Fishing Kayaks For Sea & Lake | BEST BUYING GUIDE

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When it comes to kayaking, we want to make sure that you are fully prepared. That’s why we offer more than just product reviews. We offer complete guides for novice and new buyers, focusing on our favorite products and will also show you what to look for to help you make an informed buying decision. And today, we’re going to talk about fishing kayaks.

If you live in North America or Europe, this review is for you. 

In this guide, we give a full analysis of the best kayaks for fishing also because we love to go fishing.  We will also review of open water (sea and ocean) and sheltered kayaks (lakes, rivers, dams, mangroves, etc.)

It's time for a relaxing escape in a cool autumn breeze.
It’s time for a relaxing escape in a kayak.

OK! It’s time for a relaxing escape. Imagine this: a cool autumn breeze in the air as you paddle across a beautiful, serene lake, watching the beautiful red and orange leaves slowly fall from the highest branches to the forest floor. You throw your line in the water and relax, cold drinks in the fridge and not a care in the world.

Maybe you want a little more adventure, and you’re slowly paddling in a river.  The sound of running water is filling your ears as you begin to paddle effortlessly, navigating each rock until you find an ideal place to relax and catch some fish.

If that is still not enough, consider running down the sandy beach, kayaking in hand, getting into the sea and paddling against the crashing waves. Fighting the current as you go farther out to sea, past the swimming kids and surfers. This is where you find the fish you are looking for. This is your ultimate excitement.

Fishing kayak on the beach
Relaxing on the beach with a fishing kayak

No matter which scenario excites you and causes your blood to pump fast, we understand it. In this guide, we’ll talk about the top 10 best fishing kayaks to make our list, including the highest-rated fishing kayaks and the best kayak for value. You will learn some of the advantages and disadvantages of each model, as well as a summary of its features.

After that, we will talk further about the different types of fishing kayaks. What makes the best ocean fishing kayak. Types of kayaking like, what is a sit-in or sit-on-top fishing kayak? Which features really matter and how will they affect your fishing experience? It doesn’t matter if you are a novice or experienced. Learn the answers to these questions and more in our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide immediately after our review.


Top Best Fishing Kayaks 2019-2020

When we started testing kayaks, we had several considerations in mind. We wanted a smooth, comfortable but also safe ride. We wanted most of them to be within the same average budget, with a few more basic models and some extreme in the mix. We look at what are the most important features, and how kayaks behaved in different locations and weather situations, and what factors really make the best kayak for fishing.

Many of the features of these 10 kayaks are very similar. This is because we have determined that some things are required for a safe, smooth kayak ride that provides an enjoyable experience.

If a kayak didn’t have these basic safety features, we would drop it from our list. That’s why we chose 10 products instead of 1 or 100. We wanted all of these to be the best fishing kayaks on the market, but we know that every buyer will be fishing in different places and have different priorities when it comes to what can be sacrificed.

Creating a top 10 ensures that all kayaks are of the highest quality, but there is some variety to suit all of your needs.

Top 10 Kayaks Review

Let’s take a look at some of the best fishing kayaks and detail their features for you. What makes them great? What are they missing? Everything you need to know is included in this comprehensive review.

  1. Bonafide SS127 – Best in the Global
  2. Perception Fisherman Pro Sit On Top Kayak – Best For Beginners
  3. Lifetime 10 Foot 2 Person Tandem Fishing Kayak – Melhor Tandem
  4. Vibe Yellowfin 100 – Maneuverability and Lightness
  5. Feelfree Lure 11.5 Kayak – Excellent Tracking
  6. Elkton Outdoors Sit On Top – Advanced Rudder System
  7. Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 – Pedal Kayaking
  8. Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 – Storage Campion
  9. SunDolphin Excursion 10 Sit-In – Best After Sales Service
  10. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak – Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak

1. Bonafide SS127 – Best in the Global

Bonafide Kayaks is a newer brand, debuting in late 2016, but that doesn’t mean they are less experienced. They brought together some of the most experienced and talented people in the industry and set very high goals. They started with a challenge to build a kayak prototype that seemed impossible for everyone in the industry.

After successfully addressing the challenge, they began assembling kayaks with a commitment to quality, smart design and customer service. They put the end-user as the primary focus when creating new products and look for innovative ways to bring new concepts and designs that meet all needs.

Kayak Bonafide SS127
Kayak Bonafide SS127

The most notable feature of this kayak is the seating system. It’s fantastic. It is a high seat with an ultra-high position in the water. This allows you to see any obstacles along the way before reaching them. This seat allows you to keep your knees bent and reduces pressure on your lower back. It includes seat supports with a folding frame to allow conversion to a lower classic position. This allows you to cover more distance and dig your paddle deeper into the water.

This kayak also has tons of features. We love having a storage drawer under the seat for easy access to small gadgets. There are also hatches, a waterproof compartment to keep critical materials dry. It has a hull-pass transducer and a rod holder, holder for holding fishing rods. Includes Gear Tracs, traction pads and Doubleheader hinges on the bow hatch.

Pros

+ Ultra-high seating system
+ Under-seat storage
+ Loaded with features

Cons

 High Price
 Heavy (34Kg / 75 lb)


2. Perception Fisherman Pro Sit On Top Kayak – Best For Beginners

Perception has been around for some time. They specialize in kayaking so we had to try this one. We love this company because its focus is on education. They assemble and shape each kayak and include personal touches that contribute to a better experience.

Kayak Perception Fisherman Pro Sit On Top
Perception Pescador Pro Sit On Top Kayak

Perception likes to design products that are geared for beginners but still enjoyable for experts. Their kayaks are comfortable, safe and easy to row. We really wanted to include one of them on our list, because we’re all on different levels, and there’s no reason beginners can’t enjoy kayaking.

This model has a fast and stable design, which makes it ideal for any condition. The removable and adjustable camping chair can be easily stored and provide some extra comfort while in the water.

The kayak’s design also includes anchor zones and hatches, protected storage to keep all of your gear at your fingertips, so beginners aren’t afraid to roll when catching drinks or bait.

Pros

+ Very good for beginners
+ Affordable storage
+ Adjustable seats and footrests

Cons

 Price a little high
 Rear hatch difficult to access


3. Lifetime 10 Foot 2 Person Tandem Fishing Kayak – Melhor Tandem

The Lifetime is a family business that began in Utah, United States. One parent wanted to build a better basketball hoop than any other on the market.

This product showed him that he had a passion for innovation and quickly started other projects. In 1986, he started a company called Lifetime Products. He named this because his goal was to make all of his products durable and durable.

Lifetime 10ft Fishing Kayak Kayak for 2 Tandem
Lifetime 10 Foot 2 Person Tandem Fishing Kayak

From a parent’s garage, they have expanded into a globally trusted brand for safety and market innovation. They continually strive to find new ways to raise standard products. It aims to raise existing products to a higher standard of quality, durability, and strength and make it easier to use and manufacture. They offer world-class customer service and believe that success comes from teamwork and investing in people.

No wonder your kayak is third on our list. This kayak can accommodate up to three people, two adults, and one child, and carry up to about 225kg (500 lb) in weight. The wide narrow V-hull creates greater stability and makes it easier to maneuver.

Includes two double-sided paddle paddles and padded backrests. This is a great option for fishing as it includes three fishing rod holders and a 6 ”(15 cm) storage hatch. The short length and wider construction of this model make it great for small cruises and fishing, but you probably don’t want to take it for a run, and may not work as well with side currents and open water (sea) wind conditions.

This kayak can also be easily accessorized. The company offers options for adding rudders or buying brackets for a small propulsion engine.

Tip: We recommend alternating rowing and baitcasting to help stay anchored and prevent skidding.

Pros

+ Carries up to 3 people (2 adults, 1 child)
+ Greater stability
+ Multiple footrests

Cons

 Hard to fish because the seats are too close
 Heavy model


4. Vibe Yellowfin 100 – Maneuverability and Lightness

The company Vibe Kayak is focused on excellent customer service. They believe kayaking is a lifestyle and are outdoor/outdoor enthusiasts. They strive to give everyone regardless of their level the chance to experience the outdoors and have built their brand around a passion for fishing and water. They aim to balance features and accessibility.

We tried one of their kayaks from the 2019 line, the Yellowfin 100. This kayak is loaded with features. While you don’t have a rudder, you can buy one if you wish. There is no skid plate either, but fishermen rarely notice it. It can carry up to 170 kg (375 lb) and weighs just under 26 kg (57 lb).

Yellowfin 100 Vibe Kayak
Yellowfin 100 Vibe Kayak

Your Vibe Hero seat is extremely comfortable. The boat has a durable construction and the light and narrow design make it very maneuverable and mobile.

There are four built-in fishing rod holders included. It also includes a Vibe Journey paddle. It has four Vibe Phantom Grip handles, adjustable foot straps, a mounting for rectangular accessories such as phones and GPS systems, two side oar bungee, a quick access pad holder and even a built-in cup holder!

It has a durable one-piece polyethylene construction. It has eight basements to easily drain water, with plugs included so you can stay dry. It is extremely stable with great tracking, and even beginners can easily use it.

Pros

+ Very lightweight, easy to carry
+ Includes fishing accessory tray
+ Lots of storage
+ Extremely comfortable seat

Cons

 No skid plate
 No rudder included


5. Feelfree Lure 11.5 Kayak – Excellent Tracking

The Feelfree company is made up of rowers and fishermen. They are a tightly-knit group of people who work and play together, which makes for a great creative environment.

This company focuses exclusively on kayaks and equipment. Their development team has over 30 years of experience designing and developing kayaks, and they constantly redesign based on customer feedback.

They want to enhance the adventure and encourage feedback, even promoting an online community of other social rowers and instructive blogs.

Feelfree Lure 11.5 Kayak
Feelfree Lure 11.5 Kayak

They have developed a great kayak for serious anglers. The distinctive feature of this kayak is its sonar hatch. It allows you to install a fish finder and transducer without drilling any holes in your kayak.

It is also fully removable for easy transportation and storage. It also includes a Gravity Seat, a removable, extra-wide seat with multiple levels and positions. The keel wheel and Uni-Track system make it easy to transport without lifting and transporting.

This kayak has a super stable hull that is 86 cm (34 in) wide and a padded paddle deck that allows you to paddle sitting or standing in both the ocean and lake. It comes with two rod holders and two storage hatches. You will have to purchase your paddle separately.

Pros

+ Sonar electronics hatch
+ Keel wheel for easy transport
+ Comfortable seat
+ Padded paddle platform

Cons

 Not cheap
 Not too light
 Paddle not included


6. Elkton Outdoors Sit On Top – Advanced Rudder System

Elkton Outdoors is another small business founded by outdoor lovers. Its founder wanted to apply his career passion for wildlife and came up with a company that puts love in its products. They believe that the best quality does not mean the highest prices and strive to deliver high-performance products at affordable prices.

This kayak is not the cheapest model available, so coming from a quality and value-based company, we wanted to know if this kayak is worth the slightly above average price.

Elkton Outdoors Sit On Top
Kayak Elkton Outdoors Sit On Top

The answer is that it has a very advanced rudder system. Its integrated rudder allows more control while maneuvering in rough waters. The system uses two-foot pedals inside the kayak to aid navigation.

This kayak also features an airtight bungee compartment for storage on the back of your kayak and a center console with a cup holder. Includes a paddle, seat, rod holder and bungee ropes for easy storage and fishing. The dry storage compartment protects your electronics from weather and water.

The 91 cm (3 ft) wide hull makes this a very stable kayak. It can be used in any type of water. It is also capable of handling more difficult weather conditions such as rough water and high winds.

Pros

+ Rudder system
+ Storage space
+ Accessories included

Cons

 high price


7. Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 – Pedal Kayaking

Hobie has been in the boat business for a long time. They design the best sailboats, kayaks, and boats for recreation and fishing. They started with high-quality boards that set records for being light, fast and easy to assemble. A decade later, they got on the boats. They revolutionized the sailing industry, rapidly rising to the top again.

Given its history of quality and innovation and its reputation for producing the best products in their fields, we knew we needed to try their kayak. The Angler Pro Series is designed for fishing. All the features of this kayak are designed to make it the best fishing kayak there is.

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14

The kayak has carrying handles, three storage hatches – bow, center and stern – and an accessory mount. It comes with horizontal rod storage and two H-Railmounting plates for accessories and electronics.

It has a non-slip deck so you can stand while fishing. The raised seat allows for easy surveillance and less splashing, and the 14ft (4m) platform makes it pleasant and stable. The Mirage Drive with Glide Technology enables efficient propulsion and a walking experience without using your hands, leaving you free to fish.

Pros

+ Hands-Free Pedals for Fishing
+ Anti-Slip Deck 
H-Rail Accessory Mount

Cons

 Price
 Weight

8. Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 – Storage Campion

The Ocean Kayak began as a surfboard. The founder of the company sculpted a place for his diving equipment and a seat, and so Ocean Kayak began.

More and more people who saw his kayaks were curious about where to get one, so he started producing more.

Eventually, he discovered rotational molding and learned to mass-produce this new type of kayak.

Their kayaks do not look like traditional kayaks but offer many advantages. For inexperienced kayakers, these are much easier to get in and out of, and don’t require you to learn to roll back when you turn around. This eliminates the fear of being trapped inside an overturned kayak.

Ocean Kayak Prowler 13
Ocean Kayak Prowler 13

This kayak features an adjustable comfort seat for all-day rowing expeditions, no matter what your body type. It has an easy-to-open front storage opening with Click Seat for easy access to internal storage. The hatch allows bow-to-stern storage space and easily fits multiple rods. The model also features coolers, boxes, and gearboxes for easily storing drinks, snacks, bait wells and even scuba/dive air tanks.

The kayak includes two cup holders and two paddle oars. They are just over 25 kg (56 lb) and can hold up to 145 kg (325 lb) in weight. This makes it stable and fast. The hull can handle calm or choppy waters and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros

+ Huge storage capacity
+ Comfortable seating
+ Two cup holders
+ Lifetime hull warranty

Cons

 Nontraditional construction takes some getting used to


9. SunDolphin Excursion 10 Sit-In – Best After Sales Service

Sun Dolphin strives to combine innovation and affordability while maintaining unmatched customer service. They want their customers to be lifelong members of the Sun Dolphin family and consider their job to ensure their happiness. Based on this background, we had to give them a chance.

This kayak features a dry deck storage compartment with an elastic shock cord. It has adjustable shoulder straps and a water bottle holder. The model even comes with thigh protectors! It has two built-in cane holders and a swiveling cane holder.

Caiaque Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 Sit-In
Sun Dolphin Excursion 10 Sit-In

This kayak is great for lakes and rivers. It is lightweight and easy to carry but still offers maximum stability. It was built for fishing trips in calmer waters but can withstand some ripples in less calm rivers. Avoid use in open water.

Pros

+ Light
+ Cheap
+ Thigh Protective Pads

Cons

 Basic model with very few accessories
 Not built for open water (sea, ocean)


10. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak – Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Intex is the authority when it comes to durable inflatable products. They have been making high-quality air beds and pools for a long time. They have pledged to be green in the products they sell.

They test all of their products before declaring them complete to ensure they meet safety standards while delivering quality and value.

That’s why we decided to give the kayak a chance, even though it’s inflatable.

This inflatable kayak is a sit-in kayak built for comfort and accessibility. Because it is inflatable, it is also extremely friendly to tight budgets, and actually costs less to buy on average than the cost of renting a kayak during a day fishing expedition.

Intex Challenger K1 kayak
Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak

Despite being inflatable, it is still full of great features. The maximum weight capacity is at the bottom end, about 100 kg (220 lb), but it also weighs only 12 kg (27 lb), so the trade-off makes it worthwhile for many people.

It comes with an aluminum paddle of more than 2 meters (84 in), a patch repair kit for cuts and holes, and a hand pump that only takes about three minutes to inflate. The bright color makes it safe and visible in case of emergencies.

This kayak has a comfortable cockpit with an included seat back and inflatable floors for stability. It has a removable bottom rudder that will reach the bottom of the water before the boat material is in shallow or rocky areas. There is also plenty of cargo space, including mesh nets on the top of the boat. These are a fantastic option for short day trips.

Pros

+ Super Light
+ Very Cheap
+ Extremely portable

Cons

 Not suitable for rocky waters where the bottom drags
 Fragile rowing
 Less stable

Recreational Sit-In Kayaking On A Lake With Mountain Views
Recreational Sit-In Kayaking On A Lake With Mountain Views

Complete Kayak Guide for Fishing or Recreation / Recreation

Now that we’ve listed some of our top-rated fishing kayaks, it’s time for you to make a decision. We want you to feel confident that you have made an informed decision. The features are great, but you still don’t know what all these unusual words mean! We are here to help.

This buyer’s guide details the different types of kayaks and some of the key features. We’ll talk about what they mean and what to look for so that even if you don’t choose one of the kayaks on our list, make sure your decision has been fully informed.

Various Types of Kayaks
Kayaking Types aligned for all to see. 

Kayaking Types

There are two basic types of kayaks. All different makes and models have features that follow these. The type of kayak is determined by the seat. The two basic types of kayaks are Sit-In kayaks (SIK or SINKs) and Sit-On-Top kayaks (SOTs).

Kayak sit-in

Sit-In kayaks mean the rower is sitting inside the kayak. While the trunk and head are still above the kayak, the legs and lower back are inside the boat.

One of the main advantages of this type is that you are drier throughout your ride. Spray skirts in these types will protect you from splashing paddle water and water splashing against the kayak. It will also provide you with a warmer ride, so be quite used in countries with icy waters. Sitting lower protects you from high winds.

One of the main disadvantages is that if your kayak turns around, you will get soaked. The whole boat fills with water and becomes much heavier and therefore harder to get back to the normal position. Another disadvantage is the difficult access to junk storage compartments as they are usually below the enclosed deck.

These kayaks are ideal for use in moving waters and situations where a light boat is critical.

Kayak Sit-On-Top

Sit-On-Top (SOT) kayaks mean your seat is elevated above the water line and the kayak. You are not closed. These tend to be the most popular fishing kayaks.

While these are slower, and you will get wetter on them, they are also more stable. You have much more freedom of movement in these models. They are easy to get in and out too. If they roll on you, they are much easier to turn from side to side because they do not fill with water. They are great options when the weather is sunny and warm.

Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks

These kayaks are more multifunctional than their Sit-In counterparts. While Sit-In kayaks are capable of being used for fishing, they are designed more for rowing than for fishing. The kayaks Sit-On-Top is the best fishing kayak because it was designed to be used in a variety of different situations.

Regarding storage, they usually have more compartments and hatches within easy reach. Although any kayak gets wet, taking some precautions can keep your goods and valuables dry in these luggage racks.

These kayaks are wider than their counterparts, which increases stability. This is especially useful when you want to stand up and paddle, or fish, such as fly fishing. Stability also makes it easier to lean further and get a drink in the cooler without turning the boat around. The open-top allows easy entry and exit when fishing spots become available.

The only downside to the width is that you will be much slower on these than on sit-in kayaks. While fishing, this is rarely something to worry about. Fishing is a game of patience and relaxation, not a race.

These kayaks are the best safe fishing kayaks. They are preferable for saltwater fishing and allow for more movement and stability when recovering from fish.

Fishing Kayaks

Both types of Sit-In and Sit-On-Top kayaks can be used as fishing kayaks. The features that make them the best fishing kayaks are accessories such as rod holders, storage spaces and built-in tackle boxes. Some are handsfree, and some have GPS mounts and fish finders. Most of them are robust and stable enough to stand upright while casting lines.

Fishing kayak
Fishing kayak with a clear bottom to see the fish below

Paddle vs. Pedal

Propulsion is how your kayak moves in the water. Most kayaks will be driven through oars. Some of the most sophisticated kayaks involve pedal power. They use their legs to propel the kayak through the water instead of their arms, making it easier to use both hands for fishing. A newer option, but less popular with anglers, is a motorized kayak.


Main Features

Stability

Stability is one of the most important factors to look for in the best fishing kayaks. While most rowers do not need this much, it is essential for fishing. Kayak fishermen need to be able to lean and stand without worrying about their boats turning. They need to know that larger fish can pull slightly without the boat turning.

The longer you intend to stand in your kayak, the more stable your kayak needs to be. A good rule of thumb is that the bigger the kayak, the more stable it is. Drawing styles also contribute to stability.

Paddle / paddling standing in a kayak
Paddle/paddling standing in a kayak

Another factor with stability is the hull design. Kayaks will have a U- or V-shaped hull when properly designed. Look at the top of your boat. The higher the top, the less stability you have. Essentially, you want a smaller opening in your boat for better stability.

Finally, consider your own ability. If you are a beginner, you need the most stability possible. If you intend to walk upright or bring junk boxes full of equipment you will be less inclined to achieve stability. If you have experience and an incredible balance, you can sacrifice stability a bit to enhance other features.

Primary stability is how the kayak holds itself while sitting in the water. To test this stability, sit in the kayak. If he begins to swing and move while still near the dock, he will not have very good primary stability. After stabilizing it, row in a straight line. If it becomes more stable while moving, it is a performance-oriented kayak. These tend to be capable of faster speeds.

Secondary stability is how stable the kayak remains as you lean. This is important for open water (oceanic) kayaking when the waves will rock a lot. To test this form of stability, lean while leaning on either side of the kayak. This will let you know how quickly your kayak rebalances between primary and secondary stability.

Storage space

The amount of storage required will depend on the type of trip you take. If you are an afternoon fisherman who likes to catch and release your fish with humanity, you can sacrifice a lot of storage space. Be sure to bring a water bottle and put some ID pieces on a waterproof neckstrap in case of an emergency, and you are ready to go. You just need to make sure that you can store your bait and your bait safely while rowing at your fishing spot.

Fishing kayak storage and box
Fishing kayak storage and box

If you want to catch and keep your fish then you will need extra space for an icebox to keep your fish cool while in the water and driving home. You may also want some extra space for the kind of equipment needed to catch and keep fish that you do not intend to release.

If you plan to spend more time on the water and fly or net fishing, as well as lines and poles, you should ensure that your storage space includes space for all your gear, plus a lunch box, and enough water to stay hydrated during the day. long day and sunscreen to reapply a few times.

Larger vessels have ropes on deck/deck that are mounted to protect against shocks and many anchor points for their equipment and coolers. They also have some sealed compartments that can keep your equipment dry even in cases where your boat rolls in the water.

Weight

Be aware of your kayak’s maximum weight capabilities, it’s your own weight plus the weight of your equipment, and leave room for any fish you can catch. Remember, the closer a fishing kayak reaches its maximum weight, the less stable it will become, and the harder it will be to row and operate. If you want to take a weekend trip, we recommend boats with high maximum capacity and plenty of storage.

Otherwise, it is also important to consider how much weight you can carry. Remember that you will need to place and remove your kayak from your car and bring your kayak to the launching point.

Therefore, you need to make sure that you can take your gear and kayak as long as possible, or arrange for a cart to get down to the water and back to the car. The kayak will also most likely be mounted to the roof of your car with a sports rack. Make sure your car can handle the weight of the kayak smoothly.

Speed ​​vs. Maneuverability

Most of the time, fishing expeditions need not worry about speed. The usual idea behind fishing is to relax and enjoy a lazy day on a lake somewhere nice.

Even the most avid river and ocean kayakers on fishing expeditions only need shorter periods of higher speed to overcome obstacles encountered in rapidly moving waters. Fishing is not a race! It is much more importantly fast spinning and spinning.

As a factor to consider, I will briefly discuss this decision. Longer kayaks are better to cover the distance quickly. Shorter kayaks are much easier to maneuver in the water.

The rounder the keel, the easier it will be to turn the kayak. Just remember that this is a secondary factor in decision making. Because if your keel becomes too round, your kayak will be better suited for rapids and river expeditions than for fishing.

Portability

It can be difficult to transport kayaks to and from the water when you don’t live nearby. This is especially true because unlike boats, kayaks cannot be stored at docks and shipyards in the same way boats can. Because of this, portability is a feature that many shoppers look at when they shop.

Inflatable kayak down the river.
Inflatable Kayaks Are The Most Portable

One of the most portable types of kayaks has become the inflatable kayak. These can be inflated in mere minutes. We recommend them for use in calm water only. They are great for fishing on the lake, but not for taking in the fast and rocky areas. These are tougher than we expected and very cheap compared to their solid counterparts.

Although we have included one of these kayaks on our review list, it is still important to note that only one of them made the list. Many of the inflatable options are the lower end for a reason, do not meet our strict safety standards. A guide we trust has looked at some inflatable kayaks if they are more in line with their storage and transportation capabilities.


Kayak Fishing Safety Tips

The use of kayaks in general and also for sport fishing is on the rise in recent years. Kayaks are very versatile when compared to a normal fishing boat.

But we have to be vigilant about security. So let’s give some tips on how to fish or venture out with your kayak safely.

  • Never forget to wear a life jacket. Never ever!
    Its use is mandatory, both in Brazil and almost anywhere in the world. This Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be present on all boats and can save your life even if you are a good swimmer.
  • Do not go fishing or venture alone. Always go out in pairs or in groups. That way, they can help each other or help each other out if a complicated situation happens, avoiding something worse.
  • Always let more than one person know where you are going and when you plan to return. An unforeseen situation can occur (eg storm) and if they do not return on time, they can inform the authorities and rescue teams.
  • Opt for a kayak that fits both fishing and recreation. These are wider and longer giving more stability, and will already be equipped with a variety of accessories that will be very useful to keep everything handy and organized.
  • Always keep a mobile phone with you with a charged battery and if possible from multiple carriers (multi-chip / SIMcard), so you have the option of multiple signals from them.
    If you want to take photos, bring a digital camera, you will get better photos and avoid using the cell phone to preserve the battery.
  • Wear light and comfortable clothes, preferably long-sleeved shirts and trousers as well. Ideally, they are quick drying. Non-slip shoes are always advisable. In places with uncertain or colder weather, light extra clothing may also be helpful.
  • Put on sunscreen cream and also protect your head with a cap and glasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, or a lost hook!
  • Speaking of hooks, always avoid placing the fish inside the kayak before removing the hooks, lures, and hooks. To remove these, keep a pair of pliers, knife, and catfish close by to keep the fish out of the kayak. Use nose pliers to remove baits and hooks also outside the kayak. Always avoid boarding fish with hooks as they may escape and may severely injure your abdomen or legs.
  • Take and drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated (about 500ml per hour) along with sandwiches and food. If hunger strikes you can always prepare sushi with the fish you caught.

Safety must always come first. However knowledgeable it is, it does not hurt to be careful and avoid unnecessary problems.

Examples of fatalities involving fishing kayaks

We don’t like to talk about accidents and fatalities, but sometimes people forget that accidents can happen to anyone when least expected.

In January 2016, this happened to a father and son who were touring in Ubatuba, on the north coast of São Paulo. They rented kayaks to fish and unfortunately never returned. You can read the news on the Globo website. The translation is necessary if you don’t know the native language.

In August of the same year, another kayak fisherman disappeared and a few days later the worst was confirmed. You can read the news here .

Following the fatality in January 2016, a group of kayakers has decided to develop a safety label to be included in related products by manufacturers and retailers.

Examples of tragedies and fatalities unfortunately abound. For all lovers of sport kayaking, always respect the safety standards, be careful we participate in the development of a safety label.

Fishing kayak with sunset
Fishing kayak at sunset

Conclusion

We love these kayaks and I hope you agree that they are the best fishing kayaks on the market. We look into the details to educate you on the factors that determine which kayak suits your needs. We are confident that one of the kayaks on the list will be your perfect fishing kayak!

One of the most important things to do when making purchase decisions is to take these kayaks for a test run. Find out which docks and stores offer test runs and do that.

Each kayak offers a different feel, and just paddling them will help you figure out which one meets your needs for stability, comfort, and space. Happy fishing!