7

Best Fishing Kayak Reviews 2021

Kayaks are an inexpensive way for fishing enthusiasts to leave the shore and go into the waters to enjoy their hobby to the fullest extent.

The need for the modern fishing kayak came from users accidentally tipping over traditional kayaks while fishing. Because fishing involves a lot of body movement from a person, the kayak has to be extremely stable in order to compensate for the body movement. That has been solved now, thanks to modern fishing kayaks that are purpose-built for stability.

Choosing the right and the best fishing kayak can be a daunting task however as not all models are created equally. There are a lot of specifications and features that you need to consider before deciding on a fishing kayak that will truly suit your needs. Fishing kayaks vary in sizes, hull shapes, and other parameters. For example, slim and long kayaks are better for longer journeys (hence called “Touring kayaks”), as they are easier to paddle. The thin frame however means that they are not very stable. Wider and shorter kayaks on the other hand are extremely stable, but require a lot more effort to paddle.

So, with many considerations in mind, it is easy to become confused about which fishing kayak to choose. Worry not, however, as there are some fishing kayak models which are designed for versatility. They’re not the most stable but they’re not a chore to paddle as well. They trade peak performance for better versatility. What follows is a comprehensive fishing kayak review of three of our favorite fishing kayaks.

Best Fishing Kayaks 2021

  • Malibu Kayaks X-Factor Fish and Dive Package Kayak
  • Hobie Mirage Outback
  • Lifetime 10’ Sport Fisher Tandem
  • Sun Dolphin Excursion 10-Foot Sit-in Fishing Kayak
  • Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 9 Foot Angler
  • Air Head Montana AHTK2 Kayak
  • Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-top
  • Perception Conduit Kayak
  • Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
  • Native Ultimate FX Propel 13
  • Wilderness System Aspire 105 

Malibu Kayaks X-Factor Fish and Dive Package Kayak

Malibu Kayaks X-Factor Fish and Dive Package Sit on Top Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Highly stable  Heavy
 Good maneuverability  
 Excellent cargo space  
 Self-draining center hatch  

The Malibu Kayak X-Factor Fish and Drive Package Kayak is a feature-filled kayak that caters to the need of kayak enthusiasts who want to fish as well.

  • The kayak is built for stability and maximizing cargo space. The hull of this kayak has been built with stability in mind
  • Don’t let the stability factor put you off with regards to its tracking performance. Buyers say that the X-Factor tracks well and despite its proportions, it is not particularly cumbersome to paddle.
  • It is versatile enough to be equally comfortable in rivers, calm flat lakes as well as choppy surf.
  • The X-Factor features a lot of cargo space for the user to store their fishing and camping gear.
  • At the front of the kayak, you have a Gator hatch which gives you a safe and dry storage option.
  • A major feature of the X-Factor is the center hatch that is equipped with self-draining trays that can be used for storing live bait.

Pros

  • The X-Factor is a highly stable kayak. It is stable to the degree that the user can stand on the casting platform comfortably without the balance of the kayak being upset.
  • But the stability of this kayak does not mean that it is a boat. Buyers report that this model tracks well and is able to maintain a good speed. That makes it a highly versatile option. It’s stable enough for one to stand on and fish confidently, but it also cuts through water and maneuvers with great ease. Really, it’s the best of both worlds.
  • The X-Factor has excellent cargo space. And that is backed by owners who praise this model for the amount of gear they can pack into it. This means less time spent on choosing what equipment to take and what to leave behind, and more time spent on actually enjoying fishing. There are several storage spaces where you can store your gear categorically.
  • The center hatch with the self-draining feature is also a popular feature among users of this kayak. Users praised its ability to keep drinks cool and some even fill it with ice to enjoy their drinks cold.

The X-Factor is praised by both beginners and veterans. The stability means it is a very easy kayak to learn on, and its high build quality means that it will serve its owners long and well.

Cons

Some users have noted the 100-pound weight of this kayak as a difficulty. But that also means that it has great stability in water. If portability is not an issue for you, this is a negligible shortcoming.

Features

  • Length: 14 ft. 4 in.
  • Width: 33 in.
  • Depth: 13 in.
  • Weight: 62 lbs.
  • Max. Capacity: 550 lbs.
  • Seating: 1 adult, plus 1 child
  • X-Seat

Conclusion

Most buyers of this kayak are perfectly happy to give it a 5 or in some cases a 4-star rating. The Malibu X-Factor is also our choice for its perfect blend of performance, stability, practicality, and most of all affordability. Thanks to its stable nature it’s perfectly suited for beginners while it also offering dependability for more expert users.

If you’re looking for a great fishing kayak that will not break the bank, the X-Factor is an easy recommendation.

 

Hobie Mirage Outback

Hobie Mirage Outback Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Pedals in front  Heavy
 Adjustable seat & lumbar support  
 Good storage space  

The Hobie Mirage Outback is a high-end kayak made with the requirements of demanding enthusiasts in mind.

  • It comes with an innovative feature called the “Hobie Mirage Drive”. It is best described as a unique way of powering the kayak by using a set of pedals located in the front. The main purpose of this feature is to improve stability and to give the user the option to keep moving while they hold a fishing rod in their hands.  While in other kayaks you have to be stationary while fishing, because you cannot hold a fishing rod and paddle the kayak at the same time, in the Hobie Mirage you can do both.
  • It is a highly stable kayak, measuring 33 inches at its widest point. You can easily stand on the kayak and fish with utmost confidence.
  • It also has a built-in rudder at the back for better tracking and maneuverability.
  • The Hobie Mirage also offers a lot of storage options. There are dedicated fishing rod holders, a gear bucket, and a general cargo area.
  • For additional versatility, the Mirage even comes with a sail mount for when there’s a bit of wind and you’re too tired to paddle!

Pros

  • Pedals might not be the fastest way to get around on a kayak, but that still does not mean they’re useless. In fact, owners of the Hobie Mirage Outback all praise this feature, saying that it allows them to move around while they fish or use their hands for other purposes such as recording a movie, taking pictures, and so on. This really is a great feature that makes the Hobie Mirage Outback a truly versatile kayak.
  • The pedals also ensure great stability while you are fishing. A river with a slight current might disturb the balance of your kayak while you are fishing, so you offset the current easily by pedaling slowly just to keep the momentum in check. The pedals are also highly convenient when your arms are simply too tired or you just feel like relaxing.
  • The relatively high seat is also a feature that has earned this kayak high praise from its owners. It is adjustable, so you can set it to the most ergonomic setting according to your body. It also offers lumbar support which is great for users who suffer from back problems. The seat is an often-overlooked feature in most kayaks that cost even more than the Mirage Outback.
  • Owners of the Mirage Outback are also quite impressed by the amount of storage space it has. There are pockets, fishing rod holders, and cubbies to store various gear in a convenient manner.

Cons

  • The biggest drawback of this kayak has to be its high price. Its high-end features and durable construction do justify the price but there’s no overlooking the fact that it is not an inexpensive piece of equipment. Potential buyers should be prepared to keep this kayak for years to come if they plan on investing in it.
  • Its unique feature, the “Hobie Mirage Drive”, may be considered redundant by users who’re not fans of pedaling.  And it can certainly become a cumbersome experience as well because the Hobie Mirage Outback is also quite a heavy kayak.
  • The weight also makes it difficult to move the kayak on land, so you might need an additional set of hands to carry it around.

Features

  • Length: 12 ft 9 in
  • Width :  34 in
  • Capacity: 425 lbs
  • Vantage CTW Seat Capacity: 275 lbs 
  • Fitted Hull Weight: 85 lbs 
  • Fitted Rigged: 103 lbs

Conclusion

The Hobie Mirage Outback is a high-end kayak that is laden with great features. It is an enthusiast’s model no doubt, and owners of the kayak are very satisfied with their purchase.

 

Lifetime Sport Fisher – Best Tandem Kayak

Lifetime 10 Foot Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Robust & Stable  Quite Heavy
 Comfortable Seats  Not Fast in Currents
 Two-person Seating  
 Load Capacity of 500 lbs.  
  • The Lifetime 10 Foot Sport Fisher Tandem is a fishing kayak built to accommodate two persons in comfort. It is an economical tandem kayak but has a very sturdy build quality. It is a no-frills kayak that caters to the likes of beginners and hobbyists.
  • Although this kayak is designed for two adults, it is not very large in its proportions. The seats are positioned much higher than the surrounding water allowing its users to stay drier as compared to kayaks with lower seat heights.
  • This kayak has a short and wide design, making it perfect for users who want a stable fishing kayak that can handle a person who is standing up.
  • The seats of the Sport Fisher are padded for added comfort. On the storage front, it features 3 fishing rod holders and a sizeable 6-inch storage hatch. The kayak has paddle clips that can hold the paddles in place when you’re simply relaxing.

Pros

  • The Sport Fisher is a very sturdily built kayak that makes it a good choice for beginners. Beginners make mistakes and the rugged nature of this kayak ensures that the inevitable scrapes with gravel and rocks will not damage it in any meaningful way.
  • The affordable nature of this kayak further solidifies its place as a great beginner’s first kayak.
  • Families looking to spend time together will also find the multi-person ability of this kayak as a great point.
  • The inherent stability of this kayak isn’t great news just for first-timers, however, veteran anglers will also appreciate this, as they can fish standing up with the confidence that this kayak won’t just tip over. Stability is a core attribute of any fishing kayak but is not guaranteed at such an entry-level price point.
  • With a payload capacity of 500 pounds, this kayak is also perfect for healthier individuals. Its wide dimensions ensure that this kayak can accommodate a variety of body types in relative comfort.

Cons

  • The Sport Fisher isn’t the lightest fishing kayak around. In fact, at almost 80 pounds it is quite heavy. That means that it will be difficult for the average person to carry it around on their own. The Sport Fisher almost counts on its tandem feature to attract only couples to offset its weight problem.
  • This kayak is not a performance kayak either. It will not be at home in faster-moving currents and is best suited in calm, relaxed waters. The bulky nature of the kayak means that it isn’t as effortless as a pure touring kayak to paddle around in.

Features:

  • Length: 120 in
  • Width : 36 in
  • Height: 19 in
  • Weight: 60 lbs
  •  Solo or Tandem Paddling
  • 10-Foot Compact Length for Easy Transport and Storage
  • Stable Hull Design 
  • 5-Year Limited Warranty
  • Weight Capacity: 500 lbs 

Conclusion

There’s no getting around the fact that the Sport Fisher is a heavy, bulky kayak that is built really with the intention of accommodating multiple people. Stability seems to be its top-most priority. But that really is what makes it such an attractive option for people who’re looking to spend time in the water with another person on board. It is a very sturdy kayak which makes it a reliable companion that will serve its owners for a long time.

Buyers on Amazon rate it highly for its user-friendly nature and sturdy build quality. For kayakers on a budget, this is a very attractive option.

 

Sun Dolphin Excursion – Best 10 ft Sit-in Fishing Kayak

 

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Pros Cons
 Two flush mount rod holders  limited storage space
 Good legroom  For calm waters
 lightweight & stable  
  • It is a 1-person sit-in kayak. Its large cockpit coupled with an adjustable padded seat for extra comfort, allows people to spend long hours in the water without getting tired
  • It has two flush mounts for fishing rods, as well as a swivel rod for the fishing rod
  • It weighs only 41 pounds which makes it easy to carry and has carrying handles too for added convenience 

Pros

  • It is lightweight which makes it easy to carry and store. Loading and launching it also hassle-free even if a single paddler is handling it. Because of its small size, it can easily fit into trucks as well. Furthermore, for a small kayak, it is very stable 
  • Despite the small size, it is able to hold a straight line as per user reviews
  • Its small size makes maneuverability, which makes it an ideal option for small lakes and rivers with narrow turns

Cons

  • Its small size does not make it suitable for oceans as it can not cope with heavy currents. It does not have speeds high enough to allow traveling for long hours 
  • Its low capacity does not allow fishing for large fish because there is less storage space
  • Two, rod holders are inconveniently placed at the back which makes them difficult to access

Features

  • Length: 120 in
  • Width : 30 in
  • Height:  13 in
  • Weight: 40 lbs
  • Type: Sit-in kayak

Conclusion

If you are looking for a fishing kayak under 500, Sun Dolphin Excursion 10-Foot Sit-in Fishing Kayak is a good option for you. While kayaking is fun sport, the exercise aspect can get quite exhausting. With Sun Dolphin Excursion Kayak’s design that makes maneuverability less exerting,  the process is far simpler and more enjoyable!

 

Vibe Kayaks Skipjack – Best Lake Fishing Kayak

Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 9 Foot Angler

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Great maneuverability  Average speed
 Tons of storage Bottoms of the seat uncomfortable
 Places molded for outriggers Limited mounted points
 Six scupper holes and plugs Not suitable for windy conditions
 Includes vibe journey paddle  
4 carrying handles  
  • Vibe Kayak Skipjack 90 is a 9-foot long sit-on-top lightweight fishing kayak. It is one of the top players in the competitive fishing kayak market right now and is rightly so.
  • It has a very sleek and innovative design that tracks smoothly across all sorts of water conditions. Skipjack 90 is suitable for fishing anywhere even in surf conditions, lighter waves, or moving rivers.
  • This fishing kayak has all the qualities that anglers rely on stability, maneuverability, gear compatibility, and storage. The hull edges make the ride on this kayak extremely stable. It won’t trip or sway while you are busy catching fish in the water.
  • The kayak weighs only about 46 pounds which makes it portable. It also has a keel that runs along the length of its hull and provides better tracking during your fish hunt.
  • It is made up of rotomolded one-piece high-density polyethylene which makes it exceptionally durable. In addition, this kayak includes a comfortable backrest, a V-wave center hatch, storage wells in the bow and stern, 4 molded-in grip handles, 4 fishing rod holders, and an easy access cup holder.

Pros

  • It is small and lightweight which not only makes it portable but also makes it easy to store because it takes up less space. The small surface area also makes maneuverability easier because of less wind resistance
  • There is a larger cargo area because of the fishing rod holders and the rear storage area 
  • It is highly affordable so the price is a huge plus point 
  •  Its stability is a key feature so it can smoothly glide across the water, which makes it suitable for certain water conditions

Cons

  • It is engineered in such a way that it moves at a slow place which also makes it an unsuitable option for tracking 
  • It can is not stable enough to withstand heavy currents 
  • It only has the capacity to accommodate one paddler which is why it is an unsuitable option for families

Features

  • Length: 9 feet
  • Width:   32 inches
  • Weight: 46 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
  • Rod Holders: 4
  • Type: Sit-on-top

Air Head Montana AHTK2 – Best Inflatable Tandem

Airhead Montana Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Four bottom fins for superior tracking  Doesn’t come with a paddle and pump
 Light-weight, compact and portable  Seats can be a bit wobbly
 Highly visible color (orange) for safety  
 Easy to maneuver  
 Grab Handles for easy lifting  
 Drain plug to get rid of excess water  
 UV and water-resistant coatings  
 90-day warranty  
  • Air Head Montana is a tandem inflatable kayak designed to accommodate two paddlers. AHTK2 performs best in white water and lakes. It’s light in weight and is equipped with all the accessories that kayak anglers look for. This model is definitely one of the most comfortable inflatable kayak designs in the market.
  • It is made up of heavy gauge PVC material and fortified I-beam construction method which makes this kayak extremely durable unlike other inflatable kayaks
  • It has a large cockpit which is great for beginners as it allows you to enter and exit the kayak easily in emergency situations.
  • AHTK2 has two inflatable seats that are exceptionally comfortable and adds convenience to your overall fishing experience. You can even adjust these seats according to your comfort and water conditions.
  • Its neoprene elbow guards help you sit and balance your weight in the kayak easily.
  • The kayak also comes with back and front spray covers which will keep you dry while on the water.
  • Air Head Montana comes with 6 stainless steel D-rings that are meant to help in securing the cargo nets and tow them when required.
  • Its multiple air chambers serve as a safety net so even if the kayak gets damaged, it still floats and takes you safely to the shore.
  • Its flat bottom hull may not allow great tracking on water but it does offer excellent navigation.

Pros

  • It is lightweight and compact which makes it portable and easy to store. Inflating and deflating is an extremely easy and quick process.
  • It is very affordable keeping in mind the multiple features it offers, so the price is a huge plus point 
  • Grab handles make it easy to lift and carry the kayak

Cons

  • As per user reviews the seat is uncomfortable as it is wobbly, and the kayak does not track as great 
  • The seating for the second paddler is not very comfortable because of little leg room
  • It does not include a carrying bag either, so you need to buy that yourself alongside the paddles and air pump. 

Features

  • Length: 12 feet
  • Width:   32 inches
  • Weight: 36.3 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
  • Type: Tandem Inflatable Kayak

Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-top – Best Sit-on-top Kayak

Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-top Features

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
  Lightweight and portable  Speed is not great
  Aesthetic design and color  Seat is not comfortable for longer rides
 Good stability and maneuverability  
 One person and two-person models  
 Good tracking  
 Comes with a paddle  
 Solid material with UV coatings  
 5-year warranty  

Lifetime Lotus is a well-designed fishing kayak available in bright blue color.

  • It has a strong hull made up of high-density polyethylene which is very durable. Unlike other materials, polyethylene doesn’t get rusted which means that it is a one-time buy and it lasts for years.
  • The hull is well-designed for improved stability, effective tracking, and paddling.
  • Lotus is comparatively a small kayak only 8’ long and 30” wide. But this smaller size of the kayak increases its efficiency and maneuverability in the water.
  • The kayak comes with scupper holes in the cockpit area so that you can get rid of the excess water during paddling.
  • It has an adjustable backrest and multiple footrest positions to accommodate people of different heights.
  • It has a tank well storage in the back with bungee cord lacing where you can store your accessories like fishing rods, fish finders, and other personal belongings.
  • A paddle cradle is also available in the kayak to hold your paddle in place
  • It is available as both single-person and two-person kayaks. You may choose it according to your requirements.

Pros

  • It is a sit-on kayak which is a huge plus point because they do not have swamping problems as the water can be drained out, alongside more storage space
  • It can be customized for both single and double paddlers depending on the user’s preference.

Cons

  • Because the kayak is not very fast, it is not suitable to travel large distances. The seat is not comfortable to cover long hours either.

Features

  • Length: 8 feet
  • Width:   30 inches
  • Weight: 38 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 250 pounds (for one person)
  • Material: High Density Polyethylene
  • Type: Sit-on kayak

Perception Conduit 13 Kayak – Best Sit-in Kayak

Perception Conduit 13 Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Strong enough to ride on high currents  A bit expensive
 Good leg and water space  The seat is not comfortable for longer rides
 Lightweight hence easy to transport  Balancing is hard for beginners
 Lots of thighs and knee pads  
 Great tracking capability due to added length  
 Super Sleek design  

Perception Conduit is available in a number of different sizes in the market. The Conduit 13 is a spacious kayak and comes with all the features of a professional kayak.

  • It is both stable and offers good speed which is truly a rare combination in fishing kayaks. It performs remarkably well in flat waters like smaller lakes and milder rives but is also rudder capable if you want to paddle it in rough waters. The kayak is exceptionally easy to paddle and is really non-restrictive.
  • The conduit 13 features a lower sitting position and a larger cockpit for added comfort during fishing.
  • The slender stern and bow allow it to glide smoothly across the water.
  • Its added length provides great speed and tracking in water.
  • The kayak also has a single tracking fin which is aided by the rigid construction of its body for great tracking in water.
  • It has both bow and stern hatches with bulkheads for dry storage.
  • The maximum weight capacity is 295 lbs. which means you will have lots of storage capacity as well.

Pros

  • It is comfortably priced, which suits beginners who need a kayak to begin before they can choose a more expensive one according to their specific needs.
  • At 295 lbs, it can carry an exceptional load for a solo kayak. There is extra stowage space in the form of the two sections of the bungee deck.
  • The comfortable seating coupled with knee padding allows medium-duration trips. Furthermore, the paddling efficiency is increased by the Keepers Foot Brace mechanism, a feature that allows for greater control

Cons

  • The seating is not comfortable for long duration trips, and as per user reviews, could use more padding
  • It is a bit on the higher price end for the range of kayaks that offer similar features

Features

  • Length: 13 feet
  • Width:   26.5 inches
  • Weight: 51 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 295 pounds (for one person)
  • Material: High-Density Polyethylene
  • Type: Sit in kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Very affordable price  Low-quality oars
 Has two removable skews for shallow and deep water  Some people reported leaks in the kayak
 High-quality material is used which increases durability  Not great for heavy waters
 Light weight and easy to transport  
 Really easy to setup  

The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is one of the best inflatable fishing kayaks in the market for under 500$. It is made up of 3-ply laminate PVC with a polyester core which is puncture resistant and lasts a long time. It also has a UV-resistant coating on the top and therefore you really do not have to worry about the integrity of this inflatable fishing kayak.

  • Intex Excursion Pro Kayak offers great stability and rigidity. Its high pressure, spring-loaded valves make inflation and deflation of the kayak really fast. It is also equipped with a pressure gauge so that you don’t over-inflate it. The two air chambers make sure that if anything goes wrong, you stay afloat and reach the shore safely.
  • Another cool feature is its mounting bracket which can be used to hand all kinds of accessories like the GPS system, fish finders, and so on. Besides this, you will have more than enough storage on the stern and bow.
  • The kayak also comes with two integrated fishing rod holders which is a plus.

Pros

  • The three-layered kayak has been constructed in a way that is both strong and long-lasting. Using tough PVC to build the top and bottom layer and a polyester core in the middle, the boat has the characteristics of being lightweight yet strong.
  •  The rod holders are conveniently placed in a way that fishing gear can be grabbed easily, without the holders coming in the way while paddling

Cons

  • It is not a great option if you are in choppy waters
  • It has short paddles and low-quality oars

Features

  • Length: 12 foot 7 inches
  • Width:   3.1’
  • Weight: 39 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
  • Material: Heavy Duty Vinyl with a Polyester core
  • Capacity: 2 persons
  • Comes with 2 paddles, repair kit, 1 pump, and pressure gauge
  • Type: Sit-in inflatable kayak

Native Ultimate FX Propel 13

Native Ultimate FX Propel 13 Review

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Pedal-drive system No skid plate is included
 Abundant storage space Included propulsion system means caution in shallow water
 Included rudder system makes the craft easy to control  

The Native Ultimate FX Propel 13 is one beauty of a kayak. This is one of the most perfect sit-on-top kayaks for die-hard anglers.

  • The Native Ultimate is the only peddle-driven fishing kayak with their Propel systems with reverse ability. That allows greater maneuverability and speed. With relaxed and soothing pedaling you can enjoy about 4.2 miles an hour, but if you’re after a catch that’s hurrying away, you can paddle to an impressive 5.2 miles an hour.
  • The kayak’s low profile makes this the perfect vessel under windy conditions. The Propel 13 excels in the pedaling mode, it is also one of the most versatile pedal-driven fishing kayaks.
  • Weighing about 62 lbs without the drive unit, the Propel 13 is the lightest 13 foot peddle drive kayak available. The Propel’s lightweight makes lifting effortless for transporting to your favorite spot and a day of hands-free fishing.
  • With a thirteen-foot length and a 400-pound weight capacity, you have plenty of room for angler and gear. Built-in transducer mounts under the hull and multiple Groove Track rail mounts from bow-to-stern are standard accessories.

Pros

  • The state-of-the-art peddles drive system allows you to move this kayak forward and backward. It also provides great speed and maneuverability ensuring a great catch for you.
  • The kayak has a capacity to store a massive 400 pounds, and there is abundant storage space available. This makes sure that not only can you take everything that you require without worry, but also, it makes sure you can bring a hefty catch back home.
  • The included rudder system on the kayak makes the kayak have increased control and stability, making sure you are safe.

Cons

  • The kayak has no skid plates, so you need to be careful so as to not damage your vessel from the bottom.
  • The included propulsion system will require you to use extreme caution in shallow water.

Features

  • Length: 13 feet 
  • Width:   36 inches
  • Weight: 79 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
  • Type: Sit-on-top kayak
  • Propel Drive
  • Slide adjust seat
  • Electronics Console with thumbscrews
  • Open bow hatch
  • Super Seal plugs
  • Open bow hatch

Conclusion:

The Native Ultimate FX Propel 13 is the ideal kayak for anglers. The pedaling system makes it very easy to get used to, and the capacity helps you reel in all the big catches. It has great speed and maneuverability that makes sure you don’t miss your catch.  

Wilderness Systems Aspire 105

Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 Review

Check Price on Amazon

Pros Cons
 Great Stability  Hard to drain
 Amazing maneuverability  Considerably heavy
 Very comfortable  

The Wilderness Systems Aspire 105 is a very versatile vessel that allows you to experience amazing maneuverability and long-distance tracking.

  • While it is not the fastest kayak in the world, considering its long and narrow size, the kayak glides exceptionally well and goes up faster on waves than most kayaks.
  • The kayak’s long and narrow build surprisingly does not stop it from being one of the best maneuvering kayaks ever. It is very easy to track and eventually catch the fish.
  •  The kayak has a Phase 3 Airpro seating system which is extremely comfortable and can contour to any size paddler. This ensures a snug contact point for more control and efficient paddling.
  • The kayak is very durable and weighs around 48lbs which means it is only moderately heavy, but luckily we found it is very easy to carry and transport.

Pros

  • The Aspire 105 has great stability and safety which is very necessary for you to have a care-free experience when it comes to kayaking. 
  • The kayak has amazing maneuverability making it turn easy which is a vital skill for most anglers when they are out at sea.
  • The kayak has the Phase Airpro 3 seating system which provides the back with ventilation, which is a key feature especially if you are out on your kayak for long periods of time. 

Cons

  • The kayak is relatively hard to drain which could prove to be very annoying.
  • While it is not the heaviest kayak on the list, compared to other kayaks of the size, this is a little on the heavier side. 

Features

  • Length: 10 feet 6 inches
  • Width:  29 inches
  • Weight: 48 pounds
  • Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
  • Type: Sit-on-top kayak

Conclusion:

There are many good kayaks in the market these days but most of them do not come close to the Aspire especially in terms of versatility. This is definitely one of the best kayaks around. 

Choosing the right fishing kayak

The best fishing kayak is the one that will suit your needs. Although the options presented in this fishing kayak review are all excellent kayaks, you need to decide which one will really serve your purpose.

The Malibu X-Stealth is an excellent all-rounder that combines rock-solid stability with good performance in water. It is relatively economical and is chock-full of features that are found in much more expensive kayaks. If you’re looking to explore the realm of kayaking and want something versatile, the X-Stealth should be on the top of your buying list.

Enthusiast kayakers who want a high-end model with a high degree of engineering will find the Hobie Mirage Outback to be an excellent choice. Its unique MirageDrive was built with anglers in mind and speaks volumes about its designers’ commitment to providing its users with the best fishing experience. It is a costly kayak however, so casual kayakers might find its price difficult to justify.

Families or beginner users who’re looking at kayaking as a potential new hobby should consider the Lifetime Sport Fisher. It has an entry-level price which makes it easier to buy. The high build quality of this kayak ensures that you can really grow into it and not want much else. It is on the heavier side and performance-minded kayakers will find it cumbersome in the waters.

If you are looking for some excellent kayaks that are not only for fishing purposes, read our expert reviews on Ocean Prowler 13  and Pelican Mustang because these are two of the best kayaks in the market today!

Related Articles:

Best Fishing Kayaks Under $5oo

Best Fishing Kayaks Under $10oo

Michael Holding
 

Michael is an outdoor adventurer and a kayaking enthusiast who loves to share his experiences with others. He is the Chief Editor at XgearHub.

Click Here to Leave a Comment Below 7 comments
Best Kayak Reviews & Comparisons 2017 - Buyer's Guide - August 30, 2017

[…] Read more about our best fishing kayaks, click here […]

Reply
fishing kayaks reviews - February 13, 2019

Wow! Such an awesome post.This is a great article thanks for sharing this informative information. I am a regular reader of your Blog and I love every piece of information you share here.Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is really cool.I used it.I bought a Intex Explorer K2 Kayak in last year..It works really good..i enjoy it…

Reply
Martin - March 21, 2019

Great selection of fishing yaks! Thanks for sharing 😉

Reply
undita balzere - May 29, 2020

It’s great this article! I always read your blog. | put this on Instagram and a lot
of people love it. You do a very good job. And I will always read your artilces.

Reply

Leave a Reply: