Best Of
Kayaking
Updated: February, 2025
Top 10 Best Sit On Top Kayaks 2025
Are you looking for the perfect Sit On Top Keyak for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll be comparing the top rated Sit On Top Keyaks and discussing their features, pros and cons. From the lightweight and versatile to the heavy-duty and durable, we'll help you find the best kayak for your individual needs. So, let's get started!
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#1 Platinum Award
Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak
Love the Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak?
- Multi chine flat bottom hull for stability
- Measures 9'6"" and weighs 44 lb for easy transport and storage
- Made using patented Ram-X materials for durability
- Comes with ExoPak removable storage compartment
- Additional flotation inside the hull to meet or surpass ABYC Standards
- Maximum capacity of 275 lb
. . .
The Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak is a great choice for outdoor exploration, offering a balance of stability, maneuverability and portability. It is lightweight and tracks straight across open water, and is comfortable to use thanks to adjustable foot pegs and a comfortable seating position. It is an affordable option for those just getting into kayaking, and is suitable for calmer waters such as lakes or bays. It is also great for taking furry friends along too.
Pros
- Excellent balance of stability, maneuverability, and portability in a lightweight package
- Adjustable foot pegs and comfortable seating position
- Tracks straight across open water
- Glides quickly through the water without too much effort
- Affordable price point
- Excellent comfort levels
- Moves decently despite being relatively lightweight
- Great for leisurely exploration
- Light weight makes transporting easy
- Offers enough stability for even novice users
Cons
- Seat sits in a non-draining well
- Molded areas of the deck that capture and retain water
- Inadequate seatback providing little support
- Low freeboard height
- Grip points could be improved
Pelican Sentinel 100X Kayak Rating
9
Stability
Maneuverability
Portability
Tracking
Comfort
Price
#2 Gold Award
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
#3 Silver Award
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
#4 Bronze Award
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
#5 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
#6 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
Stability
Tracking
Storage
Comfort
Price
Durability
#7 Runners Up
Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak
Love the Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak?
- Built in Padded CRS + UltraLite Seat
- Rear Tankwell with Cargo Net Lacing for Storage
- Storage Hatch for Added Storage Beneath the Deck
- Molded-In Paddle Keepers and Side Carry Handles
- Molded-In Freedom Footwells for Comfort and Secure Foot Bracing
- Self-Bailing Scupper Holes to Drain Water from the Cockpit and Tankwell
- Front and Rear Handles for Easy Transport
- Hull Design Provides Ultra Stability and Great Tracking
- UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene Construction
- Lightweight 45 lb. Design
. . .
The Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak is an affordable and lightweight kayak with great tracking capabilities and stability, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. It features a comfortable backrest, a dry hatch storage compartment, and plenty of room for additional gear. The only downside is that tracking in a straight line can be difficult due to scupper holes underneath the seat, but with some practice this should not be a problem.
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Wide range of features
- Great customer service
- Secure
- User friendly interface
- Compatible with many devices
- Fast loading times
- Regular updates
Cons
- Limited customization options
- No free trial available
- Lack of advanced features
- Occasional bugs
- Expensive add-ons
- Incompatible with some devices
- Slow loading times
- Outdated design
- Poor customer service
- Security concerns
Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak Rating
8.6
Quality
Price
Design
Durability
Ease of Use
Support
#8 Runners Up
Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak
Love the Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak?
- Two-person design with stability
- Configurable for solo paddler
- Product dimensions – 162” L x 34” W
- Deck height – 15.5”
- Weight – 78 lbs.
- Weight limit – 550 lbs.
- Scuppers – 6
- One-piece rotational-molded kayak
- Paddles not included
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Can be used on lakes, ocean bays, light surf or slow moving rivers
- Large rear open storage for cooler and other gear
- Mold-in center seat for the kids or dog
- High performance kayak paddle
- Thick aluminum and rugged plastic construction
- Two-piece breakdown design for storage and transport
- Asymmetrical spoon-blades for increased stroke efficiency
. . .
The Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak is an excellent choice for recreational use, with features such as a third middle seat, comfortable ergonomics, and sturdy construction. It is lightweight enough to be transported by one person, but may require additional assistance due to its weight. It is easy to maneuver and tracks well through choppy waters, and is perfect for families looking for a budget-friendly outdoor activity.
Pros
- Durable and stable
- Comfortable ergonomics
- Third middle seat for extra seating capacity
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Good performance in choppy waters
- Easy to maneuver
- Affordable price point
- Great for families
- Can accommodate larger riders
- Perfect for recreational use
Cons
- Limited storage space
- Additional assistance required when loading/unloading
- Longer paddles recommended for solo use
- Heavyweight
- Modification may be required for additional storage solutions
- Not suitable for long-distance trips
- Not suitable for whitewater or rough waters
- Can be difficult to turn
- Can be difficult to paddle in windy conditions
- Can be difficult to paddle in shallow waters
Perception Rambler Tandem Kayak Rating
9
Durability
Stability
Ergonomics
Weight
Storage
Tracking
#9 Runners Up
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak
Love the BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak?
- Extra space to fit 3 people
- Fully loaded accessories
- Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material
- Built-in fishing rod holders
- Water resistant storage
. . .
The BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak is a great choice for those looking to get out on the water with friends and family. It is constructed from durable materials and has a hull design optimized for stability in both calm and choppy waters. It comes with multiple storage compartments, a wheeled cart system for easy transportation, adjustable foot braces, and a trimaran style hull shape for excellent maneuverability. All in all, it is a reliable and budget-friendly tandem fishing kayak that is worth considering.
Pros
- Constructed from durable materials
- Hull design optimized for stability
- Multiple storage compartments
- Weighs under 90 pounds when fully loaded
- Comes with wheeled cart for easy transportation
- Lightweight construction and built-in handles for easy launching and retrieving
- Excellent maneuverability
- Adjustable foot braces for optimal seating
- Reliable and won't break the budget
- Plenty of space onboard
Cons
- Not suitable for solo use
- Not as fast as some other models
- Not as much storage space as some other models
- Can be difficult to transport on smaller vehicles
- Not ideal for larger bodies of water
- May require additional accessories for optimal performance
- May require some assembly
- Can be difficult to maneuver in strong winds
- May require additional maintenance
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak Rating
8.2
Durability
Stability
Storage
Transport
Maneuverability
Comfort
- Constructed of UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Versatile Design Allows for Solo or Tandem Paddling
- Two Adjustable Quick Release Seat Backs for Comfort
- Multiple Footrest Positions for Different Size Paddlers
- One Hatch for Added Storage Beneath the Deck
. . .
The Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the great outdoors on a budget. Constructed of durable polyethylene and featuring a wide 36” hull, it can easily accommodate two adults or one adult with a child and all their gear. Weighing in at 77 pounds, it may be challenging to transport alone but two people should have no problem. It has quality craftsmanship, cup holders for each seat, storage compartments, and is maneuverable even when rowing solo. It is also stable out on open waters and can handle just about anything thrown at it without fear of tipping over.
Pros
- Constructed of durable polyethylene
- Generous weight capacity of 425 pounds
- Good maneuverability even when rowing solo
- Stable out on open waters
- Cup holders for each seat
- Storage compartments underneath both seats
- Affordable
- Reliable
- Ample storage options
- Sturdy vessel
Cons
- Challenging to transport alone
- Lack of cushioning in the seating area
- Storage compartments not blocked off
- Not suitable for long excursions without extra padding
- Two rowers needed to increase speed significantly
Kokanee Sit-On-Top Kayak Rating
8.4
