics, I write about crypto exchanges, top digital assets, crypto funds, and active trading. I've the good (or suspect) fortune of having a Wall Street analyst background, and have written on topics related to wealth management, retail brokerage, and digital assets. I'm also a McGraw-Hill author.
I write about digital assets trends and am a leading creator of the Forbes Digital Assets tools and functionality our viewers require. I support the generation of relevant, curated investor content using a variety of digital assets data. Apart from my responsibilities as Director of Data and Analytics, I write about crypto exchanges, top digital assets, crypto funds, and active trading. I've the good (or suspect) fortune of having a Wall Street analyst background, and have written on topics related to wealth management, retail brokerage, and digital assets. I'm also a McGraw-Hill author.
I am a commerce editor for Forbes Vetted covering beauty, fashion, travel and home. Prior to joining Forbes, I held positions at BuzzFeed and Dotdash Meredith where I was responsible for curating lifestyle content and testing products for real-world insights. My work has appeared in Women’s Health, Men’s Health, BuzzFeed, Brit + Co, Everyday Health and more. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Creative Writing from Marist College and currently reside in Brooklyn, New York.
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Lunch Camping Ice Box After studying product design and journalism in college, I became a full-time freelance writer in 2016, where I found my niche in the shopping and product testing realm. To date, I’ve conducted firsthand product testing on hundreds of items, including everything from grill pans to lawn mowers, and my work has been published on websites such as USA Today, Business Insider, The Spruce, Popular Mechanics, and more.