Kayaks have been around for centuries, and the sport of fishing from a kayak is becoming more and more popular. Kayaks are great for getting into tight spots where larger boats can’t go, and they are perfect for fly fishermen who need to get close to the water’s surface to cast their lines.
Best Fly Fishing Kayaks Review
If you’re looking for the best kayaks for fly fishing, check out our top-rated models below. From durable sit-on-top kayaks that are perfect for beginners to high-performance models built for serious anglers, we’ve got something for everyone. So read on to find the perfect kayak for your next fishing trip!
1# Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot Kayak with Minn Kota Trolling Motor
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 kayak is perfect for hardcore anglers looking for a performance-driven fishing boat with innovative features. The built-in Minn Kota trolling motor and Spot-Lock technology provide easy navigation, while the comfortable seating system and adjustable height make it easy to find a perfect fit. This kayak also comes equipped with four accessory tracks, two forward-facing and two rear-facing rod holders, and a durable XL rudder. Plus, the under-seat storage offers plenty of space to store all your gear.
2# Ascend 133X Tournament Sit-on-Top Kayak with Yak-Power
The Ascend 133X Tournament Sit-on-Top Kayak with Yak-Power is a top-of-the-line kayak designed for serious anglers. With its stable catamaran-style hull and 1-piece, rotomolded construction, this kayak is built for amazing stability, tracking, and fishing performance. It also comes equipped with a deluxe, adjustable high-back seat system, open bow and stern storage areas, dry storage hatch, four 16″ accessory rails, two flush-mount rod holders, adjustable foot braces, nonskid cushioned flooring, nine scupper drains with plugs, carrying handles, and threaded sealed drain plug.
3# HO Sports Ranger 2 Inflatable Kayak
The HO Sports Ranger 2 Inflatable Kayak is perfect for a day out on the water with friends or family. With room for two and plenty of storage, this kayak is perfect for any adventure. The three inflation chambers and rigid drop-stitching floor make this kayak sturdy and reliable, while the welded tarpaulin base and durable nylon cover ensure long-lasting use. The lever-lock fin and front skeg provide extra tracking enhancement and the front bungee storage is perfect for keeping your belongings safe and dry. The two paddle holders and adjustable, ergonomic, high-back seats make paddling a breeze, while the two adjustable foot straps keep you comfortable and secure all day long.
4# Ascend H12 Sit-In Hybrid Titanium Kayak
The Ascend H12 sit-in hybrid titanium kayak is the perfect choice for those who want the best of both worlds. With its advanced hull design, it provides outstanding performance and stability, while the open-deck design gives you the freedom to customize your equipment and gear. 53.5″x23.5″ cockpit provides plenty of room to move around and get comfortable, while the adjustable foot braces allow you to find the perfect position for paddling. The hard hatch at the bow and expandable mesh stern cargo cover provides ample storage for your gear, and the two moulded-over rubber-grip carry handles make it easy to transport. The threaded, sealed drain plug ensures that your kayak will stay dry during all your adventures.
5# Ascend D10 Red Sit-In Kayak
Looking for a kayak that’s versatile and fun? Look no further than the Ascend D10 Red Sit-In Kayak! This kayak is custom-crafted with a tunnel hull design, making it perfect for exploring all kinds of waterways. Plus, the comfortable padded steel-frame seat and deluxe, removable seating system make it easy to stay comfortable while paddling. You’ll appreciate the large open cockpit and covered stern well with cooler capacity on long days out on the water. And, the bow and stern bungee storage provide plenty of space to stow away your gear. For added convenience, the kayak features dual-position paddle holders and hands-free, adjustable foot braces.
6# Advanced Elements PackLite Inflatable Kayak
The PackLite kayak is the perfect way to explore remote waterways without having to worry about your gear. Weighing just 4 pounds, it’s easy to carry and highly packable, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Plus, its three chambers ensure greater safety on the water.
7# Ascend FS10 Desert Storm Sit-In Angling Kayak
The Ascend FS10 Desert Storm Sit-In Angling Kayak is perfect for your next fishing adventure. With a high-density linear polyethene construction, this kayak is built to last. The advanced “V”-style hull provides superior tracking and handling, while the large, open cockpit makes it easy to get in and out. The easy 1-hand seat back adjustability and deluxe removable seating system make it easy to find the perfect position, while the hands-free, adjustable foot braces keep you comfortable during long days on the water. The accessory rails and 2 cleats provide handy spots for attaching minnow buckets or stringers, while the weathertight deck-plate storage keeps your gear dry and safe.
8# Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak
The Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler sit-on-top kayak is perfect for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and transportable kayak. Weighing only 44 lb, this kayak is made with our Ram-X material, which ensures durability. The ExoPak storage compartment makes it easy to store your supplies while you’re out on the water, and the moulded paddle cradle allows you to safely store your paddle when not in use.
9# Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak
Looking for a stable and comfortable kayak that is also safe? Look no further than the Pelican Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak. Our multi-chine flat bottom hull offers excellent stability, while the adjustable ERGOFIT G2 seating system ensures you’ll stay comfortable all day long. Plus, our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops, meeting or surpassing ABYC standards. Holds a maximum capacity of 3, making it perfect for you and your friends!
10# Intex Excursion Pro Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series is perfect for those who love spending time outdoors. These kayaks are made of super-tough laminate PVC with a polyester core, making them lightweight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight. Plus, the high-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, while the high-pressure spring-loaded valves make inflation and deflation a breeze. The Excursion Pro Kayaks come with 2 removable skegs for deep or shallow water, 2 floor-mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, and 2 adjustable bucket seats. The mounting bracket can also be removed to allow for additional accessories such as GPS systems, fish finders, swivel fishing rod holders etc.
11# Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is the perfect kayak for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. With a rigid drop stitch floor, front bow spray shield, and ample bow/stern storage, this kayak is designed to provide a safe and comfortable fishing experience. The steelhead series also features Halkey Roberts locking valves and hard mounting points for added security and convenience. So whether you’re a novice angler or an experienced pro, the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is sure to meet your needs.
12# Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series is made with laminate PVC with a polyester core, making it SUPER TOUGH and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight. It is rigid and stable, thanks to the high-pressure inflation, and comes with accessories like 2 removable skegs for deep and shallow water, 1 floor-mounted footrest, 2 conveniently detachable fishing rod holders, detachable and adjustable GoPro & phone mount, and a removable & adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories.
13# Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive
The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 is the perfect kayak for anglers who want the performance of a pedal-driven kayak without breaking the bank. Made in the USA, this kayak features a comfortable lawn chair-style mesh seat with two-level seat adjustment and breathable mesh for ultimate all-day comfort. The Pilot drive pedal system can be fully recessed into the hull for zero drafts, and the one-piece construction with built-in buoyancy is leak-proof for added safety. The large front and rear open storage areas are perfect for coolers, tackle, and other gear, while the gear tracks, fishfinder consoles, and four-rod holders make it easy to stay organized and ready to fish.
FAQ
Conclusion
Kayaks have come a long way and there are now many great options for fishermen looking for the best fly fishing kayaks. In this article, we have reviewed some of the top-rated kayaks on the market and shared some tips about what to look for when purchasing a kayak for fly fishing. We hope you found this information helpful and that it will make your next purchase easier!
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.
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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.
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