Top 10 Best Fishing Kayaks

Before there were high-powered motorboats zooming across lakes and oceans, anglers had to use more humble means. Enter the kayak, an elongated 1 to 2-seater boat, dating back thousands of years. First conceptualized by the Inuits from the Arctic regions, these small boats were made out of driftwood and animal parts like skeletons as their base and skin for the body. Through thousands of years of innovation, materials used on kayaks have made them lighter and more durable, despite having minimal design changes. Today there are different kinds of kayaks being used from tour and leisure kayaks to those specialized in fishing. Fishing kayaks have always been generally popular with fishermen that frequent wide lakes. Kayaks are definitely cheaper to rent than chartering a motorboat and guide, or worse actually buying a motorboat. They also don’t cost money for fuel and can provide a good light workout, in addition to being environmentally friendly.

With all the good things a kayak can provide for fishermen out on lakes, there’s no helping in wanting to own one. Here are some of the best kayaks available in the market today, all accounted for by performance, durability, versatility in proportion to its price.

10 Fishing Kayaks For Every Angler

1. Wahoo 12.5

Coming at its namesake of 12.5, its more than 12 feet length was designed for one angler to fit in a lot of gear at one time. The kayak comes with two-rod holders behind its seat with enough storage space for crates and coolers. The seat can be detached and made into a regular camping seat as well as providing a stand-up option for anglers trying to get a better vantage point. Its aluminum frame gives the Wahoo a silent and lightweight drift, perfect for sneaking up on fish. Finally, the kayak is customizable with options of adding a rudder and a micropole, being easy enough.

2. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100

Probably one of the most comfortable kayaks out in the market, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 is a sit-on-top type of kayak that’s outfitted with an ergonomic chair that’s good for both the back and legs. It’s made out of rotomolded polyethylene and weighs only 55 lbs. With its 10 ft. length and 30.5 in. width, the Tarpon 100 can carry up to 355 lbs of equipment not including the weight of an angler. Finally, its built-in Slide Trax rail system can also accommodate fishing accessories without the use of complicated holders. 

3. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100

Another sit-on-top type kayak, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is also 10ft long and is primarily built for safety with its flat bottom and deep track channels that help with stability. It is impact resistant but is also very light being composed of UV-protected polyethylene. The kayak comes with a few amenities such as 2-rod holders as well as a top-mounted holder. It also has 6” compartments located in the front and back as well as a paddle keeper. With everything that can be attached to the kayak, it is still very light, weighing only 55 lbs while being able to carry 275lbs 

4. Feelfree Kayaks Lure 10

Like many kayaks, the Feelfree Kayaks Lure 10, measures 10 ft. Because of the similarities of most modern kayaks in their build and measurements, the name of the game has been how efficient kayak space is being used. One of the best uses of a 10 ft space used by any kayak manufacturer is in Feelfree’s sit-on-top kayak. The kayak features a large oval hatch found in the bow that's built to keep gear dry. It also has a uni-track rail system and 2-rod holders directly behind the seat for ease of access. The kayak also has paddle holders and a center console made for smaller equipment like hooks. The Feelfree Kayak is heavier than other kayaks at 69 lbs and can conversely handle 375 lbs in weight. Despite all of its specs, its claim to fame is its gravity seat, an extra-wide, padded seat that's ergonomically adjustable and has convenient pockets found on the sides.

5. Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5

Thinking of passports, they’re seen as a gateway to new places and different experiences. The same can be said about the aptly named Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 kayak. Its $1350 price tag is one of the lowest in the market. Despite being an entry-level kayak for new kayaking anglers, it does its best to outperform its cost value. Its value comes from its material, thermoformed plastic, made out of 2 sheets of molded plastic. Despite being easier to damage due to its material, anglers shouldn’t worry as most kayak fishing in lakes are on smooth waters. For anglers looking to save a few bucks while still having a highly maneuverable yet lightweight craft, then look no further than Hobie’s Mirage passport line of kayaks.

6. Bonafide SS107

With SS standing for Sit and Stand, the Bonafide SS107 looks to be one of the most versatile and easy to maneuver kayaks out in the market. Despite being 89 lbs heavy it compensates for its weight by being able to carry 425 lbs, not including the weight of an angler. It can, however, carry anglers weighing up to 275. Coming at a humble length of 10’ 7”,  the SS107 functions just as much as a full-length kayak. Coming at a price point of $1399, it’s definitely a great investment.

7. Prowler Big Game II 

Coming at a cost of $1499, it is one of the more higher-end kayaks available. Its price, however, is there for good reason. The Prowler is a behemoth of a kayak, weighing 70lbs and comes at a length of 12’ 9” and a width of 34”. Its size makes it a spacious kayak for those using it for recreational purposes. Anglers will find the kayak spacious even with various equipment being loaded on-board, especially with its 600 lbs carry weight limit. Finally, the kayak is just as customizable with its 6 mounting brackets for outfitting to anglers' needs. 

8. Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132  

For anglers going through big and rowdy bodies of water, the BigWater PDL 132 is just the right vessel. Unlike other paddle-only propelled kayaks, this one features a pedaling motor equipped with a steering wheel and knob. Its spacious 13’ 2” length and 36” width can handle multiple boxes of equipment while being able to fish while standing up. Whether a veteran angler looking to brave large lakes or a new angler opting for safety, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is a highly recommended kayak.

9. Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS

From one end of a price point spectrum to another, the Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS only costs $499 at retail. For its price, the Journey 10 SS is perfect for new anglers who want to try out kayak fishing but do not want to fully commit. It’s quite light with its 44lbs weight but can carry up to 250lbs. Its polyethylene material also ensures that it's sturdy enough. Finally, the kayak is also versatile enough to support fishing while either sitting or standing up.

10. Intel Excursion Pro Kayak

This last kayak is for those wanting fish on kayaks at the same time. The Intel Excursion Pro Kayak uniquely has seats for two people, the only one on this list. Its material, though less durable, is lightweight and easy to steer. Since the kayak is inflatable it also makes it easier to transport. The drawback, however, is having less space when heading out with two people. Despite another seat taking up space, the kayak can still fit two mounting brackets for a GPS, fish finders, and other accessories. Finally, the kayak can handle up to 400 lbs of weight regardless of its 44 lbs base weight.