Best Fishing Kayaks & Boats
Published August 16, 2024
Fishing from the shore is always a pleasure, but there’s something special about bobbing in the blue water in a boat with your line sinking into blue water. You might have better luck, too. When it comes to fishing, the more access to water the better, and there’s no better way to cover more water than from a boat. It also allows you better positioning—looking at you, weed-filled ponds—for perfect casts, and lets you chase trout into cooler, deeper water during those hot summer months. Gear goes a long way in pursuits, but few purchases can elevate a single experience as much as a boat for an angler. So, which boat is the best? Well, that depends on where you’re fishing and what you’re hoping to catch.
Best Fishing Kayaks
The first kayaks were made by stretching animal skins over a wooden skeleton frame. Kayaks have come a long way in 4,000 years, and we thankfully don’t have to sit on animal skins anymore, but one thing remains true: kayaks are extremely efficient small-fishing vessels. In fact, if you showed a modern kayak to an ancient Inuit (one of the first peoples believed to make kayaks) they’d know exactly what it is and how to paddle. While the overall shape and idea have remained unchanged through the centuries, materials and features have been improved. With knew, lightweight material, innovation of pedal power, and a general resistance to purchasing super expensive big boats, there’s been a recent renaissance in the small-vessel world and kayaks have been innovated on and fined tuned for anglers specifically.
For the best fishing kayaks, our Gearhead® Experts recommend the following:
- Fishing-specific features like rod holders, tankwell & seats
- A vessel ranging from 10–14 feet
- A stable design
- Mounting points for trolling motors
If you’re serious about leveling the playing field and fishing in their deep domain, look no further for your signature vessel. This rig’s 13 feet long, but it has more features than a modern cruise liner. The BigWater lets you focus on the fish with hands-free propulsion... times three The ePDL+ system (a sea-worthy eBike) allows you to switch between manual pedal, power-assisted pedal, or fully motorized cruise control, giving you freedom of the seas (or lakes). It’s got storage space, an adjustable seat, rod holders, a foam deck for stand-up fishing, and so much more. This is the ultimate fishing kayak— The fish don't stand... er... swim a chance.
Winning Features
- Battery-assisted propulsion
- Rod holders, accessory rails, tankwell & seats
- 13 feet of unparalleled stability
Speaking of kayaks built for fishing... The Sportsman 120 has everything an angler could dream of in one boat. The PDL Drive allows instant forward and reverse movement with your feet, so you never have to put your rod down. Gone are the days of paddle, cast, paddle. Now, you can pedal and cast simultaneously, giving you more throws—and hopefully catches—in a single session. It has a comfy seat for all-day fishing, and if you need to stand for a special cast, the boat features foam floor pads to maintain your traction. With anchor and fish finder mounts, 18-inch accessory tracks, rod holders, dry storage, and a large tankwell for all your tools and tackle, you’ll wonder why you’d ever come off the water.
Winning Features
- Lots of storage
- Hands-free pedal propulsion
- Seat & foam floor for comfort & traction
Sometimes bigger isn’t better. When it comes to maneuvering around small rivers and lily pad-filled ponds, a nimble boat is the right choice. The 11.5-foot Bite FD is perfect for throwing frogs in weeds for bass and chasing quick trout through sticks and debris. And don’t worry, this foot-powered kayak’s propellers are low-profile, so you won’t get hung up on any typical offenders. With spacious storage, rudder control that makes quick turns easy, rutted gunnels to keep your tackle close, and a super-comfy seat to top it all off, you’ll be reeling in catches all day.
Winning Features
- Low-profile pedal propulsion
- Smaller, nimble design for small bodies of water
- Rod holders, trolling mount & more fishing features
Most fishing kayaks are single-person vessels, but the 13-foot, 9-inch Take Two changes that, transforming a solo mission into an angling adventure for two. Now you’ll have someone to corroborate your fishing tales! And if your buddy can’t make it, simply remove a seat and bring the pup along. The seats can be set in various positions to accommodate either solo or tandem paddling and adjust easily into high or low positions for more comfortable sitting, paddling, and fishing. The seats aren’t the only customizable part of the boat. Jackson’s TriTrak channels allow you to mount accessories just about anywhere aboard the vessel, so you can choose where the fishing features go.
Winning Features
- 2-person kayak
- Versatile & customizable
- 500lbs capacity
For those who prefer the traditional paddle over pedal propulsion method the Jackson Coosa is a perfect choice. The OG Coosa was already great for hitting the water, but the newest iteration packs in a beefier gear track, wider and longer profile, and tons of stability so you can relax and cast a line without worries of going overboard when you catch a big one. The Coosa FD is river-friendly, but its wide body tracks best on lakes and still water.
Winning Features
- Paddle powered
- Lots of storage
- Sturdy & stable design
If you’re looking for versatility and pedal power, the 12-foot Malibu might just be for you. The two 18-inch accessory tracks let you choose your own rigging and angling accessories. The seat is also fully adjustable, giving you the option to pedal with power or room to paddle if you wish to use your hands. Both the bow and stern have storage for coolers and gear, again letting you choose what goes where.
Winning Features
- Versatile watercraft lets you customize your rigging
- Slightly wider width for stability
- Hands-free pedal-powered propulsion
Best Non-Kayak Fishing Vessels
While kayaks are the most popular small fishing vessels, they aren’t the only small watercraft you’ll see people fishing from. Canoes will always be a classic contender, and float tubes are gaining favor especially in those hard-to-reach pods not accessible by car. Here are the other types of boats and floats we’re using to catch keepers.
For the best fishing kayaks, our Gearhead® Experts recommend the following:
- Fishing-specific features like rod holders, tankwell & seats
- A vessel ranging from 10–14 feet
- A stable design
- Mounting points for trolling motors
Is there a more iconic fishing scene than grandpa on the lake in his canoe early in the morning silhouetted by the rising sun? While kayaks have been the primary scene of innovation, sometimes something simple is the path to catching the most fish. The Old Town Discovery is convenient and comfortable, with extra space and organization for all your tackle, gear, and supplies.
Winning Features
- Simple, classic & easy
- Lots of storage
- Adjustable seats
Channel your inner mermaid and get your bottom half in the water with the fish. This float tube lets you be one with the water while allowing you to cast and catch as if you were in a boat. With dual gear storage boxes, comfy seating, and a little table to keep everything organized you have everything you need within arm's reach. There are two huge wins using this tube over a boat. First, it’s much, much more affordable. At just $300, you don’t need to drop several grand to get on the water. Second, at only 16lbs, you can carry this bad boy to bodies of water other kayaks and canoes just can’t reach. No need to drive up and drop in. You can hike in and access secret fishing holes anywhere.
Winning Features
- Affordable method of fishing from the water
- No extra transportation needed: inflate & fish
- Storage & organization at your fingertips
Buying A Fishing Kayak Or Boat
Before you hit the water, remember to check local guidelines and regulations for boating. Some states require a personal floatation device to be worn at all times while other states make you have them in the boat. There are also state-to-state rules about cleaning watercrafts to help stop the spread of invasive species—you might not have the biggest boat on the water, but these rules usually apply to all vessels. It’s also never a bad idea to freshen up fishing regulations as well.
They say a bad day fishing beats a good day at the office. Now just imagine what a good day fishing from a boat beats. Why let fish hide far from your casts? Get in a boat and get after them!
FAQ
Q: Can you fish from any kayak?
A: Yes! While some kayaks are designed specifically for fishing, you can fish from just about any kayak. Without rod holders, accessory rails, tankwells, and mounts for fish finders, they might not be as well-suited or comfortable, but you can still catch fish.
Q: How do you transport a fishing kayak?
A: There are several ways to transport a kayak including boat carts, roof racks, or securely in the back of a large truck. If you can’t fit a kayak in or on your car, we recommend looking into inflatable options such as the Outcast Fish Cat 4 LCS Float Tube.
