10 Best Kayaks 2026 in the United States

The Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota is a sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for anglers seeking a motorized option. Measuring 10 feet 6 inches long, it is compact enough for easy transport yet offers a stable platform with a strong 525-pound weight capacity, allowing it to comfortably hold a person plus ample gear. Constructed from durable polyethylene, it ensures toughness for regular fishing use.

A key feature is the saltwater-ready Minn Kota 12-volt trolling motor that provides 45 pounds of thrust, enabling effortless movement and control, especially when used alongside the large rudder and adjustable foot braces. The kayak’s cockpit is open and comfortable, featuring a dual-layer mesh seat to keep you cool during long fishing sessions. It offers practical storage options such as a custom tackle box, accessory tracks for fishing gear, and multiple rod holders, making it very handy for anglers. Note that the motor battery is not included, and the kayak does not come with a paddle, so both will require separate purchases.

Weighing approximately 121 pounds plus an additional 17 pounds for the motor console, it is on the heavier side, which may make loading or moving it alone somewhat challenging. While it is neither the lightest nor the longest kayak available, its motorized feature and fishing-specific accessories provide extra power and convenience on the water, making it a practical choice for serious fishermen.

The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is a motorized fishing kayak designed to make fishing trips easier and more enjoyable. At 12 feet long and 37 inches wide, it offers good stability and space for one person along with their gear. Made from durable polyethylene, it’s built to handle saltwater conditions and offers a high weight capacity of 558 pounds, meaning it can comfortably carry a person plus plenty of fishing equipment. The cockpit is spacious enough for easy access and movement, complemented by adjustable foot braces and a comfortable, removable mesh seat to keep you cool and supported during long outings.

One standout feature is its Minn Kota trolling motor with GPS-controlled Spot-Lock technology, allowing you to hold your position without paddling and control the boat via Bluetooth remote—great for focusing on fishing without worrying about drifting. Storage is well thought out with built-in tackle boxes, accessory tracks, and multiple rod holders, helping keep gear organized and within reach.

The kayak is relatively heavy at 152 pounds plus an additional 24 pounds for the motor console, which might make transport and setup more challenging for some users. This kayak is well suited for serious anglers looking for a stable, feature-packed kayak with motorized convenience to enhance their fishing experience, though it requires some effort to move and additional investment for the battery.

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a 12-foot, sit-on-top fishing kayak featuring a pedal drive system that enables hands-free movement, ideal for anglers who want to focus on fishing rather than paddling. Its 36-inch width and pontoon-style hull provide excellent stability, facilitating balance while casting or reeling in fish. The kayak supports up to 500 pounds, comfortably accommodating the paddler and gear. Constructed from durable polyethylene, it is designed to withstand regular use and rough water with minimal maintenance.

The open and roomy cockpit design, typical for sit-on-top kayaks, offers easy entry and exit, though it provides less protection from water splash. Comfort is enhanced by a premium mesh seat that offers good back support and adjustable leg length, making long fishing trips more enjoyable. Storage options include a custom tackle box, multiple rod holders, and accessory tracks for gear customization. Additionally, the kayak supports the mounting of a fish finder, which benefits serious anglers.

The kayak weighs 116 pounds, which may make transport and launching more challenging for a single person. The pedal console adds extra weight and requires setup. This kayak is well-suited for fishing enthusiasts seeking a stable, comfortable platform with hands-free propulsion and ample storage, although it may be less ideal for those prioritizing lightweight design and easy transport.