Beginners Guide to Finding the Best Fishing Kayak On The Market

It’s likely that you are searching for the right kayak for your specific needs. Even though it seems that all kayaks work the same. Today the most popular models are the sit-on-top design. 2015 Hobie PA 14 Fishing rigged

You also have to remember that as a beginner, choosing the right kayak can sometimes become a challenge since there are so many different types of boats and boards currently on the market.

Acting on the bug to go exploring and fishing on lightweight human powered boats will keep you looking forward to weekends and vacations for many years to come.

The lesser expensive models are paddle powered. The more expensive top of the line kayaks are foot peddle powered by your legs keeping your hands free for casting.

Some canoe style kayaks come with a flat back ready to accept a small 2.5 horsepower (electric equivalent) motor.

nucanoe 2 person fishing canoe style kayak

Do remember that kayak fishing technology is relatively new but the kayaks that can be used in order to hunt and fish have been around for quite a long time.

The Nucanoe pictured above is designed after ancient solid wood canoes hollowed out of a single log.  There are a few things that you should look for when shopping for the best boat for you.

  • Where the kayak is going to be placed
  • The number of people who will ride the kayak
  • The type of activities that will be done with the kayak

Aside from the things mentioned above, it’s highly important for people to understand that the cost and the quality of the kayaks that may be purchased matter a lot. Here are some of the kayaks that you may be interested in knowing more about.

Before you continue on with the rest of our kayak reviews if you are looking for the absolute best here are the all time top 3 kayaks.

Hobie Pro Angler 14  – Pros: This is a dream on the water, can hold 650 pounds, holds resale value well. Cons: Very heavy and very expensive. If you have a strong back and will not be dragging to remote places this boat might be the one.

2015 Hobie Outback with Vantage seat – Pros: Lighter than the PA 14, 2015 and newer model years have the upgraded Vantage seating.  Cons: still pretty darn expensive but a great value that will last for many years. This is the number one pick by many of the pros who run off shore from the beach.

Nucanoe rigged with two 360 degree seats – Pros: more versatile can be rigged a million different ways, great for families can hold 2 adults and kids, ready to accept a 2.5 HP motor if paddling is not your thing. There is even a propane powered outboard you can get for this baby.  Cons: No foot pedal system,  rigging accessories can get expensive. This is the best family fishing kayak.

 

  1. Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/Ocean-Kayak-Prowler-Angler-Fishing/dp/B00CG4VRQY/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433682045&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Ocean+Kayak+Prowler+Trident+11T+Angler+Fishing+Kayak

The fact that this is an angler kayak makes it one of the best kayaks that can be used for fishing. Its availability and quality has made it one of the best choices of people who would like to purchase their fishing kayak at the soonest possible time. This is priced around $918.

Pros:

  • Storage – It can be highly important for the kayak to have storage, especially if there are a lot of items that would need to be placed. The storage can be helpful in protecting gears as well.
  • Tracking – If you would like to stay on course and make sure that you will not have trouble navigating, this raft can make it easy.
  • Stable – It can be a bit of a problem for people to become stable in the things that they are doing.

Cons:

  • Narrow – Although there are some people who are highly fond of the narrowed kayak, you might not like it that much if you know that it will be hard for you to move back and forth.

This is a great kayak for those looking to purchase one. It has many features, though some may find it too narrow.

  1. Emotion Renegade XT Angler Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/Emotion-Renegade-XT-Angler-Kayak/dp/B00E9WNYL2/ref=pd_sim_sbs_468_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=18T2MZ5CBND0CA9CXNA1

Would you like to stay stable while you’re moving from place to place? This is truly the right kayak for you since it will allow you to move around whether you are alone or whether you are with another person who will also paddle with you. This is priced around $548.

Pros:

  • Weight limit – Although the weight limit of this product is still smaller in comparison to the weight limit of other products, this can easily carry two light people or one person with some cargo.
  • Width – There are a lot of people who are searching for wide kayaks because they would like the ability to stay comfortable while inside the kayak.
  • Highly stable – For those who worry that it can be a bit complicated to try to balance with the use of this kayak, they will surely be mistaken because this is one stable kayak.

Cons:

  • Hard tracking – There may be other tools that are needed to ensure that the tracking of this kayak will still be stable.

This is a kayak well worth buying, however some may require better tracking.

  1. Perception Pescador 10.0 Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/Perception-Pescador-10-0-Kayak/dp/B00OK8UN7I/ref=pd_sim_sbs_468_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=18T2MZ5CBND0CA9CXNA1

If high performance is one of the main things that you’re searching for when it comes to kayaks then this is the right product for you. This is a kayak that can be used by both beginners and even complete novices. This can accommodate people correctly as well and is priced around $505.

Pros:

  • Paddle easily – For those who are wondering if they would ever get to learn how to kayak with the use of the paddle, this is very easy to use.
  • Seating system – Unlike other kayaks wherein people usually feel sore afterwards because of the uncomfortable seats, the seats of this kayak are highly comfortable.
  • Anti-skid – If you fear that you might drag this accidentally against a hard surface, this will not be a problem at all because of the anti skid system of the kayak.

Cons:

  • Narrow – If you are fond of wide kayaks, this may not be the right product for you.

This is one of the best kayaks for those completely new to the sport. However, some people may find this kayak too narrow. It is still good value for money.

  1. Wilderness Systems Tarpons 120 Angler Kayak 2015

http://www.amazon.com/WILDERNESS-SYSTEMS-Tarpon-Angler-CAMOUFLAGE/dp/B00NG3V5FW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433683228&sr=8-1&keywords=Wilderness+Systems+Tarpon+120+Sit-On-Top+Kayak

Making the right choice is much easier once you get ahold of Wilderness Systems tarpons 120 Angler Kayak 2015. This has a lot of great features that you will be able to use without much problem. The price is relatively expensive at around $1105.

Pros:

  • Proper storage – The great thing about this is that the storage will allow items to be placed on the kayak.
  • Ready for rudder – If in case you would like to place a rudder at the soonest possible time, this may be great too.
  • Instant paddle – If you’re tired of paddling, this has a feature that will allow paddling to be done at the soonest possible time.

Cons:

  • Small – This is surely something that cannot be used by more than one person.

If you need a kayak for just one person then this may be the product for you. It is expensive but it has many great features that can be easily used.

  1. Old Town Predator 13 Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EZ002UY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EZ002UY&linkCode=as2&tag=kayakcritic-20&linkId=OSLJI6L5XRJIKYOC

Do you want to see the new predator? The great thing about this stable kayak is nobody is going to worry about falling off as it’s highly stable. It’s priced around $1400.

Pros:

  • Rock steady – When it comes to stability, people can be sure that they will not move at all unless they are told.
  • Strong – There is a need for the kayak to be strong especially against small to medium sized waves.
  • Exo ridge tank – This will make sure that all of the things that would need to be placed will be put there.

Based on the things that are mentioned above, it is highly important for people to choose the right kayak for them because this can make or break the condition of the beginners. This kayak is expensive but is extremely safe due to its strong build.

Summary

Based on the things that are mentioned above, it may be hard to choose the right product but the best one is the Hobie Mirage Revolution 13 because it is far different from the others. The second best one is the Old Town Predator 13 Kayak and lastly, the Perception Pescador 10.0 which is easy to use makes it the third best kayak.

More Advanced Choices for the Best Fishing Kayaks

Kayaking is fun, but going fishing from a kayak can be even more engaging. Most people assume that you need a large boat in order to catch fish, but that’s not the case at all. It’s definitely possible to catch fish and even set crab or shrimp pots from the side of your small watercraft. If you’re a fish aficionado who wants a more portable way to get out on the water without all the hassle of trailering a big boat, a kayak might be for you. However, when you try to search for fishing kayaks to buy, you probably feel overwhelmed with the many selections that are available. Fortunately, this article has compiled some of the best fishing kayaks available to meet your needs.

There are a lot of considerations that you have to think about when you start your search. For instance, you have to consider if you would like to sit inside the kayak or you would rather sit on top of the kayak. Sitting atop the kayak is generally easier for maneuvering in fishing, but it doesn’t keep you as protected. You’ll also want to consider your price and what the local climate is in your area. If it’s colder, sitting inside the boat will definitely be more comfortable. Keep these things in mind and check out your choices below.

Hobie Mirage Revolution 13

http://www.amazon.com/Hobie-Mirage-Revolution-Single-Papaya/dp/B003SO5MOE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433686162&sr=8-1&keywords=1.%09Hobie+Mirage+Revolution+13

The Hobie Mirage Revolution 13 comes in five bright and fun colors and costs about $2,300. It features the brand’s MirageDrive technology for easy maneuverability, space to mount a sail, two mesh stowage pockets, two molded fishing rod holders, and a two-piece paddle with on-hull storage.

Pros

  • Weather-Resistant– Can be used even when windy. There’s a chance that you will be using this type of kayak in not-so-stable weather conditions. You can be sure that you will stay afloat and not capsize with the use of this product.
  • Fast– If you would like to get to your destination at the soonest possible time, this is the right kayak to consider.
  • Mirage Drive– The fact that your legs can be used instead of your arms to propel the boat makes this kayak very easy to maneuver in the water.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • It’s very easy for you to get wet in this kayak, which may make you uncomfortable

The Hobie Mirage is one of the best kayaks you can choose because of the features it offers. Aside from the fact that it is able to accelerate quickly, it does not take much effort to make it move around. Plus, it has plenty of space to store all your fishing gear. The MirageDrive feature is really great because it allows you to keep your hands free to hold your rod while you move the boat around.

Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/Ocean-Kayak-Prowler-Angler-Fishing/dp/B00CG4VRQY/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433682045&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Ocean+Kayak+Prowler+Trident+11T+Angler+Fishing+Kayak

This model is designed specifically for fishing with a fast, stable, and quiet performance hull that can handle calm and rough waters. There’s a large front hatch with easy access to internal storage compartments. You can store several rods in it as well. To further enhance fishing abilities, there are two rod holders, two cup holders, self-draining scuppers, and a large back tank to hold tackle boxes. This kayak costs about $920.

Pros

  • Stable – If you are searching for a kayak with which you can easily stand up and sit down as you please, this may be the right kayak for you. Making a lot of movement is possible with this kayak because it’s so stable.
  • Comes with accessible storage – If you know you need to bring a lot of items in order to fish well, this will be the right kayak for extra gear.
  • Great Tracking – If you are not that good at kayaking and paddling yet, you can be sure that this is one kayak that will keep you on track so that you can get to your destination without much effort.

Cons

  • Narrow – Although it can be easy to navigate waters with the use of this kayak, it’s not always that comfortable because it does not have a lot of leg room.

This product is praised for its stability and tracking; some customers report that they haven’t owned a kayak that’s easier to steer. It’s very stable as well, so it’s good for a beginner who might be a little unsure of his or her bearings operating a kayak. It’s definitely too narrow for larger people to remain comfortable in, but the pricing is excellent, so it’s a good budget option overall.

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 Angler Kayak 2015

http://www.amazon.com/WILDERNESS-SYSTEMS-Tarpon-Angler-CAMOUFLAGE/dp/B00NG3V5FW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433683228&sr=8-1&keywords=Wilderness+Systems+Tarpon+120+Sit-On-Top+Kayak

This kayak comes equipped with a Phase 3 AirPro seat that provides back stability, ventilation, and drainage without limiting your stroke. There are various hatches on the front and sides for tackle storage as well as several Yak Attack branded rod holders mounted around the boat. Padded handles come standard for ease in carrying. This kayak is priced at a little over $1,100.

Pros:

  • Paddle Park Bungee – If you feel that you need to rest because you are already tired of paddling, this feature of the kayak will let you do just that but keep moving.
  • Rudder Ready – Want to improve how well you can steer this model or glide it through the water? You can attach an optional rudder.
  • Comes with Gear Storage Pockets – Keep every last piece of your fishing tackle nearby and easily accessible. This will help you out tremendously.

Con:

  • Can be a bit Uncomfortable – There is a chance that people will feel a bit uncomfortable when they are riding the kayak because it is smaller than other kayaks available.

Overall, this is a great kayak with a particularly sporty appearance. It tracks extremely well and is easy to steer even without the optional rudder attached. Customers also tout the great storage all around, and they love how they can keep all their things dry. You’ll love that it comes with rod holders already mounted, but the downside is that you don’t get to choose where you want them installed. In addition, the price is a little steep, but not too much.

Emotion Renegade XT Angler Kayak

http://www.amazon.com/Emotion-Renegade-XT-Angler-Kayak/dp/B00E9WNYL2/ref=pd_sim_sbs_468_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=18T2MZ5CBND0CA9CXNA1

This is a sit-top kayak that will let you stay comfortable and stable while you are moving from one place to another. If you are a large paddler and you would like to have other people with you while you are moving, you can ride with another person, too. The flush-mount rod holders are convenient, and the boat has cargo net lacing and a solace hatch for gear storage. This kayak costs about $550.

Pros:

  • Wide – This is meant to be a kayak that can hold large people or people who would like to have a lot of things with them when they head out on a fishing trip.
  • Stable – You can make a lot of movements on this kayak without having to worry that it will tip over.
  • High Weight Limit – This can accommodate weight of about 320 pounds.
  • Excellent Price

Con:

  • Does Not Track Well – It can be a bit hard for you to stay on your track since it tends to move all over the place.

Although this kayak is advertised as having really great tracking, it doesn’t cut through the water as well as most customers would prefer. This is likely due to the flatter bottom (which is actually better for storage). If you’re looking for a basic budget model, however, you really can’t go wrong with this one. It’s also great for people who weigh more than 300 pounds, and you’re unlikely to find a more buoyant kayak for this price anywhere.

Summary

Out of the products listed above, the best is the Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler Sit on Top Fishing Kayak because it is highly stable. It is easy to move around in and on, and you’ll feel very safe on top of this, especially in clear waters. The price is excellent as well. The second-best option is the Hobie Mirage Revolution because of the fast acceleration that will allow it to move anywhere you need to go just by using your feet. It would be the top choice, but its price is high enough that some people won’t be able to afford it. The third-place winner is the Emotion Renegade XT Angler Kayak; this is best for people who need a lot of room and would still like to pursue the sport, but it can be difficult to maneuver this one in a lot of cases.

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