You don't need to wait until the fish come to you.
Jump in the best fishing kayak and go hunting for them in various bodies of water.
It's a hundred times more exciting than sitting on the edge of a lake all day. If you want an extreme adventure kayak fishing is the answer. Do you think it's something you'd be interested in?
Let's discuss some of the main advantages of fishing from a kayak in the middle of the water. Afterward, we'll look at some of the best fishing kayaks on the market right now to help you find the perfect one to get started.
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The Top Fishing Canoe / Kayak Advantages
- Cheap Fishing Kayaks Save Money
- Accessing Secret Bodies Of Water
- Top Fishing Kayaks Won't Scare Fish
- It's A Brilliant Way To Stay Healthy
- Good Fishing Kayaks Are Comfortable
Cheap Fishing Kayaks Save Money
You can pick up a cheap fishing kayak for under a thousand dollars. Even less if you buy one of the lower end models, which are still pretty good. You won't have to deal with storage costs, fuel, insurance, or registration fees. Unless you're completely reckless you'll hardly spend any money on repairs.
If you decide to buy a boat you can forget about everything we've just said. There is a reason why people say boats are a complete waste of money. You can obviously catch fish while standing on dry land, but if you go fishing on a regular basis it's not as much fun.
Accessing Secret Bodies Of Water
Sometimes you won't be able to access certain areas by foot. It could be where lots of fish are hiding, so you'll want to spend time there if possible. A boat could be absolutely useless too. If you have a motor being dragged through the water you won't want to end up anywhere too shallow or rocky.
Jump in your fly fishing kayak and you'll be able to go anywhere you want. You'll be able to fish in places where you can't launch a boat. I'm sure you've seen a few locations from your car window. Don't forget you'll be able to carry a lightweight kayak through forests.
Top Fishing Kayaks Won't Scare Fish
You'll move like a ninja across the water when you're in a small fishing kayak. Fish won't have a clue you're there until it's too late. You can't scare the fish away if you don't want to go hungry after a long day. Unfortunately, a loud boat will frighten them more than a Freddy Krueger movie.
It's A Brilliant Way To Stay Healthy
When you're sitting on the shore you won't exactly burn lots of calories. At least you'll burn some when you're fishing on a kayak. It will work your entire body helping you stay healthy. If your wife asks why you're getting up so early on a Sunday morning you can tell her you're going exercising.
Good Fishing Kayaks Are Comfortable
Unless you take a reclining chair to the lake you won't be very comfortable sitting down. If you're forced to stand on your feet for hours it's even worse. The best budget fishing kayak will help you relax. If you pick up a quality model it will feel like you're sitting on a marshmallow.
The Best Fishing Kayak Reviews
Now you'll need to find a sit on top fishing kayak you love. Luckily, there are lots of fantastic models to choose from and they're all a little different. We'll look at the positives and negatives of some you'll definitely be interested in.
- Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
- Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 100 10 Foot Fishing Kayak
- Bonafide SS127 Ultimate Stand Up Fishing Kayak
- Sun Dolphin Journey Lightweight Fishing Kayak
- Lifetime Tamarack Angler River Fishing Kayak
- Sun Dolphin Excursion Sit In Fishing Kayak
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- Brooklyn Kayak Company 2 Person Fishing Kayak
- Vibe Kayaks Shipjack 120T 12 Foot Fishing Kayak
- Sevylor Tahiti 10 Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak
1 – Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
It's easy to reel big fish into the Sea Ghost 110, which is a quality you'll find in all the top rated fishing kayaks. There are flush mount rod holders (2) + integrated gear tracks (4) for customized rigging. When you step inside you'll think it's the most stable fishing kayak in the world.
You will be able to stand up in the kayak without tumbling into the water, but I wouldn't recommend doing it all the time. Climbing back into your freshwater fishing kayak isn't the only tiring thing you'll need to do. You will burn through energy in strong currents and on windy days.
The special rudder system will make things a hundred times easier on you. You'll be able to control it effortlessly using your toes. It comes with multiple large hatches and a cargo net to keep your kayak fishing accessories. There is also lots of space for all the juicy fish you catch.
Pros:
- You can attach a kayak trolling motor
- A Vibe Hero seat for extra comfort
- It's designed for speed and stability
Cons:
- The fishing kayak is quite expensive
- Tall people should buy the longer one
2 – Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 100 10 Foot Fishing Kayak
The Yellowfin 10 ft fishing kayak only weighs 57 pounds, so most healthy anglers will be able to throw it into a truck. Even if you're not Hercules it comes with 4 easy grip carry handles to help you move it around. You'll run into even less difficulties once you're in the water.
All the flush mount rod holders (4) are conveniently placed, so you'll be able to move the fishing canoe without banging into them. Tracking is pretty good thanks to the shape of the hull. You can set up a Plano 3600 tackle tray on either side of the seat for easy access to your lures.
It comes with lots of special features anglers will appreciate. You'll get a Scotty + RAM mounting point, large rear tank, adjustable foot braces, and lots more. The sealed storage hatches are big enough to keep lots of kayak fishing gear. It's a quality stable fishing kayak for lakes and rivers.
Pros:
- The angling kayak is easy to maneuver
- Adjustable foot rests increase comfort
- Plano 3600 tackle trays sit beside seat
Cons:
- Drifts more than other fishing kayaks
- You can't mount a trolling motor on it
3 – Bonafide SS127 Ultimate Stand Up Fishing Kayak
You won't even feel like you're sitting on a saltwater fishing kayak when you step onto the Bonafide SS127. The HiRise seating system will make you feel like you're on a boat. It won't feel like you're about to topple over for a second either. A hybrid cat hull will ensure your stand up fishing kayak is always completely stable.
If you want to speed up you'll be able to fold the seat down, which will allow you to glide through the water much quicker. Exceptional turning power will prevent you from running into trouble while you're out. The wide fishing kayak has great tracking too, so you can focus on paddling instead of worrying about where you are headed.
It comes with all the features anglers would expect to find on the best fishing kayak. You'll get a DryPod (with transducer) that is conveniently placed right in front of you. It's perfect for taking your electronics on the water. Plus your fishing canoe comes with things like rod tip holders, traction pads, and GearTracs too.
Pros:
- Packed with fantastic angling features
- Excellent stability and turning power
- The HiRise seat system is comfortable
Cons:
- You'll need to fold seat up and down
- It's more expensive than other kayaks
4 – Sun Dolphin Journey Lightweight Fishing Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Explorer might be the best cheap fishing kayak you'll find in its price range. It's got everything you'll need to catch lots of fish, plus it's fantastic in the water too. You'll be able to explore hidden areas in rivers and lakes thanks to the fact it's so small. It's very easy to carry around without breaking a sweat when you're not in the water.
I think you'll be pleased with the overall performance of the budget fishing kayak. The tracking and stability won't let you down when you're hunting for fish. Also, you won't have to worry about banging into anything because it's durable. The small fishing kayak is made from high density polyethylene and it can handle UV rays.
Adjustable foot braces, a padded seat, and an open cockpit will ensure you're relaxed at all times. There are two flush mount + one swivel mount rod holders to make your life easier. A storage compartment and shock cord rigging will let you take plenty of kayak fishing accessories out on the water with you.
Pros:
- Tracking + stability are great for price
- Lightweight fishing kayak is portable
- Has flush mount + swivel rod holders
Cons:
- Doesn't have all the bells and whistles
- Isn't perfect in extra rough conditions
5 – Lifetime Tamarack Angler River Fishing Kayak
The Tamarack Angler has been specially designed to stop you flipping over in the water. A multi chine hull will give you lots of stability when you're trying to reel fish into the Lifetime fishing kayak. You'll be able to put all your power into it while staying comfortable thanks to the multiple footrest positions.
Feel free to fly through the water without worrying about banging into rocks. An integrated skeg will keep you in a straight line, but it's durable enough to take a few knocks anyway. The best river fishing kayak is made from UV protected high density polyethylene. If you do hit something too hard you won't suddenly sink.
The two 6 inch storage compartments will let you stuff lots of kayak fishing gear into the vessel before you head off. Shock cords on the bow and hull will let you stuff even more kit onto the kayak. You won't need to worry about buying a separate paddle because the one that comes with the Tamarack Angler is good.
Pros:
- The multi chine hull increases stability
- An integrated skeg enhances tracking
- It works well in mild waves + currents
Cons:
- Compartments not 100% waterproof
- Kayak is for beginners/intermediates
6 – Sun Dolphin Excursion Sit In Fishing Kayak
Anyone who wants the best sit in fishing kayak should turn their attention towards the Excursion. You'll find the cockpit very spacious even though your legs will be tucked inside. The fly fishing kayak comes with features you'll find in other Sun Dolphin models. For example, it only weighs 40 pounds and it's easy to carry on your own.
The hull has been designed with tracking and turning in mind, so your angling kayak will perform well in the water. Don't worry about hitting anything because it's been constructed from very durable materials. Also, the small fishing kayak excels when it comes to stability, which is crucial when you're reeling in fish in choppy waters.
You'll be able to keep a water bottle in the holder directly in front of you, so it's okay to spend hours fishing on sunny days. There is another storage compartment where you'll be able to keep everything else. Protective thigh pads, adjustable foot braces, and a padded seat are guaranteed to keep you comfortable all day long.
Pros:
- 1 swivel / 2 flush mount rod holders
- Thigh pads will protect your legs
- Great stability, tracking, and turning
Cons:
- Maximum 113 kilo weight capacity
- A skeg would improve performance
7 – Sevylor Coleman Colorado Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Do you always go fishing on your own? If not, you should think about picking up the Sevylor Colorado. It's a fantastic two person fishing kayak that can compete with any one person model. You will be able to paddle quicker with a partner, or if you're a little lazy you'll be able to add the Sevylor trolling motor to do all the work for you.
If you look at the inflatable fishing kayak reviews you'll notice most people are happy they didn't opt for a rigid angling canoe. Maybe it's because they haven't had to deal with leaks thanks to the durable 1000D tarpaulin and 840D nylon materials. The Air System is guaranteed to keep every last drop of air inside the 2 man fishing kayak too.
You'll be able to share a few drinks with your friend while you fish. Just connect your rods to the adjustable Berkley quick set rod holders and fish without using your hands. The best inflatable fishing boats will always have plenty of storage space. Attach your gear to the D rings or keep them inside the strong mesh pockets.
Pros:
- Durable materials tough to puncture
- It comes with multiple air chambers
- Quick set rod holders are excellent
Cons:
- It's still an inflatable fishing kayak
- Much better options for one person
8 – Brooklyn Kayak Company 2 Person Fishing Kayak
Nobody can say the Brooklyn Kayak Company hold back when it comes to rod holders. They've stuck 7 on the BKC UH-TK181. It's the best tandem fishing kayak when you want to catch everything in the water with fins. Luckily, two people will be able to handle the rods as opposed to one person doing it on their own.
There are a couple of waterproof storage compartments directly in front of the seats, so you'll be able to keep your valuables inside them. You'll also be able to store the paddles on the sides of the 2 man fishing kayak to stop them from going missing. Don't worry about buying any paddles because the kayak comes with two great ones.
The saltwater fishing kayak won't tip when you're chilling out waiting for a bite. A 34 inch beam will ensure it stays stable even when the water starts acting up. You'll discover the tracking on the BKC UH-TK181 is amazing too, so it's not going to suddenly veer off course when you're trying to travel in a straight line.
Pros:
- 2 person fishing kayak is very stable
- Comes with a total of 7 rod holders
- 440 pound maximum weight capacity
Cons:
- Too much for one angler to handle
- It takes on water when it's choppy
9 – Vibe Kayaks Shipjack 120T 12 Foot Fishing Kayak
You might want to take two kids fishing at the same time. It's actually possible to squeeze three people onto the Shipjack 120T. The maximum weight capacity is 500 pounds, so you can fill it up with adults unless you're all on the heavy side. Just remember you'll need to store a big pile of fish on the freshwater fishing kayak too.
It's one of the top fishing kayaks when it comes to mounting points. You'll be able to fit multiple Scotty, Railblaza, and RAM mount rod holders on your vessel. There is also a couple of flush mount rod holders with caps. If you have lots of lines in the water at the same time you're much more likely to catch dozens of fish.
The kayak is a lot more stable than you'd expect even if you're fishing with someone else. It's always nice to stand up when you're fighting a big one. Due to the fact it holds so many people it's a little heavier than usual, but you'll still be able to transport it anywhere. There are handles all around the kayak that everyone can grab onto.
Pros:
- Possible to go yak fishing with family
- It comes with multiple storage options
- Has 4 Scotty, Railblaza, RAM mounts
Cons:
- Waves creep in when it's weighed down
- You won't be able to carry tons of gear
10 – Sevylor Tahiti 10 Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak
The Sevylor Tahiti is one of the top cheap fishing kayaks in the world, so it's worth considering if you don't have a lot of money. Especially if you want a quality inflatable fishing kayak. You won't have to deal with constant punctures because the 21 gauge PVC is tough. One day you might get one in the middle of a big lake.
Fortunately, a Sevylor Tahiti kayak has multiple air chambers inside it. Even if one ends up with a hole you'll still be able to paddle back to the shore. The Airtight System will stop air from escaping from your valves. Thanks to the Double Lock valves with two locking points it's easy to inflate and deflate the sit in fishing kayak in no time.
I'm sure you don't want to be soaked with water when you're trying to catch fish. This is the ultimate fishing kayak to stop it from happening. Spray covers will block all the splashes leaving you nice and dry. You'll be able to move the adjustable seats until they feel right, plus you can lean back when you want to relax even more.
Pros:
- It comes with multiple air chambers
- Inflatable seats are extremely comfy
- Lightweight enough to carry easily
Cons:
- Fishing yak doesn't come with pump
- It needs a skeg to improve tracking
The Best Fishing Kayak In The World
All the cheap fishing kayaks we've looked at today are pretty fantastic. You'll be able to catch bucketloads of fish in any of them, but you will need to choose your favorite one. Once your kayak arrives you'll be able to head straight to the water.
Don't forget to click on the links to read all the unbiased fishing kayak reviews on Amazon. It's always good when you can collect advice from a large number of people. They've spent time writing about their kayaks to help you out.