Fishing in a standing position enhances mobility and comfort. If you ask anglers, they’ll probably say that it’s easier for them to catch a fish in an upright position. However, one of the anglers’ problems is getting the proper stability while standing in their boats.
Good thing the stand-up fishing kayak is specifically designed to bring comfort and stability with easiness in casting the fishing line.
There are different types of kayaks in the market, and distinguishing which kayak for fishing is a stand-up type may be confusing.
To help you out, we’ve prepared a list of the best stand up fishing kayak that is worth an investment.
Best Stand Up Fishing Kayak
- Best in Stability-Pescador Pro 12.0 Sit-On-Top Angler Kayak
- Best in Comfort-Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak with Paddles
- Most Lightweight-Lifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle
- Best in Functionality-Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
- Best Inflatable Kayak-Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
- Best in Maneuverability-Hobie Mirage Passport 12
- Most Convenient Pedal Kayak – Hobie Mirage Compass Sit-On-Top Pedal Kayak
1. Pescador Pro 12.0 Sit-On-Top Angler Kayak
Best in Stability
Key Features
- Highly UV abrasion and impact resistant
- Weight capacity of 375 lbs
- Tank well with bungee rigging
This 12-feet long stand-up kayak has a hull design and is constructed specifically for fishing activity. It has two seating positions, stadium-style adjustable seats, and a footrest for comfortable kayaking.
It comes with two flush-mounted rod holders, gear tracks, and a tackle box. It’s made from high-grade polyethylene plastic and comes with a replaceable skid plate that protects the rear end of the kayak to prolong its life.
2. Lifetime Tandem Fishing Kayak with Paddles
Best in Comfort
- Blow molded from High Density Polyethylene for superior…
- Designed to seat up to 3 people; 500 lb. weight capacity
- Hull design provides ultra stability and great…
Key Features
- Made from blow-molded UV-protected high-density polyethylene
- Weight capacity of 500 lbs.
- Equipped with self-bailing scupper holes
- Multiple footrests
The Lifetime fishing kayak comes with two padded adjustable backrests, two kayak paddles, a molded paddle rest, and three flush-mounted fishing rod holders.
It has storage hatches to safe-keep your fishing accessories. Since it’s 10 feet long, it can easily be transported and maneuvered by a single person.
3. Lifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle
Most Lightweight
Key Features
- Kayak paddle board included
- Suitable for sight fishing
- Breathable mesh seat
The Lifetime Lotus Kayak is a lightweight sit-on-top kayak that only weighs 38 lbs. It has a hard shell covering suitable for rigorous water activity. It doesn’t rust with its high-density polyethylene construction.
This kayak features a pedal drive system for easy paddling. It includes scupper holes drain cockpit area so the water won’t accumulate inside. A spacious tank with bungee cord lace is incorporated at the back for other accessories and fishing equipment.
4. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
Best in Functionality
Key Features
- 275 weight capacity
- Adjustable back seat
- Adjustable foot braces
- Rear T-handles for easy transport
This kayak model has a spacious deck with a center storage hatch and 6 inches storage compartment. It comes with double-barrel rod holders, a top mount rod holder, shock cord straps, a paddle keeper, and an adult black paddle.
It has a flat bottom design with stable chine rails and deep hull tracking channels so that it won’t tip easily in a harsh environment. It uses rivet holes at the center of the craft so that water won’t seep in.
5. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
Best Inflatable Kayak
- Solid drop stitch floor for a solid bait-casting position….
- Especially designed for fishing. From its front bungee…
- Rough build to last rough waters. Features a self-bailing…
Key Features
- Equipped with rigid drop stitch floor
- Removable skeg
- Front bow spray shield
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak features a stress-free setting up with its dual-action heavy-duty pump that can inflate this vessel in minutes. It has bungee storage to keep your belongings, such as your camera, fishfinder, radio, rods, etc.
Its self-bailing floor has water drainage to prevent excessive splashing and allows kayak anglers to stand steadily for efficient casting. In addition, it has a tested primary and secondary stability suitable for recreational use.
6. Hobie Mirage Passport 12
Best in Maneuverability
Key Features
- Transducer ready
- 400 lbs. Weight capacity
- easy-to-reach steering knob
This stand-up kayak vessel uses a hands-free mirage drive classic pedal propulsion system that allows the angler to power forward using the legs. This is one of the wider kayaks with a cockpit area with EVA floor padding for a comfortable sitting or standing position.
It comes with additional fishing gear such as rod holders, under-seat and gunnel tackle storage, accessory tracks, and solo mount recesses.
7. Hobie Mirage Compass Sit-On-Top Pedal Kayak
Most Convenient Pedal Kayak
Key Features
- Breathable mesh seat
- Stern storage with bungee tie-downs
- Easy grip rudder handle
- Includes stand up assist strap
This sit-on-top kayak has a patented kick-up fin technology that enables anglers to pedal even in shallow waters. It’s equipped with an oversized cockpit and flat deck for stable standing.
Its seat can be adjusted higher in the yak for added comfort, which is great for sight fishing. It comes with a pre-installed rod holder, transducer cavity, H-track accessory, and pre-installed rod holders.
What Should I Look For When Buying the Best Stand-Up Fishing Kayak?
There are several factors you have to consider when choosing the best stand up fishing kayak, and here are some of them:
Size and Width
If you’re paddling alone, it’s important to choose a portable and easy-to-navigate one.
The longer and narrower the kayak, the straighter and faster you’ll go. On the other hand, the shorter and wider the kayak is, the more stable it is.
Hull Design
The kayak’s hull design talks about the shape of the bottom of the fishing boat. The hull shape determines the stability, maneuverability, and speed of the kayak.
A flat hull supports primary stability. The rounded hull increases speed and focuses on secondary stability, and the V-shaped hull ensures stability in calm waters.
Capacity and Storage
The overall capacity of the kayak would depend on the weight of the paddlers who’ll be using it. Usually, the bigger the kayak, the more weight and storage space it can accommodate.
Choose a kayak that has enough storage space to accommodate all your kayak fishing essentials, such as fishing accessories, equipment, and personal belongings. Your kayak should be able to keep these safe even when you’re paddling in rough water.
Comfort
It’s expected that you’ll be paddling for hours, so it’s essential to choose the one with features to enhance comfort.
Nowadays, most fishing kayaks are equipped with comfortable seats with adjustable footrests to accommodate all paddler sizes.
Accessories
The accessories that come with your kayak would depend on the type of kayak it is. For example, the kayak made for fishing comes with fishing features and accessories that may enhance your fishing experience.
Most of the accessories included in a fishing kayak are rod holders, paddle holders, central storage hatch, accessory tracks, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compared to an ordinary kayak that only allows you to sit while paddling, stand-up fishing kayaks deliver extra stability when you stand up.
In addition, it gives you comfortable positioning because this type of kayak isn’t only for standing positions. Still, it also includes seats for you to rest. Since you can stand up with balance, you have a better look at the water, especially if you’re catching fish.
These fishing types have both advantages and disadvantages. SUP fishing delivers versatility because you can fish in all positions, whether you’re in a standing position.
On the other hand, since you’re just in a sitting position, you can ensure stability. Fishing kayaks are faster than stand-up fishing kayaks. Your choice between the two depends on your preference.
Check out our article on the best sit in fishing kayak to help you choose between the two.
Most anglers who use outriggers are the ones who sail or utilize trolling motors. Outriggers are attached to the sides of the kayak for greater stability. It adds extra buoyancy and equilibrium, especially for stand-up kayaks.
Conclusion
Being able to stand in your fishing kayak with confidence gives you an enjoyable yet efficient fishing trip. With a lot of kayak choices you have, it’s important to be wise in choosing the one that’s stable, comfortable, functional, and within your budget.
Fishing Expert
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