Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak Comparison Chart
Best 1 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Table of Contents
- 1 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- 1.1 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak Comparison Chart
- 1.2 How We Chose the Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing?
- 1.3 Top 5 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
- 1.3.1 1. Best Overall and Best 1 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak: Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- 1.3.2 2. Best Bang for the Buck: Intex Excursion Pro
- 1.3.3 3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Kayak
- 1.3.4 4. Best 2 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak: Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Fishing Kayak
- 1.3.5 5. Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Kayak Pro
- 1.4 What to Look For When Choosing the Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks?
- 1.5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
With their portability and versatility, there’s no wonder why inflatable kayaks are popular among professional and recreational anglers. Just like their hard shell counterparts, modern inflatable kayaks are stable and perform just as well as a fishing platform. They also offer extra features, like rod holders and mounting points to make your fishing trips more comfortable.
That said, not all inflatable fishing kayaks are the same. Some are more durable and functional than others. Some also work better as fishing vessels. So to find those that you can safely take out to the water and those that suit your fishing needs, we created a list of all the things you need to look out for in an inflatable kayak. We have also put together the best inflatable fishing kayaks to help make your search easier.
How We Chose the Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing?
To find the best products in the market, we scoured through all the inflatable fishing kayak models we could find. After hours of research, we were then able to shortlist all those we liked, those with the highest rating, and those most recommended by other kayak fishers.
We then had to cut down our list by comparing all the products against each other. We looked at their functionality, features, price, durability, and overall quality. From there, we decided among ourselves which ones to keep and which ones to drop. After much discussion, we were then able to narrow it down to only the top 5 inflatable kayaks for fishing.
That said, all the products on this list are carefully selected and are guaranteed to be among the best-performing, most stable, and most functional inflatable fishing kayaks available today.
Top 5 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
- Best Overall and Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak (1 Person): Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- Best Bang for the Buck: Intex Excursion Pro
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado Inflatable Kayak for Fishing
- Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak (2 Person): Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Inflatable Kayak Fishing
- Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Kayak Pro
Why we love it:
- Stand-up casting
- Plenty of attachment points
- Has plenty of legroom
What it is best for:
- Calm water
- Whitewater (up to class III rapids)
Our top pick for the best fishing kayak inflatable is the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead. It has a solid drop stitch floor, which serves as the perfect platform for bait-casting. It is also self-bailing and can get rid of any excess and splashing water while you’re out fishing. Furthermore, its body is made of 1000D reinforced layered PVC. So it’s sure to last even through rough waters.
Like other inflatable kayaks, this fishing kayak inflatable model is lightweight and portable. It also inflates very quickly and you can get it up and ready in just a few minutes. After your trips. You can then deflate it just as easily and store it in the travel backpack it comes with. Aside from that, it also comes with a hand pump, a skeg, a paddle, a footrest, and a seat. So you can immediately take it out for fishing as soon as it arrives.
What’s great about the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead is that it is made especially for fishing. It has multiple universal hard mounting points where you can attach your fishing rods, rod holder, fish finders, GPS, camera, and other accessories. It also has bungee storage for keeping your essentials always nearby. On top of that, it offers plenty of legroom and an adjustable and very comfortable seat, so you can stay in the water longer.
Pros:
- ZEasy to handle
- ZEasy to transport
- ZGreat weight capacity
- ZDurable and solid
Cons:
- QThe paddle is too short
Why we love it:
- Has everything you need
- Comes with 2 skegs
- Has rod holders and a mounting bracket for accessories
What it is best for:
- Flatwater and calm bodies of water
If you’re looking for an inflatable 2 person fishing kayak that’s reliable yet won’t cost you a fortune, then check out the Intex Excursion Pro. It’s one of the most popular inflatable kayaks around – and for good reason. It is lightweight, stable, and tough. It won’t get damaged by impact, sunlight, or abrasion.
This inflatable kayak offers everything you need in a single set, including a hand pump, 2 paddles, 2 removable skegs, 2 seats, 2 footrests, a repair patch kit, and the kayak itself. As for its fishing features, it has 2 rod holders and a removable and adjustable mounting bracket for your other accessories like a GPS, fish finder, or other fishing rod holders.
Now, what’s great about the Intex Excursion Pro is its affordability. In fact, it is the cheapest one on our list. But make no mistake, it offers reasonable quality for its price.
Pros:
- ZLightweight
- ZEasy to set up and store
- ZVersatile
- ZAffordable
Cons:
- QThe blades of the paddles are small
Why we love it:
- Offers plenty of storage
- Adjustable seats
- Compatible with the Sevylor trolling motor
What it is best for:
- Lakes and ponds
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is a great choice for those looking for an inflatable fishing kayak 2 person unit. With its rugged construction, adjustable seats, and impressive weight capacity, it’s perfect for fishing trips on lakes and ponds with another person, a child, or a pet. It’s also compatible with the Sevylor trolling motor if you want to move easier.
This fishing kayak has Berkley quick-set rod holders for keeping your hands free while fishing. There are also mesh pockets and multiple D-rings where you can store your gear and keep them always within reach.
Overall, if you are looking for a lightweight, versatile, and affordable yet tough inflatable kayak that won’t take up too much space in your home or car, then the Sevylor Coleman Colorado is a great choice.
Pros:
- ZRugged
- ZEasy to set up
- ZConvenient to store
Cons:
- QRod holder positions can get in the way of paddling
Why we love it:
- Compact and lightweight
- Inflates quickly
- Comes in a complete set
What it is best for:
- Lakes and calm rivers
Our top pick for the best 2-person inflateable fishing kayak is the Elkton Outdoors Cormorant. It is equipped with 2 full-motion rod holders, 2 vertical rod holders, and 2 angled rod holders. You can set up your fishing rods in any way and combination you want to get the best catch – or to keep your hands free.
This kayak is just like any inflatable. It’s easy to store and move from your home to the water and back. It also comes with all the accessories you need to hit the water, including double-sided oars, a pump, a carry bag, and adjustable seats. But compared to others, it’s even lighter at only 27 lbs yet is able to carry an impressive 450 lbs.
The Elkton Outdoors Cormorant is durable and built to last. It features an 18-gauge PVC, a tough nylon cover, and a thick tarpaulin. So you’re sure to get lots of fishing adventures in it.
Pros:
- ZDurable
- ZHas plenty of rod holders
- ZHas plenty of room
Cons:
- QSeats can be more comfortable
Why we love it:
- Large weight capacity
- Very stable
- Easy to inflate
What it is best for:
- Flatwater and up to class II whitewater
With its external drop stitch construction keel, the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack offers the fastest and straightest paddling experience possible for an inflatable kayak. It is also incredibly rugged with its 1000D reinforced body and 2000D reinforced side walls. So it’s sure to give you the protection you need to stay safe on the water. With a nearly indestructible fabric, you also don’t need to worry about hooks, sharp fins, abrasions, and abuse.
One of the best things about the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack is its stability. In fact, it is so stable that you can even stand on it while casting. Furthermore, it has a non-slip crocodile hide EVA foam protective floor pad to prevent you from slipping while adding extra protection against punctures and lacerations.
As a fishing kayak, the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack is equipped with customized front and rear spray skirts. They’re built with holders for your tools, hooks, and rods. Plus, there are storage spaces below and elastic cord lacing on top for your other gears.
Pros:
- ZVery durable
- ZEasy to maneuver
- ZAllows stand-up fishing
- ZVery well-made
Cons:
- QThe rod holders are not the most secure
What to Look For When Choosing the Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks?
There are plenty of inflatable kayaks around. However, not all of them are designed for fishing. Now, among those that are built for such purpose, only a few can deliver the performance, durability, and functionality for what you need on the water.
So to help you find those that are and those that can match your needs and fishing style, we’ve made a list of all the things you need to look out for in inflatable kayaks for fishing.
Weight Capacity
Generally, inflatable kayaks have a bigger max weight capacity than their hardshell counterparts. But you still need to check this specification to make sure it’s enough for all your needs. For instance, if you’re going fishing with another person or a pet or bringing in plenty of gear, then you’ll want to have something with a higher max limit or a 2-person model.
As for the weight, the general guideline is not to go over 70% of a kayak’s max weight capacity to ensure the best paddling experience possible.
Seating Capacity
Aside from the weight capacity, you should also look at the seating capacity. You can choose between a solo inflatable kayak, which is perfect for one person, or a tandem type if you are going out with a partner, friend, pet, or a lot of gear.
There are also inflatable kayaks that are convertible. They can fit 2 to 3 persons, but can also be converted into a solo kayak if you want.
Construction
When it comes to inflatable kayaks and fishing, one of the most important things for you to consider is construction. You’ll want something made from heavy-duty materials like PVC, rubber, or drop stitch technology. Or a kayak with multiple layers of vinyl.
The materials and construction play a vital role in a kayak’s longevity and durability. See, a good inflatable with the right materials and is well-made can last for a very long time. But if it’s not, then you’re only wasting money as it can only last for a few uses. So make sure to look at these details before checking out.
Length
A kayak’s length depends on two factors: where you are planning to fish and your body type.
For fishing in small bodies of water, you can choose a short inflatable kayak, which is somewhere 11 ft long or shorter, as it will be easier to maneuver. For large bodies of water like lakes and rivers, you’ll need something around 12 ft or longer. This is because longer kayaks are faster, track better, and glide farther than shorter ones.
On the other hand, if you are tall, then you’ll need more space in the cockpit or deck. This will ensure you’ll have enough room for your legs. As a guide, if you’re around 6’5” or 290 lbs, you are better off with a kayak that’s at least 11 ft long. It’s also a good idea to opt for a tandem or 2-person model to make sure you’ll have enough room to move around and store your gear.
Stability
This is one of the most important factors you need to look out for in a fishing kayak. You want something steady yet still able to lean sideways without capsizing. You also want something that wouldn’t tip over when you’re reeling in a fish and leaning out of the vessel.
Typically, the wider kayaks are, the more stable they will be. But as a trade-off, they’ll become slower in the water. So keep that in mind before getting the widest kayak you can find. As a guide, the minimum width you should look out for in a fishing kayak is 30 inches.
Skeg
While it may seem something small, a skeg actually has a big purpose. It’s a plastic fin that you can attach to the bottom of your kayak. It will help you control the vessel better and improve your paddling efficiency. With it, you are also more capable of tackling crosswinds and crosscurrents. That said, look for inflatable kayaks with 1 or 2 removable skegs.
Adjustable Seats
Since you will be seating most of the time – or all the time if your yak doesn’t allow cast-up standing – then you’ll need the most comfortable seats you can find. Ideally, they should be adjustable with backrests that you can move however way you like.
For inflatable kayaks with a drop-stitched floor, you’ll also need seats that are properly padded. This is because such floors are incredibly hard, and sitting on one for an extended time without ample padding will be painful. If in case you end up with a kayak with uncomfortable seats, you can always buy aftermarket kayak seats or cushions.
Footrests
Another feature that you should look out for in a fishing kayak is footrests. It will support your legs and feet while keeping you upright, which will make you more comfortable, especially on long trips. This is also important for getting the proper paddling form.
Weight
Lastly, you should also consider the weight of the kayak itself. This will give you an idea of how easy or difficult it will be to take from one point to another. See, the lighter it is, the easier it is to transport and carry. Keep in mind, however, that while inflatables are indeed lighter, some are still as heavy as their hard shell counterparts.
To give you an idea of how heavy inflatables can be, a 40 lbs kayak can weigh as much as 5 gallons of water, a car tire, or 4 bags of potatoes. If you are planning to carry it while backpacking or take it by plane, then you’ll want something lighter.
The weight of the kayak is also important if you’re planning to fish on your own. Of course, you’ll want something that you can handle carrying and inflating alone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are inflatable fishing kayaks any good?
A: Inflatable fishing kayaks are good choices if you’re looking for a more lightweight, easy-to-carry, and easy-to-transport vessel for your excursions. They are durable, stable, and built to meet any angler’s needs, which makes them great as a fishing platform.
Q: Are inflatable fishing kayaks safe?
A: Inflatable fishing kayaks are safe with their tough material and rugged construction. They are resistant to scrapes and punctures. Plus, they’re built to withstand different water conditions.
Q: Is it easy to puncture inflatable kayak?
A: No, it is not easy to puncture an inflatable kayak. Many modern inflatable kayaks are made from heavy-duty materials or consist of multiple layers, which is similar to whitewater rafts and lifeboats. So they are well capable of handling bumps and scrapes. If in case you do get a puncture or tear, most models come with basic repair kits so you can quickly patch it up yourself.
