Fishing Kayaks

Choosing the right fishing kayak is easier than you might think. There are a lot of different makes and models to choose from but you can narrow down your research based on questions like: What kind of fishing are you doing? What is the stability like? What is the weight rating? And how can I transport it?  

What kind of fishing are you doing?

Different styles of kayaks cater to different fishing environments and deciding which one suits your needs is probably the most important factor. Decide whether you plan to paddle small freshwater lakes and ponds or navigate large reservoirs and coastal saltwater. Are you looking to motorise your kayak? If so, you may need a kayak with a transom mount or fin box. Pedal kayaks are also one category you may consider at this stage too.

Wider, more stable kayaks excel on rivers and estuaries where you may stand up to land fish, while narrower, more agile kayaks will give you more speed and are better suited to open ocean.

What kind of stability are you chasing?

A wider kayak translates to a more stable kayak. Inflatables are very stable options as they are usually wider while hard-shell kayaks that have hulls with rounded bottoms provide stability for stand-up fishing and casting with less risk of tilting.

The trade-off with dedicated fishing kayaks (especially ones that are designed for estuary fishing) is that they are slower by nature because they are wider and the stability for the angler has been prioritised in the design process.

Kayaks such as the Catch series from Mission are great examples of kayaks that are dedicated fishing kayaks that have not been designed for standing and as a result are not as wide and a bit faster in the water.  

What weight capacity do you need?

Your fishing kayak’s weight capacity marks the maximum load it can safely carry. This includes your weight plus all of your gear and your additional rider if tandem. An average angler with a milk crate’s worth of essential tackle may only need a kayak rated for around 100kgs - 130kgs. But if you plan to load an eski, multiple rods, and particularly a battery for a motor, then paying close attention to the maximum weight rating is important.

Transportation, is it easy?

Lastly, the ability to easily transport your kayak to launch sites and store it at home should guide your selection process. Take measurements to confirm your vehicle can handle the kayak’s length or consider inflatable alternatives. 

Inflatable kayak technology has come a long way and they aren't pool toys. Don't sleep on these ones as they are a robust option that offers easy transportation and storage, especially for those looking to save cash on purchasing roof racks, they are also a fantastic option for those who live in apartments or those looking to transport them in caravans or small cars.

📷 The StraitEdge Angler Pro Inflatable Fishing Kayak from Advanced Elements

Also, check if the kayak is manageable for one person to carry depending on your strength and ramp accessibility. You may need to consider a kayak trolley with your purchase.