Fishing Kayak Reviews
If you are looking for a new way to catch some fish but do not have regular access to a fishing boat, you might want to take a look at a fishing kayak. They are smaller, easy to use, and can be great for river or lake fishing.
It can be hard finding ones that are just the right size and have the right amount of storage that you need, so we put this list together of some of the best fishing kayaks between size and quality that you can find.
Top 5: Fishing Kayaks Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
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9.9 | ||
9.8 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
9.2 |
This is one of the few kayaks out there that has a foot-controlled rudder system, and you can use it to control where you are going whether you are using a normal paddle or you have attached a trolling motor to it; neither of these are included with the kayak, unfortunately.
The 11-foot long kayak can also come in several colors including hunter camo, blue camo, orange camo, smoke camo, and even galaxy. There are two dry storage hatches (on in the front and one in the back and a back area with a bungee cord that you can use to store a bag or pack.
Depending on your size, there is also some room to attach a cooler to the back of your seat or in the middle of the leg area, too. Be careful about what you want to put behind the seat, though. Like most fishing kayaks, that is where the rod holders are.
Pros
Cons
This kayak is a little bigger than the last one, 12 feet, and it comes with a paddle. It does have a little bit less internal storage than the last model, but it is big enough to mount and hold several bags and coolers.
This model also has rudder controls in the feet, but the grip on them is a little weaker than the last model, making it easier to lose your footing and slip. It comes in a camo color, but you can choose between brown and green.
This does have the same number of active rod holders, but it also comes with 4 vertical rod holders that you can use to store some extra rods in case you lose or break one.
Pros
Cons
If you are looking for an affordable 2-pack, then you may want to take a look at this model since it is one of the few out there that has as much storage as it does for being a 10-foot kayak.
There are two dry storage compartments, one in between the legs and one behind the seat, and two holders with elastic bands. It also has two vertical rod holders and an active rod holder along with a paddle, too.
Because of all of these features, this is one of the most cost-efficient options if you and your partner are looking to take up this hobby/sport.
Pros
Cons
This is one of the few sit-on and stand-on kayaks out there, and because of that, it can be out of stock fairly often. However, the quality cannot be beaten when it comes to the size and storage.
It has side storage for inactive rods, 2 vertical holders, an active holder, front compartment and elastic band storage, and rear elastic band storage. There can also be plenty of room for more coolers/bags in front by your feet.
It is one of the larger sizes, too, being around 12.3 feet long which explains the extra storage.
Pros
Cons
If you are a beginner, then this smaller-sized kayak (9 feet) is a good option for you, especially if you are smaller and do not plan on spending much time fishing.
There is still plenty of room for rods and storage, but you may have to get a seat cover that has more padding. The padding on this seat can be a little too thin for most users, especially after a few uses when it gets flatter.
The kayak can come in 3 different colors: Wildfire, Moss camo, and Jam Berry. It can also be one of the lighter models, and it is easier for one person to carry safely without dragging or dropping it while launching it.
Pros
Cons
Best Fishing Kayak
The best kayak for you out of these five would probably be the first one: the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 11 Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak. You can get it in several colors, it has one of the highest storage and weight capacities, and can practically be used by anyone regardless of size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Sit-On Kayak?
A sit-on kayak is one that does not cover your legs in any way; you just sit on it. Some are designed so that you can also stand on them too, but depending on where you live and/or take your kayak, there may be laws against doing that.
Most fishing kayaks are sit-on types because they allow for more room for storage, coolers, backpacks, and whatever else you want to bring onboard. Because they are designed to carry more, you can expect them to be more expensive than a sit-in model.
What Size Should You Get?
You should always try to get a kayak that you can sit comfortably in, reach the foot holders, and one that you are strong enough to paddle for as long as you are planning to fish.
For those of you who have never used a kayak, even if you work out, it can still give you extremely sore arms after just half an hour. You may not think about it and what to get a larger-sized kayak so that you can hold more fish, but the heavier the load, the harder it will be to paddle back.
The shorter ones are usually around 9 feet long or so while the longer ones are at or above 11 feet.
What Usually Comes with a Kayak?
Nearly always, a kayak will come with one or two paddles and whatever is built into it. Some of these extra features are fishing rod holders, paddle holders, and bungee cords for storage.
It can be a little rarer to find a kayak that comes with all the necessary accessories needed for kayak fishing, so you may have to look around for a kit or whatever pieces you may still need for your next trip.
10 Important Fishing Tips
Fishing as a profession or as a hobby can be a lot of fun. The best part is coming out of the water with a good catch. However, the process of fishing is not as easy as many may think, and that is why it is best to have some tips up your sleeves.
Whether as a beginner or an expert, learning some new tips and tricks can increase your catch's size. Below are some tips on how to better your fishing experience.
1. Patience
Well, 'patience pays.' Some people always say "fish in the area where fish are." With fish, however, it is not that easy to know where they are. Most of the time, they will not be relaxing on the surface or in a place easy to spot.
As a fisherman, be prepared to do a lot of work throughout the day to catch the fish. Be ready to change your hooks, lures, knots, weights, and, most probably, your techniques.
Always to remember that fishing is a process, and for it to bear fruit, there has to be an excellent technique applied.
2. Safety
"Safety first" is a principle we, as fishers should take seriously and put on the top of their list as they set out to go fishing. Ensure that you have all the safety equipment you need to protect yourself from the sun or from drowning.
As you pack your fishing equipment, add sunscreen to help keep you from the sunburns, and include a lifejacket. You know, 'being prepared for anything.' Put in some flares and a whistle in case you need to call for any help.
A first aid kit and a bottle of water are also crucial when thinking about your sea safety. Staying healthy and hydrated on a fishing spree will give you the energy for a higher catch. Consider having your google maps within reach too in case you drift off your course.
Here is a list of additional safety tips that fishers can use or consider.
• Be well aware of the swell and tide conditions as well as the weather.
• Dress in light-colored clothes plus sturdy shoes.
• Always go with someone.
• On occasion you are rock fishing, do not face away from the ocean at any one time.
• Tell your friends and family about where you are, and the time you anticipate to get back.
3. Be Well-Equipped
Before setting out to the river or ocean, make sure that you have everything you need. It would not be a crime to carry excess equipment, but it would be bad for you if you are under-equipped.
To help you make sure you have all the needed equipment, come up with a list of everything you plan for the day. Tick them off one by one as you pack them onto your boat. This way, it will be a lot easier to identify if you have missed anything.
To determine what kinds of equipment you will carry. There are several factors that you need to consider.
• The platform on which you will be fishing—either your boat, the rocks, the beach or jetty.
• The location in which you will be fishing. Suppose it is the river, lake, or ocean.
• The type and size of fish you intend to catch.
Not all types and sizes of fish will be caught using the same equipment. That means that if you intend to catch big fish, it is best to carry nets and for small fish take rods.
You can't use the same equipment for rivers and oceans, which means you have to understand your location and its requirements.
By understanding those considerations, you will also know where best to purchase your equipment. You can also end up hiring some equipment to compliment the ones you already have.
4. Change Tactics
"If you want different results, then try a new way of doing things." That does not only apply in the business world but also when fishing. Changing tactics will help you increase your catch. For example, you can start fishing in shallow waters, and you can change up and fish in the deep.
You should always know the perfect time for a tactical change. Another way to change tactic is by casting your bait deeper or subtracting or adding weight if you are bait fishing. When fly fishing, go to a sinking line or sink tip.
If none of those tactical changes works, then consider changing your location. Move around so that you can find the fish. You can cover the water using fan casts as you move. Make casts in front, and more on your right.
Once you have covered the entire area, then move on to a new spot at all the depths. Do this until you find a spot or a tactic that will help you increase your catch.
5. Check Water Temperature
Checking the temperature of the water mostly applies when you are fishing in freshwater. Most of the fish spices have specific water temperatures that they can comfortably live. A majority of them lean towards the cold water temperatures.
The hotter the water gets on the surface, the deeper the fish move. That means that you need to cast your bait or net deeper for you to have better chances of catching more fish as the day goes by.
Since the water at the top is still cold at dawn, the fish will come closer to the surface to feed. At that time, you can cast your equipment shallowly, but as the day progresses and temperatures rise, the fish go deeper into the water.
6. Do Your Research
To land a good catch requires more than just proper equipment. It calls for skill, preparation, and research. You need to read, listen, and even watch a lot of fishing-related materials to learn a thing or two about fishing from the experts.
The research will help you understand the different types of fish that exist and where they can be found. It will also inform you about the best time that fish can be caught and the factors to consider if at all you want to change tactics throughout the day.
Learn about the different water bodies to fish in. You also get to know how to maneuver the waters. Take notes about the important stuff that you think you will forget.
Another important area to research is the behavior of the waters at certain times of the day. The tides and waves. Being informed about that will make sure that you are safe when out fishing, and it will make sure you focus solely on your fishing.
You also need to do your research about the regulations that exist for fishers. Go to the fishing board responsible near you and ask around for what you need to be on the right side of the law.
7. Learn How to Cast
According to the experts, "there is a substitute for becoming a good caster.” That means that you have to learn and practice how to cast perfectly. Great fishing equipment will not be of any help if you do not know how to cast.
Before going on any fishing expedition, learn how to cast a bait caster and spinning rod accurately and double haul. Everything else will fall into place once you have become an excellent caster.
Poor casting can make you lose opportunities to catch a fish and also can result in lost lures. The only way to become the best is by practicing.
8. Select a Comfortable Fishing Method
There are so many fishing methods and techniques that you can use. However, you need to choose one that you will be comfortable with and one that will help you catch the most fish. Some methods include:
• Angling- this is a fishing method that combines the use of a hook, sinker, and line. It is the most popular method of fishing used. When using this method, always try holding the rod without tension to make sure it remains steady.
Use cheap lures and always have your concentration on the lures, as it will help you gain the best results. You can also use several baits if you are worried that you will lose fish.
• Netting- this applies to the use of nets to catch fish. It is also popularly applied by many people. Mostly, this method is used in collaboration with the netter and angler. You must remain on the boat where your netter and fish are.
Also, it is encouraged that you do not move before the fish are on the net. Once you have ensured a good number of fish are on the net, you can start pulling it straight.
• Trapping- it involves using a trap where fish go in, but they can't come out. The traps come in different sizes and shapes for the different types of fish. For more effective results in this method, you can use fishing nets.
• Hand Gathering- this is both an exciting and dangerous way of catching fish. It involves standing in or near the water and waiting for a fish near the surface, then grabbing it with your hands. It does not require any equipment but can be time consuming and tiresome.
9. Know the Difference Between Freshwater and Saltwater
The most significant difference between the salt and freshwater fishing experiences is the different types of fish species found in either. It is essential that before you go fishing, you understand the factors in saltwater and freshwater bodies that affect the presence of fish.
There will be a difference between where to find fish in lakes and oceans. It also means that you have to use different techniques and equipment when fishing in those two different areas because of the size and types of fish.
10. Use a Kayak
Kayaks are both small and very affordable as compared to the regular fishing boats. Using a kayak, especially for beginners, is very easy because it is easy to transport in and out of the water because of its lightweight.
Besides, kayaks give you a lot of access to the water all around you, as opposed to the boats. It allows you to use different fishing methods. It can also get into some areas that boats cannot access, giving you better exposure to more fishing grounds.
Final Verdict
Feel free to click the links above to get a better idea of what you are looking for in a fishing kayak whether it is for you or someone you care about.
