What To Look For
Anglers need not purchase a kayak specifically outfitted for fishing in order to enjoy the sport. Several companies manufacture recreational kayaks that can easily be modified for fishing a range of different species and water conditions. Kayaks used for fishing are wider than those used for touring to emphasize stability.
Several different styles of kayak are available, from inflatable to folding, to decked, to sit-on-top. Any of these has the potential to make a good platform for fishing. The main considerations are stability and space. Decked kayaks should be equipped with large cockpit openings so that gear can be stored and easily accessible inside the craft, rather than lashed to the deck top. Accessories such as rod holders, anchors, paddle clips, electronics, bait tanks and seats can usually be adapted to most kayaks.
Common Pitfalls
There is no single "best kayak" for fishing except the one that will get you out on the water most frequently. Fishing kayaks are generally made of poly plastics and tend to be heavier (and much less expensive) than those made of glass, Kevlar or carbon. Make certain you can carry the kayak and lift it up on the car top. Don't purchase any kayak that you haven't had the opportunity to test-paddle. Some kayaks are difficult to control in wind or waves without a rudder. Shorter kayaks are slower and require more paddling effort, so if the fishery is a long distance from the put-in, a longer kayak will make the paddle easier. Be wary of inexpensive inflatable kayaks.
Where To Buy
Some brands, such as Old Town, are available in a variety of sporting goods stores and even in some of the big box stores. Old Town makes a very good and serviceable recreational kayak. Other brands, like Hobie, Heritage, Wilderness Systems, Current Designs, Dagger, Native Watercraft, are more difficult to find and may require a trip to a paddling shop. Always purchase from a local paddling shop if one is available. The staff will be knowledgeable and gladly arrange for a test paddle.
Cost
On the low end, some of the plastic kayaks can be found for under $300. Add to that the cost for outfitting it for fishing. More money (up to $2,000) will purchase better material construction, lighter weight, more accessories, hatches and deck rigging. Hobie even makes a model that can be pedaled, allowing hands free locomotion on the water.
Insider Tips
Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when on the water.
Article Written By Garrison Pence
Garrison Pence has been a midwest-based (ghost)writer for three decades, taught university-level literature, and has written articles and white papers in trade publications of the Material Handling Institute, Engineering Today, Pharmaceutical, Food and Beverage Science, and Semiconductor. Pence holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Literature.
