Fly fishing is a known fishing method for competitive kayak anglers that guarantees a catch using the right equipment.
Compared to other types of fishing, fly fishing is considered the most complicated one because it requires specific skills, requirements, and fishing techniques for you to succeed.
If you’re looking for the best fly fishing kayak, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the best kayaks for fly fishing to help you find the right one for you!
6 Best Fly Fishing Kayaks
- Best in Maneuverability–Perception Kayaks Pescador Pro 12.0
- Best in Construction-Pelican The Catch 100 Sit-On-Top Angler Kayak
- Best Inflatable Kayak-Sevylor Coleman Colorado
- Best-In-Class Engineered Stability-Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Angler
- Best Customizable Layout-Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- Best in Functionality-Ocean Kayak Prowler 13
1. Perception Kayaks Pescador Pro 12.0
Best in Maneuverability
Key Features
- Removable and adjustable mesh-on-frame seat
- Abrasion, impact, and UV resistant
- Equipped with Recessed YakAttack Gear Tracks
This fishing kayak features a hands-free pedaling experience suitable in slow-moving waters, lakes, or calm coastal water. It has a leak-proof one-piece construction that has maximum buoyancy for added safety and protection of the kayaker.
Since it’s a sit-on-top fly fishing kayak, it has multiple storages. It has a wide cockpit to get in and out of quickly. It’s made from durable plastic polyethylene that gives its rigidness and toughness even in the harshest weather conditions.
2. Pelican The Catch 100 Sit-On-Top Angler Kayak
Best in Construction
Key Features
- A dual-position seating system that’s adjustable
- Equipped with quick-lock hatch and bungee cords
- Four Scupper holes for draining inside water
The Pelican Sit-On-Top Angler Kayak utilizes Twin Sheet Thermoforming technology, a multi-layer polyethylene that ensures durability compared to a standard polyethylene that other kayaks make use of. For easy transportation, it has carry handles on both sides.
Aside from its stand-up assist strap, it has anti-slip flooring and a flat deck that lets you remain upright if you prefer fishing while in the standing position. For additional comfort, it has an adjustable footrest and adjustable seats.
3. Sevylor Coleman Colorado
Best Inflatable Kayak
- 18-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide durable…
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated…
Key Features
- 840D nylon cover and 1000D tarpaulin bottom for maximum protection
- Airtight system to avoid leakage
- Built-in motor fittings
Sevylor Coleman Colorado is a portable fly fishing kayak that’s made from rugged construction like the 18-gauge PVC. Since this is an inflatable kayak, there’s a possibility for it to be accidentally punctured. Good thing it has multiple air chambers that serve as a protective layer to ensure it won’t get deflated easily.
It also has an air-tight system for guaranteed no-leak protection. Like other inflatable kayaks, it’s equipped with a Boston valve for easy inflation or deflation of the kayak. The package comes in a carrying bag to store the kayak when deflated.
4. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Angler
Best-In-Class Engineered Stability
Key Features
- 2- capacity breathable seats
- Equipped with tackle tray holders, front and rear hatches, and a tank well
- Slip Resistant Deck
The Sea Ghost fly fishing kayak delivers both stability and speed with its extra-wide hull. It also has a toe-controlled rudder that matches the kayak’s design for faster paddling in any type of water condition without exerting much effort.
It has 500 lbs. of hauling capacity that’s suitable for at least two persons and has an integrated accessory storage capacity. To ensure durability, it’s made from ultra-stable rotomolded single-piece polyethylene.
5. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
Best Customizable Layout
- An advanced tactical angling kayak (a. T. A. K. ) that is…
- Enjoy the award-winning design of the a. T. A. K. 140 in a…
- Celebrated for its open customizable platform, unmatchable…
Key Features
- Bow paddle park
- Flush-mounted fly rod holders
- Bow hood storage cover to secure accessories
- Removable gear tray
This advanced tackling angling kayak has a long waterline suitable for its new Helix MD motor drive for fast and smooth paddling. It’s equipped with a secondary transducer scupper and a removable pad to accommodate electronics and a battery.
Wilderness Systems 120 has a highly walkable surface perfect for stand-up fishing with its stand-up straps. For a comfortable stay, enjoy its AirPro Max adjustable seats and a Keepers XL foot brace system.
6. Ocean Kayak Prowler 13
Best in Functionality
Key Features
- Four-way adjustable comfort plus seat
- Click Seal front hatch to access storage easily
- Two flush-mounted rod holders and two cupholders
- Mount for kayak fish finder
The Ocean Kayak is a versatile fly fishing kayak that can withstand harsh water conditions, whether in rough seas or other moving bodies of water. It’s regarded for its ample storage that can accommodate all your fishing accessories.
Its kayak’s hull is spacious that’s not confined, so you can freely move while reeling the fishing line. The fly fishing weight is 56 lbs, and its total weight capacity is 325 lbs.
What Should I Look For When Buying Fly Fishing Kayaks?
Searching for a fly fishing kayak is quite confusing, with a lot of choices you have. Not all kayaks can be used for this water activity, so your choice would affect your performance in the waters while catching fish. As a guide, here are the factors to look for:
Seat
It’s expected to stay in the waters for a couple of hours, so choose the one that has a fully padded seat for back support. It should also be adjustable if you want to sit a little higher or lower, depending on where you’ll be comfortable.
If you have a sit-on-top, stand-up, or sit-in kayak, your seat should be relaxing that can support your long hours of water activity.
Fishing tip! Can’t decide on which kayak to buy? Check our other articles to help you choose:
Storage
If you’re in rough water, it can’t be avoided that water may seep into your kayak, which may wet your things, so storage compartments are essential to hold your fishing equipment and accessories as well as your other belongings.
Aside from a storage box, some storage spaces include rod holders, paddle holders, tackle boxes, and cup holders to make your kayak organized.
Comfort
Comfortability doesn’t only talk about how padded your seat is, but it would also pertains to how convenient the amenities are.
If you’re comfortable with the features of your kayak, then the longer you can stay enjoying your fishing activity.
Type of Water
You can fly fish in any type of water, so invest in a kayak that has a versatile use whether you’re in a stream, river, ocean, lake, or saltwater.
If you would choose a slow-moving kayak in fast-moving water, there’s a chance that you will capsize because the kayak’s design isn’t suitable for the water condition.
Clear Deck
Choose a kayak that has a clear-designed deck and traction pad flooring.
A deck that’s clutter-free gives you more room to move around. The flooring must also have safety features so it’s walkable even if it’s wet.
Stability
When you do fly fishing, you can expect that you’ll be moving around the kayak to cast, retrieve, and land the fish. You’re probably in a standing position for you to execute these movements well. If your kayak keeps on tipping over, it would be difficult or impossible for you to get a catch, so stability is a primary factor.
Fly fishing kayaks that measure 10 to 12 feet in length with a beam that measures at least 30 inches are the recommended kayak size to ensure stability.
Maneuverability
Paddling alone may exhaust your time and energy. Instead, choose a kayak that suits your weight so it’s easier for you to control it.
Some fly fishing vessels feature pedaling kayaks, so you have the hands-free option while operating it.
Weight
The weight of the kayak usually determines its capacity. Solo kayaks tend to be lighter compared to tandem kayaks.
If you’re a solo fly angler, it’s best to choose a lighter one for portability and easy maneuvering. The ideal weight of a kayak for fly fishing ranges from 50 lbs. to 100 lbs, with a total weight capacity of over 500 lbs.
Conclusion
Kayaks are created uniquely. Not all are suitable for the best fly fishing kayak, so anglers must consider many things like its capacity, storage, water suitability, and a lot more. If you’ll not use the right kayak in this type of fishing activity, there’s a possibility that you won’t maximize the use of your fishing vessel.
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