16 Best Fishing Kayaks in 2023

This value of this mid-priced fishing kayak by Perception rests on the sweet spot of its size, comfort and features. At 12 feet, this Pro Pescador weighs the same as its smaller version while holding more cargo.

There’s upright rod storage and a large rear and front storage for tackle, cooler, and bulky gear. There’s also a quickly-adjustable footrest and a removable and very supportive seat to accommodate paddlers of all shapes and sizes. 

Beginner anglers as well as intermediate ones should take a closer look at this sit-on-top boat for its price and performance potential.

For an enjoyable ride in a relaxing environment, look no further than the Pelican Sentinel fishing kayak. 

Designed for both calm and slow bodies of water, it provides excellent stability and tracking that allows long-distance paddling. The multi-chine flat bottom that keeps the kayak stable at all times is the one to thank for that.

The under-10-feet length along with the 44 pounds of weight means you won’t have any issues transporting and storing the kayak without the help of others. This is particularly important for those who prefer fishing in solitude. 

With molded carrying handles, accessory eyelets, paddle holders, and rod tie-downs, you’re guaranteed to have all you need for a productive day out in the open water.

If high-end fishing kayaks are your thing, the ATAK 120 model by Wilderness Systems is exactly what you need. It’s a monster that can carry 400 pounds, yet the compact design allows you to maneuver the boat both on and off the water while also offering you a stable foundation to fish from.

Starting with the rubber-ready design that has a rocker shape for efficient navigation and ending with a  Flex Pod removable console for the accommodation of electronics or motor drive propulsion, there’s nothing this kayak is short of. 

The construction of the boat features an AirPro MAX seat with a quick-release buckle for security and adjustable Keepers XL foot braces for additional support. 

Want to level up your fishing game a notch? Invest in the brand’s trailer-able cover and a kayak crate, both of which are designed to help you with transporting your catch and keeping the vessel as fresh-looking as possible. 

Built from roto-molded Polyethylene, the sit on top Hobie Mirage Outback pedal fishing kayak is a durable piece of fishing equipment that gives you hands-free angling. 

Featuring the hi-tech Mirage Drive 180 Turbo drive system, it transforms your trip into a leg workout that makes you efficient and well-toned. It’s a win-win.

The construction of the boat is both beginner- and seasoned kayaker-friendly. It’s got a comfortable seat that can be adjusted, lower-back support, and a scupper for mounting a transducer.

At 12-feet long, it’s easy to transport regardless of its heavy weight. If anything, its weight is compensated with the 425 pounds of weight capacity – a hefty number signaling a high amount of storage space and a proven capability to withstand fishermen of all shapes and sizes.     

For an easy to maneuver fishing kayak that is supported by the ultra-stable and lightweight hull and low-maintenance forward/reverse pedal, check out Old Town Topwater 106 PDL Angler fishing kayak.

At 10’5 feet long and 82 pounds heavy, it offers a hands-free performance that enables you to glide smoothly through the water regardless of the weather condition. 

The boat features an easy-pending system and an oversized stern tank, both of which work together to provide you with effortless fishing experience. 

The transducer mounting system integrated into the kayak enables you to mount a transducer for use with a fish finder. Three rod holders and rod and tackle storage serve as a bonus for the already well-thought-out construction of the boat.

The Journey fishing kayak released by Sun Dolphin is the perfect model of watercraft for amateur anglers. It has a multitude of features embedded into it which provide beginners with a better-than-average value for the price.

Weighing less than 45 pounds, it’ll hardly be a burden to carry (and will easily fit on the car’s rooftop). 

Just like the name suggests, Journey is packed with things like a cup holder, bungee storage, and an adjustable rod holder – the attributes that make a fishing trip a real-life journey. The footpegs have thigh pads for additional comfort – the rare feature that contributes to the overall satisfaction with the equipment.

For fishing in shallow waters that helps you unwind at the end of the week, consider checking out Intex’s tandem fishing kayak. Built from the tough laminate PVC with Polyester core, it’s designed to serve you and your friends’ fishing needs with zero compromises.

The construction of this inflatable fishing kayak is smart: the seat boosters are removable, back- and foot-rests are adjustable, and the drain plugs are well-integrated into the kayak. The directional skeg, hi-output pump, and a pressure gauge are there too. 

Another perk of this watercraft is the versatile mounting bracket that can be used for attaching GPS systems, swivel fishing rod holders, and fish finders. It can also be adjusted to include more accessories if there’s a need. 

There’s a storage space in bow and stern that features stainless steel d-rings – the exact reason why you can catch big fish and have enough room left for resting your feet.   And speaking of storage, deflate and easily pack this kayak away during the winter.

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 fishing kayak is your best bet if you’re not willing to spend a fortune on a piece of water equipment. The no-frills characteristics of the vessel makes it a simple yet reliable companion for every fishing trip you take. Catch fish without breaking the bank.

Tamarack has a 10-feet length that hits the sweet spot of being spacious yet still easy to maneuver. Add the 52 pounds of weight to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a relatively lightweight boat that allows you to transport it on your own. 

You can also check off two mount rod holders, chine rails, and adjustable footrest, all of which are designed to make your fishing session as productive as possible. 

And, if you’re not convinced as to whether Tamarack is worth the price, Lifetime offers a 5-year limited warranty (not that you’ll need it, but just in case).   

To catch up with an old friend, take Sevylor Coleman Colorado inflatable fishing kayak on a ride. Apart from catching a few of the main ingredients for the dinner, you’ll make some lasting memories.

Why Colorado? It’s one of the toughest fishing boats on the market – 1000D Tarpaulin and 840D Nylon speak for themselves. This blend of rigid materials makes the kayak durable enough to get you through the ride even if one of the air chambers develops a hole. 

On top of that, the vessel has adjustable seats and a comfortable mesh storage space. The Berkley quick-set rod holders allow you to adjust the angle of your pole when your gut tells you the fish is close to the hook. 

Despite the stated 2-person notion, the Lifetime tandem fishing kayak can withstand up to 3 people weighing collectively about 500 pounds. It’s pontoon hull creates stability too. This is great news for families with one child and couples with a furry friend.  

Built from high-density Polyethylene, the hull provides a good level of rigidness, stability, and a great level of tracking. No matter whether you’re an experienced fisherman or are just getting started, you’re likely to enjoy fishing while sitting on top of this kayak. 

Designed for use in flat waters only, the watercraft is still as mighty as a 10-feet fishing boat can get. We’re talking about the 6’ storage hatch, 3 fishing pole holders, 2 padded backrests, and 2 double-sided paddles. 

What’s more – there’s no need for you to make any additional purchases –  everything’s included.   

If speed, stability, and compactness are your top priorities, then Vibe Skipjack fishing kayak is the one for you. Created for both fishing and recreational use, it’s the perfect companion for weekends out in nature.

Skipjack is easy to get in and out of water – its small size and weight allows you to load and unload the watercraft in a few moments. At 9-feet long, there isn’t anything to complain about dimensions-wise. 

Engineered for exemplary stability, it tracks across every type of water and in all weather conditions with no exceptions. The leak-proof roto-molded Polyethylene construction with built-in buoyancy is responsible for that. 

With a 6-inch waterproof cargo bag and more-than-necessary storage in the front and the back of the boat, chances are you’ll be able to bring home the catch with no issues.  

Pelican Maxim is a well-performing sit in fishing kayak that has the potential to become your go-to for the upcoming summer season. It incorporates every feature needed for worry-free fishing that is bound to leave you craving more.

How come? Well, there are the molded footrests and secure foot bracing for comfort. There’s also a drain plug for avoiding water infiltration and a padded seat cushion for long hours of fishing under the sun. 

Storage space is abundant too – the mesh deck cover allows you to conveniently store all of your belongings in one place. Whether it be a dry bag, a stash of snacks, or a rain jacket, rest assured there’s enough space for it all. 

Made from the durable Ram-X – the very high density and mpact-resistant, polyethylene material praised by many fishermen – the kayak is built to last. 

Even if you’re planning on using it once in a blue moon, it gives you a peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will perform just as well the next time you take it for a ride. 

Designed for beginners and skilled paddlers alike, the Perception Flesh fishing kayak is a great watercraft for leisurely trips in the countryside. Featuring a 10-inch storage hatch and molded-in rod holders, it takes care of your fishing needs and frees up your mind for wandering.

At 325 pounds of weight capacity, the vessel allows you to bring not only dozens of pounds worth of fishing equipment but also a furry friend. And who doesn’t love a good company? 

The boat is further equipped with dual tracking channels that help to keep it on course. With a relatively short length of under 10 feet, you’re sure to enjoy the maneuverability of this kayak. 

Make use of the front and back handles to transport the watercraft from your car to the lake and you’re bound to want to make fishing a weekly event.

Perception Outlaw fishing kayak is a new generation of water equipment that provides fishermen with all they need for scoring a good catch. At 11’6 foot long, it allows you to glide through the water at a comfortable speed without ever feeling rushed or unstable.

The boat features a wide-open deck, an elevated seat, and an expansive standing area. This smart combination makes you forget about the time and immerse yourself fully in the activity. 

Outlaw integrates two ‘double-barrel’ rod holders, a 35L cooler, and self-draining scupper holes for mountable equipment like motors or fish-finders. These contribute to a comfortable ride that has zero chances of being ruined by, say, a crack in the boat.

Tailored to beginners and anglers who prioritize stability over speed, the Pelican Saber fishing kayak offers one of the most maneuverable sit on top kayaks on the market. The 10-foot length and a 325 pounds weight capacity are the characteristics responsible for that.    

The boat is crafted from the impact-resistant Ram-X that also happens to weigh very little. This is a huge perk for those planning on fishing by themselves and hoping to get their money worth in the long run. 

It comes with a Quick-Lock hatch in the front and a 4” day hatch with a storage platform. There’s also a paddle tie-down feature for secure storage of your paddle when it’s not in use. 

The best part – you don’t need to purchase any additional fishing accessories. The swivel rod holder, an angler ruler, and flush mount rod holders already come with the kayak.

Riot Kayak Escape is designed for avid fishermen who cannot imagine their life without catching some good fish once in a while. This sit-on-top fishing kayak combines high-end performance and a great level of stability that is backed by exceptional storage capacity.

Loaded with features of all kinds – a pilot rudder system (stern blade that helps with steering), adjustable foot braces, and a dual-density hatch cover among others, – it ensures there’s no need for extra expenses. 

Add 2 paddle hooks, 4 flush mount holders, an adjustable rod holder, and a back deck cord storage, and you’ve got yourself a mighty watercraft that is capable of making fishing your number one hobby. 

If you’re someone who’s just testing the waters with fishing, this kayak might very well be your best bet.