Updated April 9, 2023 By Nazrul

The 7 Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayaks of 2023 (Reviews & Guide)

If you are looking for Sit On Top Fishing Kayaks, be sure to read our complete in-depth buyer’s guide where we review the top-rated models available with Pros & Cons

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 in the best spots. If you have a kayaker 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 better luck at catching more. But there is more to Best sit on top kayak fishing than what meets the eye.

The best Sit On Top 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 sit on top kayaks available in the market today so you can be aware of what some of your options are then check out our buying guide where we explain further about the factors you need to keep in mind before making the final purchase.

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Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayaks We Will Cover Today

1.Best Choice-Old Town Sportsman BigWater
2.Best Overall-Perception Outlaw 11.5
3.Best Price-Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
4.Best Stable-Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
5.Best For 1000 Dollar-Perception Pescador Pro 12
6.Best Lightweight and Portable-Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak – Sentinel
7.Best For Two person-BKC TK219 12.2′ Tandem Fishing Kayak

Top 7 Sit On Top Fishing Kayaks Reviewed!

1.Old Town Sportsman BigWater

Specifications:

Length: 12’6″
Width: 37″
Weight: 100 lbs (45 kg)
Capacity: 500 lbs (227 kg)
Material: Single layer polyethylene
Seating: Adjustable ElementAir seat with high/low positioning
Footrests: Adjustable foot braces
Storage: 2 sealed hatches with Click Seal covers, one large open storage area, and two gear tracks for mounting accessories
Paddle holders: One on each side
Rod holders: Two flush-mounted rod holders and two horizontal rod storage slots
Handles: Two comfortable carrying handles
Hull design: DoubleU hull with a sharp bow and stern for stability and tracking in choppy waters

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater is a high-performance fishing kayak designed for anglers who demand the best. This kayak is built to handle rough waters and can be used in a variety of fishing environments, including lakes, rivers, and even the ocean.

One of the standout features of the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is its stability. The kayak’s wide and flat hull design makes it very stable, even in choppy waters. This means that anglers can stand up and fish without fear of tipping over. Additionally, the kayak’s large open deck provides ample space for gear and accessories.

Another great feature of the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is its speed. This kayak is designed to be fast and efficient, making it easy to cover a lot of water quickly. The kayak’s tracking is also excellent, which means that it will stay on course even in windy conditions.

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater also comes with a number of features that are designed specifically for fishing. The kayak has a large storage area in the bow, as well as a removable console that can be used to store small items like fishing tackle and electronics. The kayak also has several rod holders, including a built-in rod holder behind the seat.

In terms of comfort, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is top-notch. The kayak has a comfortable, adjustable seat that provides excellent back support. Additionally, the kayak’s foot braces can be adjusted to accommodate anglers of different sizes.

One of the most impressive features of the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is its construction. The kayak is built using a high-density polyethylene material that is incredibly durable and resistant to impacts. This means that the kayak can withstand bumps and knocks without suffering any damage. Additionally, the kayak’s construction also makes it very easy to maintain and clean.

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater also comes with a variety of options that allow anglers to customize the kayak to their specific needs. For example, the kayak can be outfitted with a rudder system for improved maneuverability, and it can also be equipped with a variety of other accessories, such as fish finders and anchor systems.

One potential downside to the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is its weight. At around 100 pounds, this kayak is not particularly lightweight, which may make it difficult to transport and launch. However, the kayak’s weight is a necessary tradeoff for its stability and durability.

Overall, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater is a top-of-the-line fishing kayak that is sure to impress even the most serious anglers. With its stability, speed, and fishing-specific features, this kayak is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-performance kayak that can handle a variety of fishing environments. While it may be heavy, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater’s durability and customization options more than make up for its weight.

Pros:

Excellent stability, even in choppy waters
Fast and efficient, making it easy to cover a lot of water quickly
Excellent tracking, even in windy conditions
Large storage areas and fishing-specific features, including rod holders and a console for storing gear
Comfortable, adjustable seat with excellent back support
Durable construction that is resistant to impacts and easy to maintain
Customization options for adding additional accessories like rudder systems, fish finders, and anchor systems

Cons:

The kayak is heavy, which may make it difficult to transport and launch
The kayak’s size may make it challenging to store in smaller spaces
The price point of the kayak is higher than some other fishing kayaks on the market, which may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers
The kayak does not come with a paddle, which will need to be purchased separate

2.Perception Outlaw 11.5

Specifications:

Length: 11’6″ (350.5 cm)
Width: 33.75″ (85.7 cm)
Weight: 75 lbs (34 kg)
Capacity: 425 lbs (193 kg)
Material: Single layer polyethylene
Seating: Adjustable framed seating system with a padded seat and backrest
Footrests: Molded-in footrests for added comfort
Storage: 1 bow storage hatch, 1 center console hatch, 1 rear tankwell with bungee cord retention system, and 2 molded-in rod holders
Paddle holders: One on each side
Handles: Four carrying handles, including one on each side, one on the bow, and one on the stern
Hull design: Tri-keel hull design for stability and tracking in calm and choppy waters

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is a versatile and durable kayak that is ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. This kayak is designed to be stable and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for use in calm lakes, rivers, and even mild whitewater.

This provides excellent stability, allowing paddlers to feel confident and secure on the water. Additionally, the hull shape allows for easy tracking and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through tight spaces or around obstacles.

The kayak also features a comfortable and adjustable seat, which provides good support for the back and allows for a comfortable paddling experience. The footrests are also adjustable, allowing paddlers of different sizes to find the right fit for their feet and legs. The kayak is made from high-density polyethylene, which is tough and resistant to damage from impacts and abrasions. Additionally, the kayak is designed to be UV-resistant, ensuring that it will not fade or degrade over time due to exposure to sunlight.

In terms of storage, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 has plenty of room for gear and supplies. The kayak features a large open storage area at the stern, as well as a hatch in the bow for additional storage. Additionally, there are bungee cords on the deck for securing items like dry bags or fishing gear.

This kayak is designed to be used for a variety of different activities, including recreational paddling, fishing, and even mild whitewater kayaking. Its stable hull and maneuverability make it a great choice for beginners who want to learn the ropes of kayaking, while its durability and versatility make it a good investment for more experienced paddlers who want a kayak that can handle a range of different conditions.

The kayak also features a number of design elements that make it easy to use and maintain. For example, the kayak’s drain plug makes it easy to remove any excess water after a day on the water, while its built-in paddle holder keeps your paddle secure and within easy reach while you’re paddling.

Another great feature of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is its compatibility with a variety of different accessories. Whether you want to add a fishing rod holder or a GPS mount, there are plenty of aftermarket accessories available that are designed to work with this kayak. This makes it easy to customize the kayak to your specific needs and preferences.

In terms of portability, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is relatively lightweight at just 68 pounds, which makes it easy to transport and launch. Additionally, the kayak’s bow and stern handles make it easy to carry and maneuver, even when it’s fully loaded with gear.

Perception Outlaw 11.5 is a great kayak that offers excellent value for money. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this kayak is sure to provide you with many hours of enjoyment on the water. With its stable hull, maneuverability, durability, and versatility, it’s easy to see why the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is such a popular choice among kayakers.

Pros:

Stable and maneuverable hull design
Durable and UV-resistant high-density polyethylene construction
Comfortable and adjustable seat with good back support
Adjustable footrests for a customized fit
Plenty of storage space for gear and supplies
Versatile design suitable for a variety of activities, including recreational paddling, fishing, and mild whitewater kayaking
Compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories for customization
Lightweight and portable with easy-to-use bow and stern handles

Cons:

May not be suitable for more extreme whitewater kayaking
May not have enough storage space for longer trips
No paddle included with the kayak
The seat may not be as comfortable for extended periods of time, and may require a cushion or additional padding
May not be as fast or efficient as some other kayaks on the market, due to its wider hull design.

3.Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Specifications:

Length: 10′ (305 cm)
Width: 31″ (78.7 cm)
Weight: 50 lbs (22.7 kg)
Capacity: 275 lbs (124.7 kg)
Material: Blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Seating: Adjustable padded backrest and seat pad
Footrests: Adjustable foot braces for added comfort
Storage: 1 large center hatch with a removable bag, 1 rear hatch with bungee cord retention system, and 2 flush-mounted fishing rod holders
Paddle holders: One on each side
Handles: Two carrying handles, including one on the bow and one on the stern
Hull design: Chine rails for stability and tracking, flat bottom design for added stability

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is an excellent option for anglers who want a lightweight and durable kayak that is easy to maneuver on the water. With a weight capacity of 275 pounds, this kayak can accommodate a variety of body types and fishing gear.

One of the standout features of this kayak is its comfortable seating system, which is designed to provide excellent back support during long hours on the water. The adjustable padded seat and backrest make it easy to customize the kayak’s seating position to your liking.

Tamarack Angler 100 is equipped with two storage compartments and bungee cords on the deck, providing ample space for all your fishing gear. Additionally, the kayak features multiple fishing rod holders, making it easy to keep your rods secure and within reach while you paddle.

It’s also incredibly durable, thanks to its high-density polyethylene construction. This material is resistant to scratches and dents, making it perfect for use in rocky or shallow waters.

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for anglers who want a reliable and comfortable kayak that can handle a variety of fishing conditions. Its lightweight design, ample storage space, and multiple rod holders make it an excellent value for the price.

Pros:

Lightweight and easy to transport
Comfortable seating system with adjustable padded seat and backrest
Ample storage space with two compartments and bungee cords on the deck
Multiple fishing rod holders for convenience and accessibility
Durable construction with high-density polyethylene material that is resistant to scratches and dents
Great value for the price compared to other fishing kayaks on the market

Cons:

Some users may find the kayak’s weight capacity of 275 pounds to be limiting
The kayak may not be as stable in rough waters compared to larger or wider kayaks
Some users have reported that the scupper holes may allow water to enter the kayak during use, although this can be easily remedied with scupper plugs.

4.Wilderness Systems ATAK 120

Specifications:

Length: 12’3″ (373 cm)
Width: 35″ (88.9 cm)
Weight: 86 lbs (39 kg)
Capacity: 400 lbs (181 kg)
Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Seating: AirPro Max seat with adjustable backrest, thigh and leg support
Footrests: Keepers XL foot braces for added comfort
Storage: 1 center console with a removable lid, 1 large open storage area in the stern, and 1 stern tankwell with bungee cord retention system
Paddle holders: One on each side
Handles: Two carrying handles, including one on the bow and one on the stern, and one on each side
Hull design: AirPro Max Hi-Lo seat system, FlexPod OS removable console, and a flat platform for stability and versatility

The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is a versatile and well-designed kayak that offers exceptional stability and maneuverability. It’s an excellent choice for anglers looking for a high-performance fishing kayak that can handle a variety of conditions.

One of the standout features of the ATAK 120 is its AirPro MAX seat, which provides exceptional comfort and support for long days on the water. The seat is adjustable and can be easily customized to suit your preferences, allowing you to find the perfect fit.

Another notable feature is the kayak’s open deck layout, which provides plenty of space for gear and accessories. The ATAK 120 also includes a variety of mounting points and attachment options, making it easy to customize your setup to suit your specific needs.

In terms of performance, the ATAK 120 excels in a variety of conditions. It’s stable and responsive, making it easy to maneuver through tight spaces and around obstacles. It also tracks well, thanks to its flat bottom and sharp bow, and is capable of handling choppy water with ease.

The ATAK 120 is also a great option for anglers, thanks to its generous storage options and fishing-specific features. It includes a variety of rod holders and tackle storage compartments, as well as a built-in measuring board and accessory rails.

The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 also boasts an impressive build quality, with a rotomolded polyethylene hull that is both durable and lightweight. The kayak’s hull design includes a shallow V-chine that helps to provide stability, while the pronounced rocker and sharp bow allow for excellent maneuverability.

One of the standout features of the ATAK 120 is its innovative FlexPod OS console, which can be customized to suit a variety of different setups. The console can be easily removed and repositioned, allowing you to create a tailored layout that suits your specific needs.

The kayak’s impressive stability also makes it a great choice for photographers or birdwatchers, as it provides a stable platform for capturing shots or observing wildlife.

In terms of portability, the ATAK 120 is fairly easy to transport, thanks to its manageable size and lightweight construction. It also includes molded-in handles that make it easy to carry, as well as a variety of tie-down points for securing it to a roof rack or trailer.

One potential drawback of the ATAK 120 is that it may not be the best option for larger or taller paddlers. While the AirPro MAX seat is adjustable, the kayak’s relatively narrow width may make it uncomfortable for some paddlers.

Overall, the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is an excellent kayak that offers a winning combination of comfort, performance, and versatility. It’s a great choice for anglers, photographers, and anyone else looking for a high-quality kayak that can handle a variety of conditions.

Pros:

Exceptional stability and maneuverability, making it great for anglers, photographers, and other paddlers looking for a stable platform on the water.
AirPro MAX seat offers exceptional comfort and support, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.
Open deck layout provides plenty of space for gear and accessories, and includes a variety of mounting points and attachment options.
Excellent build quality, with a durable and lightweight rotomolded polyethylene hull.
FlexPod OS console allows for easy customization and repositioning of accessories and gear.
Suitable for a variety of different conditions, including choppy water and tight spaces.

Cons:

May not be the best option for larger or taller paddlers, as the kayak’s relatively narrow width may be uncomfortable.
Some users may find the kayak’s open deck layout to be too exposed or lacking in storage options compared to other models.
The kayak’s price point is higher than some other comparable models, which may not be within everyone’s budget.
The kayak’s weight, while not excessively heavy, may still pose a challenge for some paddlers to transport on their own.

5.Perception Pescador Pro 12

Specifications:

Length: 12′ (365.8 cm)
Width: 32.5″ (82.6 cm)
Weight: 64 lbs (29 kg)
Capacity: 375 lbs (170 kg)
Material: Single-layer high-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Seating: Stadium-style seat with adjustable backrest and mesh storage pocket
Footrests: Keepers XL foot braces for added comfort
Storage: 1 center console hatch, 1 bow hatch, 1 rear tankwell with bungee cord retention system, and 2 molded-in rod holders
Paddle holders: One on each side
Handles: Four carrying handles, including one on the bow, one on the stern, and one on each side
Hull design: High-volume, low-profile design with a stable, flat bottom for easy standing and casting

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a versatile and well-designed fishing kayak that offers anglers a stable and comfortable platform to fish from. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time in different kayaks, I was particularly impressed with the Pescador Pro’s attention to detail and thoughtful features.

First and foremost, the Pescador Pro is incredibly stable on the water, making it easy to fish from even in choppy conditions. The kayak is also very maneuverable, allowing me to quickly change direction and position myself in the best spot to cast. The kayak’s weight capacity is also impressive, providing plenty of room for gear, tackle, and even a cooler or camping equipment.

The Pescador Pro’s seat is particularly noteworthy, as it is both adjustable and extremely comfortable. The adjustable footrests and padded seat made it easy to find a comfortable and secure position, even during longer outings. Additionally, the kayak’s large, open cockpit made it easy to get in and out of, and provided plenty of room to stretch my legs or store gear.

The Pescador Pro also features a number of convenient storage options, including a large tankwell at the rear of the kayak, a smaller hatch in the front, and several built-in rod holders. The kayak’s hull design also allows it to track well on the water, making it easy to paddle longer distances.

One aspect of the Perception Pescador Pro 12 that really impressed me was its build quality. The kayak is made with high-density polyethylene, which is a durable and sturdy material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. This means that the Pescador Pro is likely to last for many years with proper care.

Another feature that I appreciated was the kayak’s adjustable footrests. Being able to adjust the footrests allowed me to find the most comfortable position and also helped to reduce fatigue on longer paddling trips. The footrests are easy to adjust, even while on the water, and stayed securely in place.

The kayak’s built-in rod holders are also a great feature, as they allow anglers to keep their rods secure and within easy reach. The Pescador Pro has two rod holders behind the seat, and two more on the sides of the kayak. I found this to be a convenient feature, as it allowed me to keep my hands free while paddling or repositioning the kayak.

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 also has a variety of color options, which is a nice touch for those who like to personalize their gear. The kayak comes in a variety of colors, including desert camo, moss camo, red tiger, and sonic camo. The color options are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also serve a functional purpose by making the kayak more visible on the water.

In summary, the Perception Pescador Pro 12 is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a stable, comfortable, and well-equipped fishing kayak. Its thoughtful design features, durable build quality, and comfortable seating make it a reliable and versatile option for anglers of all levels.

Pros:

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a very stable kayak that is great for fishing in choppy or rough waters.
The kayak is well-designed with a comfortable and adjustable seat, adjustable footrests, and multiple storage options.
The kayak has a high weight capacity, allowing anglers to bring all the gear and equipment they need.
The built-in rod holders are a convenient feature that keeps rods secure and within easy reach.
The kayak’s hull design allows it to track well on the water, making it easy to paddle longer distances.
The high-density polyethylene construction is durable and built to last.
The Pescador Pro is available in a variety of color options, allowing anglers to personalize their kayak.

Cons:

The kayak is relatively heavy, which may make it more difficult to transport and store compared to lighter kayaks.
The kayak’s large size may make it less maneuverable in tight spaces.
The kayak’s open cockpit may be less suitable for anglers who prefer a closed cockpit or who are fishing in colder weather.
The kayak’s price point is higher than some other fishing kayaks on the market, which may be a deterrent for some buyers

6.Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak – Sentinel

Specifications:

Length: 10′ (305 cm)
Width: 30″ (76 cm)
Weight: 50 lbs (22.7 kg)
Capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Material: RAM-X Premium polyethylene
Seating: Ergonomic padded seat with adjustable padded backrest
Footrests: Adjustable footrests for added comfort
Storage: 1 large bow hatch, 1 quick lock hatch in the cockpit, 1 rear tankwell with bungee cord retention system, and 2 flush-mounted rod holders
Paddle holders: One on each side
Handles: Four carrying handles, including one on the bow, one on the stern, and one on each side
Hull design: Twin arched multichine hull design for stability and tracking

The Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak Sentinel is a fantastic kayak that is designed for both beginners and experienced kayakers. I had the pleasure of using this kayak on a recent trip, and I was thoroughly impressed with its performance and features.

Firstly, the kayak is incredibly stable and comfortable. It has a wide base, which makes it easy to balance and maneuver, even for someone who is new to kayaking. The seat is also very comfortable, with plenty of back support, and I could easily spend hours on the water without any discomfort.

One of the standout features of the Pelican Sentinel is its storage capacity. It has a large tank well at the back, which is perfect for carrying a cooler or other gear. There are also bungee cords on the top of the kayak, which allow you to secure additional items, such as a paddle or a fishing rod.

It is made from high-density polyethylene, which is a very tough and impact-resistant material. This means that you don’t have to worry about scratching or damaging the kayak, even if you take it over rocks or through shallow water.

I was also impressed with the maneuverability of the Pelican Sentinel kayak. It has a streamlined design that makes it easy to paddle and steer, even in tight spaces or strong currents. The kayak also has built-in handles on the sides, which make it easy to carry to and from the water.

Setting up the kayak is also very easy. It comes with a paddle holder, which is convenient when you need to take a break or take photos. The kayak is also lightweight, so it is easy to carry and transport.

One thing to keep in mind is that this kayak is not designed for whitewater or rough ocean conditions. It is best suited for calm waters, such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. If you are planning to do more challenging kayaking, you may need to look for a different model.

The Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak Sentinel to anyone who is looking for a lightweight and portable kayak. It is perfect for exploring calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and even the occasional ocean swell. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, this kayak is sure to impress.

Pros:

Very stable and easy to balance, even for beginners.
Comfortable seat with good back support for long periods of kayaking.
Large storage capacity, with a tank well at the back and bungee cords on top for additional gear.
Made from high-density polyethylene, a durable and impact-resistant material.
Maneuverable and easy to paddle and steer.
Lightweight and easy to transport.
Value For money.

Cons:

Not designed for whitewater or rough ocean conditions.
The seat is not adjustable, which may be an issue for taller or shorter individuals.
The kayak does not come with a paddle, so you will need to purchase one separately.

7.BKC TK219 12.2′ Tandem Fishing Kayak

Specifications:

Length: 12’2″ (371.5 cm)
Width: 32″ (81.3 cm)
Weight: 68 lbs (30.8 kg)
Capacity: 440 lbs (200 kg)
Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Seating: 2 deluxe kayak seats with adjustable backrests and padding
Footrests: Adjustable footrests for added comfort
Storage: 2 waterproof storage hatches, 2 rear tankwells with bungee cord retention systems, and 6 flush-mounted rod holders
Paddle holders: Two on each side
Handles: Four carrying handles, including one on the bow, one on the stern, and one on each side
Hull design: Hydrodynamic hull shape with a flattened V-shaped bottom for added stability and tracking

The BKC TK219 is a tandem fishing kayak designed for two people to enjoy fishing together. Its length of 12.2 feet and weight of 68 pounds make it a sturdy and stable kayak, perfect for fishing in calm waters. The kayak’s width of 34 inches also offers a spacious and comfortable seating area for both paddlers.

One of the standout features of the BKC TK219 is its high level of customization. The kayak comes with three adjustable rod holders, two waterproof storage hatches, and two paddle parks. These features provide ample space for fishing gear and accessories, making it easy to store and access everything you need while out on the water.

The BKC TK219 is also designed with convenience in mind. It comes equipped with four carrying handles for easy transport to and from the water. Additionally, its lightweight and compact design make it easy to store in a garage or shed when not in use.

One of the key features of the BKC TK219 is its durability. It is constructed from high-density polyethylene, which is a strong and durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Additionally, the kayak is designed with a one-piece construction, which means that there are no seams or joints that can weaken over time.

The BKC TK219 also features a comfortable and adjustable seating system. The kayak’s seats are designed with high-backrests and adjustable footrests, providing ample support for the back and legs. This makes it easy to spend long hours fishing without experiencing discomfort or fatigue.

Customers have also praised the BKC TK219 for its easy setup and use. The kayak comes with all the necessary hardware and accessories, and can be assembled in just a few minutes. Additionally, the kayak’s simple and intuitive design makes it easy to operate even for beginners.

One potential downside of the BKC TK219 is its weight. At 68 pounds, it may be difficult for some people to transport and maneuver on their own. However, the kayak’s four carrying handles and compact design make it easy to transport with a partner or a kayak cart.

Overall, the BKC TK219 12.2′ Tandem Fishing Kayak is a high-quality and customizable kayak that is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Its durability, comfort, maneuverability, and ease of use make it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors and catch some fish.

Pros:

Sturdy and durable construction with high-density polyethylene material and one-piece construction.
Comfortable and adjustable seating system with high-backrests and adjustable footrests.
Customizable features including three adjustable rod holders, two waterproof storage hatches, and two paddle parks.
Convenient features such as four carrying handles for easy transport and compact design for easy storage.
Maneuverable design with a sharp bow and stern for smooth and efficient movement through the water, and a tracking fin for stability in windy or choppy conditions.

Cons:

The kayak is relatively heavy at 68 pounds, which may make it difficult to transport and maneuver for some people.
Some customers have reported minor issues with the kayak’s durability, although these seem to be rare occurrences.
While the kayak is designed for fishing, it may not be the best choice for other recreational activities such as whitewater kayaking or touring.

Sit On Top Fishing Kayak Buyer’s Guide

There are some important factors to consider when deciding on a sot 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 it. Here are some things you must look into 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 rollover. 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 kayak is that you will not be able to get the best overview 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 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 that are made of rubberized fabric.

They are quite affordable and weigh very little 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 fishing kayak is that it requires very little space if you decide to deflate it.

Size: Weight/Length/Width

Kayaks are meant to be light and portable, which 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.

When it comes to the length you have to choose between speed and maneuverability because longer kayaks allow 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.

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/Space/Storage

Although you will be standing most of the time while fishing, you will still need good back support as you pedal through the water in your sot fishing kayak. The kayak seat 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 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 space, you must consider all the things you will be carrying with you.

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, a tackle box, 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 hand’s 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.

For more details

Why you should definitely purchase SOT Fishing Kayaks

Sure it is fun taking your kid out fishing and helping him/her cast the fishing reels into the water while you both sit and wait on land but to really enjoy the thrill of fishing you need to be on the water, amongst the fish you wish to catch. If you are still not convinced then check out these awesome reasons why you should just go ahead and buy a kayak.

1. They are affordable: If you haven’t saved up enough cash to buy a boat, then why not get the next best thing? Kayaks will cost you a lot less than if you had to spend on a fancy boat and they are equally fun to take out.

2. Portable: You can easily throw your kayak at the back of your van or truck and get it in the water by yourself. It is hassle-free and very convenient.

3. Low maintenance: Once you get yourself a kayak there isn’t much you have to do except take it for fishing. Depending on the propulsion most kayaks have no batteries to charge or need any gas to run on. This makes them very cost-effective.

4. Effective fishing: You have a higher chance of catching more fish as you will be able to go directly to the good spots and since kayaks are almost noise-free, the chances of fish being alerted and swimming away will be less thus allowing you to make the strike successfully.

Sit On Top Fishing Kayak FAQs

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 absolutely necessary items. You may choose to get some rod holders, a kayak anchor trolley, an anchor pin, plenty of storage for tackle boxes, a toolbox with all the necessary tools such as pliers, scissors, fish grips, and of course pedals!

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 safe ground. Make sure you do not dump extra things on the kayak as the pressure can cause further damage.

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 the 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 ranges, you can easily find something to fit within your budget and also give you the 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 are cast from the land.

Kayaking is quickly becoming a trend for all the right reasons. So get yourself the Best Sit on Top Fishing Kayaks and check out what the waters have to offer.

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