The Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak - These Top 5 Are Great Choices
Fishing from a traditional kayak can be a lot of fun, but it can also be quite challenging. If you're not familiar with fishing from a kayak, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Inflatable fishing kayaks are the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy the experience of fishing from a kayak without all of the challenges and risks associated with traditional kayaks. Most inflatable kayaks come with fish finder mounts, so you can easily add electronics to without any crazy setup needed.
All in all, if you're looking for a versatile fishing boat that will serve you well in a variety of conditions, an inflatable kayak is a great option to consider.
People used to think that inflatable fishing kayaks tend to be flimsy and dangerous. But that's no longer the case. Inflatable fishing kayak technology has come a long way.
Today's inflatable fishing kayaks are easy to set up and transport, and they're incredibly durable, much safer than they used to be, and very stable in the water. So, if you're looking for a blow up kayak that will make your next fishing trip easier and more enjoyable, check out the five inflatable fishing kayaks below.
How We Choose
We know that the only thing better than having a quality fishing kayak is the peace of mind that comes with it, knowing you don’t have to worry about your gear.
Our team has read through thousands of user reviews and star ratings to come up with a list that makes it easier for you to decide what is the best fishing kayak to choose. Don’t bother spending lots of time reading over many many reviews, we’ve done it for you and have come up with the top 5 fishing kayaks to help you get the most out of your next fishing trip.
There’s an inflatable fishing kayak here that’s best for you! Read below for details and you can check the price on the one that you like.
So what are the 5 best inflatable fishing kayaks?
1. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series
Why We Love These
The next inflatable fishing kayak on our list is the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak. This kayak is perfect for fishermen who want a lightweight and easy-to-transport kayak. The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak has a comfortable and roomy cockpit, and it's made with high-quality materials. It's pretty light weight and shouldn't be a problem carrying it, even fully inflated.
We like the Excursion Pro, which is about $130 more than the Excursion, because the material in the Pro is much heavier and more durable. It's worth the extra money.
For fishing, the accessory rail allows you to add extra rod holders and configure them to your liking. The seats are pretty modular so setting them up for one or two is easy, and they're pretty comfortable too.
We liked the footrests, they seem to work pretty well. The pump nozzle and the pressure gauge both lock into the valves and work great. Included with the Excursion Pro is an extra seat pad, a must in our opinion.
Set up should be quick, about 15 minutes, and tear down is quick, should only take about the same amount of time, including a rinse. It's easy to pack down, and fits in the bag pretty well, just make sure you deflate it as much as possible, so it fits.
What You Should Know
Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core
Light weight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
High pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with high pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
Includes 2 removable skegs for deep and shallow water, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable bucket seats
Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories, such as GPS systems, fish finders, swivel fishing rod holders etc. Includes a carry bag and repair patch
Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear; Kayak total weight capacity: 400 pounds
3-ply super tough construction employs a high molecular PVC that is unaffected by gasoline, oil and salt water. It is highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight. It also permits more air pressure for rigidity.
Includes 86-inch Aluminum Oars and High-output pump
2. Elkton Outdoors Cormorant
Why We Love These
The Elkton Cormorant is a compact and is one of the most versatile tandem inflatable fishing kayaks, designed with the angler in mind. Built from high quality and durable components featuring 18-gauge PVC, a thick tarpaulin and a tough nylon cover designed to take years of abuse.
We love the adjustable comfort gel seats giving it versatility and added comfort, with no need for inflation. With 2 full action rod holders, 2 vertical rod holders and 2 trolling rod holders, you have the ability to set up rods in a variety of combinations to suit your situation. Includes 6 mesh pockets and a mesh storage bag for storing gear throughout the kayak.
Transporting this kayak is easy thanks to the carry handles, grab lines, and included carry and dry bags. It's easy to inflate it in less than ten minutes. The Cormorant makes our list as a very well designed, good-looking and versatile fishing kayak.
What You Should Know
Elkton Outdoors Inflatable 2 Person Kayak inflates in only minutes
Rugged 18-Gauge rip resistant 1000D PVC making it tear and hook resistant
Includes 2 Adjustable Seats, Rod Holders (2 Vertical & 4 Trolling), Double Sided Oars, Double Action Pump & Carry Bag!
Compact and Lightweight
Easy adjustment and repair from three separate removable air chambers
Dimensions 11' 10" x 35in x 16in
3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem
Why We Love These
The Sevylor Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is a great inflatable fishing kayak option. It has 3 thick gauge PVC bladder chambers, two in the sides and one in the floor, and a thick tarpaulin bottom and a tough nylon cover, so it's a very durable, safe and capable fishing specific kayak. The inflated air floor also makes it comfortable to paddle while kneeling.
This rugged kayak comes from 2 solid names in Sevylor and Coleman. Both companies, now together, have years of experience with outdoor adventures. I had a Sevylor raft when I was a kid.
And if you're serious about fishing, the built-in trolling motor mount will come in handy. You may want to enhance the mount to put a bigger motor on because the existing mount is for a smaller motor. So it depends on your needs. The two directional strakes on the hull help with straight line tracking, which is a good thing with a trolling motor in use.
The adjustable seats on the kayak sit on top of a mini air chamber, and are comfortable for long trips. If you're using a trolling motor, you can store your paddles in the convenient integrated holders. The Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders let you adjust your rods angle of you wish to troll. There's plenty of space to take care of your gear, which can store nicely in the mesh pockets or attached to D-rings on the kayak.
You can also add a fish finder to help you locate the best fishing spots.
All in all, the Colorado is a great choice for anyone who wants a canoe that can handle a variety of conditions.
What You Should Know
18-gauge PVC construction
1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover
Multiple air chambers
Adjustable Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders
Sevylor trolling motor fittings
Integrated paddle holders
Double threaded Boston Valve for easy inflation/deflation
Dimensions: 10’6″ x 3’3″
4. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Well-Designed And Versatile Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Kayak
Why We Love These
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak comes in two lengths, a 10’10” and a larger 12 foot version better suited as a tandem fishing kayak. We like the 12-foot version for its versatility, and we rate it one of the best tandem inflatable kayaks you can buy. It's very stable, at 39.5″ wide. This shape provides great stability, even the shorter length model.
The adjustable padded seat and adjustable footrest are really comfortable, especially handy during long times on the water. A solid drop stitch floor is what gives the Steelhead its sturdy base. The rod mounts on this kayak offers great versatility. You can attach rod mounts at several hard mounting points in the front as well as the back.
Load capacity is 400 lbs. easily be enough for the majority of people. If you fish alone, you may want the single person version, but the 12-foot model is one of the best tandem inflatable kayaks on the market.
It's a rugged, stable, and versatile fishing kayak, and after our Elkton Outdoors Steelhead fishing kayak review, it's a great choice for most people.
What You Should Know
Excellent for stand-up casting
Floor also protects the rider from underwater obstacles and functions as an excellent platform to support kayak fishing accessories
Elkton Steelhead series will not rip or tear when encountering underwater obstacles
INCLUDED - PVC Kayak Fishing Boat, 2 x Lightweight Breakdown Kayak Paddles, Removable Skeg, Travel Bag with Backpack Straps, 2 x Padded High Back Support Adjustable EVA Seats, 2 x Drop-In Adjustable Footrest and a Dual Action High Volume / High Pressure Hand Air Pump
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead series kayaks have multiple scotty style mounts for rod holders, a mark of a truly dedicated inflatable fishing kayak
The bow features a robust bungee storage capability
One Year Guarantee on workmanship and materials
DIMENSIONS & SPECS - Hull Dimensions: 12' 6" x 3' 3", Hull Weight: 44lbs, Load Capacity: 600lbs, the rigid dropstitch floor, Front Bow Spray Shield, 7 x Hard Mounting Points, Halkey Roberts Locking Valves, Ample Bow/Stern Storage and Side Carry Handles
5. Sea Eagle 385FT Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak Pro Package
Why We Love These
The Sea Eagle 385 Fasttrack inflatable fishing kayak is incredibly well made. Start with 1000 denier pvc construction and then add quadruple overlapped electronically welded seams. It's solid as a tank. Then on top of that, there's the non-slip crocodile hide EVA foam protective floor pad that prevents slipping while providing extra protection against punctures and lacerations from fish, hooks and various fishing tools.
The reinforced side walls of the Sea Eagle with nearly indestructible 2000 denier fabric help where an angler needs it the most, on the sides, where the abuse is the greatest. It's another layer of protection where anglers need it most.
The Sea Eagle also has customized front & rear spray skirts with built-in rod, tool, hook and lure holders. With storage below and elastic cord lacing on top for additional storage. It's kind of like Sea Eagle thought of everything!
But that's not all.
Sea Eagle has patented what they call the Needle Knife Rigid Inflatable Keel. The unique external drop stitch construction inflatable keel allows the FastTrack to go far faster and straighter than other inflatable kayaks. The keel features sharp bow and stern molds that slice through wind, waves and current for a super fast, super clean entry and exit! T
The inflatable bow keel also provides the buoyancy and lift needed to ride over waves and further improve speed. Have you ever seen a large ship in dry dock? It's similar to the large bulb on the front of a ship, just underneath the waterline. U.S. Patent #8,286,573 2)
It’s easy to unpack and repack too, and quite easy for two people to carry. It may be tough for one person to carry, but it's certainly doable
Load capacity on this Sea Eagle is 635 lbs easily be enough for the majority of people
This fishing kayak is almost overbuilt it's so well put-together. It's pricey but you get what you pay for. It's one of the best inflatable fishing kayaks on the market
What You Should Know
Hull Weight: 45 lbs. / Load Capacity: 3 Persons or 635 lbs.
Chambers: 4, Port, Starboard, Keel and Floor
Rugged 1000 Denier Reinforced, electronically welded quadruple overlapped seams
Engine Capacity: 34 lbs. thrust electric (max engine weight 15 lbs.)
Inflation Time: 7 Minutes
Whitewater Rating: Suitable up to Class II
Dimensions: 12'6" x 36"/ Deflated: 36" x 15" x 20"
Things To Consider About Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
An inflatable kayak is a great option for fishing. They're so versatile, you can use them on the ocean (carefully), in a lake, on a river, or you can even get them into a small pond, where a lot of big fish are. Transporting is easy, no need to fill with gas, no need for waiting at the boat ramp either. Yes, it's a different deal entirely than trailering a boat.
If you're looking for a kayak that's easy to transport and store, an inflatable kayak is a great option. These kayaks are made from a softer plastic that can be inflated with either a hand or electric pump. And despite their softer construction, they're actually quite durable and sturdy once fully inflated.
Plus, they offer all the same features as a traditional hard-shell kayak, including fish finders and plenty of storage space. So if you're tight on space or just want a kayak that's easy to carry, an inflatable kayak is definitely worth considering.
If you’re at sea, close to lakes or rivers, you’ll see more and more fly fishermen and traditional anglers now using fishing kayaks. It's simple, they can go to places you otherwise wouldn’t reach. Plus, you can't bring much gear in a belly boat or fishing paddle board.
Fishing kayaks usually have plenty of storage space for tackle. So if you’re looking for a way to get closer to the fish, a fishing kayak might be just what you need.
All in all, if you're looking for a versatile fishing boat that will serve you well in a variety of conditions, an inflatable kayak is a great option to consider. Think about these things when looking for the best inflatable kayak.
Single, or Tandem?
Do you tend to fish solo, or with someone? There are single seaters and two-seater options, tandem inflatable kayaks, so you have to decide which one. And a tandem kayak can be suitable for a single person too, you'll just have more room and different transport issues.
Cargo Weight
With all of your fishing equipment, including maybe a cooler and another person, what is the weight capacity of the kayak? They can vary greatly in how much they can hold.
Nimbleness
An inflatable fishing kayak by nature of their size, can get into smaller areas. How easy is it to steer? Smaller ones can be more maneuverable to a degree, but again because they're small it's relative.
Stability
It's fine to fish or paddle from an inflatable kayak while seated, but some, especially if fly fishing, like to stand up. If this is you, then you need one with greater stability. Greater stability comes with greater width, which comes with a bigger kayak most of the time.
Kayak Weight
This depends largely on your ability. To most people, carrying an inflatable kayak is no big deal. In fact, the average weight of these boats sits at around 40 lbs, or less, which can easily be carried for up to a mile or so.
Gear Options
An inflatable kayak come standard with things like rod holders and pumps, carrying bags, and paddles. Some people just want minimal gear while others cram as much stuff into these boats as they can.
Toughness
The outer shell of your kayak needs to be sturdy and able to withstand minor punctures. You might be handling pointy things like a knife, a pliers or lures with hooks on them. Imagine that, you're in an inflatable fishing kayak with hooks - who knew?
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak FAQ
Kayak fishing is one of the fastest growing segments of fishing in America. It's important to have the right kind of kayak that fits your type of fishing and is right for your area.
The problem is that there are so many different models of dedicated fishing kayak on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
Here's a list of the most commonly asked questions about inflatable fishing kayaks so that you can make an informed decision today. Our goal is to do the research, so you don't have to.
We’ve created a comprehensive buyer’s guide of frequently asked questions to help you choose the best inflatable fishing kayak for your needs. This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing your fishing kayak.
Is an inflatable kayak good for fishing?
Inflatable kayaks, as a general class of boats, are excellent boats for fishing. The sheer versatility of an inflatable kayak makes them superb fishing platforms. They can be used on small ponds, large lakes, in sheltered ocean bays and on the longest and nastiest of river floats.
What is the best inflatable kayak?
The best inflatable kayaks you can buy in 2022
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person
Elkton Outdoors Cormorant
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak Pro Angler
Is it worth buying an inflatable kayak?
They're generally very stable compared to hardshell kayaks. Some of them would be hard to capsize on calm water even intentionally. Stability in kayaks correlates with width and inflatable kayaks are usually quite wide. There are disadvantages as well, most importantly, they are slower than hardshell kayaks.
Will a fishing hook pop an inflatable kayak?
It can, yes. Also do your best to keep them from sticking into your kayak if you are in an inflatable (most inflatable fishing kayaks do not puncture easily and it is no problem to fish from an inflatable – just be conscious of not slamming a hook into the hull).
Can you leave an inflatable kayak inflated?
You don't need a lot of space. but you do need a dry cool place to keep it. It's best not to leave it inflated while storing away for an extended period of time. Leaving it inflated can cause stress on the seams and valves especially if the temperatures rise and the air expands.
Can you put a trolling motor on an inflatable kayak?
You can put a trolling motor on an inflatable kayak, or any inflatable boat, by correctly positioning the motor and reinforcing the structure with a light-weight wooden frame incorporating a seat. You can also purchase specific motor mounts for some inflatable fishing kayaks.
How long do inflatable kayaks last?
With proper care and maintenance, you can expect most inflatable kayaks to last somewhere between 5 and ten years.
Do dedicated inflatable fishing kayaks tip over easily?
Inflatable kayaks can tip over, but it's extremely hard. Inflatable kayaks of today are built really well and are incredibly stable. Still, if you find yourself in a situation where your kayak has tipped over, it's actually not that difficult to get back on.
What length of kayak do I need?
Unless you're riding rapids, floating a river generally means you'll want a recreational kayak. You want to be able to follow the flow of the river more than you want speed. Choose a boat that's stable and maneuverable. Something anywhere from 8 to 13 feet long should do nicely.
Conclusion On The Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak
So, what’s the best inflatable fishing kayak? The answer to that may vary from person to person but we’ve tried to provide a variety of best options for you based on thousands of reviews.
These are the top five best inflatable fishing kayaks on the market. If you're looking for a rig that's perfect for kayak fishing, then one of these kayaks is sure to be perfect for you.
Thanks for reading, and we hope you find the perfect inflatable fishing kayak for your needs.
All you have to do now is just click the orange button to check the price on the best inflatable fishing kayak for you. Thanks!
Cheers to the outdoors,
Bert
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Bert Martin
Bert Martin