When it comes to fishing kayaks, there are a lot of different options on the market. You can find everything from basic models that are perfect for beginners, to advanced vessels that are packed with features. So, how do you know which one is right for you? We have a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right kayak for you. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, we have the perfect fishing kayak for you.
Why You Should Use Kayak For Fishing?
When it comes to fishing, there is no need to go for expensive boat rentals when you can find the right kayak.
You are able to make your way through shallow waters, deep lakes or even rivers. The kayak is perfect for both saltwater and freshwater conditions as well.
You can make use of the trolling motor to get you where you need to be (to spot fish) quickly and efficiently all while keeping an eye on your fishing line.
Kids love to be on the water, a small sit-on-top kayak is perfect for kids who want to get on the water and see the world from a different perspective. The kayak will give them space to move around while keeping them safe from drowning.
If you have been fishing from a boat large enough for your whole family, this is a great way to get everyone on the water without having to rent an expensive boat or take up your own space in your truck.
Kayaks are easy to transport, which means you can take them anywhere with ease. You will never have to worry about not being able to get out on the water because your vehicle is too large or there isn’t enough room for your boat trailer.
If you like fishing the ocean and learning about wildlife, kayaking is the best way to explore. You can feel like you are part of nature when you see the water all around you. The gentle waves will rock your boat while allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
One of the biggest reasons to use kayaks for fishing is because they are relatively cheap. If you opt to buy one, it’s important that you get a model which is right for your height and body weight. You will also need to choose between trolling motor (for saltwater), battery-operated, or hand paddles.
Kayak fishing is a great way for you to make the most out of your next fishing trip. If you are tired of renting expensive boats, it might be time to invest in one yourself instead. You can make your way out on the water and enjoy the view without having to worry about boat maintenance.
Selecting Choosing A Suitable Fishing Boat
There are many options that will be available at the store, and not all types of kayaks are ideal for fishing. It’s important to consider the different options before you make a choice.
Sit-on-top, Sit Inside, Tandem vs Single
The first consideration in choosing a kayak is whether you want one that is sitting inside or sitting on top. The third choice open tandem is not ideal for most kinds of fishing, but these types are good for exploring the nearby waterways. The sit-inside design offers more protection from falling out and better insulation against cold water. This is particularly important if you plan to fish in winter, or if you live in cold parts of the world where it freezes over on a regular basis during some part of the year. Many of the sit-on-top kayaks are built with swivel seats that can be adjusted to create a better range of motion. This makes them an ideal choice for fishing, especially if you want to fish at night or during changing weather conditions.
Type of Kayak Material
You also need to think about what type of material kayaks are made from. Most modern brands of kayaks are built from a combination of polyethylene plastic and carbon fiber. This helps to keep the weight low while ensuring that you have a strong and stable base. Some people choose canoes instead, but they don’t offer the same stability in most cases. Carbon fiber is lighter than polyethylene, but polyethylene kayaks offer a lower cost.
Type of Kayak Accessories
It’s also important to think about the range of accessories you want from your kayak. Does it need to have a roof rack for transporting it? What types of fishing gear do you plan to use? Is storage space an important consideration? You should also think about the kayak’s pedals and paddles. Pedal options allow you to move more easily when in rough waters, while paddle options require that you use your arms and back. There are various types of kayaks available in the market which can be purchased through online stores like Amazon and eBay at a decent price.
Design of Kayak Footrest
Think about the design of footrests that are built into the kayak. Will you need to move your seat back and forth? With what frequency will you do this? You can also consider whether or not it comes with a tonneau cover for providing more insulation in cooler weather. Polyethylene kayaks are ideal for fishing, and they come in a range of styles. It’s important to match your requirements against the features that will be available in the different types you can buy.
Kayak Capacity and Weight Limit
You also need to think about how much weight you plan on putting inside the kayak. It needs to be able to handle your weight and the combined weight of different accessories and gear. Carbon fiber kayaks offer a higher capacity, but they are generally more expensive than polyethylene options. If you go with polyethylene, then you can also look for kayaks that come with adjustable seats and footrests. These features enhance their functionality as fishing kayaks.
Is it important for you to have adjustable seats?
Check out if the seat is high enough for your legs, and whether or not it comes with footrests for added comfort. You also need to think about how well insulated the seating area is.
Does your kayak come with a dry storage area?
If you keep your cellphone or wallet in there, it will also need to be waterproof. You also need to know about the capacity of the storage areas and access points on your kayak. This will help you to place and retrieve your rods and other equipment easily. A rudder may be another feature that you need to look at.
Top 10 Best Fishing Kayaks Of 2022
If you want to go fishing, then we will suggest that you should use a kayak. A kayak is easy and comfortable to fish from and it brings with it all the advantages of fishing boats like stability and safety. There are countless designs of kayaks available for different purposes such as recreational, leisure/fishing, cruising, etc.
Here we will reveal some of the best fishing kayaks for 2022.
1. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak – Best under $1,000
This Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is perfect for a day out on the water. It’s made of tough laminate PVC with a polyester core, making it resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight. Plus, high-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability. The kayak includes 2 removable skegs for deep and shallow water, 2 floor-mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, and 2 adjustable bucket seats. You can even remove and adjust the mounting bracket for additional accessories, such as GPS systems or fish finders.
2. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak – Best Affordable Fishing Kayak
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak was designed with the fisherman in mind. This kayak is constructed of UV-protected high-density Polyethylene for durability and long life. The multiple footrest positions make this kayak comfortable for riders of different sizes, while the stable flat bottom ensures a smooth, easy ride. If you’re looking to do a little fishing on your next trip, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak comes equipped with two flush-mounted fishing rod holders and one top mount fishing rod holder, so you can get right to work. And when it’s time to head home, the t-handles on the front and back make transport a breeze.
3. Perception Pescador Pro 12 Fishing Kayak – Best for Beginners
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 Fishing Kayak is perfect for lakes and ponds slow-moving rivers and streams and calm coastal waters.. It’s made in the USA from durable polyethylene and can hold up to 375 pounds. The lawn chair-style mesh seat is adjustable and very comfortable, with breathable mesh to keep you cool all day long. Plus, the seat can be lowered for relaxed paddling or raised for optimum casting. The one-piece construction is leak-proof and highly buoyant, making it safe to use in any condition. And thanks to the integrated accessory rails on each gunwale, you can easily customize your kayak with rod holders and other accessories.
Boat length 12’ – width 32-1/2”
Boat weight 64 lbs – Max capacity 375 lbs.
4. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak is a high-quality, versatile kayak that’s perfect for beginner and experienced paddlers alike. This inflatable kayak is made of durable nylon and plastic, with three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance. The built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern and improve tracking, while the adjustable padded seats provide comfort for hours of paddling. With three seat locations, the AdvancedFrame Convertible can be paddled solo or tandem. The kayak also features an optional deck that can be attached to increase stability in rough water conditions.
5. Perception Outlaw 11.5 – Best for Stand-up Fishing
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is the perfect kayak for anyone looking for an affordable and durable fishing kayak. It’s made in the USA of strong polyethylene, so it can handle even the roughest waters. The elevated seating console and frame seat make it comfortable for small to extra-large paddlers, while the large bow and stern tank wells provide plenty of storage for crates and gear. And with 2 double-barrel rod holders and 3 solo mount recesses, you’ll have no problem taking all your gear on your next fishing trip.
6. Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 – Best Fishing Kayak with Motor
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 kayak was designed for serious anglers. This motorized kayak is equipped with a saltwater-ready, GPS-enabled Minn Kota trolling motor to help you get to your favorite fishing spot quickly and keep you “anchored” in place so you can focus on reeling in the big ones.
Old Town’s fishing kayaks are perfect for any activity and can accommodate up to four people at once! You’ll love all the handy features, like customizable accessory tracks that allow you more space in your favorite rod holder or tackle box. The dual-layer Textilene mesh seat gives great comfort on long journeys through rough waters, adjustable foot braces make steering easy even when wearing shoes while larger rudders mean better control during quick turns around obstacles without sacrificing stability so everyone has their best chance of catching something big today.
7. Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak – Sentinel 100X
Item Weight: 44 Pounds
Material: Plastic
Color: Fade Black Green/Light Khaki
Style: Angler/Fishing
The Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak is perfect for experienced anglers and hobbyists alike. Measuring 9’6″ long and weighing only 44 pounds, this kayak is easy to transport and store. With a Ram-X construction, the Sentinel is built to last, while the ExoPak storage compartment provides plenty of room for your tackle box or fishing gear. The kayak also features additional flotation inside to keep you afloat in case of an accident.
8. Perception Flash 9.5 Fishing Kayak
The Perception Flash 9.5 Fishing Kayak is perfect for lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal environments. It’s made of durable polyethylene and has a high seat back for a comfortable ride. The kayak also features easy access to the dashboard with a cupholder and small gear storage, dual tracking channels to keep it on the course, and adjustable foot braces for paddlers of different sizes.
Molded-in rod holders conveniently located for any fishing outing
10” rear storage hatch to keep extra gear dry. Front and rear handles are ergonomically optimized for easy transport. Drain plug for easy cleaning and draining.
9. Pelican Maxim Fishing Kayak
The Pelican Maxim Fishing Kayak is perfect for a day on the water. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, withFront and Rear T-Handles for easy carrying. The kayak has a maximum capacity of 275 lb./125 kg and comes with a Storage Hatch with a bungee cord and a Mesh Deck Cover to store all your gear. The Shallow V Chine Hull Design provides good stability and maneuverability while providing very good performance. The ERGOFORM Seating System includes a padded seat cushion and an adjustable padded backrest cushion providing better support.
10. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is a comfortable and stable kayak perfect for smaller bodies of water. Featuring a bright yellow color for increased visibility, the Explorer K2 is also equipped with a removable SKEG for directional stability. With an adjustable inflatable seat and backrest, the Explorer K2 is perfect for anyone looking to get out on the water.
Conclusion
The kayaks from this list are some of the best fishing kayaks available on the market today. They’re all made with high-quality materials and have a variety of features that will make your experience more enjoyable. As you can see, there is something for every type of fisherman in our top 10 list so it’s time to start shopping! Be sure to read through each one before making a decision based on what you want most out of your next fishing kayak purchase. There is no doubt that any one of these boats would be perfect for whatever kind of angling adventure you might have planned. Have fun reading about them all and we hope you find the boat that fits your needs perfectly!