10 Best Fishing Kayaks 2025 in the United States

The Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak is designed specifically for anglers looking for a reliable and stable fishing platform. One of its standout features is the tunnel hull, which offers excellent stability, making it easy for users to stand and fish without the risk of tipping over. The kayak is also lightweight at 67 pounds, which aids in portability and loading, perfect for solo trips to your favorite fishing spots.

Comfort is prioritized with the ERGOBOOST seating system, adjustable to enhance visibility and ergonomics, ensuring a pleasant fishing experience. Additionally, the kayak provides ample storage options, including front and rear tank wells and dedicated rod holders, allowing anglers to bring along all essential gear efficiently.

While it’s stable, the size of this kayak (10.5 ft long and 34.5 inches wide) may be cumbersome for some, especially in tight launching areas or transport. Though it supports a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds, the kayak itself is on the heavier side compared to some competitors, which might impact those who seek ultra-light options. The inflatable rudder system, while a nice feature, could require some additional setup and maintenance. The lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects is a strong assurance of quality.

The Reel Yaks Raider Modular Fishing Kayak is a compact and innovative option for anglers looking for portability and ease of use. At 9.5 feet long and 35.4 inches wide, it offers good stability thanks to its W-shaped hull, making it comfortable for standing and fishing in various water conditions. With a weight capacity of 380 pounds, it can accommodate most adults along with some gear without worry. One standout feature is its propeller pedal drive system, which allows hands-free movement and precise control, including reverse, which is handy when fishing near obstacles. This propulsion method is more efficient than paddling and helps conserve energy.

The kayak is made from durable high-density polyethylene, ensuring it can handle rough use. It comes with a comfortable stadium-style seat and includes a 360-degree rod holder, catering well to fishing needs. A unique advantage is its modular design—split into lightweight sections (around 31 pounds each) with handles, making transport much easier for those without trucks or roof racks and allowing storage in small spaces like closets or car trunks. Assembly and disassembly are quick and straightforward, adding to the convenience. Although this modular build may affect overall sturdiness compared to a one-piece kayak, customer reviews suggest it remains stable.

Weighing in at 66 pounds total, it’s not the lightest kayak but manageable given the portability features. The sit-on-top style and hull shape favor stability over speed, which is typical for fishing kayaks but may not suit users wanting fast travel. While the kayak includes basic fishing accessories, additional storage for gear is somewhat limited, so users may need to add custom mounts or containers. The Reel Yaks Raider is a great choice for anglers who prioritize easy transport, hands-free propulsion, and a stable fishing platform, especially if storage space is limited. It balances convenience with solid performance, though it may not satisfy those needing maximum speed or large gear capacity.

The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 is designed for fishing enthusiasts looking for a motorized kayak that enhances their fishing experience. With a solid length of 13 feet 6 inches and a robust weight capacity of 660 pounds, it offers ample space for both the angler and their gear, making it suitable for various fishing trips. The notable feature is the integrated Minn Kota trolling motor, which allows for easy propulsion and navigation through Bluetooth control, plus the Spot-Lock technology helps keep you anchored, providing great convenience when you're focused on fishing.

Comfort is prioritized with a premium mesh seat that is adjustable and removable, helping you stay cool during long hours on the water. The kayak's stability is enhanced by its extra-large rudder, offering excellent control in both forward and reverse. The non-slip EVA foam deck pads add to the overall stability and comfort, making it easier to stand and fish when needed.

This kayak does have some drawbacks. Weighing in at 158 pounds, it's relatively heavy, which might make transport and loading a bit challenging for some users. Additionally, the motor battery is not included, which adds to the overall investment for buyers. While the kayak is loaded with features like customizable accessory tracks and multiple rod holders, the price point may not be suitable for all budgets.