2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (2024)

Whether you’re a shore-bound angler looking to reach new waters or a boat fisherman who recognizes a fishing kayak as an exciting way to get out on the water, there’s something in kayak fishing for just about anyone.

by OTW Staff

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Whether you’re a shore-bound angler getting into a kayak to reach new waters or a boat fisherman who recognizes a fishing kayak as an exciting way to get out on the water, there’s something in kayak fishing for just about anyone. Will you be fishing small ponds, open ocean, or both? Do you want to paddle or pedal? Do you value the stability of a stand-up platform or is a light and nimble hull more important to you? There are dozens of kayaks built specifically for fishing, and each one offers a unique combination of stability, size, speed, and fishing features. While there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to fishing kayaks, with all the different models available today, there’s a better chance than ever that you can find one to fit your fishing needs.

Which Fishing Kayak is Right for You?

The bottom line in choosing the best fishing kayak for your needs is that there is no one-size-fits all. Before you decide on purchasing a kayak for fishing, the most important thing you can do is to take stock of where and how you plan to do most of your kayaking and fishing. Identify your needs: Will you be fishing in freshwater ponds for largemouth bass? Navigating streams and rivers to catch smallmouth bass and trout? Poking around saltwater harbors, estuaries and flats for striped bass and bluefish? Or do you plan to venture out into the open ocean? Will you be trailering your kayak and launching from boat ramps? Or do you plan to launch from the beach through surf? Also, will this kayak be strictly a fishing vessel, or do you plan to use it for relaxation and recreation with your family?

Once you’ve thought about what you want from a fishing kayak, it’s time to select a handful that appear to match your desired criteria. At that point, try them all! Always demo a kayak before you buy it!

Before you can evaluate the fishing kayaks at your local paddlesport shop or marina, it’s helpful to understand some of the important characteristics of kayaks. Most fishing kayaks can be used for a variety of activities, but no one kayak excels at every activity. Choosing a kayak, like choosing a boat or a car, means mulling over a long list of specifications and deciding what features are “must-haves” and which ones are compromises. Once you understand your options, you can start down the path of choosing the right kayak for your intended purposes. These are some of the basics to consider before you buy your first, or next, fishing kayak.

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What Kind of Kayak is Best for Fishing?

Pedal kayaks have become very popular for fishing because they free up your arms for holding a fishing rod. There are several options in pedal-powered kayaks by Old Town, Native Watercraft, Hobie, Ocean Kayak, Pelican and others. Electric-motor-battery-powered kayaks are also becoming a popular option, including the e-bike-style pedal-assist Old Town ePDL. Paddle kayaks tend to be less expensive than pedal kayaks, and some anglers prefer the simplicity and lightweight of paddle kayaks. However, pedal-powered kayaks are the top choice of almost all avid kayak fishermen. Check out our guide on picking the best pedal-powered fishing kayak.

What’s the most stable fishing kayak?

Fishing kayaks are remarkably stable in comparison to touring or whitewater kayaks. In general, wider kayaks are more stable and can support more capacity, which is often advantageous when fishing. However, width is far from the only factor that affects stability. Hull design can have a big effect, so test a fishing kayak before buying.

Is a longer kayak better for fishing?

In general, the longer the kayak, the faster it will be and the more easily it will cover distances. The trade-off is a loss of maneuverability in tight spaces and difficulty in storing and transporting the kayak to launch sites. The ideal length of a fishing kayak is around 12 feet. Smaller anglers might prefer a shorter kayak, while saltwater anglers might prefer a kayak closer to 14 feet.

Can I stand up and fish from a kayak?

Extra-wide and stable fishing kayaks allow an angler to stand and fish. If you are a fly-fishermen, or if you enjoy sight-casting to fish in the shallows, stand-up capability might be very important to you in choosing a fishing kayak.

Do I need a fish finder on a kayak?

A fish finder can be very helpful when fishing from a kayak, but it isn’t necessary. It depends on what types of fishing you will be doing, and if knowing the depth and detecting fish under your kayak would be helpful.

What else should I consider when buying a fishing kayak?

Weight: Fishing kayaks can weigh up to and over 100 pounds. Consider your ability to transport and launch a kayak. If cartopping, you’ll need to consider the capacity of your roof rack. Heavier kayaks might require transport via pickup truck bed or on a kayak trailer. A heavy kayak might require a wheeled cart to move it down to the launch site.
Storage and Extras: Consider how much storage you’ll need on board your kayak. Will you be keeping fish? Is live-bait storage important to you? Will you be doing any kayak-camping? Many kayak fishermen use milk crate systems to store tackle and extra rods.
Seat: Less expensive kayaks have molded-in seats or basic removable seating pads. Most fishing kayaks are now offering adjustable “lawn chair” style seats with excellent back support. Test them out to see what you find comfortable.

Best Fishing Kayaks of 2024

Old Town Sportsman Fishing Kayaks

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Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132

Length: 13’ 2” | Width: 36” | Weight: 95 lbs. hull only | Capacity: 500 lbs. | Retail: $5,999

TheOld Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 is a power-assisted pedal drive that delivers unmatched adaptability. Similar to an E-bike, the patented ePDL+ propulsion system allows you to seamlessly switch between manual pedal, power-assisted pedal, or fully motorized cruise control, giving you the freedom to move on the water the way you want. Check out our video review of the Old Town Sportsman Bigwater ePDL+ 132.

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Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120/136

Length: 12’/13’6” | Width: 37”/37” | Weight: 152 lbs./158 lbs. (assembled) | Capacity: 558 lbs./660 lbs. | Retail: $4,499/$4,999

The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot motorized kayak leverages Minn Kota’s Spot-Lock technology, motoring you to your fishing location faster and holding your position over the hole. Command the kayak with a touch of your thumb using the Bluetooth-connected i-Pilot remote.

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Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132

Length: 13’ 2” | Width: 36” | Weight: 96 lbs. hull only | Capacity: 500 lbs. | Retail: $2,999

Get to your spot, then stay there without paddling, on the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 pedal kayak. With instant forward and reverse, maneuverability, and stability, you’ll enjoy precise boat control while your hands remain free to fish.

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Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota

Length: 10’6” | Width: 37” | Weight: 121 lbs. assembled | Capacity: 525 lbs. | Retail: $3,499

The Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota motorized kayak is simple and intuitive, getting you on the fish faster in a compact, low-profile kayak you can fit on your car top.

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Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120

Length: 12’ | Width: 34.5” | Weight: 104 lbs. assembled | Capacity: 450 lbs. | Retail: $2,599

If you fish and play in coastal areas, the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 pedal kayak is the craft for you. It’s fast, nimble, and has an aggressive bow that can slice through surf. Outfitted for fishing, it is also at home having fun in the waves. With instant forward and reverse, the award-winning PDL Drive is the most reliable and easy-to-use model on the market.

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Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 | 120

Length: 10’6’/12” | Width: 36”/36” | Weight: 107 lbs./116 lbs assembled | Capacity: 450 lbs./500 lbs. | Retail: $2,599/$2,899

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 pedal kayak provides hands-free fishing in a performance kayak that’s both nimble and stable. With instant forward and reverse, the award-winning PDL Drive is the most reliable and easy-to-use pedal drive on the market.

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Old Town Sportsman Discovery 119 Solo

Length: 11’9” | Width: 32.5” | Weight: 56 lbs. | Capacity: 354 lbs. | Retail: $1,299

Offering the simplicity and utility of a classic solo canoe with the agility and sleek handling of a kayak, the Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman hybrid canoe is a stable, lightweight craft that is easy to handle on and off the water. Enjoy unique features like tackle and rod storage, comfortable seating, and an accessory track on this grab-and-go canoe.

Bonafide Fishing Kayaks

Bonafide EX1232024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (10)

Length: 12’3″ | Width: 29.5″ | Weight: 67 lbs. w/seat | Capacity: 375 lbs. | Retail: $1,099

The “SUV of kayaks,” the Bonafide EX123 is a grab-and-go fishing kayak with a unique sit-inside design perfect for backwater honey holes. Whether it’s a quick after-work trip or a multi-day expedition, the EX123 is a stable, comfortable, and lightweight option.

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Bonafide RS117

Length: 11’7” | Width: 33.5” | Weight: 77 lbs. w/ seat | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $1,049

The Bonafide RS117 gives budget-conscious kayak anglers an authentically designed fishing kayak that’s made in the USA. With a hybrid catamaran hull, the RS117 is a very standable platform that offers an excellent combination of stability and paddling performance.

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Bonafide SS107/SS127

Length: 10’7″/12’7″ | Width: 34.5″/33.75″ | Weight: 84/94 lbs. rigged | Capacity: 425/475 lbs. | Retail: $1,399/$1,749

The compact Bonafide SS107 is a portable beast that boasts premium fishing features with a small footprint. The Bonafide SS127 “sit/stand” fishing kayak is designed for stability without sacrificing performance.

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Bonafide P127

Length: 12’7” | Width: 34” | Weight: 120 lbs. rigged | Capacity: 475 lbs. | Retail: $2,999

With its roots in the best-selling SS127, the new Bonafide P127 achieves ultimate fishability with a Propel pedal-drive system on a proven sit/stand fishing platform.

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Bonafide RVR 119

Length: 11’9” | Width: 35” | Weight: 85 lbs. | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $1,699

The all-new Bonafide RVR 119 is a river-specific kayak designed to access and fish hundreds of miles of overlooked rivers and creeks. The hull’s unique upturned bow and stern give it a rocker profile for moving upriver and a drop-down skeg aids in tracking.

Native Watercraft Fishing Kayaks

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Native Watercraft Slayer Propel MAX 12.5

Length: 12’6” | Width: 34” | Weight: 95 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 500 lbs. | Retail: $2,999

One of Native’s most popular designs, the Slayer Propel 13has been updated to the max with ultra-comfortable elevated seating, an extended rudder, more fishing storage, and electronics-ready recesses and mounts. The hands-free pedal drive goes easily from forward to reverse, and the rockered bow gets up and over chop.

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Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10

Length: 10’ | Width: 34.15” | 75 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $2,699

The Slayer Propel 10 will fit in the bed of a truck but has many of the features of its bigger sibling, the Slayer Max Propel 12.5. The Max 10 flawlessly combines features and size, making it kayak like no other on the market.

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Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10

Length: 10’ | Width: 34” | Weight: 62 lbs. (fitted) | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $2,299

The Slayer Propel 10 is a super-light pedal-drive fishing kayak. The armchair-comfortable seat, rock-solid stability, and clutter-free co*ckpit empowers even an xxl angler to stand and sight-cast or just relax and sip the beverage of the day. The rail-mount system means easy on-and-off for rod holders and purposely-positioned rails for mounting cameras.

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Native Watercraft Titan X Propel (10.5/12.5)

Length: 10’8”/12’8″ | Width: 37.5”/39″ | Weight: 115/138 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 475/500 lbs. | Retail: $3,249/$3,599

The NEW Native Watercraft Titan X Propel features innovative electronics and motorization integrations for easy installation, precision steering control, 360 PivotPro swivel seating, and unmatched stability.

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Native Watercraft Falcon 11

Length: 11’ | Width: 32.5” | Weight: 60 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 325 lbs. | Retail: $999

The Native Watercraft Falcon 11 is the ultimate grab-and-go paddle-fishing kayak. With solid stability, high/low seating, and electronics-ready features at an affordable price, it is tough to beat.

Pelican Fishing Kayaks

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Pelican Catch 110 HyDryve II

Length: 10’6” | Width: 34” | Weight: 78 lbs. | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $1,499

Pelican’s HyDryve system brings pedal-drive technology within reach of budget-minded anglers on this rudder-controlled fishing kayak. Made with RAM-X Premium, a multi-layer polyethylene with an advanced resin in the top layer imparting a glossy finish and providing significantly more rigidity than standard polyethylene, the Pelican Catch 110 HyDryve II remains light, stiff, strong, and easy to move.

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Pelican Catch 130 HyDryve II

Length: 12’6” | Width: 34” | Weight: 78 lbs. | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $1,699

The Pelican Catch 130 HyDryve II is a 12’6” rudder controlled fishing kayak that brings pedal drive technology within reach. This sit-on-top features adjustable pedals and foot straps to ensure a comfortable position and its tunnel hul provides exceptional stability on the water.

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Pelican Catch Classic 100

Length: 10’ | Width: 34” | Weight: 57 lbs. | Capacity: 350 lbs. | Retail: $479

The Pelican Catch Classic 100 features a tunnel hull for amazing stability, making it easy to stand in while casting. Well-planned-out accessories help keep everything conveniently stowed, yet it’s light enough for most people to carry and launch on their own. The Catch 100 is ideal for the smaller angler looking to access new waters.

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Pelican Catch PWR 100

Length: 9’9” | Width: 39.63” | Weight: 75 lbs. | Capacity: 450 lbs. | Retail: $1,249

The Pelican Catch PWR 100 fishing kayak is designed for more experienced anglers seeking the ultimate fishing experience. Its tunnel hull offers excellent stability, while the flat bottom provides the balance needed for casting and hauling in your catch with ease. You’ll enjoy the versatility of the Ergo360 seat, which sits on sliding rails and can rotate 360 degrees, allowing you to adjust your position as needed. This sit-on-top kayak also boasts a battery compartment with an 8″ hatch, side storage compartments, 4 recessed rod holders, and accessory eyelets. All features you’ll appreciate more and more with every fishing trip.

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Pelican Catch Mode 110TR

Length: 10’ 8” | Width: 34.5” | Weight: 67 lbs. | Capacity: 375 lbs. | Retail: $799

Built on a tunnel hull, the Pelican Catch Catch Mode 110TR is very stable and offers great maneuverability. Its wide and flat deck platform provides a large standing area and room for your fishing gear. This sit-on-top kayak also includes an anti-slip deck pads, an Ergoboost™ seating system and a storage platform with bungee cords to secure your gear. Also comes equipped with a stern outboard transom (rating 2.5HP).

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Pelican Getaway 110 HDII

Length: 10’ 5.5” | Width: 33” | Weight: 75 lbs. | Capacity: 300 lbs. | Retail: $1,149

Renowned for its exceptional versatility and stability, the Pelican Getaway 110 HDII recreational pedal kayak is a popular choice among experienced anglers for fishing outings.

Hobie Fishing Kayaks

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Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 360 Series (12/14)

Length: 12’/13’8” | Width: 36”/38” | Weight: 109.5 lbs./124.5 lbs. (rigged) | Capacity: 500 lbs./600 lbs. | Retail: $5,699/$5,899

With the MirageDrive 360, you can effortlessly spin and move the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 360 in every direction. Hobie’s Kick-Up Fins immediately retract on impact, so even shallow areas are now entirely navigable. It’s packed full of features, including rod holders and stain-resistant EVA padding.

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Hobie Mirage Lynx

Length: 11’ | Width: 36” | Weight: 47 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 350 lbs. | Retail: $3,299

The Hobie Mirage Lynx’s flat-bottom design provides confidence-inducing stability and ultimate maneuverability. Weighing in at only 47 lbs. and equipped with rear-loading skid pads, you can easily throw it on the roof of your car for uncomplicated transport.

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Hobie Mirage Passport 12 R

Length: 12” | Width: 34” | Weight: 83 lbs. rigged | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $1,999

With an all-new rotomolded hull construction, the Hobie Mirage Passport 12 R has a sleek aesthetic, delivering ultimate stability while still maintaining performance and speed on the water. It comes loaded with fish features including two rod holders, two accessory tracks, and gunnel tackle storage.

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Hobie Mirage Compass

Length: 12’ | Width: 34” | Weight: 87 lbs. (rigged) | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $2,799

The Hobie Mirage Compass combines a blissfully simple hull with Hobie’s new MirageDrive 180 pedal system and Kick-Up fins. Outfitted with a breathable mesh seat, the Compass offers maximum stability, an oversized co*ckpit, and a flat deck for standing. Fishing features include molded-in rod holders, H-Track accessory mounts, and a transducer cavity.

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Hobie Mirage iTrek (9/11)

Length: 9’5”/10’8” | Width: 40”/40” | Weight: 20 lbs./28 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 350 lbs./400 lbs. | Retail: $2,599/$2,979

High-performance lightweight construction boosts the speed, stability, and tracking of this rigid kayak without the extra weight. The Hobie Mirage iTrek features a rugged inflatable dropstitch hull with triple-chamber construction and it packs away in a roller duffle bag. Powered by the MirageDrive GT with Kick-Up fins and integrated rudder for dual steering, the iTrek 11 is fun, nimble, and lightning-fast.

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Hobie Mirage Outback

Length: 12’9” | Width: 34” | Weight: 85 lbs. (fitted) | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $3,699

The Hobie Outback is a fully-loaded fishing machine built for every conceivable fishing expedition. The extra-wide standing deck offers an improved casting platform and convenient vantage point for sight- fishing, while the new seat design provides extra width for unmatched comfort. It’s powered by MirageDrive 180 with Kick-Up turbo fins.

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Hobie Mirage Revolution (11/13)

Length: 11’6”/13’5” | Width: 29”/28.5” | Weight: 64/70 lbs. fitted | Capacity: 275/350 lbs. | Retail: $3,149/$3,399

This offshore-capable hull is designed for quick moves and chasing down schools of fish, making the Hobie Mirage Revolution one of the most popular kayaks among striped bass fishermen. The Vantage CT seat allows for comfortable all-day fishing, and the MirageDrive180 with Kick-Up fins allows full-power reverse propulsion.

Hurricane Fishing Kayaks

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Hurricane Skimmer 116 First Class

Length: 11’6” | Width: 30.5” | Weight: 43 lbs. rigged | Capacity: 300 lbs. | Retail: $1,449

The popular Skimmer 116, Hurricane’s lightest sit-on-top model, has been paired with Native’s First Class frame seat. The result is a extra stable, super comfy platform for fishing and cruising. Best of all, the Hurricane Skimmer 116 First Class weighs only 43 pounds with the seat installed.

Jackson Fishing Kayaks

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Jackson Bite FD

Length: 11’6” | Width: 35” | Weight: 82 lbs. (hull only) | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $2,849

The Jackson Bite FD is an affordable pedal-kayak that doesn’t cut corners. It performs well whether paddling or standing, and the open-concept deck allows for ample storage with a system of touring-style bungie cords.

Perception Fishing Kayaks

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Perception Outlaw 11.5

Length: 11’ 6″ | Width: 35” | Weight: 77 lbs. | Capacity: 425 lbs. | Retail: $929

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 boasts a wide-open deck, an expansive standing platform, elevated seating, and intuitive features throughout, proving that a unique angling platform doesn’t need to break the bank. The Outlaw also integrates industry-firsts, including a stowaway seat for complete deck walkability and up to a 35L cooler space. 2 double-barrel rod holders offer the ultimate multi-rod setup. The elevated seating allows for a high fishing vantage point, and the ergonomic and comfortable seat extends time on the water and transitions easily from sitting to standing. With several unique attachment points and room to accessorize, rigging has never been easier.

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Pescador 10.0

Length: 10’ 6″ | Width: 32” | Weight: 52 lbs. | Capacity: 325 lbs. | Retail: $679

The Pescador series of sit-on-top kayaks are designed to be the best all-around boat for the money. They offer unmatched stability, speed, and straight-tracking performance, making it fun for even new paddlers to explore lakes, ponds, and flat-water rivers. The Pescador 10.0 fishing kayak is ready to fish right out of the box and has multiple features, including spacious open storage, covered dry storage, and 2 rod holders. Multiple gear tracks and solo mount recesses make it easy to add accessories.

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Pescador 12.0

Length: 12′ | Width: 32.5” | Weight: 60 lbs. | Capacity: 375 lbs. | Retail: $849

The Pescador 12.0 fishing kayak’s versatility makes it popular for both recreational paddlers and anglers. Extreme stability ensures a drier ride that’s easier to get in and out of. The 375 lb capacity rating packed into a 12′ kayak means plenty of room for you and your gear. Compared to its shorter sibling, the longer length adds speed, storage, and stability. Multiple storage options, fish-ready features, and an incredibly comfortable seat keep you on the water for longer.

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Pescador Pilot 12.0

Length: 12’ 5″ | Width: 33.5” | Weight: 93 lbs. | Capacity: 475 lbs. | Retail: $2,249

The Perception Pescador Pilot 12.0’s superior stability and fishing performance make it the ultimate boat for paddlers of all abilities. The Pilot Drive propeller system effortlessly propels the boat, even in reverse, while leaving both hands free. The spacious, sit-on-top design with generous storage and accessory mounts make the kayak easy to customize. Superior stability even allows anglers to cast from a standing position.

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Pescador Pro 10.0

Length: 10’ 6″ | Width: 32” | Weight: 62 lbs. | Capacity: 325 lbs. | Retail: $919

The Perception Pescador Pro kayak series leads the pack with serious fishing performance, stability, and comfort. The sit-on-top design offers generous storage and accessory mount options that make outfitting the boat for all-day excursions easy. The removable and adjustable camp chair is the most comfortable seat on any fishing kayak. The shorter length and lighter weight of the Pescador Pro 10 increase maneuverability and ease of transport, allowing you to fish in quiet waters beyond the reach of other boaters.

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Pescador Pro 12.0

Length: 12’ | Width: 32.5” | Weight: 64 lbs. | Capacity: 375 lbs. | Retail: $1,099

The Perception Pescador Pro kayak series leads the pack with serious fishing performance, stability, and comfort. The sit-on-top design offers generous storage and accessory mount options that make outfitting the boat for all-day excursions easy. The removable and adjustable camp chair is the most comfortable seat on any fishing kayak. The shorter length and lighter weight of the Pescador Pro 12.0 increase maneuverability and ease of transport, allowing you to fish in quiet waters beyond the reach of other boaters.

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Perception Showdown 11.5

Length: 11’ 6″ | Width: 36” | Weight: 110 lbs. | Capacity: 450 lbs. | Retail: $2,249

Propel your fishing to the next level with the pedal-powered evolution of the Outlaw — the Perception Showdown 11.5 pedal kayak. Developed to excel on lakes, rivers, and quiet coasts, the modernized Showdown pedal drive kayak boasts many impressive premium features. An elevated framed mesh seat provides a greater line of sight and promotes airflow to keep you cool and comfortable no matter how long you’re on the water. Silent traction pads provide added grip for stability while dampening sound for fishing. Generous storage and accessory mounts ensure your gear remains safe, secure, and organized while allowing you to enjoy hands-free fishing.

Sea Eagle Inflatable Fishing Kayaks

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Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer

Length: 11’6” | Width: 39” | Weight: 51 lbs. | Capacity: 575 lbs. | Retail: $1,099

Designed by and for avid fishermen, this inflatable kayak features nearly indestructible 2000 denier reinforced protective layers, 6 built-in rod holders, and a fully adjustable foot brace. The Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer offers a max load capacity of 635 pounds and is completely self-bailing.

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Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler

Length: 12’6” | Width: 36” | Weight: 45 lbs. | Capacity: 635 lbs. | Retail: $1,199

The Sea Eagle FastTrack Angler is a rugged fishing kayak you can take wherever the fishing is happening. The patented, state-of-the-art, external, rigid, inflatable NeedleKnife™ Keel makes for a faster, smoother paddling experience. The sharper, narrower, tapered bow allows for faster entry through wind, waves, and current.

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Sea Eagle FishSUP 126

Length: 12’6” | Width: 40” | Weight: 45 lbs. | Capacity: 500 lbs. | Retail: $999

This incredibly stable, bow-to-stern tapered, swallowtail inflatable stand-up paddleboard is designed specifically for anglers. The Sea Eagle FishSUP‘s removable transom gives you the ability to run it with an electric motor. It stows in your car trunk and sets up in under 10 minutes.

3 Waters Fishing Kayaks

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3 Waters Kayaks Big Fish V2 105 | 120

Length: 10’5”/12′ | Width: 33’5”/35 | Weight: 89 lbs./100 lbs | Capacity: 380 lbs/400 | Retail: $849/$949

3 Waters Kayaks Big Fish 120 V2 offers all the features you expect from a high-dollar kayak at an affordable price. It’s designed with a focus on stability due to its cathedral tri-hull. The Big Fish 105 V2 offers all the same features in a 10-foot version.

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3 Waters Kayaks Big Fish 103 | 108

Length: 10’6” / 11’ | Width: 35” / 38” | Weight: 110 / 135 lbs. (without seat and drive) | Capacity: 397 lbs / 450 lbs. | Retail: $1,799 / $1,899

The Big Fish 103 and 108 were specially designed to accommodate thePro Fish pedal drive for hands-free propulsion. 3 Waters’ cathedral trimaran hull design provides stability for fishing or pedaling with friends and family.

Wilderness Systems Fishing Kayaks

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Wilderness Systems iA.T.A.K. 110

Length: 11′ | Width: 38” | Weight: 50 lbs. | Capacity: 400 lbs. | Retail: $1,399

The Wilderness Systems iA.T.A.K. 110 inflatable fishing kayak has the rigidity of a hardshell kayak, integrated with patented fishbone technology, optimizing speed and tracking to get to your fishing spot. With the aluminum accessory rail and integrated Scotty mounts you can place your fishing accessories at easy reach. When the day is done, roll up into the included backpack for easy transport and storage.

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Wilderness Systems Recon 120 with AirPro ACES seat

Length: 12’ | Width: 38” | Weight: 101.4 lbs. | Capacity: 450 lbs. Retail: $1,409

The Recon 120 with AirPro ACES seat is a factory-loaded boat that you can rig your way. The all-new AirPro ACE seat features a one-handed lever for adjusting the trim on the fly. Now available in New Desert Sunset Color, the Recon 120 has a fully customizable open platform, a lineup of revolutionary new features, and the freedom to choose your preferred mode of propulsion – paddle, pedal, or power. Recon pedal drive is sold separately.

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Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD with AirPro ACES seat

Length: 12’ | Width: 38” | Weight: 122 lbs. | Capacity: 450 lbs. Retail: $2,819

The Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD with AirPro ACES seat is a confidence-inspiring fishing machine for both the novice and expert, the Recon is a factory-loaded boat that you can rig your way. The all-new AirPro ACE seat features a one-handed lever for adjusting the trim on the fly. Now available in New Desert Sunset Color, the Recon 120 HD boasts a fully customizable open platform, a lineup of revolutionary new features, and the freedom to choose the preferred mode of propulsion – paddle, pedal, or power.

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (50)

Wilderness Systems Radar 115

Length: 11’ 8″ | Width: 34.5” | Weight: 85 lbs. | Capacity: 450 lbs. Retail: $1,559

The Wilderness Systems Radar 115 features S.M.A.R.T. hull technology that combines Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness and Tracking throughout the entire design for ultimate performance in multiple water environments. In addition to a flat platform for standing and freedom of movement, the Radar 115 fishing kayak boasts state-of-the-art outfitting, including expansive SlideTrax™ rails, many storage opportunities, and rudder steering. The Flexpod provides easy access to mount fish finders, and the Helix PD™ Pedal Drive* is easily deployed from the integrated scupper pod. The AirPro Max complements the package with optimized positioning for any mode of travel.

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Wilderness Systems Radar 135

Length: 13’ 6″ | Width: 33.5” | Weight: 90 lbs. | Capacity: 475 lbs. Retail: $1,719

The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 features S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology that combines Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness and Tracking throughout the entire design for ultimate performance in multiple water environments. In addition to a flat platform for standing and freedom of movement, the Radar boasts state-of-the-art outfitting, including expansive SlideTrax™ rails, many storage opportunities, and rudder steering. The Flexpod provides easy access to mount fish finders and the Helix PD™ Pedal Drive* is easily deployed from the integrated Scupper pod.The AirPro MAX complements the package with optimized positioning for any mode of travel.

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (52)

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105

Length: 10’ 6″ | Width: 32” | Weight: 57.5 lbs. | Capacity: 325 lbs. Retail: $1,119.00

The comfort, stability, speed, and paddler interface that make the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 the most versatile boat in the Wilderness Systems lineup. It’s at home on rivers, lakes, and oceans alike. Every detail of the Tarpon fishing kayak is carefully crafted and executed flawlessly to provide boundless paddling perfection. The new Forest Green Color along with a new design blends celebrated legacy design elements with a re-imagined modern flair, offering dynamic on-water performance with enhanced agility and unmatched stability. Plus, innovative features elevate the overall paddler’s experience. The renowned Phase 3® AirPro seating system offers easy 3-point adjustability, while plush honeycomb-vented fabric and ergonomic 3D foam provide maximum airflow, comfort, and support. The Tarpon also features the DryTec Case, an integrated dry box, to safely store your valuables, the MagnaTec magnetic water bottle holder, and flexible mounting options with accessory integrations, all included as standard with the boat. A protective and replaceable skid plate, comfortable rigid carry handles, industry-leading storage capabilities, and thoughtful and configurable deck bungee rigging round out a robust list of attributes that make the Tarpon truly exceptional.

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (53)

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120

Length: 12’ 3″ | Width: 31” | Weight: 64.5 lbs. | Capacity: 350 lbs. Retail: $1,229

The comfort, stability, speed, and paddler interface that make the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 the most versatile boat in the Wilderness Systems lineup. It’s at home on rivers, lakes, and oceans alike. Every detail of the Tarpon fishing kayak is carefully crafted and executed flawlessly to provide boundless paddling perfection. The new Forest Green Color along with a new design blends celebrated legacy design elements with a re-imagined modern flair, offering dynamic on-water performance with enhanced agility and unmatched stability. Plus, innovative features elevate the overall paddler’s experience. The renowned Phase 3® AirPro seating system offers easy 3-point adjustability, while plush honeycomb-vented fabric and ergonomic 3D foam provide maximum airflow, comfort, and support. The Tarpon also features the DryTec Case, an integrated dry box, to safely store your valuables, the MagnaTec magnetic water bottle holder, and flexible mounting options with accessory integrations, all included as standard with the boat. A protective and replaceable skid plate, comfortable rigid carry handles, industry-leading storage capabilities, and thoughtful and configurable deck bungee rigging round out a robust list of attributes that make the Tarpon truly exceptional.

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (54)

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140

Length: 14′ | Width: 28” | Weight: 68 lbs. | Capacity: 375 lbs. Retail: $1,319.00

The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 is a perfectly balanced performance sit-on-top kayak that is designed to handle a variety of paddling environments. The revered Tarpon is engineered with a unique hull flare that allows for unparalleled stability and tracking while still maintaining speed and responsive handling. The ergonomically designed Phase 3® AirPro Seating system offers quick and easy back and leg support, making the Tarpon the most Comfortable sit-on-top kayak on the market.

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (55)

Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120

Length: 12′ 3″ | Width: 35” | Weight: 89.5 lbs. | Capacity: 400 lbs. Retail: $1729.00

The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 boasts all the core attributes of a premium fishing kayak: an open customizable platform, unmatched stability, and a wind-shedding deck, with additional specialized performance features. The new and improved rocker allows for better movement through water currents, and a secondary transducer scupper has been added to accommodate electronic devices, including side-scanning technologies. Additionally, the AirPro MAX seat comes with a quick-release cam lever that enables you to adjust its position seamlessly.

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Check out our video series, Kayak Fishing The Coast!

2024 Fishing Kayak Buyer's Guide - On The Water (2024)
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