12 Best Fishing Kayaks of 2021

Are you a fishing enthusiast? Of course you are, or you would not be searching for the best fishing kayaks on the internet. Now that you are here, you will certainly find the best fishing kayaks that are out there right now. Thanks to ecommerce, you do not have to worry about checking out dozens of fishing stores and browse through a hundred different options before you find the right one for your fishing expeditions. In addition, it can be quite tiring to have to explore so many different kayaks, and you might just pick any one to get it over with.

Even if you are new to the world of fishing, you can buy a fishing kayak and make the most of your fishing trips with your friends and family. It provides you with a fun and fulfilling activity that you seldom find elsewhere. Not only is fishing a healthy and exhilarating activity, but it also makes for great bonding between family members and even friends. Welcoming a new member into the group? Take them fishing, and they’ll blend in perfectly.

There are different types of fishing kayaks that you can buy for your fishing needs: sit-on-top, tandem, bass, fly, and inflatable. Each of them serves a different purpose, or is suitable for different fishing methods.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First, let’s have a quick roundup of the 12 best fishing kayaks of 2021, followed by a detailed review of each one, so that you get to know all about their best features and specifications. In the end, I’ll also provide you with a comprehensive buying guide that covers all of the factors that apply when you’re choosing the best fishing kayak for yourself. I hope you’re as excited about this as I am!

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The Best Fishing Kayaks of 2021

Before we get into the nitty gritty of each of the 12 fishing kayaks that I’ve handpicked for you, let’s do a quick roundup of each one, along with their best features. This way, you can just sift through the article and read the reviews of those ones that catch your eye. Let’s get into it then!

Detailed Product Reviews

After reading the list provided in the aforementioned section, you might’ve gotten an idea of which fishing kayaks you’d like to read more about. Now, let’s review each one of them in further detail, so it becomes easier for you to take your pick.

Bonafide SS127 Fishing Kayak – Best Overall Fishing Kayak

The Gold Standard in Fishing Kayaks

My top pick is the Bonafide SS127 Fishing Kayak, known to be one of the most premium quality fishing kayaks that you can find out there. Designed by some of the most experienced people in the industry, this kayak offers excellent support and stability for all types of fishing expeditions.

The SS127 features high-rise seating with a high backing, which allows you to sit comfortably and prevent putting too much pressure on your back while you’re holding your fishing rod or pulling up the line when you catch a fish. The seat frame is foldable and comes with a seat rack, so you can quickly convert it into a normal fishing kayak.

Overall, this fishing kayak has a superior build quality and provides impeccable stability, even when you’re fishing for bass. Although it has a 12’ 7” long body, the manufacturers have still managed to make it one of the most stable kayaks out there. It features a shaved and rockered tunnel hull that’s made from rotomolded polyethylene and takes away most of the friction and noise, ensuring higher speed and better handling. You can even manage to turn the kayak 360 degrees without losing stability or toppling it over.

Paddling the SS127 is pretty smooth and helps you achieve a stable and constant speed. You can easily achieve an average speed of 2.5 to 3 miles per hour and even when you stop paddling, the kayak gently wades over the water and maintains a solid stability. Apart from this, this fishing kayak also features a DryPod under the seat, where you can safely store your belongings.

The SS127 also features the BossStrap Rod Management System, which keeps your rods and paddles from tangling up with each other. Although it’s quite lightweight, the fishing kayak has a weight capacity of 475 lbs. In terms of the price point, the Bonafide SS127 Fishing Kayak isn’t really cheap, but it isn’t highly expensive as well.

Hobie Pro Angler 12 Fishing Kayak – Runner-Up Fishing Kayak

A Pro-level Fishing Kayak

If you’re looking to step up your fishing game and are also willing to spend good money for it, then invest it in the Hobie Pro Angler 12 Fishing Kayak, which gives you the performance of a big boat and the convenience of a smaller boat.

The PA 12 is a full-sized boat with a length of 12 feet and a width of 36 inches, which provides you with sufficient space for easy fishing and maneuvering. Its hull is crafted from a rotomolded plastic material that’s strong and durable. Moreover, it has a weight capacity of 500 lbs., which is good enough to accommodate larger people along with their gear. The kayak itself weighs 128.5 lbs., which means that you’ll need help to transport and carry it.

The PA 12 features a notable and useful H-rail accessory system, which includes two rails running down either side of the kayak, which not only serves as a handle but also as a mount for your fishing equipment. It also features numerous accessory bases, which can be moved around and tightened to hold various types of equipment and items.

Another notable feature of the PA12 is its through-deck plugs, which allow you to connect various electrical accessories and machines to the fishing kayak. To store your gear and other items, you can make use of the below-deck gear storage, which can be accessed through the hatch present in front of the seat. It features a MirageDrive 180 Turbo with Kick Up Fins and ABC cranks, and you can also find an upgraded version with the MD 360 Turbo.

Both these drive systems allow you to paddle without putting too much power or pressure on your legs. Moreover, there’s also an added safety feature that bends the fins whenever the PA12 hits an underwater object. Moreover, you’ll have to save up quite a bit to buy the Hobie Pro Angler 12, since it might be the most expensive option on my list.

Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Fishing Kayak – Best Fishing Kayak Under $500

A Fishing Kayak That Suits Your Budget

You have a good idea of how expensive a high-end and reliable fishing kayak can be, but thankfully, there are some affordable and budget-friendly options that you can find, such as the Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Fishing Kayak. It’s one of the most reliable and heavy-duty kayaks that you’ll find in this range.

The Sentinel 100X is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that’s perfect for people who are looking to start their fishing journey. It has a length of 10 feet and a width of 30 inches, along with a weight of 43 lbs. It comes with its own paddle and a highly comfortable seat. Its size and weight makes it suitable for storage and transport. The underside of the fishing kayak features a Twin Arched Multi Chine Flat Bottom Hull, which provides excellent stability and handling.

The overall construction of the Sentinel 100X is quite durable, and it features patented Ram-X materials that are highly durable. It also features adjustable footrests, as well as molded carrying handles that allow you to mount your fishing equipment properly. Along with this, it also has two accessory eyelets and paddle holders, which keep your paddles in place and also prevent the fishing rods from tangling.

The Sentinel 100X has a spacious cockpit that allows for sufficient legroom, as well as a new and advanced EXOPAK removable storage compartment that allows you to place your fishing gear and other accessories easily. There’s also a spacious rear tank well where you can place larger and heavier items. Moreover, this fishing kayak has a moderate price point and you won’t find it to be overpriced, especially if you’re a beginner.

Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 – Best Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak

The Leader In Sit-on-top Kayaks

Sit-on-top fishing kayaks are hugely popular, mainly because they offer you suitable and comfortable seating. If you’re specifically searching for a sit-on-top variety, consider buying the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130, which gets you where you need to go and also enhances your fishing experience.

The seat of a sit-on-top kayak is one of its most important factors, and the Sea Ghost 130 features the comfortable and supportive Vibe Hero seat, which also comes with adjustable height settings. Whichever height you choose, you’ll always be able to sit comfortably and maintain stability while you’re fishing. The seatback is also comfortable and can be adjusted using two straps. There’s also a hook-in bungee system that allows you to put together or disassemble the seat easily.

The hull of the Sea Ghost 130 has a pontoon-style fishing stealth design and is crafted from highly stable rotomolded single-piece polyethylene, which makes it highly durable and suitable for a weight capacity of 550 lbs. Moreover, it also has a slip-resistant deck that allows you to get on the kayak and move around with ease. The kayak also provides you numerous options for gear mounting, such as two mounted fishing rod holders, a universal mount for a transducer, six top-loading gear tracks, and side bungee paddle parks as well. These features allow for easier customization and storing accessories.

For storage purposes, the Sea Ghost 130 features the Vibe Versa Dual-Hinge console, which is watertight and also consists of cargo bags. Moreover, there’s also a magnetic tray to hold the lure and tackle. Therefore, you have a lot of space to store your fishing gear and accessories, as well as your personal belongings, like your snacks, gloves, water bottles, beverages, and much more.

The Vibe Kayak Sea Ghost 130 is priced close to a thousand dollars, which means that you might think twice before buying it. However, the quality of its features more than make up for the price point.

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Angler – Best Sit-inside Fishing Kayak

A High-performance Fishing Kayak

Next up, I have handpicked the best sit-inside fishing kayak for you, and here’s the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Angler. It’s a durable and high-performance fishing kayak that’s suitable for all your fishing trips and expeditions with friends and family.

The Pungo 120 is suitably built for all types of weather conditions. It has a 12-foot length and a width of 29 inches. While it isn’t really wide, you can enjoy the smooth sailing and speed of this fishing kayak, and it’s suitable for taller kayakers. Apart from this, it also has a spacious cockpit measuring 57 inches long and 22 inches wide.

The Pungo 120 has the ergonomically designed and comfortable Phase 3 AirPro padded seat, which has honeycomb ventilation for maximum airflow. Moreover, the seat can also be adjusted for comfort. Inside the cockpit, you can also find the Slidelock XL Footbrace system, so you can position the braces according to your height. Beneath all of this, the Pungo 120 has a lightweight and highly durable hull that allows you to maneuver it in water.

In terms of storage, the Pungo 120 provides ample space. It has the Orbix stern hatch that can be used to pack your fishing equipment, gear, accessories, and personal belongings as well. You can also store your overnight snacks and meals inside the hatch. Moreover, there’s also a console inside the cockpit that comes with its own hatch. It can be used to store your phone and other valuables, and there’s a cup holder in the console as well.

The Pungo 120 weighs only 49 pounds, but it can bear a weight of 325 lbs., which is pretty impressive. Also, the fishing kayak costs a little over a thousand dollars, making it moderately priced and suitable for beginners, as well as experienced kayakers.

Old Town Predator 13 – Best Standup Fishing Kayak

A Solid Standup Fishing Kayak For Experienced Fishermen

Ever thought of standing inside a kayak? No, right? That’s because nobody ever told you about standup fishing kayaks, such as the Old Town Predator 13. This is one fishing kayak that instantly captivates both beginners and experienced fishermen and kayakers. You seldom get to experience maximum stability in a kayak, even when you’re standing.

The Predator 13 is known to be one of the most stable fishing kayaks in its category, and this is all due to its performance crafted Tri-Hull design, which offers superior stability and also keeps the kayak from tipping over. It’s made from LT900 polyethylene, which delivers excellent durability and strength. Apart from this, the Predator 13 also has a standup assist strap and a slip-resistant and textured Exo-Ridge that keeps you and your gear and equipment dry and safe.

The Predator 13 measures 13 feet 2 inches long and 33.5 inches wide, and has a weight of 72 lbs. Even though it’s quite lightweight, the kayak has a load capacity of 425 lbs. It also has ample storage space with its large bow hatch, which measures 16.5 inches by 14.5 inches and can carry all your gear and accessories. Moreover, it locks up securely, so your belongings stay safe from water.

The Predator 13 features six removable mounting plates that you can use to attach a fish finder, rod holder, slide tracks, or other accessories to your fishing kayak. There are also side mounted paddle holders to keep your paddle in place when you’re not using it. While paddling, if you need to take a rest, you can simply place the paddle on the paddle rest.

In terms of affordability, the Old Town Predator 13 is a tad pricier, but you won’t regret buying it, since it’d make your fishing trips even more fun.

Vibe Kayaks Shearwater 125 – Best Inshore Fishing Kayak

Premium Performance And Impressive Speed

Vibe Kayaks is a renowned manufacturer for fishing kayaks, and I’m reviewing the second model by the same company: the Vibe Kayaks Shearwater 125. It’s a big boat that offers a wonderful performance and absolute stability.

The Shearwater 125 measures 12 feet 6 inches long and 35 inches wide, making it quite a big boat. However, you’ll be able to manage and maneuver the fishing kayak easily. Moreover, it weighs only 82 lbs., so you can transport and store it easily. It also has a maximum weight capacity of 475 lbs., so bigger fishermen can easily handle it and also store their fishing gear and equipment easily.

The Shearwater 125 packs quite a lot of wonderful features, and one of its best features is the Vibe Summit seat, which is adjustable and has various positions. The seat is installed on gear tracks, so you can also slide the seat back and forth to adjust the ease of pedaling. You can also use the adjustable footrests to customize your legroom. There’s a flat platform on the back of the seat, which you can use for sitting and standing while fishing.

This fishing kayak features a highly durable and strong tunnel hull made from high-density rotomolded polyethylene, which prevents the kayak from toppling over. The Shearwater 125 also features four flush-mounted rod holders that are present behind the seat, and they’re useful for keeping the rods secure. It also allows for sufficient space to store your gear.

The Shearwater 125 has the Versa Pod for storage, which is covered with the central pod. It also has a front and rear tank well to store your bags and fishing gear. There are also bungee cords to keep your belongings in place, especially when you’re in rough waters. This fishing kayak has a suitable and affordable price point, so you won’t have any trouble in buying it for your fun adventurous fishing expeditions.

Ocean Trident 13 – Best Offshore Fishing Kayak

A Fishing Kayak For Ocean Fishing

If you’re a fan of ocean fishing, then the Ocean Trident 13 is perfect for you. It combines the perfect size with smooth handling and maneuverability, especially in rough waters. It has a myriad of amazing features that take your fishing experience to the next level.

The Trident 13 measures 13 feet 6 inches long and 29 inches wide, so some anglers may find it difficult to maneuver. It weighs only 67 lbs., which makes it easier for you to load and unload the fishing kayak easily. It features a single layer polyethylene hull that supports your weight and also prevents the kayak from toppling over. The kayak also has a weight capacity of 355 lbs.

The Trident 13 also features the AC2 seat that’s highly comfortable and measures 29 inches, so you can easily maintain stability and balance while you’re paddling or fishing in the open water. The seat can also be adjusted for maximum comfort. Moreover, there’s also the adjustable foot brace system that allows you to place your feet comfortably. There are flush mount rod holders behind the seat, which enable you to place your fishing rods securely.

You also get ample storage space to place your fishing gear and other items, thanks to the oversized tank well, which also comes with bungee cords for placing larger goods. This fishing kayak is also priced closer to some of the options that you’ve read about above, so it’s generally affordable. However, you can find some cheaper options with similar features.

Old Town Topwater 106 – Best River Fishing Kayak

A Compact And Top-quality Kayak

Old Town makes a return in my list with the Topwater 106, which has a compact construction with amazing features that not only enhances your fishing experience, but also ensures long-lasting durability and reliability.

The Topwater 106 measures 10 feet 6 inches by 34.5 inches, and has a weight of 73 lbs. only, which makes it easier to handle and transport. It has a highly stable and unique ‘DoubleU’ Hull Design that offers superior stability and also makes it easier to maneuver and navigate around ponds and creeks. The strength also gives it a weight capacity of 440 lbs., which makes it suitable for larger anglers.

The Topwater 106 has a breathable and comfortable ElementAir seat that enables paddlers to sit securely for a long time without putting any pressure on their backs. Moreover, it also has a comfortable backrest, as well as adjustable foot braces that make it suitable for taller people. Behind the seat, you can also find three rod holders to secure your fishing rods.

For storage space, you can also find an oversized stern tank that can store all your gear and equipment easily. Moreover, the kayak also has separate storage for your tackle underneath the seat. The stern tank also has bungee cords that keep your larger bags in place. Another wonderful feature of the Topwater 106 is its wide platform, where you can try your hand at standup fishing, provided that you’re not in rough waters or aren’t paddling.

The Old Town Topwater 106 is moderately priced at just below a thousand dollars, so it won’t cause a dent in your pocket, especially if you’re ready to take your fishing experiences to the next level.

Feelfree Kayaks Lure 13.5 – Best Fishing Kayak for Fly Fishing

A Versatile Fishing Kayak For Fly Fishing

Feelfree is also known for making some of the best fishing kayaks and when you’re looking for a kayak that facilitates you in fly fishing, the Feelfree Kayaks Lure 13.5 is especially for you. It has a streamlined design and impeccable stability that supports you in your fishing adventures.

The Lure 13.5 is the largest of the Feelfree Lure series, and it measures 13 feet 6 inches long by 36 inches wide. This makes it suitable for longer trips where anglers have to search for a better place to drop their fishing line. One of its best features is the Gravity seat, a wide and padded seat that’s removable and height adjustable as well.

The seat is highly comfortable and supports your weight as you’re fishing for a long time. All it takes to remove the seat is to pull the red tab and unlock the seat, and you can also try your hand at standup fishing when you move it back. Another notable feature of this fishing kayak is the removable sonar pod, which includes the transducer and fish finder as well.

The Lure 13.5 also has two built-in rod holders for efficient storage of your fishing rods. Moreover, there’s also a uni-track system that allows you to make use of the side rails to mount your accessories with the help of multifunction plates. In terms of storage, there’s a front oval waterproof hatch that you can use to keep your belongings safe and dry. There’s also a front console with an included cutting board in the lid, which you can use for cutting or preparing bait.

In addition, there’s also a larger well at the back of the Lure 13.5, where you can store tackle, fishing gear, bags, and other items as well. The price point of this fishing kayak is similar to many of the options I’ve mentioned above, so you won’t have any trouble in buying. Moreover, it always provides you with value for money.

Hobie Mirage Inflatable 12 – Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak

A Full-sized Inflatable Kayak

Finally, we come to inflatable fishing kayaks, and Hogie is back with the Mirage Inflatable 12, which is a full-sized kayak that offers a smooth and high-speed performance if you compare it to other inflatable options.

The Mirage 12 measures 12 feet long by 36 inches wide when fully inflated, and weighs 53.5 lb. Moreover, it also has an amazing weight capacity of 500 lbs., which makes it suitable for larger anglers as well. It also features the MirageDrive 180 Turbo Drive System with Kick-Up Fins, which not only delivers smooth performance and high speed, but also allows for a comfortable kayaking experience.

The Mirage 12 is constructed from high-quality and durable 1000-Denier PVC, and it also utilizes a Drop Stitch method, which makes it possible to use this fishing kayak with higher inflation pressures. The top and bottom layers are stuck together with tiny threads, and it enhances the structural integrity of the kayak. The best part is that you can easily carry the Mirage 12 when it’s deflated, all thanks to the Hobie rolling storage bag.

The stitching method of the Mirage 12, coupled with its three air chambers, allow you to inflate it properly and use the fishing kayak for a longer period of time in water. It’s also easier to maneuver this kayak, thanks to its integrated rudder system that enables both left and right-hand steering. The kick-up fins allow for increased speed and also protect the paddles from damage in case you hit something underwater.

One thing that might leave you worried is the considerably high price point of the Mirage 12, so you might think twice before buying it. If you think you can make do without an inflatable fishing kayak, then you can consider other options from this list as well.

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 17T – Best Tandem Fishing Kayak

An Innovative Fishing Kayak For Two

Here comes another member from the Hobie Mirage family: the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 17T. This fishing kayak is suited for two anglers and their fishing gear, and makes tandem fishing trips a rousing success.

The PA 17T is 17 feet long and 43.5 inches wide, which provides both anglers sufficient space for themselves and their gear as well. It weights a little over 200 lbs., which might make it difficult for most people to handle and carry with them. Otherwise, it has a smooth and quiet performance that makes your fishing trips fun.

The PA 17T is decked with two highly comfortable and adjustable Vantage XT seats that provide support to your whole body, so that you don’t get tired while pedaling for a long time. It also features dual MirageDrive 180 Turbo Systems with Kick-Up Fins, which enable both anglers to paddle together and steer their boat properly. The seats also feature adequate lumbar support, and can pivot up to 180 degrees as well.

In terms of storage options, the PA 17T has two vertical rod holders and ten horizontal rod holders, with a two-piece paddle and T-handle. It also features the H-Rail accessory mounting system, which allows you to attach various accessories, such as cup holders, rod holders, tackle tray, and much more. There are three hatches at the back of this fishing kayak, which provide enough space for two anglers to stock their bags, goods, gear, and much more.

Last, but not least, the Mirage Pro Angler 17T has quite a heavy price point, but if you and your buddy are going splitsies, then you won’t find it to be quite heavy on your pocket. There are cheaper options available, but none of them are of this quality and have these features as well.

How to Choose the Best Fishing Kayak?

Now that you know all about the best fishing kayaks, it’s time that you find out how I’ve shortlisted and handpicked each one of them. There are certain factors involved when it comes to choosing the best options, and they’re as follows.

Type

In the intro, I mentioned that there are different types of fishing kayaks that you can choose from, and I’ve also referred to them in the product reviews. The most common types include sit-on-top, sit-inside, tandem, inflatable and many others. They usually have differences in the way they’re maneuvered, as well as their features.

Hull Design

The hull has a crucial role to play in your choice of a fishing kayak. Not only does it determine how stable and reliable your kayak will be, but it also has an influence on the types of fishing you can perform with your kayak. For instance, some hulls are designed only for still waters, like lakes and ponds, while others can also be used for smooth performance in rough waters.

Material

The material, or materials, from which a fishing kayak is made also plays a major role in the one you choose. It directly affects the performance you can get from your kayak. Whether you choose a solid kayak or an inflatable one, make sure that it’s built to last. If you look closely, I’ve used the term ‘rotomolding’ quite a few times, which refers to rotational molding. This involves molding the plastic with the deck and hull through heating. It makes the kayak highly strong.

Weight

Weight has a major role to play as well, since it determines how easy or difficult it’ll be for you to transport the fishing kayak to the fishing point from your home. The material used to build the kayak, as well as the various attachments and features it has, come into play, as well as the construction method. However, also remember that lightweight kayaks are more prone to topple over in the water, whereas comparatively heavier kayaks can be easier to maneuver and turn.

Storage

While choosing a fishing kayak for yourself, you need to see how much storage it provides. You’ll need space for your fishing rods, tackle, bait, and other equipment that you may carry with you. Moreover, you also need space to store your catch. Normally, sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks offer you the most storage space in this regard.

Accessories

Last, but not least, also evaluate the accessories that come with every fishing kayak that you consider buying. For fishing, you need to have rod holders that can secure your rod while you’re pedaling or paddling. Moreover, having straps or bungee cords is also a given, so that you can secure your gear, as well as your catch.

Conclusion

Finally, we’re at the end of our article and by now, you must’ve gotten all the information you need about the best fishing kayaks in 2021, as well as a comprehensive buying guide that highlights everything you need to look for in a fishing kayak. These guidelines and tips will help you choose the best option from my list.

Although I’ve shortlisted the 12 best fishing kayaks for you to choose from, there are also some more fantastic options that you may come across. If there’s another option that you think suits you better, you can use the above buying guide to evaluate it and decide whether it’s the right one for you or not.

If you ask me, I’d go for the all-rounder option: the Bonafide SS127 Fishing Kayak. Not only does it fulfill most of the factors perfectly, but it’s also one of the more cost-effective options, and it can be used by beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level kayakers as well. Other than that, if you’re looking for a specific type of fishing kayak, you’ll find them all here. Happy fishing and kayaking!