Best Ocean Fishing Kayak
Best Ocean Fishing Kayak Comparison Chart
Best Pedal Kayak for Ocean Fishing
3 rod holders
Tank well in bow and stern with removable bungees
Paddle clip
Cup holder
Universal transducer mounting system
Custom tackle box
Front storage with stretch-mesh bow cover
Paddle park
2 rod holders
Fish finder console with battery zone
2 gear tracks
Drink holder
Rear tank well with an adjustable bungee and 2 gear straps
Side scan transducer scupper
Removable utility pod cover
Removable console system
Bow storage with cover
Bow paddle park
Bow and stern mount plate
Stern hatch
4 rod holders
2 paddle parks
Rear bungee cargo tie-down
4 accessory rails
2 through-hull wiring kits
Universal transducer mount
Large stern tank with bungee
4 accessory tracks
4 rod holders
Front dry storage
Cup holders
Molded-in pockets
Waterproof lockable hatch in the center
Table of Contents
- 1 Best Ocean Fishing Kayak
- 1.1 Best Ocean Fishing Kayak Comparison Chart
- 1.2 How We Chose the Best Ocean Fishing Kayaks?
- 1.3 Top 5 Best Fishing Kayaks for the Ocean
- 1.3.1 1. Best Overall and Best Pedal Kayak for Saltwater Fishing: Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
- 1.3.2 2. Best Bang for the Buck: Perception Pescador Pro 12
- 1.3.3 3. Best Offshore Fishing Kayak Paddle Drive: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- 1.3.4 4. Best Tandem Fishing Kayak Ocean: BKC TK122U
- 1.3.5 5. Best Motorized Sea Fishing Kayak: Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120
- 1.4 What to Look For When Choosing the Best Saltwater Fishing Kayak?
- 1.5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Kayak ocean fishing isn’t easy. There’s wind, currents, tides, and waves, all presenting tough challenges and risks. The wide and vast water can also be intimidating even to experienced kayakers. So before you head out to the ocean, make sure you’ve got your strokes, paddling, steering, and navigational techniques mastered. You should also know water safety and how to save yourself in case you flip over. Most of all, you’ll need the right equipment and the best ocean kayak for fishing you can find.
The problem is, there are so many fishing kayaks around. So it can be challenging to find the right one for the ocean. It gets even more challenging if you don’t know what you are looking for. To help you out, here’s our guide on what to look for in ocean fishing kayaks. To also make your search easier, we’ve put together a list of the top 5 saltwater fishing kayaks available in the market.
How We Chose the Best Ocean Fishing Kayaks?
We have spent hours looking and researching all the kayak fishing ocean models we can find. Once we determined what was available on the market, we were able to make a shortlist of all those with the highest customer rating and those most recommended by other anglers.
From there, we put all the kayaks against each other. We compared them by their quality, functionality, durability, features, and overall value for money. We also looked at their advantages and disadvantages. After seeing all there is, we discussed among our team which ones to cut and which ones to include. We were then able to narrow down our list to only 5 of the best kayak for saltwater fishing models you can buy today.
So whichever fishing ocean kayak model you choose below, we guarantee that it offers the convenience, performance, and safety you need on the ocean.
Top 5 Best Fishing Kayaks for the Ocean
- Best Overall and Best Pedal Kayak for Ocean Fishing: Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
- Best Bang for the Buck: Perception Pescador Pro 12
- Best Paddle-Driven Kayak for Sea Fishing: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- Best Tandem Fishing Kayak Ocean: BKC TK122U
- Best Motorized Sea Fishing Kayak: Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120
Why we love it:
- Comfortable and removable seat
- Allows stand-up fishing
- Plenty of storage space
- Very durable
What it is best for:
- Coastal sea waters
Our number 1 pick for the best kayak for ocean fishing is the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120. Fast, nimble, and stable, it’s the perfect vessel for coastal sea waters. With this beast, you’ll have no problem navigating through the winds, currents, tides, and waves. It also has a smooth pedal system, allowing you to easily go forward and reverse while on the water.
This 12-foot kayak offers a high max capacity, too. And with its large bow and stern tank wells, you can take all the gear you want. There’s enough room to fit a cooler, tackle crate, dry bags, and even your dog. There are also 3 fishing rod holders, a clip on the side of the hull to hold your backup paddle, and a cup holder for your favorite beverage. It even comes with a custom tackle box.
If you want to rig your ride for the ocean, you can easily do so with the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120. It has two 18-inch tracks where you can quickly mount your accessories. It also has a universal transducer mounting system to quickly install your fish finder without the need for drilling. Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable, easy-to-maneuver, and fully reliable fishing kayak for the ocean, then this is one of your best options.
Pros:
- ZExcellent stability
- ZCustomizable
- ZEasy to maneuver
- ZHas a fast and smooth pedal system
- ZGreat tracking
Cons:
- QNo dry hatch
Why we love it:
- Adjustable and breathable seat
- Durable
- Easier to transport
What it is best for:
- Lakes and ponds, slow-moving rivers and streams, and calm coastal waters
Working on a tight budget? If so, then you may want to consider the Perception Pescador Pro 12. It’s the best ocean kayak for fishing at an affordable price. While it performs best on lakes, ponds, and slow-moving water, it’s also capable of handling a variety of water conditions and types, including open waters/oceans.
Measuring 12 ft in length, this kayak is still maneuverable yet long enough to offer you speed and stability. It also has plenty of cargo space with its front and rear storage. Additionally, there are 2 holders for your fishing rods, a drink holder for your favorite beverage, and a dedicated place for your paddle. In case you want to upgrade your ride, there are 2 gear tracks and a fish finder console where you can also put in a battery.
Now, what’s great about the Perception Pescador Pro 12 is that it’s lightweight. In fact, it’s the lightest offshore fishing kayak on our list. This makes it easier to transport from your home to the water and back. Plus, it’s extremely durable and comfortable with its adjustable and breathable seat.
Pros:
- ZTracks well
- ZLightweight
- ZPlenty of storage
- ZCustomizable
Cons:
- QNo dry hatch
Why we love it:
- Allows stand-up fishing
- Adjustable and comfortable seat
- Solid and durable
What it is best for:
- Large and small lakes, bays, and slow-moving rivers
Our next pick for the best kayak for fishing ocean waters is the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120. It’s a paddle-drive model that’s compatible with a trolling motor and rudder system. It’s incredibly durable and stable with a wind-shedding deck. Its rocker has also been increased, allowing it to better negotiate moving water. That said, it can handle chops and wakes with ease.
This kayak is comfortable, too. It has one of the best seats in the market. It’s breathable and fully adjustable while providing lower back support. The cockpit is wide and spacious as well with plenty of storage space for your fishing gear. There’s a rear tank well with bungee and gear straps, bow storage with cover, a paddle park, and a removable utility pod cover where you can put your tools, tackles, and drink.
For DIYers and those looking for a fully customizable kayak, the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is also one of the best choices around. It has 6 accessory systems all around the cockpit, a mounting plate in the bow and stern, a secondary scupper hole for easy side-scan transducer installation, and a removable console system where you can mount a fish finder, battery, and transducer. For other electronics and accessory modifications, you can also access the inside of the hull with the circular hatch at the back.
Pros:
- ZHas a stand-up assistant strap
- ZHighly customizable
- ZVery stable
- ZHas lots of storage
Cons:
- QHeavy in the water
Why we love it:
- Stable
- Can fit 2 persons
- Comes with paddles
What it is best for:
- Lakes, rivers, and ocean
Want to head out in the ocean with a partner, friend, or maybe even your dog? Then check out the BKC TK122U. Measuring 12’8” in length with a 770 lbs max weight capacity, it’s a tandem kayak that can fit 2 adults comfortably. It’s also very durable and crafted for stability. You’ll have no problem staying balanced even in swift currents or choppy waters.
What we like about this kayak is that it comes with almost everything you need to immediately start fishing. It has 4 rod holders, 2 paddle parks, and a rear cargo with bungee. It also has 2 not so watertight hatches, 4 accessory rails, and even includes 2 adjustable aluminum paddles.
The BKC TK122U is lightweight, too. Compared to many tandem fishing kayaks, it’s surprisingly lighter. This makes it easier to handle in and out of the water.
Pros:
- ZEasy to transport
- ZComfortable and adjustable seats
- ZTracks well
Cons:
- QHatches are not very watertight
Why we love it:
- Can hold your position
- Comfortable and adjustable seat
- Spacious cockpit
What it is best for:
- Saltwater
If you have the budget for a motorized fishing kayak, then we highly recommend the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120. It’s the best ocean fishing kayak on the market, packed with all the features you need for a hands-free and comfortable fishing experience. It has excellent stability and durability and is sure to hold up well in the ocean.
The best thing about this kayak is that it’s equipped with a saltwater-ready, GPS-enabled, and one of the most advanced motors available. It can be controlled with a Bluetooth remote, and most of all, it allows you to stay in your desired position despite wind and current. This way, you’re free to cast, change lures, and fight a fish without worry. This also gets you to your favorite fishing spots faster and without breaking a sweat. Add that with its extra large fishing rudder, and you’ll have more precise control over your kayak.
We also like that the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 offers plenty of storage and customization options. It has four 18-inch tracks where you can easily mount your accessories, 4 rod holders, a universal transducer mount, and though-hull wiring kits for installing a fish finder. It also has a large stern tank with bungee, front dry storage, a waterproof hatch at the center, cup holders, a custom box, and molded-in pockets for your smaller items.
Pros:
- ZCan get to your destination faster
- ZEasy to control and maneuver
- ZOffers hands-free fishing experience
Cons:
- QPricey
What to Look For When Choosing the Best Saltwater Fishing Kayak?
When ocean fishing, you’ll need a kayak that can handle the windy and wavy conditions you’re sure to face while out on the water. To help you find that, here’s everything you need to look out for in a saltwater fishing kayak.
Type
Fishing kayaks are available in three different types: sit-on-top, sit-inside, and inflatable. Basically, a sit-on-top has an open deck, providing easy and fast access. Meanwhile, a sit-inside kayak is enclosed with your lower body more protected from the elements. On the other hand, an inflatable requires just that – inflating to be able to work.
For ocean and saltwater fishing, a sit-on-top kayak is a better choice. It’s more convenient with more storage options and comfortable since you’ll have more available space to move around in. It’s also easier to cast and reel in a catch from this type of kayak since it’s more stable. Most of all, you’ll recover much easier in a sit-on-top in case you capsize.
For these reasons, we only included sit-on-top fishing kayaks on our list.
Stability
When you’re out in the ocean, you’ll need a kayak that will give you the most stability. This is what will help you maintain a fishing spot and make sure you won’t flip over when reeling in a big fish. You’ll also need a stable kayak that won’t capsize when you try to move around and access your gear.
Usually, the wider a kayak is, the more stable it will be on the water. But as you go wider, the slower it will be. When it comes to kayak fishing in the ocean, you’ll want a kayak that’s not too wide, so it can still cut through waves but still wide enough to provide you with the stability you need on the ocean.
Aside from the width, a kayak’s hull design also affects its stability. You’ll need the right hull shape as it is what will come in contact with the water. That said, you’ll want to look for fishing sea kayak models with rounded or V-shaped hulls as they offer better secondary stability. Plus, they offer better speed. If you’re looking for a kayak that you can stand on, consider looking for those with pontoon or tunnel hulls as they offer great primary and secondary stability.
Length
Another important feature you need to look for is the kayak’s length. This will give you an idea of its maneuverability. See, when you’re out in the ocean and away from the coastline, you’ll need a kayak that you can control.
Usually, the longer the kayak is, the harder it will be to control. This is because you’ll need to apply more force and energy to move it in the direction you want. On the other hand, a longer kayak is faster and able to track the water better. That said, some large kayaks have a pedal drive system or rudder, which can help you steer better, especially against the wind or waves.
As a guide, shorter kayaks are less than 11 ft in length, while longer kayaks are longer than 12 ft. For the best fishing kayak ocean model, 12 ft is the minimum length you should look for. This will be easy to maneuver but still fast enough in the water.
Now, when it comes to the length of a kayak, you should also consider your body size. If you’re around or above 250 to 300 lb and 6’5”, look for something at least 10 to 12 ft. Anything shorter can affect your stability and make it dangerous in choppy waters. Not to mention that it will be uncomfortable for you, too.
Propulsion
For fishing kayak sea models, you can choose how you want it to move. If you prefer the traditional way and have complete trust in your paddling technique, then you can go with a paddle-driven kayak. On the other hand, if you want to cover more distance and get to your destination faster, then you may want to check out pedal-driven kayaks. Or, if you don’t mind spending more, you can also go with a motorized salt water kayak.
Weight Capacity
Before buying a kayak, check its weight capacity. You’ll want something that can handle your weight and all the gear you are planning to take with you in the ocean. If you’re going to take your catch home, you should consider its weight as well.
When it comes to a kayak’s weight capacity, keep in mind that you can’t use all of it. As you near the limit, it will be harder to paddle. It will also be less stable and more likely to capsize, which can be dangerous in the ocean. So to avoid that, try to stay within 70% of a vessel’s rated weight capacity. For example, if it’s 600 lbs, don’t go over 420 lbs.
Comfort
One of the most important kayak features you need to look for is comfort. Since you’ll be staying in the vessel for an extended time, you’ll want it to be as comfortable as possible. Ideally, the seats should be breathable and quick-drying. There’s nothing more annoying than sitting on a wet seat for hours. You should also look for seats that offer enough support for your back.
Storage Options
The best kayaks for ocean fishing usually have dry hatches where you can keep your valuables safe and protected in case you capsize. They also have dedicated spaces for your fishing rods, paddles, and other fishing gear. Ultimately, the more storage options there are, the better.
Furthermore, you want to make sure that the front and/or back storage spaces are big enough for all your gear and have bungee cables to keep them secured. Remember, things can quickly get out of control whenever you’re in moving water, and if your gear and other items are not properly secured to the boat, you’re likely to lose them.
If you’re big on DIYing your ride or if you’re planning to add some accessories in the future, consider looking for kayaks with mounting points or gear tracks. Now, since you’re likely to encounter wind and current while in the ocean, you might also need to add a rudder system later on. So try looking for a kayak that’s compatible with one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What type of kayak is best for ocean fishing?
A: The best type of kayak for ocean fishing is a sit-on-top. It’s easier to get in and out of, and it’s much easier for self-rescue in case you flip over. It’s also more spacious and comfortable with more storage space for your gear. Plus, it’s generally more stable, allowing you to cast and reel in your catch better.
Q: What size kayak is best for ocean fishing?
A: The best kayak size for ocean fishing is 12 ft minimum and 14 ft max length. This will give you the speed as well as the stability you need for casting and reeling without becoming difficult to handle through the wind and waves.
Q: Can a kayak be used in the ocean?
A: Yes, a kayak can be used in the ocean. But before you take it out, you’ll need to master your paddling, self-rescue, strokes, and navigational techniques. Most of all, you’ll need a kayak that’s designed for saltwater use. It should be long enough to ensure speed yet still short enough that won’t have a hard time maneuvering it on the water. It should also be stable and ideally, a sit-on-top design, which you can roll back over in case you capsize.