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Kayak fishing has always been around. Kayaks were first developed by native people living in the Arctic regions and they were used mainly for hunting on the waters. Today however, kayak fishing is a popular method of fishing due to its style and convenience. Kayaks are affordable and highly effective while fishing as you can reach out and fish at the best spots.
If you have a kayak and a passion for fishing then you no longer have to stand on land and wait to lure fish towards you, you go out on the waters and get your fish like a pro. Because they are so quiet, you will not be scaring away any fish and will have a better luck at catching more. But there is more to kayak fishing than what meets the eye.
A kayak is not just something you sit on and take out to the lake or river. In order to have the best fishing experience you need to purchase the right kayak. Let us first take a look at some of the best kayaks available in the market today so you can be aware of what some of your options are and then check out our buying guide where we explain further about the factors you need to keep in mind before making the final purchase.
Best Fishing Kayaks We Cover Today
1.Perception Pescador 12
2.Brooklyn 12.0
3.Pelican Catch Mode 110
4.Old Town Sportsman 106
5.Shearwater 125 Fishing Kayak
6.Sea Eagle FSK16 FishSkiff Inflatable kayak
7.Raider Modular Fishing Kayak
Top Fishing Kayak Reviews !
Best Fishing Kayak for Under $1,000
1.Perception Pescador 12
Price: $ 989.67 |Review: 4.3
Specifications:
- Length: 12’
- Width: 32.5”
- Boat Weight: 64 lbs
- Max Capacity: 375 lbs
The Perception Pescador 12 is a stable, durable, and comfortable fishing kayak designed for anglers of all skill levels. At 12 feet long and 32.5 inches wide, it offers great tracking and maneuverability while maintaining a steady platform for fishing. The cushioned, adjustable seat ensures all-day comfort, and the ample storage—including a large rear tank well and front hatch—makes it easy to carry all your fishing gear.
Pros:
✔️ Excellent stability for fishing
✔️ Comfortable, adjustable seating
✔️ Plenty of storage for gear
✔️ Durable, high-quality construction
✔️ Tracks well in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters
Cons:
❌ No pedal system
❌ Slightly heavy (64 lbs) for solo transport
❌ Not ideal for standing while fishing
Who Should Buy the Perception Pescador 12?
- Beginner & intermediate anglers looking for a stable, easy-to-use kayak.
- Kayak fishermen who prefer paddling over pedal drives.
- Anyone needing a durable kayak with plenty of storage for fishing gear.
- Recreational paddlers who want a kayak that’s also great for casual trips.
Best Fishing Kayak with Pedals
2.Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak
Price: $ 989.67 |Review: 4.3
Specifications:
- Length: 12’
- Width: 33.5”
- Boat Weight: 65 lbs
- Max Capacity: 450 lbs
The Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak is a stable, efficient, and feature-rich fishing kayak designed for hands-free navigation. At 12 feet long and 33.5 inches wide, it provides excellent stability, allowing anglers to fish comfortably while seated or standing. The pedal drive system ensures smooth and effortless movement, while the hand-operated rudder enhances maneuverability in different water conditions.
Pros:
✔️ Hands-free pedal drive system for easy fishing
✔️ Stable platform, suitable for standing casts
✔️ Large weight capacity (450 lbs) for gear and accessories
✔️ Ample storage, including a watertight hatch and cargo areas
Cons:
❌ Paddle not included (must be purchased separately)
❌ Limited color options
Best Budget Fishing Kayak
3.Pelican Catch Mode 110
Price: $ 799.99 |Review: 4.4
Specifications:
- Length: 10 ft 8 in (325 cm)
- Width: 34.5 in (87.6 cm)
- Boat Weight: 67 lb (30.4 kg)
- Max Capacity: 375 lb (170 kg)
The Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a premium sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for anglers seeking stability, comfort, and functionality. Built with high-quality RAM-X™ impact-resistant material, this 10’8” kayak is lightweight yet durable. With a tunnel hull for superior balance, an ErgoBoost seat for comfort, and plenty of storage space, the Catch Mode 110 is perfect for both beginner and experienced anglers.
The tunnel hull design makes this kayak extremely stable, even when standing to cast or reel in a catch. It glides smoothly in calm waters and can handle light currents, making it a great choice for lakes, rivers, and inshore fishing. While not the fastest kayak due to its width, it offers great tracking and maneuverability.
Equipped with the ErgoBoost seat, this kayak provides a higher seating position for better visibility and all-day comfort. The anti-slip deck pads enhance grip, and the spacious flat deck allows anglers to stand securely.
Pros:
✔️ Extremely stable for standing fishing
✔️ Lightweight yet durable construction
✔️ Plenty of gear mounting options
Cons:
❌ Not the fastest kayak due to its wide design
❌ No built-in paddle holder
Best Fishing Kayak with Electric Motor
4.Old Town Sportsman 106
Price: $3,499.99 |Review: 4.8
Specifications:
- Length: 10 ft 6 in (320 cm)
- Width: 37 in (94 cm)
- Boat Weight: 87 lb (39.5 kg)
- Max Capacity: 525 lb (638 kg)
If you’re serious about kayak fishing and want a ride that does more than just float, the Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota is a game-changer. This isn’t your average paddle kayak. It’s got a built-in motor, rugged construction, and smart features that make fishing easier, more comfortable, and a lot more fun.
The Sportsman 106 looks compact but powerful. At just over 10 feet long, it’s surprisingly easy to transport and launch, even solo. But the real standout? The integrated Minn Kota 45-lb thrust motor. It’s smooth, responsive, and makes moving around the water effortless—no more wasting energy paddling across the lake.
Let’s talk performance. This kayak handles beautifully, even in wind or mild current. The motor gives you plenty of push, and the foot-controlled rudder lets you steer hands-free, which is huge when you’re casting or fighting a fish. It’s incredibly stable—so stable, in fact, you can stand up and cast without feeling wobbly.
What really sets this kayak apart is how quiet and controlled it feels. You glide into position without spooking fish, and the compact size helps you sneak into tight backwaters or shallow areas most boats can’t reach.
Comfort is a big win here. The Element Seating System is well-padded, adjustable, and lets you sit higher for better visibility. There’s plenty of legroom, and the deck is covered in non-slip EVA foam—perfect for standing casts or long hours on the water.
Old Town also thought through storage and gear setup. You get gear tracks for accessories, a universal transducer mount, and multiple hatches for dry storage. Whether you fish with one rod or bring a full setup with electronics, there’s space to make it your own.
Pros:
✔️ Motorized with Minn Kota 45-lb thrust for hands-free fishing
✔️ Extremely stable platform for standing and casting
✔️ Excellent gear storage with built-in hatches and rear tank well
✔️ Foot-controlled rudder for easy steering
✔️ EVA foam deck for added comfort and grip
✔️ Gear tracks and mounts ready for accessories and fish finders
Cons:
❌ Heavy at over 120 lbs when fully loaded
❌ Battery not included with purchase
❌ Higher price point compared to paddle kayaks
❌ Limited speed and range compared to full-sized boats
Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
5.Shearwater 125 Fishing Kayak
Price: $1899.99 |Review: 4.8
Specifications:
- Length: 12′ 6″
- Width: 35″
- Boat Weight: 82 pounds
- Max Capacity: 475 pounds
The Shearwater 125 is a fishing kayak designed from the ground up to deliver unmatched versatility and performance. At 12.5 feet long, it blends speed, stability, and adaptability for all water conditions. Whether you prefer paddling, pedaling, or motorized power, this kayak adjusts to your needs. It’s fully loaded with fishing-friendly features and ready to be customized into a professional angling machine.
Built around the innovative Select-a-Pod system, the Shearwater lets you switch between three setups—standard Versa pod, X-Drive fin pedal system, or Impulse Drive propeller system. The X-Drive shines in shallow, grassy waters, while the Impulse Drive offers quick reverse control. Swapping systems takes seconds and requires no modifications, giving you the freedom to tailor every trip.
Pros:
✔️The 35″ width provides a stable platform, ideal for standing casts and confident movement.
✔️Offers paddle, pedal (X-Drive or Impulse Drive), and motor (Bixpy Jet) options to suit various fishing styles.
✔️Features include the Versa Pod, under-seat storage drawer, and multiple tackle tray slots for organized gear storage.
✔️Equipped with multiple rod holders, gear tracks, and a stand-up assist strap, enhancing the fishing experience.
✔️Built with high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and resilience in various water conditions.
Cons:
❌At 109 lbs fully loaded, transporting the kayak may require assistance or a kayak cart.
❌Pedal and motor systems are sold separately, increasing the overall investment for full customization.
❌Some users have noted that initial rudder adjustments may require fine-tuning for optimal performance
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak
6.Sea Eagle FSK16
Price: $2,499.99 |Review: 4.9
The Sea Eagle FishSkiff16 is Sea Eagle’s best-selling inflatable fishing boat, and it’s now better than ever. Redesigned with cutting-edge fusion drop-stitch technology, it weighs just 95 lbs with the transom, making it lighter, stronger, and easier to pack than previous versions. A standout feature is the patented 6-inch external inflatable keel, which improves tracking, adds bow lift and buoyancy, and enhances performance in rough water while increasing self-bailing ability. This rigid inflatable keel also acts as an extra independent safety air chamber for added security.
Built entirely with high-pressure, double-layer fusion material, the FishSkiff16 is incredibly durable yet easy to roll up and stow in a car trunk—no trailer required. It supports 1 to 3 anglers comfortably and provides the performance of a rigid hull without the added weight, fuel costs, or maintenance. Whether you’re fishing in calm lakes or choppy seas, this boat delivers a smooth, cushioned ride. It’s a smart, portable, and hassle-free solution for serious anglers looking for quality and convenience in one package.
Specifications:
- Length: 16 ft (4.88 m)
- Width: 4 ft 6 in (1.37 m)
- Boat Weight: 84 lb 95 lbs (43 kg) with transom
- Max Capacity: 1765 lb (800 kg)
Pros:
✔️The inflatable design allows for easy transport and storage, fitting in most car trunks.
✔️The wide beam and drop-stitch construction provide a stable platform, suitable for standing while fishing.
✔️Compatible with various motor options, including electric and gas outboards up to 10 hp.
✔️Can accommodate up to three anglers with gear, supporting a total load of 1,765 lbs.
✔️Constructed with high-quality materials and reinforced seams for longevity.
Cons:
❌Inflation and assembly can take approximately 12 minutes, which may be longer compared to rigid boats.
❌Higher-end packages can be expensive, especially when including motors and additional accessories.
❌Being lightweight, the boat may be more susceptible to wind drift compared to heavier, rigid hulls.
Best Paddle Fishing Kayak
7.Raider Modular Fishing Kayak
Price: $1500.99 |Review: 5.0
Specifications:
- Length: 9.5 ft ( 2.90 m)
- Width: 35.4 in ( 90 cm)
- Boat Weight: 35.4 in (90 cm)
- Max Capacity: 440 lb (200 kg)
Redefine stability with a spacious 35” wide cockpit that offers unmatched standing balance and room to move freely. The textured cockpit flooring ensures a solid grip for confident, secure movements on the water. Glide effortlessly with a powerful propeller pedal drive system that provides smooth forward and reverse motion for tight maneuvers. Reaching your favorite fishing spot has never been easier or more efficient.
The modular design is a game-changer—simply connect the two sealed sections in seconds without bulky racks or straps. At just 42 lbs per section, the ultralight construction with side carry handles makes transport a breeze. No more back strain or complicated setups. Enjoy top-tier versatility with four flush rod holders, dual waterproof gear compartments, and mounting points for trolling or propulsion motors.
Three integrated track rails let you customize with rod holders and other accessories. This kayak is built for anglers who want performance, convenience, and complete control on the water. Whether you’re chasing bass or cruising through calm lakes, this setup elevates your fishing game in every way.
Pros
✔️The two-piece design allows for easy transport in most vehicles.
✔️Pedal drive system enables hands-free operation, enhancing the fishing experience.
✔️Wide hull design offers excellent stability, suitable for standing while fishing.
✔️Ample storage with front and rear hatches for gear and accessories.
Cons:
❌While modular, assembling the kayak may take additional time compared to one-piece kayaks.
❌At 82 lbs assembled, it may be heavy for some users to carry alone.
Why Is This Product for You?
If you’re an angler who craves both performance and practicality, this kayak is made for you. Its 35” wide cockpit offers rock-solid stability—ideal for standing casts and confident movement, even in choppy water. The pedal drive system puts effortless navigation at your feet, giving you full control over direction and speed while keeping your hands free to fish. Its modular design means you can assemble or disassemble it in seconds, making transport and storage stress-free—no trailer, no roof rack, just pure convenience.
What To Consider When Buying a Fishing Kayak
There are some important factors to consider when deciding on a fishing kayak because there are many different kinds being made and if you do not choose carefully there is a pretty good chance that you will end up with one that will not exactly provide you with the best fishing experience. The good news is that you are sure to find a kayak that will suit your style of fishing if only you do a little research before you buy. Here are some things you must look in to first in order to pick the perfect kayak for you.
Type: Sit-on-Top VS Sit-in
You need to consider the type of kayak you want to purchase and the best way to decide between a sit-on-top and a sit-in kayak is to find out what kind of fishing you wish to do and what kind of water you will be fishing in. The sit-on-top kind is simply where you sit at a higher position on the kayak while the sit-in has you sitting inside the kayak.
Both have advantages and disadvantages. For example, the sit-on-top allows you to get a better view of the water and is also considered safer as there will not be any chances of water filling up all around you and in case of any accidents you can simply roll over. You also get more room to maneuver and be able to position yourself for stability during a catch. The drawback to this kind of kayak is that it is not so great for fishing on moving water as you will not have much to grip on to.
The sit-in kayak on the other hand keeps you dry and also provides you with more stability on moving water. The bad side to this kind of a kayak is that you will not be able to get the best over-view of the water and will also be restricted to movement. The sit-on-top kind is a much preferred type by anglers these days.
Material
Depending on the price of the kayaks, you will find some common materials used to design them. The most frequent material used is the single layer linear polyethylene which provides the most durability due to its hard and rough texture. Another material is the three layer polyethylene; it is a little less durable than the single layer linear polyethylene but provides a better glide on the water with its glossy outer shell.
Fiberglass and Kevlar-carbon built kayaks are the lighter kinds and great for speed but also the most expensive ones out of the lot. Besides these you can also find inflatable kayaks which are made of rubberized fabric. They are quite affordable and weight very less but do not score much in the department of speed.
Inflatable kayaks are not suitable for all kinds of water but with more improvements been made; this kind will soon become popular amongst anglers. One of the main advantages of an inflatable kayak is that it requires very little storage space if you decide to deflate it.
Size: Weight
Kayaks are meant to be light and portable, that is why many people opt for kayaks instead of traditional boats. Choose a kayak that is not too heavy and can easily be transported. The weight must be kept to a minimum but at the same time it should be strong enough to carry your weight, the weight of the fishing accessories and of course the weight of your catch.
Length
When it comes to the length you have to choose between speed and maneuverability because longer kayaks allows you to cover more distance within a shorter period but they are not too good to enter tight places. If you are not looking for speed and just need a kayak that you will be able to move about in more freely then the shorter kinds will be ideal for you.
Width
In terms of width, the wider the kayak, the better. They help keep the kayak stable and also provide more room for accessories and anything you wish to carry with you on your fishing trip. Who wouldn’t want to bring along a cooler box filled with chilled beer on a hot and sunny day?
Built: Seat
Although you will be standing most of the time while fishing, you will still need a good back support as you pedal through the water in your kayak. The kayak seats could be molded or have removable padding on the simple kayaks while the more expensive kinds will be constructed with adjustable seats for extra comfort and the best support.
Space
Space is an important factor because you will need some area around you to balance yourself and also move about while fishing. If you have very limited space then you might be at risk of tripping over while retrieving or during an encounter with a fighting fish. The same goes for having enough storage space, you must consider all the things you will be carrying with you.
Storage
If you are planning to camp out or just want to spend the whole day on the water then along with fishing accessories you will also need to carry camping equipment, some fresh clothes and a cooler-box maybe. If you get lucky and catch a lot of fish then you will also need space to keep them safe. So it is best to go for a kayak that is spacious but at the same time easy to handle on your own.
Propulsion
There are quite a few ways in which a kayak may get its driving force. The most common ones are with the use of pedals, having a pedal-powered drive or are electric motor driven. Anglers prefer to have their hands free while on the water so they can quickly engage in fishing whenever and wherever they feel there is potential so having the option to maneuver the kayak with their legs makes it easy for them to do so. But the popularity of electric-powered kayaks is also growing and anyone who can afford one will surely want to enjoy the more modern way of kayak fishing.
Capacity: Single or Two Persons.
If you like to always take a friend along or want to teach someone how to fish in a kayak then you can purchase a kayak that allows two people to fit in comfortably. These are a little larger in size but they are great for when you do not like being alone while fishing. But if you enjoy your own company and prefer to hit the waters on your own then a single-person kayak will be ideal for you.
Price
Prices vary, a lot. While it is true with kayaks that you get what you pay for but it does not mean that you have to destroy your bank or completely empty your pockets for a decent kayak. Brands may not play a major role here but you must check out the quality of the construction and factors such as space, driving force and stability amongst others to really tell if the kayak is worthy or not. Don’t go for very cheap ones as they will not be durable and you will surely not enjoy fishing in them for long.
Fishing Kayak Maintenance: How to Keep Your Kayak in Top Condition
Proper maintenance of your fishing kayak ensures longevity, performance, and a hassle-free experience on the water. Follow these essential tips to keep your kayak in excellent shape.
1. Cleaning After Every Use
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Freshwater Fishing: Rinse with clean water to remove dirt and debris.
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Saltwater Fishing: Salt can cause corrosion, so wash thoroughly with fresh water after each trip. Pay extra attention to metal parts like rod holders, screws, and pedal drive systems.
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Use Mild Soap: Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage plastic or composite materials.
2. Storing Your Kayak Properly
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Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can weaken the plastic and fade the color. Store in a shaded or covered area.
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Store Upside Down or on Its Side: Prevents hull warping and deformation. Use a kayak rack or padded supports.
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Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage: If storing outside, use a weatherproof cover to protect against rain, dust, and pests.
3. Checking for Damage & Repairs
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Inspect the Hull: Look for cracks, deep scratches, or dents, especially after launching on rocky surfaces.
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Tighten Screws & Bolts: Over time, vibrations from paddling or pedaling can loosen hardware—tighten as needed.
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Seal Small Cracks Immediately: Use marine-grade epoxy or plastic welding kits to repair minor damage.
4. Maintaining Pedal & Motorized Kayaks
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Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply water-resistant grease to pedal drives and rudders to prevent rust.
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Check Battery & Wires (for Motorized Kayaks): Ensure electrical connections are dry and corrosion-free.
5. Protecting Against Mold & Mildew
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Dry Completely Before Storing: Standing water inside hatches can cause mold buildup.
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Ventilation is Key: If stored indoors, ensure good airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
6. Rudder & Skeg Maintenance
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Remove Sand & Debris: Clean rudders and skegs regularly to prevent stiffness or jamming.
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Check for Loose Cables: If your kayak has a rudder, adjust any slack in the control cables.
7. Maintaining Kayak Accessories
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Rod Holders & Mounts: Check for cracks or wear and replace if necessary.
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Seat & Padding: Rinse and dry to prevent mildew and breakdown of foam or fabric.
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Bungee Cords & Straps: Replace worn-out cords to maintain secure storage.
8. Transporting with Care
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Use Proper Racks or Carts: Dragging the kayak on rough surfaces can damage the hull.
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Secure Tightly on Car Racks: Use padded cam straps to avoid pressure dents.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1.What is Kayak Fishing?
Kayak fishing is a style of angling that involves fishing from a specially designed kayak instead of a traditional boat or shore. It combines the mobility and stealth of a kayak with the excitement of fishing, allowing anglers to access remote waters, shallow areas, and tight fishing spots that larger boats cannot reach.
2.What kind of accessories do I need to buy for my kayak?
Before you go crazy and buy a whole lot of accessories, just remember that is it best not to overload your kayak and just stick to buying the absolute necessary items. You may choose to get some rod holders, an anchor trolley, anchor pin, storage for tackle boxes, a tool box with all the necessary tools such as pliers, scissors and fish grips and of course pedals!
3.How do I store my kayak?
How you store your kayak can determine its condition in the long run. If you do not frequently take it out for fishing then make sure you do not forget about it and let it just sit somewhere where it is not protected from the sun or harsh weather. You can hang it from the ceiling or wrap it up with a protective cover and leave it on a safe ground. Make sure you do not dump extra things on the kayak as the pressure can cause further damage.
4.What kind of paddle should I buy?
This depends on the width of your kayak as well as your height. You will need a longer paddle if your kayak is very wide. Also if you are a tall person and are carrying a short paddle then you will have to reach out to paddle which can be discomforting. However, do not go for something too long or heavy either because that can cause user fatigue. In terms of price, we recommend staying away from cheap paddles because they tend to do more harm than good.
Final Thoughts
If you really want to fish out in style and come back home with a load of great catch then we feel you should go for a fishing kayak. With so many models and price range, you can easily find something to fit within your budget and also give you that pleasure of fishing effectively. You will never know just how well the river or the lakes are stocked unless you go out there and find out for yourself. You will not be able to get the same feeling or result if you cast from land. Kayaking is quickly becoming a trend and for all the right reasons. So get yourself a decent kayak and check out what the waters have to offer.
