Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2025
Top 10 Best Fishing Kayaks 2025
Fishing is a beloved pastime for many, and having the right tools can make all the difference. With so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which fishing keyaks are the best. That's why we've done the research and put together a list of our top rated fishing keyaks. From lightweight and compact to heavy-duty and durable, we've got you covered. Read on to learn more about our top picks and find the perfect fishing keyak for you.
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#1 Platinum Award
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
Love the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak?
- Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core
- High pressure inflation for extra rigidity and stability
- Includes 2 removable skegs for deep and shallow water
- 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable bucket seats
- Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories
- Carry bag and repair patch included
- Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings
- 3-ply super tough construction
- Unaffected by gasoline, oil and salt water
- Includes 86 inch Aluminum Oars and High-output pump
. . .
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is a great choice for anyone looking for an inflatable boat. It is lightweight, durable, and comes with all the necessary accessories. It can handle wake from passing boats and is suitable for shallow waters. It is also affordable compared to other models on the market.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Three-chamber construction and puncture resistant vinyl material
- Weight capacity of up to 400 lbs.
- Includes oars and life vests
- Easy to transport and store
- Handles well in calm and choppy waters
- Affordable compared to other models on the market
- Rigid body with no flexing
- Quick turns when necessary
- Ideal for use in shallow waters
Cons
- Paddles lack adjustable arms
- Carrying bag not particularly sturdy
- Not suitable for long-distance trips
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
- May be difficult to maneuver in strong currents
- May be difficult to control in windy conditions
- May require more effort to paddle than other kayaks
- May require more effort to steer than other kayaks
- May require more effort to stay on course than other kayaks
- May require more effort to stay upright than other kayaks
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Rating
8.8
Durability
Accessories
Weight
Portability
Performance
Price
- Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core
- High pressure inflation for extra rigidity and stability
- High pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
- Accessories included: 2 removable skegs, 1 floor mounted footrest, 2 fishing rod holders, detachable and adjustable GoPro & phone mount, removable & adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories
- Includes paddle, hi-output air pump, carry bag, inflatable seat booster for elevated seating, adjustable seat, grab handle on both ends
- Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear
. . .
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is an ideal solution for those looking for a kayaking experience without the hassle of a traditional vessel. It is lightweight, packs down to a transportable size, and provides plenty of stability and security on the water. Setup is easy and it can handle up to 400-450 lbs combined weight capacity. It is great value for money and perfect for anyone looking to get into kayaking.
Pros
- Lightweight and easily transportable
- Three air chambers and I-beam construction floor for stability and security
- Good performance and handling
- Short skeg design for easy turning in place
- Everything you need comes packaged together
- Setup takes about 15 minutes
- Deflation only takes a few minutes
- Can handle up to 400-450 lbs combined weight capacity
- Great value for money
Cons
- Cheap quality oars
- No adjustable features for different arm sizes
- Heavy to carry if hiking any distance
- Can be difficult to set up alone
- No storage compartments
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Limited color selection
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Stability
Tracking
Value
Durability
Setup
#3 Silver Award
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak
Love the Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak?
- Constructed of UV-protected high-density Polyethylene
- Multiple footrest positions for different size riders
- Stable flat bottom
- Adjustable padded seat back and seat pad for comfort
- Two flush mounted fishing rod holders
- One top mount fishing rod holder
- Front and rear shock cord straps
- Two 6" storage compartments in rear and center
- One paddlekeeper, one adult black paddle
- Front and rear t-handles for easy transport
- Deep hull tracking channels
- Stability chine rails
- Durable high-density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction
. . .
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak is a great option for both beginners and seasoned veterans alike, offering stability and maneuverability with its flat bottom and wide hull design. It is lightweight and easy to transport, and comes with plenty of features such as rod holders, paddle parks, and accessory mounts. Customer service is also excellent, making this an affordable yet quality vessel that will provide years of enjoyment on the water.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Excellent tracking in lakes and rivers
- Stability and maneuverability
- Optional stadium seat for comfort
- Fore and aft and port and starboard carrying handles
- Plenty of options available such as rod holders, paddle parks, accessory mounts and more
- Low price point
- Stylish look
- Ample storage space
- Lifetime Customer Service
Cons
- Not suitable for choppy waters
- Seat may be uncomfortable for long trips
- Not suitable for whitewater kayaking
- Assembly may be difficult for some
- May require additional accessories for optimal use
- May not be suitable for larger paddlers
- May not be suitable for extreme conditions
- May require additional maintenance
- May not be suitable for more experienced kayakers
- May require additional training
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak Rating
8.8
Stability
Tracking
Weight
Features
Comfort
Style
#4 Bronze Award
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak
Love the Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak?
- Holds 2 people up to 400 pounds
- Designed for speed and agility in the water
- Tough vinyl construction for adventuring
- Easy to handle in and out of the water
- Includes inflatable seats with backrests, 2 dry bags, and a carry bag
. . .
The Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak is a great choice for recreational paddling, fishing, and hunting, and assembles and disassembles easily. It is stable and portable, but can be affected by wind and currents, and is prone to punctures. It is recommended to carry Flex Tape for temporary repairs, and to invest in a longer paddle.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Lightweight and portable
- Stable and difficult to flip over
- Fast inflation and deflation times
- Maneuverable
- Five-chamber design system prevents sinking
- Excellent value for money
- Resistant to punctures
Cons
- High profile can be redirected by wind
- Currents can cause drag and spin unexpectedly
- Included paddle is often too short
- Punctures are common near rocks and sticks
- Getting in and out of the boat will likely leave you with wet feet
- Racing against rigid hull boats is impossible
Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak Rating
8.8
Portability
Stability
Speed
Durability
Maneuverability
Paddle Length
#5 Runners Up
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
Love the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak?
- 18-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Designed for use on lakes
- High-quality materials for maximum durability
. . .
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for both experienced and novice kayakers, offering plenty of features such as storage pockets, paddle holders, rod holders, detachable rudder and Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation. It is constructed with tough outer fabric and reinforced PVC bottom for increased durability, and the included inflatable seats provide good back support. Performance is excellent with good maneuverability and tracking, however caution should be taken in strong winds or currents. The only downside is the positioning of the rod holders which can catch onto paddles during use, so it is recommended to remove them.
Pros
- Tough outer fabric helps protect against punctures and tears
- Reinforced PVC bottom offers increased durability in rocky or shallow waters
- Inflatable seats provide good back support without adding too much bulk or weight
- Light weight and streamlined shape for excellent maneuverability
- Plenty of storage pockets, paddle holders, rod holders, detachable rudder and Boston valves for easy inflation/deflation
- Rated as a two person unit
- Affordable yet reliable way to explore lakes & rivers
- Ideal option for both experienced and novice kayakers alike
- Great value
- Everything you need to get started on your next adventure
Cons
- Can be difficult to control when faced with strong winds or currents
- Rod holders can easily catch onto paddles during use
- Comfort levels may be compromised if two adults are using the kayak
- Positioning of the rod holders can cause annoyance or potential injury
- Removing the rod holders will sacrifice their intended purpose
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Durability
Maneuverability
Storage
Comfort
Wind/Current
Rod Holders
#6 Runners Up
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak
Love the Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak?
- Made in USA
- Optimized and elevated seating console
- Frame seat folds and is removable
- Large bow and stern tank wells provide ample storage for crates and fishing gear
- 2 double-barrel rod holders can accommodate up to 4 fishing rods
- 3 solo mount recesses enable you to easily add mounts & accessory holders (sold separately) without drilling
- Molded-in trays and cup holders keep important items and refreshments within easy reach
- Length: 11' 6"
- Width: 35"
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Max Capacity: 425 lbs
- Two Integrated, dual fishing rod holders for hands-free storage
- Self draining scupper holes in the footwell to keep you dry (scupper plugs not included)
- Water Types: Lakes & Ponds, Slow-Moving Rivers & Calm Coastal
. . .
The Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak is an excellent choice for anglers looking for an all-day fishing experience. It offers great stability while standing up, has plenty of storage space, and is even compatible with a trolling motor. It can be difficult to transport due to its size and weight, but overall it is a great product that lives up to expectations.
Pros
- Stability when standing up and fishing
- Maneuverability
- Plenty of room on the deck
- Enough storage space to fit camping gear
- Paddles well despite its size and weight
- Trolling motor compatible
- YakAttack RotoGrip Paddle Holder
- Accommodates larger individuals comfortably
- Tracks well through slightly fast water
- Handles like a barge when turning
Cons
- Difficult to transport due to its size and weight
- Paddle holder located near the front of the boat can get in the way
- Minor scuffs from shipping
- Requires planning ahead of time
- Barge-like turning
- Heavy and bulky
- Elbow grease required to remove scuffs
- Need help to load it
- Takes time to get set up with a trolling motor
- Can be expensive
Perception Outlaw Fishing Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Maneuverability
Storage
Transport
Paddle Holder
Cosmetics
#7 Runners Up
Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak
Love the Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak?
- Versatile design allows for solo or tandem paddling
- 10-foot compact length for easy transport and storage
- 3 fishing rod holders
- Rear storage hatch
- Stable hull design with a weight capacity of 500 lb.
- 5-year limited warranty
. . .
The Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to take their family or friends out on the water. It is incredibly stable, even when loaded with three people, and features adjustable footrests for added comfort. It is also light enough for two people to carry and has plenty of storage space for your gear. Additionally, it is very affordable compared to other tandem models on the market.
Pros
- Incredibly stable
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Plenty of room and features for fishing trips
- Adjustable footrests for comfort
- Plenty of storage compartments
- Portable and easy to launch
- Affordable compared to other tandem models
- Ideal for families who love spending time outdoors
Cons
- May be too large to fit into a car trunk
- Weighs around 65 pounds
- Seats may be uncomfortable for long trips
- Not suitable for white water kayaking
- Not the most durable material
- May require additional accessories
- Can be difficult to maneuver
- May require two people to carry it
- Not designed for heavy loads
Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak Rating
7.8
Stability
Portability
Storage
Price
Comfort
Durability
#8 Runners Up
Perception Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak
Love the Perception Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak?
- Lawn chair style mesh seat with 2-level seat adjustment and breathable mesh for ultimate all-day comfort and no pain
- Pilot drive pedal system can be fully recessed into hull for zero draft
- Leak-proof one-piece construction with built-in buoyancy for added safety
- Large front and rear open storage for cooler, tackle, and other gear
- Gear tracks, fish finder consoles & 4 Rod holders for anglers
- Integrated accessory rails on each gunwale for fish finders, Rod holders and other accessories
. . .
The Perception Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to explore lakes and rivers or even larger bodies of water. It is packed full of features, such as a rudder that allows tight turning radius, two storage compartments, and secure paddle storage slots. However, some users have reported issues with the rudder lift mechanism and hardware rusting due to saltwater exposure. Maintenance may be needed over time, and replacement parts can be expensive. Despite this, it provides excellent value for money considering its price tag and range of features.
Pros
- Relatively affordable compared to many alternatives
- Pedal drive allows for extended cruising
- Incredibly stable in choppy conditions
- Rudder allows for tight turning radius
- Two storage compartments located in front of the seat
- Secure paddle storage slots at the rear
- Help is available from Perception's technical support line
- Provides excellent value for money considering its price tag
- Range of features included
- Well-made overall
Cons
- Storage compartments not waterproof
- Rudder lift mechanism can break after two years' use
- Hardware on seat can rust away due to saltwater exposure
- Perception doesn't stock many spare parts
- Replacement parts tend to be expensive
- Maintenance will likely need doing over time
- Finding replacements may prove difficult
- Locating the right parts can be tricky
- Third party sites may not have good diagrams or part numbers
- Replacing just the seat costs more than $200
Perception Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Stability
Features
Durability
Maintenance
Price
Support
#9 Runners Up
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak
Love the Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak?
- Constructed of UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene
- Multiple Footrest Positions for Different Size Riders
- Adjustable Padded Seat Back and Seat Pad for Comfort
- Stable Flat Bottom
- Front and Rear Shock Cord Straps
- Two Flush Mounted Fishing Rod Holders
- One Top Mount Fishing Rod Holder
- Two 6" Storage Compartments in Rear and Center
- Two Paddle Cradles with Shock Cords
- Front and Rear T-Handles for Easy Transport
- Deep Hull Tracking Channels
- Stability Chine Rails
- Durable High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Construction
- 5-Year Limited Warranty
. . .
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great choice for those looking to get out on the water and enjoy an adventure. It is lightweight, durable, and features adjustable seating, multiple footrest positions, built-in rod holders, and plenty of storage space. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising its comfort, stability, and ease of transport. It is an affordable and reliable recreational vessel for outdoor excursions.
Pros
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Multiple footrest positions and adjustable seating
- Built-in rod holders for angling
- Easy to transport
- Quick and easy assembly
- Stable even in choppy waters
- Plenty of storage space
- Affordable price
- Highly rated by customers
Cons
- No motor mount
- No paddle included
- No extra accessories included
- No rudder or tracking system
- Limited color options
- Seat may not be comfortable for those with larger frames
- Not suitable for extreme whitewater conditions
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak Rating
8.8
Durability
Stability
Storage
Comfort
Angling
Transport
#10 Runners Up
Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak
Love the Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak?
- Multi-chine flat bottom hull offers excellent stability
- Adjustable ERGOFIT G2 seating system with thicker ergonomic padding
- Unique manufacturing process allows for additional flotation
- Made with durable high molecular density polyethylene
- Lightweight at 10 ft and 50 lb
. . .
The Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak is an impressive and affordable watercraft that offers excellent features and performance. It is lightweight yet sturdy, and provides comfortable seating with adjustable padded backrest and molded footwells. It is great for fishing in all conditions, with two large cargo hatches, four bungee cords, and two rod holders mounted on either side. It also has a built in paddle holder for convenience.
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
- Stable enough for standing up and casting
- Excellent tracking
- Plenty of storage options
- Adjustable padded backrest
- Molded footwells
- Built in paddle holder
- Affordable
- Reliable fishing companion
- Exploring lakes and rivers
Cons
- Difficulty making tight turns
- Rods may slip out during transit or use
- Not suitable for extreme conditions
- Limited storage capacity
- Not suitable for long distance paddling
- Some assembly required
- Limited maneuverability
- May require additional accessories
Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak Rating
8.6
