If you want to be a kayak angler, you should know that you need to have a fishing kayak. Having a good fishing kayak can make the difference you need to get that prize catch. So, it’s important to invest in the right vessel from the get-go. Today, I’ll reveal my picks for the best fishing kayak.
There are hundreds – if not thousands – of fishing kayaks on the market. While it’s great to have such a wide selection to pick from, it can also make the buying process a bit overwhelming.
That’s why I’ve scoured the web, spoken with friends, family, and local experts, and spent time fishing from a variety of kayaks to narrow down the list to seven of the best fishing kayak options for you to consider.
If I had to recommend just one, I would say that the best fishing kayak is the Perception Outlaw 11.5. It has heaps of storage space, giving you the freedom to carry as much gear as you want. It’s also stable, comfortable and comes at a decent price.
However, if this fishing yak doesn’t live up to your standards, there are other options available.
Keep scrolling to learn about my picks for the best fishing kayak.
My Favorite Fishing Kayaks
BEST OVERALL |
The Outlaw has everything you’d want in a fishing kayak. For instance, it has large tank wells at the bow and stern to provide ample storage space. And thanks to the open and spacious deck, you’ll have plenty of space to move around when casting or retrieving fish.
BEST BUDGET |
Most fishing kayaks are top dollar, featuring price tags of $1,000 or more. If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative , the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is it. Despite the accessible price, it offers a multiple air chamber design, ergonomic seating and sturdy craftsmanship.
BEST FEATURES |
If you prefer a fishing kayak with advanced features, then the ATAK 120 by Wilderness Systems is your best bet. For starters, it comes in a really sleek design. It also has a highly customizable deck and it offers compatibility with a motor drive, which may be important to you.
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How to Select and Buy the Best Fishing Kayak for You
Despite fishing kayaks being cheaper than powerboats, advanced models can be pretty expensive, averaging $1,500+. As such, you’ll want to ensure that you’re choosing wisely.
This means picking a vessel that not only fits your budget but also meets your individual needs. The following guide highlights the main factors to consider when buying a fishing kayak.
Features to Look For When Buying a Fishing Kayak
Keep these points in mind when choosing your next fishing yak:
Type
One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is choosing between sit-on-top and sit-inside fishing kayaks.
This breakdown shows how the two stack up against each other when it comes to fishing:
Sit-on-top (SOT)
The distinguishing characteristic of this vessel is its large open deck. The seat is positioned on top of the kayak, which makes for an easy entry and exit.
Here are other characteristics of SOTs:
- They have wider decks that provide better stability. For anglers, this means that you can stand up in them to cast your fishing line or reel in fish without tipping over.
- Most of them have scupper holes to drain water easily
- They have elevated seating positions, giving you a better view of the water below
Sit-Inside
Unlike a sit-on-top that has an open deck, a sit-in yak contains an enclosed cockpit.
The kayak’s seat is located inside this cockpit, and this allows the paddler’s lower part of the body to be shielded from the external elements.
Here’s what to expect from sit-in fishing kayaks:
- They’re far easier to paddle and turn. That said they offer limited range of motion, posing a major challenge for fishing-related activities.
- They offer the best protection from a variety of elements, such as the sun, wind and cold water. If you fish in cold climatic conditions, the insulation offered by this kayak type is really helpful.
- Their storage compartments are covered. This way, you don’t have to worry about any of your delicate items getting soaked in water.
Stability
In the past, kayaks were infamously wobbly and unstable. But modern-day yaks have a wide range of features designed to keep them stable in water.
In fact, they’re so stable that you can even stand on the deck and fish comfortably without worrying about falling over.
The width of the beam is one factor that plays a crucial role in a kayak’s stability.
The rule of thumb is that the wider the kayak, the better stability it has.
However, you don’t want your fishing kayak to be excessively wide.
Not only is it less maneuverable but also difficult to paddle. Generally, aim for a width ranging between 30 and 42 inches.
Such kayaks have a good balance of maneuverability and stability.
Length
Once you’ve decided what width to go with, the next dimension you should focus on is length.
Like width, this has a massive influence on the vessel’s performance in the water. More specifically, shorter yaks (11 feet or less) are easier to maneuver whereas longer ones (12 feet+) are faster.
The right length of a fishing kayak depends on the type of water body it will be used in.
If you plan to fish in small ponds, backwaters and creeks, then maneuverability is more important than speed. In that case, you should look for a shorter kayak.
Conversely, if you’ll be fishing in big rivers, lakes and seas, a longer kayak is better. This will allow you to cover longer distances faster.
Storage and Carrying Capacity
Another crucial factor to consider when buying a fishing yak is storage.
Whether you’re a newbie or experienced angler, you’ll be carrying a ton of fishing equipment in addition to the usual paddling gear.
As such, you should choose a vessel with enough storage space to accommodate all these items.
Most fishing yaks have integrated storage like tank wells. Others have specific sections, which are molded for storage like coolers and tackle trays.
When examining the storage areas in a kayak, think about your needs. Better yet, come up with a list of all the things you plan to carry.
Next, visualize where each item will go. This way, you can determine whether the vessel offers enough space to store all your gear.
While you’re at it, check the kayak’s carrying capacity as well. The best fishing kayak offer higher weight limits, which allows them to support more items without any negative impact on their handling in water.
Extra Features
Here are a few more features worth considering:
- Rod holders – the core reason for investing in a fishing yak is to streamline the entire process. So, it would be nice to have a few rod holders onboard. Some yaks contain mounted pole holders, others have molded-in versions, and yet others contain fishing rod grooves on their sides.
- Accessory rails – some kayaks also have gear tracks that let you attach extra fishing equipment. This way, you’re able to carry more gear like fish finders and cameras, without having to drill holes into the vessel.
- Motor drive – if you don’t want to feel fatigued before you’ve had a chance to fish, consider motor-compatible fishing kayaks. The motor does bears the brunt of steering, saving you a ton of energy.
My List of the Best Fishing Kayaks This Year
Modern-day fishing kayaks contain many more customizations and features than those of yesteryear. They have more rod holders, more gear rails, and a variety of power options. To make your selection easy, here’s my roundup of the 7 best fishing yaks:
- BEST OVERALL: Perception Outlaw 11.5
- BEST BUDGET: Sevylor Coleman Colorado
- BEST FEATURES: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- BEST SIT-INSIDE: Pelican Argo 100XR Premium Sit-in Kayak
- BEST TANDEM: Lifetime Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak
- BEST FOR BEGINNERS: Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler
- BEST FOR SALTWATER FISHING: Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
Best Overall
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is every angler’s dream kayak. It’s chock full of features that aid your fishing. And thanks to its bargain-price, it can be afforded by many. This review sheds light on why the Outlaw is my top pick:
Design and Size
The first thing that caught my attention is the kayak’s sleek design. The Outlaw is so beautifully designed you’d think it was meant for recreational purposes and not fishing.
I particularly like its compact structure that makes it much easier to store.
It’s 11.5 feet long, 35 inches wide and weighs 77 pounds. That sounds heavy, but it’s actually quite lightweight compared to other fishing yaks.
Moreover, this yak is available in different colors.
Buyers get to choose from Dapper, Moss camo and Fossil tan.
Well-designed Deck
This fishing kayak has one of the most thoughtfully designed decks. This deck has two key features that set it apart.
One, it’s incredibly spacious, which makes casting a breeze. In fact, you can even fold the kayak seat, giving you more space to move around. Two, it’s fitted with traction pads.
In addition to improving your feet’s grip on the deck, these traction pads help to dampen the noise. This prevents you from scaring the fish away.
Water Handling
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is one of the easiest to navigate- a factor that makes it suitable for both seasoned and novice paddlers.
The yak achieves this easy maneuverability using a couple of features. For one, the ultra-wide 35-inch deck makes it super stable, regardless of the water conditions.
Secondly, the 11.5-foot length tracks relatively well, helping you stay on course.
Storage and Accessories
Another aspect that makes this kayak perfect for anglers is its range of accessories. The most impressive is the provision of four fishing rod holders.
Thanks to this, you’ll never have to worry about losing your fishing pole during your excursions.
Next, the Outlaw arrives fitted with four carry handles for easier transportation. The first handle is located at the bow, pulling double duty as a paddle park.
The second handle at the stern is placed underneath the vessel to provide a firm grip. The remaining two are on either side, and they double up as accessory tracks.
Furthermore, the Perception Outlaw boasts multiple storage units. These include a gigantic rear tank well, two side-positioned tackle trays, cup holders and a bow cargo area with a mesh cover.
Factor in the 425-pound weight limit, and you have a yak fully capable of supporting all your fishing gear.
PERCEPTION OUTLAW 11.5 SIT ON TOP FISHING KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 11 feet, 6 inches |
Width | 35 in. |
Weight | 77 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 425 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- Ultra-spacious deck for easier casting
- Traction pads provide maximum grip and noise-dampening ability
- Contains several storage compartments
- Wide deck enhances the kayak’s stability
- Has carry handles for easy portability
CONS |
- Lacks footrests
- The wide hull makes it slow
Most Important Take-Away: If you’re looking for a feature-packed fishing yak that’s not too expensive, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is your best bet. It’s stable, more compact, has a spacious deck and plenty of storage space.
Where to Buy Perception Outlaw 11.5
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Not everyone can afford a $1,000 fishing kayak like the Perception Outlaw. If you’re looking for something that is a little more affordable, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado fits the bill.
Coming in at less than $500, this tandem fishing yak has an awesome selection of features. Here’s a more in-depth review:
Setup
As you might have guessed from the title, the Coleman Colorado is an inflatable kayak. This means that it requires a bit of time to set up before heading to the water.
Fortunately, the manufacturer has simplified this setup by offering a foot pump and a pressure gauge. This way, you don’t end up inflating the yak beyond the recommended 1.5 PSI.
Quick tip: always start by inflating the floor chamber as the valve can be difficult to reach if you inflate the sides first.
Keep in mind that the kayak seat is also inflatable too. Although some kayakers skip this step, it’s one that’s very important.
Inflating the seat raises its height, which makes a huge difference to your paddling efficiency. Besides, this also allows you to sit high in the water and get a good view of the fish below.
Durability
For many anglers, an inflatable fishing kayak wouldn’t be their first choice. There’s always that fear of the vessel getting ripped or torn in the middle of your trip.
Well, you can ditch those fears as you’ll never have to worry about this with the Sevylor Coleman Colorado. The 18-gauge PVC used in its build can withstand rugged use.
This is further reinforced with a 1000-denier canvas base and an 840-denier nylon exterior, guaranteeing optimal durability. Regardless of how many obstacles you encounter, this is not the type of vessel that rips easily.
And in the unlikely chance that it rips, Sevylor designed it with multiple air chambers. So, if the outermost chamber gets punctured, the remaining chambers will keep you afloat long enough to help you reach your destination safely.
Storage and Weight Limit
Inflatable fishing kayaks aren’t particularly known for their storage space. However, Sevylor has done their best by providing a couple of storage areas.
Anglers will have access to D-ring tie-downs, mesh pockets on the seats, a bungee cord deck rigging and a Berkley Quick-Set rod holder.
Also, since it has a carrying capacity of 470 pounds, this vessel can hold a ton of fishing gear without sinking.
Maneuverability
One area where this budget fishing yak falls short is in maneuverability. It has a pretty wide beam that does an excellent job of keeping the yak stable.
Unfortunately, this beam also makes it harder to paddle. To add to this, the placement of the rod holder also gets in the way of your paddling.
SEVYLOR COLEMAN COLORADO 2-PERSON INFLATABLE FISHING KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 10 feet |
Width | 2 feet, 10 inches |
Weight | 39.5 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 440 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Inflatable |
PROS |
- Sturdy construction that holds up to rugged use
- Inflatable design makes for easy portability
- Has several storage areas for your fishing gear
- Wide beam provides unmatched stability
- Multiple air chamber design for maximum buoyancy
- Has a generous carrying capacity
CONS |
- The rod holder placement interferes with paddling
Most Important Take-Away: If you’re searching for a pocket-friendly fishing yak, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is an excellent choice. It costs less than $500 yet it has a wide range of features. These include a 470-pound carrying capacity, wide beam, and a robust build.
Where to Buy Sevylor Coleman Colorado
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Best Features
Are you ready to invest in a fishing kayak with cutting-edge features? If you are, the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is exactly what you need.
From the gigantic tank well in the stern to the highly-adjustable kayak seat and XL foot braces, this yak is among the most advanced. It’s even compatible with the Helix motor drive. Here’s a closer look at this fishing kayak’s features:
Size and Storage
One factor you should focus on when buying a fishing yak is the size and storage capacity. Thankfully, the ATAK 120 excels in both of these areas.
Measuring 12 feet long, 35 inches wide and rated for a weight limit of 400 pounds, it’s fully capable of supporting your fishing gear.
Speaking of gear, this vessel offers a massive tank well in the stern that comes complete with a bungee cord. This, along with the bow hatch, accessory rails and paddle park, provide plenty of space to store all your items.
The icing on the cake is the Flex Pod OS console that lets you install any electronics you’d like to carry.
If you’re not a big fan of this detachable console, you can swap it with the Helix MD motor drive for better speed and navigation. However, you’d have to buy the motor drive separately.
Water Performance
Another aspect that makes the ATAK 120 perfect for anglers entails its easy handling in water.
The 35-inch wide deck allows the kayak to maintain exceptional stability in water. Also, since it has a shorter length than its sibling – the ATAK 140 – it responds better to the user’s paddle strokes.
Comfort
If you like fishing for long hours at a time, you’ll love the ergonomic seating in this kayak. It comes fitted with the manufacturer’s legendary Phase 3 AirPro design, ensuring the utmost comfort.
First off, this kayak seat has a mesh fabric cover to provide ample ventilation, keeping you cool. Secondly, it has multiple adjustment points, helping you achieve a comfortable fishing and paddling position.
You can set it in high, low or recline positions depending on your preference.
WILDERNESS SYSTEMS ATAK 120 SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 12 ft. |
Width | 35 in. |
Weight | 86 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 400 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- Heaps of storage areas to accommodate your fishing equipment
- Extra wide deck helps with the kayak’s stability
- Modest length makes the yak easy to paddle
- Phase 3 AirPro seating delivers maximum comfort
- Option to install the Helix MD motor drive
CONS |
- Slightly more expensive than other fishing kayaks
Most Important Take-Away: Looking to invest in a fishing yak with all the bells and whistles? If so, the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is the right choice. It has several storage compartments, a comfortable seating system and a customizable deck to meet specific needs.
Where to Buy Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Best Sit-Inside
Do you prefer to fish in a sit-inside than a sit-on-top kayak? If you do, it’s totally understandable. Sit-in yaks weigh significantly less, making them easier to transport. Also, they offer better protection from the external elements.
To enjoy these and other perks, you should check out the Pelican Argo 100XR. Although advertised as a recreational vessel, it works well as an angler kayak, too.
Plus, it comes at a decent price for those looking to save a few bucks. Here’s what to expect from this fishing yak:
Design
There’s a lot to love about this kayak, starting with the color choices that it comes in. You’ll be able to choose from Aquamarine and Cosmos, both of which look pretty stylish.
More importantly though, the 100XR has a large enclosed cockpit. Now, this isn’t as big as the open deck that’s typically found in sit-on-top models.
However, it’s spacious enough that you’re able to move around when fishing.
Also crucial to note is the lightweight profile of this kayak. Hard-shell yaks tend to be heavy and bulky.
But the Pelican model is just 10 feet long and weighs just 42 pounds. These features make it easy to transport and load onto your car.
Comfort
The Pelican Argo 100XR is the epitome of kayak comfort thanks to the Ergocast seating system located inside this cockpit. In fact, this is often ranked as the most comfortable kayak seating, and rightly so.
For one, it’s nicely-shaped to support your body contour. This enables you to sit for long hours without experiencing fatigue.
Secondly, it’s made from a mesh fabric to facilitate ample ventilation, keeping you cool. Thirdly, it’s adjustable, so you can adjust the angle to a more comfortable paddling position.
Plus, it can be removed and used as a beach chair or to create more storage space.
Interestingly, this kayak seat isn’t the only feature that offers comfort. The 100XR also boasts well-cushioned knee pads for bracing your legs to avoid abrasion.
It also has adjustable footrests, so you can place your legs at the perfect angle and paddle more efficiently.
Storage Space
Beyond comfort, this fishing kayak offers a decent amount of storage space.
There’s a quick lock watertight hatch in the rear, a bungee cord cargo area in front, and an open cockpit console that can hold your phone and a bottle cage.
The yak also has two 1-inch rigging tracks in case you want to attach your GoPro or fish finder.
Maneuverability and Stability
The twin-arched hull is one of the best additions to the 100XR. It increases the area of contact between the yak and the water, which makes it more stable.
Also, the fact that this kayak is just 10 feet long means it’s much easier to turn and control.
PELICAN ARGO 100XR PREMIUM SIT-IN KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 10 ft. |
Width | 29 in. |
Weight | 42 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- Lightweight and compact for easier storage and transportation
- Twin-arched hull provides exceptional stability
- Equipped with Ergocoast seating for maximum comfort
- Has adjustable footrests and knee pads adding to its comfort
- Watertight hatch in the rear is perfect for storing delicate fishing gear
CONS |
- Not designed for speed
Most Important Take-Away: If you’re looking for a sit-in kayak that can be used for fishing, look no further than the Pelican Argo 100XR. Equipped with a twin-arched multi-chine hull, it delivers great stability in the water. It also has multiple storage areas and a 300-pound carrying capacity to go along with it.
Where to Buy Pelican Argo 100XR
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Best Tandem
Having a little bit of company when you go kayak fishing never hurts. If anything, it makes for an easier experience. For instance, your fishing buddy can paddle while you focus on catching fish.
If you prefer to go fishing with a partner, you’ll want a good tandem kayak like the Lifetime Two-Person model. It comes rigged with fishing accessories and has a generous carrying capacity.
Here’s what makes the Lifetime Sport Fisher perfect for anglers.
Design
The Lifetime Sport Fisher is a tandem model, meaning it’s spacious enough to accommodates two anglers. If you look closely, you’ll also notice an extra molded-in seat, designed for a pet or child.
What’s interesting is that it still manages to be compact and lightweight. It’s 10 feet long and 60 pounds heavy, which, compared to other tandem yaks, is significantly lighter.
Thanks to this compact structure, the Sport Fisher is a breeze to carry – which really comes in handy for those occasional solo trips. It also doesn’t take up as much storage space as other hardshell kayaks.
Stability
Stability is a crucial factor to consider when buying a fishing yak. However, it’s even more important when you’re planning to have two anglers onboard.
The kayak needs to be incredibly stable as you’ll both move around a lot.
Fortunately, this is one area where the Lifetime Sport Fisher excels. The tunnel shape of the hull, along with the 36-inch wide beam, all help to maximize the kayak’s stability in water.
Also contributing to the kayak’s stability is the material used in its construction. It’s made of polyethylene, making the vessel durable and able to withstand turbulent conditions.
However, it would have been nice if Lifetime used high-density PE instead of the low-density used in this yak.
Storage Space
Another highlight of this tandem yak is its storage space. You can store your fishing equipment in either the bow cargo area or the 6-inch dry hatch in the rear.
The vessel also has three fishing pole holders, which is sufficient to accommodate both anglers’ fishing rods.
LIFETIME SPORT FISHER TANDEM KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 10 ft. |
Width | 36 in. |
Weight | 60 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 500 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- More compact and lighter than other tandem fishing kayaks
- Ideal for both solo and tandem kayak fishing
- 6-inch rear, watertight hatch is handy for keeping delicate items
- Tunnel hull and wide beam provide unparalleled stability
CONS |
- Low-density polyethylene build is less durable than the high-density variety
Most Important Take-Away: If you’d like to go fishing with a friend or family member, consider the Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak. It’s compact but has enough space to comfortably sit two anglers. And thanks to its high level of stability, you don’t have to worry about the yak ever getting wobbly.
Where to Buy Lifetime Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Best for Beginners
Affordable, check. Durable, check. Stable, check. Lightweight, check. The Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler has all the features beginner anglers look for in fishing kayaks. Here’s a more detailed look at its features:
Construction
As a beginner, you’ll want to buy a fishing kayak that lasts for a long time. Thankfully, the Basscreek 100XP is designed to offer maximum durability.
It’s constructed using Pelican’s proprietary RAM-X material, which comprises high-molecular polyethylene. This results in a more rigid yak that easily withstands impact and abrasion.
The icing on the cake is the lightweight profile of this material, which helps keep the vessel’s weight to a minimum. It weighs 50 pounds, meaning it’s lighter than other hard-shell yaks.
For newbie anglers, this means you can easily carry the kayak on your own- and this contributes positively to your overall fishing experience.
Maneuverability
Another aspect that makes this yak perfect for beginners is the ease of maneuvering. For one, it’s just 10 feet long, making it easier to paddle and turn.
Secondly, its 30-inch wide deck provides incredible stability. As a result, you won’t struggle to keep the yak stable when you stand up to fish.
Safety
If this is your first time fishing in a kayak, you might be a bit worried about your safety. Turns out, Pelican has already thought ahead and added several features to maximize your safety.
More specifically, they’ve incorporated extra floatation inside the hull for maximum buoyancy.
To add to this, the sit-on-top yak contains multiple scupper holes in the floor for automatic water drainage. This eliminates the worry of water pooling inside your vessel and causing it to sink.
Storage
Given its size, the Basscreek 100XP offers a decent amount of storage space. On the front, you’ll find a quick lock hatch, ideal for keeping any EDC items secure.
Meanwhile, the rear is equipped with a tank well, complete with a bungee cord. If your fishing gear still doesn’t fit within these units, then consider using the accessory eyelets and integrated rod holders.
PELICAN BASSCREEK 100XP ANGLER SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 10 ft. |
Width | 30 in. |
Weight | 50 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 325 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- Lightweight and compact; hence, easy to carry
- RAM-X construction provides optimal durability
- Added floatation inside the hull enhances buoyancy
- Modest storage space for its size
CONS |
- Kayak seat could have more padding
Most Important Take-Away: The best fishing kayaks for beginners should be stable, safe, durable and easy to steer. The Pelican Basscreek 100XP is all these and more. Also, it’s fairly priced so you don’t have to worry about spending a ton of money on your first fishing yak.
Where to Buy Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler Kayak
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Best for Saltwater Fishing
Saltwater fishing differs quite a bit from freshwater fishing. It presents more risks and challenges- stronger currents, gusty winds and more. On the plus side, it offers massive rewards for the patient angler – like the ability to catch a grouper or tuna.
To improve your chances of catching such species, you’ll want to invest in the right kayak and the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 is perfect for this.
Design and Size
Like the ATAK 120, the PDL 120 is perfect sized for fishing activities. It measures 12 feet long and 34.5 inches wide, hitting the sweet spot between maneuverability and storage space.
Put simply, it’s big enough to hold all your fishing gear but not so big that it makes paddling difficult.
Another thing I love about this kayak’s design are the EVA foam pads added on the deck. These are meant to provide traction and grip so that you don’t slip when you stand on the deck to fish.
The kayak seat is another key selling point of this vessel. It has a mesh cover to facilitate ventilation and drainage. Better yet, it features an ergonomic design that offers maximum lumbar support.
Also, considering that offshore fishing often takes place over an extended period, the comfort offered by this seat really comes in handy.
Pedal Drive
You may have noticed the steep price tag that comes with this kayak. That’s because the PDL 120 is a pedal yak that uses Old Town’s PDL Drive system.
This pedal drive’s greatest benefit is that it completely frees your hands for fishing. Whether you want to cast your fishing rod, tighten the tension on your line or retrieve your catch, you can do so while simultaneously pedaling the kayak.
Furthermore, this pedal drive is designed for saltwater applications and requires very little maintenance.
Feeling intimidated by the thought of navigating a pedal yak? You shouldn’t be, as it’s easy as pedaling a bike.
Simply pedal forwards to propel the vessel forward and pedal backwards to reverse. It’s really that simple.
That said, the pedal system adds a considerable amount of weight to this kayak. It weighs 19 pounds, bringing the total weight of the kayak to 104 pounds.
This makes the vessel heavy and bulky. As a result, it’s difficult to transport.
Storage Space and Carrying Capacity
The fact that it has multiple storage units is another feature that makes it fit for anglers.
Both the stern and bow are equipped with a large tank well with bungee cords to secure your gear. Meanwhile, a clip on the hull’s side allows you to secure your paddle (in case you decide to bring one).
The PDL 120 also boasts three fishing rod holders – two flush-mounted ones facing the rear and one forward-facing one. You’ll also have access to a transducer mounting system, handy for installing a fish finder.
OLD TOWN SPORTSMAN SALTY PDL 120 SPECIFICATIONS
Length | 12 ft. |
Width | 34.5 in. |
Weight | 104 lbs. |
Carrying Capacity | 450 lbs. |
Type of Vessel | Hard-shell |
PROS |
- Pedal drive makes for quick and easy maneuverability
- Breathable kayak seat with ample lumbar support
- Non-slip foam pads on the deck provide traction
- Large tank wells, rod holders and transducer to accommodate your fishing equipment
CONS |
- Pricey
Most Important Take-Away: If you like to fish in the ocean, you’ll want a kayak that can handle the rough conditions like the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120.
It relies on a saltwater-safe pedal drive system, offering the much-needed hands-free propulsion. Plus, it’s 12 feet long and 34.5 inches wide, meaning it’s big and sturdy enough to withstand the strong currents.
Where to Buy Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
You can purchase this product at the following retailers:
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Fishing Kayaks
If this is your first time purchasing a fishing kayak, you probably have several questions lingering in your mind.
There are many special concerns that come when purchasing any small fishing craft, because the waters we fish, the tackle and equipment we use, and the type of fishing we do all differ from one person to the next.
A great bass fishing kayak will differ greatly from a top-rated saltwater fishing kayak.
In this next section, you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions I receive about fishing kayaks, in an effort to answer some of those lingering questions or concerns you may have before purchasing your fishing yak.
What type of kayak is best for fishing?
If you want to go kayak fishing, you need a kayak specifically designed for anglers.
The best fishing kayaks have a sit-on-top design. They should be quite wide, at between 30 and 42 inches.
This is important, as fishing kayaks need to be stable enough that you can stand up without worrying about them tipping over.
Your fishing kayak should also have ample storage space.
You need to check the weight limit, too. Choose a kayak that is able to easily and safely carry your weight, the weight of all of your fishing gear, and all of your potential catches.
Also, look for convenient features, such as rod holders and accessory rails.
I have chosen the Perception Outlaw 11.5 as the best fishing kayak.
One of its many strengths is this kayak’s large and open deck. It means that you have all the room you need to cast your lines and bring in your catches.
The Perception Outlaw also includes plenty of places and features for storing your gear. Its storage units include a bow cargo area with mesh cover, two side-positioned tackle trays, an enormous rear tank well, and more.
As well as many other angler-appropriate features, the Perception Outlaw also has traction pads on the deck. These will stop you from slipping when standing and casting.
What is the best length for a fishing kayak?
The best length ranges between 10 and 14 feet. I find that your height is an important factor in figuring out your ideal kayak length – and that’s something most kayak websites don’t share.
Here is a table you can refer to when figuring out which fishing kayak length is right for your height.
Your Height | Best Fishing Kayak Length For You |
---|---|
5′ or shorter | 10 feet |
5′ to 5’6 | 10 feet to 12 feet |
5’7 to 6′ | 12 feet to 14 feet |
Taller than 6′ | 14 feet |
Your body weight also plays a part in determining the length of your fishing kayak.
Do you weigh less than 200 pounds? You can probably go with a kayak that is shorter – something between 10 and 12 feet long.
However, if you weigh more than 200 pounds, you should probably choose a kayak between 12 and 14 feet in length.
Personally, I’m 6’2″ and I prefer a fishing yak that’s at least 12 feet long. 14 feet feels most comfortable for me, especially in open water.
What is the most stable kayak for fishing?
Do you plan on standing up on the deck of your kayak when angling? Stability should be your most significant priority.
A wide deck is what will make your fishing kayak stable enough for this exercise. You will also need your kayak to have a sit-on-top design.
The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is a great pick for exceptional stability. It has a 35-inch wide deck that delivers exceptional stability without hindering your paddling efficiency.
What is the best fishing kayak for beginners?
The best fishing kayak for beginners is the Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler. It has all the features that you need to get started with your new hobby, including all the storage space and features kayak fishing demands.
A sit-on-top kayak, the Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler includes a swivel rod holder, as well as a paddle attachment. This ensures that you have maximum flexibility with how you use your hands.
Additionally, this kayak features an ERGOFIT G2 adjustable seat, which gives you optimized air flow and cushioning for comfort.
As an excellent fishing kayak, the Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler is reliably stable. It boasts a multi-chine flat bottom hull.