Fishing kayaks have become increasingly popular among anglers looking for a versatile and accessible way to fish in various water bodies. With the right kayak, you can explore remote fishing spots, navigate through shallow waters, and enjoy the natural beauty of Australia's waterways.
However, given all the options available, choosing the perfect fishing kayak isn’t always as easy as it seems! This is why we’ve created a quick and simple guide highlighting the top five features to look for in a high-quality fishing kayak.
What Defines a Fishing Kayak?
A fishing kayak is specifically designed to meet the needs of anglers. Unlike traditional recreational kayaks, fishing kayaks come equipped with features that enhance your fishing experience, efficiency and comfort. These features often include rod holders, ample storage space for tackle and gear, and a stable platform for standing casts.
Additionally, fishing kayaks are designed to provide easy access to fishing spots that might be unreachable by larger craft or boats with outboard motors.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
Known for their excellent stability and ease of use, sit-on-top kayaks suitable for both casual paddlers and anglers alike. They feature an open deck, which allows for easy entry and exit, and often come equipped with multiple storage options and rod holders. These kayaks are versatile and suitable for various water conditions, from calm lakes to coastal waters and even offshore on calm days, weather conditions permitting.
The Viking Profish GT Sit On Top Fishing Kayak - a nimble fishing kayak that’s great for both salt and freshwater expeditions
Sit-In Kayaks
Sit-in kayaks offer better protection from the elements, as the paddler sits inside the hull. This feature is particularly beneficial in cooler or rougher water conditions. These kayaks generally provide more efficient paddling due to their lower centre of gravity, and are often preferred by anglers who are looking for a little more speed and manoeuvrability. Due to their unique design, they often come with ample storage space within the hull’s bulkheads, which makes them great for longer fishing trips and touring.
Inflatable Kayaks
Inflatable fishing kayaks are portable, as well as easy to use, store, and transport from place to place. This, of course, makes them one of the most convenient options for anyone with limited space. Despite being lightweight and easy to transport, they are designed to be durable and stable, with multiple air chambers for safety. As you can guess, these kayaks can be quickly inflated and deflated, a feature that really gives you some extra flexibility for spontaneous fishing trips.
1 - Stability
Stability is a critical feature for any vessel, and the same rules apply to a fishing kayak. This stability will directly impact your ability to fish, and prevent unexpected tipping or capsizing. A stable kayak allows you to stand up and cast, change positions, and move around, all without the fear of tipping over.
When paddling through tidal waters and strong currents, the kayak's hull shape will determine how stable and well the kayak will steer either by paddle stroke or with a rudder and steering pedals.
If ocean fishing or paddling or over longer distances, a pedal drive, or motorised propulsion system is recommended. The Impulse Pedal Drive or Bixpy Jet system are both very good options. Other than a paddle, a propulsion system will get you to and from your destination quickly and efficiently, enabling more time to fish or a quick return if the weather changes.
Features to Look For
Hull Design: Wider hulls generally offer better stability. In enclosed waterways, a flatter bottom hull is ideal, however if fishing in more open, exposed waterways or even offshore, a v-shaped hull will be more stable.
Material: Durable materials like polyethylene and ABS plastic contribute to a stable ride.
Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution in the kayak ensures balanced stability. Load up your kayak with your gear before you head out and check your stability then make adjustments if required. Remember safety gear always stays on board and a heavier load is not necessarily more stable, a lighter load is also easier to paddle.
2 - Storage and Gear Capacity
Kayak fishing requires a lot of gear, including everything from your PFD, rods to tackle boxes, bait, fish finders, net, and personal items. A high-quality fishing kayak should have sufficient storage options to keep your gear organised and accessible. With the right amount of storage, you can maximise each and every fishing expedition.
Features to Look For
Hatches and Compartments: Secure, waterproof hatches to store sensitive gear.
Rod Holders: Built-in holders for multiple fishing rods.
Deck Space: Open deck areas for easy access to frequently used items and mounts for cameras, fish finders and your catch.
3 - Comfort and Ergonomics
Fishing requires real patience and often involves spending hours out of the water. Naturally, this means that comfort is absolutely essential. An uncomfortable kayak could quickly turn a pleasant fishing trip into a frustrating experience. Look for features that enhance comfort and make long fishing trips enjoyable.
Features to Look For
Adjustable Seats: Ergonomic, padded and adjustable seats to suit different body types.
Footrests: Adjustable footrests for proper paddling posture.
Accessibility: All your essential items should be within arms reach. From the paddle or steering control to your rods, bait, tackle, food, and hydration, the kayak's deck design should be functional.
Check out our excellent range of fishing kayaks for sale right here!
4 - Portability and Weight
A fishing kayak should also be easy to transport and handle, especially if you plan to explore different fishing spots. In this case, the weight and design of the kayak can significantly affect its portability. Most fishing kayaks are heavy by every measure, normally ranging from 20 to 40 kgs. As a result, your ability to move the kayak to and from and off the water is a key consideration. If on a car roof top you may need load assist devices and the heavier and longer craft often a kayak trailer.
Using a kayak trolley or cart makes the transport to and from the water easier. PaddleZone has a range available, some specifically for fishing kayaks and even for use on sand.
Features to Look For
Weight: Lightweight materials like polyethylene and ABS plastic.
Handles: Sturdy carry handles for easy lifting and transporting.
Modularity: Some kayaks, like the Point 65 KingFisher Modular Fishing Kayak, can be disassembled for easier transport and storage.
5 - Durability
Last but not least we have the issue of durability, another critical factor for any kayak purchase. A well-made fishing kayak will be able to withstand various conditions and last for many fishing seasons. A durable option should also be well-suited to handle rough waters, impacts, and prolonged exposure to the elements.
Features to Look For
Material: High-quality materials like UV-stabilised polyethylene and Trylon ABS plastic.
Construction: Well-constructed seams and joints that resist leaks and damage.
Maintenance: Low-maintenance materials that require minimal upkeep. We recommend rinsing the kayak in fresh water after each use to promote longevity. The fittings should be stainless steel or a durable nylon or plastic material.
Examples of High-Quality Fishing Kayaks
Already on the hunt for a new fishing kayak? Below, we’ve compiled four excellent options that you need to know! Now we can really get into the fun part and cover some of the many excellent options on the market.
PaddleZone Terrapin, 3m sit on top
Made from the highest-Grade polyethylene, (HDPE) that offers the best quality in terms of flexibility, rigidity and durability.
A fully equipped fishing kayak that offers the keen kayak fisherman all the features of an expensive fishing kayak but at a fraction of the cost. 4 flush-mounted rod holders, a swivel rod holder mounted in the middle and two large storage hatches.
The Terrapin is extremely stable with a well-defined keel providing excellent tracking to keep you on course. Suitable for the whole family from kids to larger paddlers up to 130Kg.
Technical Specs
- Length: 2.8 metres
- Width: 84 cm
- Weight: 21 kg
- Max Capacity: 130 kg
- Material: High-grade polyethylene
Sizes and Colours
- Seating: Deluxe seat upgradable to a framed seat
- Colours Available: Flame, Desert Storm, Aquamarine, Forest
Key Features and Benefits
- Durability: Constructed from high-grade polyethylene, the Terrapin is built to withstand tough conditions.
- Versatility: Suitable for flat water and enclosed waterways, ideal for various recreational activities.
- Family-Friendly: A manageable size and weight.
- Low Maintenance: Its construction makes it virtually maintenance-free.
Viking Kayak Two Plus One (Sit-On-Top)
The Viking Kayak Two Plus One is a versatile sit-on-top kayak designed for family outings and fishing trips. Its unique design allows for two adults and one child to comfortably paddle together, making it an excellent choice for families.
Technical Specs
- Length: 4.1 metres
- Width: 81 cm
- Weight: 30 kg
- Max Capacity: 250 kg
- Material: UV-stabilised polyethylene
Sizes and Colours
- Seating: 2+1 configuration (two adults and one child)
- Colours Available: Yellow, Green, Blue, Red
Key Features and Benefits
- Family Design: Designed to accommodate two adults and one child, promoting family activities.
- Stability: Wide hull design provides excellent stability, ideal for beginners and family use.
- Durability: Made from UV-stabilised polyethylene to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Storage: Includes storage hatches for keeping gear dry and secure.
Point 65 KingFisher Modular Fishing Kayak
The Point 65 KingFisher Modular Fishing Kayak is an innovative modular kayak designed for flexibility and convenience. Its modular sections allow easy transport and storage, making it an ideal choice for anglers who need portability without sacrificing performance.
Technical Specs
- Length (Mid-Section Only): Adds 1.7 metres to the total length
- Weight (Mid-Section Only): 14 kg
- Material: Durable polyethylene
Sizes and Colours
- Modular Design: Can be configured as a solo or tandem kayak
- Colours Available: Yellow, Orange, Green
Key Features and Benefits
- Modularity: Sections can be easily added or removed, providing flexibility in length and seating configuration.
- Portability: The modular design makes it easy to transport and store, perfect for those with limited space.
- Fishing Features: Includes rod holders and gear tracks for a customised fishing setup.
- Stability: Designed for stability and tracking, ensuring a smooth and controlled paddling experience.
Hurricane Osprey 120 Kayak (Sit-On-Top)
Overview
The Hurricane Osprey 120 is a high-performance sit-on-top kayak known for its lightweight design and superior manoeuvrability. It's an excellent choice for serious anglers looking for a kayak that offers both speed and stability.
Technical Specs
- Length: 3.66 metres
- Width: 76 cm
- Weight: 21 kg
- Max Capacity: 160 kg
- Material: Trylon ABS plastic
Sizes and Colours
- Seating: Single
- Colours Available: Green, Blue, Yellow
Key Features and Benefits
- Lightweight: Weighing only 21 kg, it's easy to transport and handle.
- Performance: Designed for speed and agility, making it ideal for quickly covering long distances.
- Durability: Made from Trylon ABS plastic, offering excellent durability and a glossy finish.
- Comfort: Features an adjustable seat and ample legroom for extended trips.
Find High-Quality Fishing Kayaks at PaddleZone - Australia’s Home of All Things Paddling
From Viking to Riot, Hurricane, Point 65, and more, we’ve got a great collection of fishing kayaks for sale. Every kayak we supply has been handpicked by our passionate team. As paddlers ourselves, we know what makes for a good fishing kayak, and only select the best of the best.
Check out the collection here, as well as our range of tandem kayaks, kayak accessories, safety gear and a whole lot more!
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