Top 10 Best Kayaks for Fly Fishing in 2023: Unbiased In-depth Reviews

Fly fishing is one of the most rewarding and relaxing types of fishing for most anglers. And it gets even much better when done from a kayak. Simply put, the excitement of fly fishing from the best kayak is second to none.

What’s more, there are so many makes of kayaks that have come into play recently and at a more reasonable cost. All you need is to find the right one for your needs since not all kayaks are well-suited for fly fishing.

So, if you haven’t tried fly fishing from a kayak yet, then what exactly are you waiting for?

In this guide, we review some of the best kayaks for fly fishing and everything you might need to jump-start your own search. We are also going to cover things like:

  • Features, pros and cons of each kayak
  • A buyer’s guide
  • Some of the most frequently asked questions
  • Which is our top pick fly fishing kayak

Now, if you want to take your fly fishing adventures to the next level, check out our best picks out of the many options available.

Best Kayaks for Fly Fishing

Popular 10 Best Fly Fishing Kayaks in 2023 – Comparison

The fly fishing kayaks we have selected have been sampled from a pool of other models. They are easy to use, well-made and are sure to open all kinds of new fishing possibilities for you. Now let’s take a look at the features of these kayaks in detail.

RankingNameDimensionWeight
1Lifetime Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak120 x 36 x 19 inches82 pounds
2Vibe Foot Angler Sit Sea 130 Ghost Fishing Kayak13x 33 inches57 Pounds
3SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Aruba Sit-in Kayak120 x 30 x 13 inches45 pounds
4Perception Pro Pescador Sit on Top for Fishing Kayak144 x 32.5 x 14.5 inches57 pounds
5Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak30.1 x 11.6 x 19.2 inches40.4 pounds
6Wilderness Tarpon Systems 100 Angler Kayak120 x 30.5 x 15.2 inches58 pounds
7SUNDOLPHIN Bali 10 SS Sit in Top Kayak120 x 30 x 11 inches47 pounds
8Native Slayer Watercraft 13 Propel Kayak0.4 x 0.4 x 0.4 inches0.23 pounds
9SUNDOLPHIN Sun Excursion Bali 10-foot Sun Kayak120 x 30 x 13 inches42 pounds
10Hobie Outback Mirage Kayak100 pounds

1. Lifetime Two Person 10 Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak

The Lifetime Two Person 10 Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak is viewed as a sit-on-top kayak that is good for long paddling and angling adventures. This kayak is known for its dependability and safety features. Let us go into a more in-depth review of this Kayak.

Product Description

It has a width of 3 feet and a length of 10 feet. This means it can fit two grown-ups and a kid in its inside when it’s a recreation family outing or two adults when it’s an angling trip.

This yak can hold a maximum of 500 lbs and is outfitted with several stools, two lightweight oars, one molded seat, two cushioned seats and cup holders.

Besides its two mounted angling rods, it features front and back string straps for securing your items as well as 6 inches wide storage compartments.

Features and Benefits

The entire body of this kayak comprises of a highly thick roto-shaped polyethylene (HDPE), which makes the whole kayak stable and sturdy. This highly thick polyethylene not only makes make it long-lasting but also ensures that it is resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading.

The scupper fittings quickly drain all the water in the cockpit. When using a fish finder, the scupper gaps will enable a transducer to go through. This kayak also features a vast front compartment with adequate storage and elasticated cords.

Pros

  • Stable and comfortable
  • Large vessels
  • Can withstand turbulent waters and harsh weather
  • Great weight capacity

Cons

  • Not leakproof

2. Vibe Foot Angler Sit Sea 130 Ghost Fishing Kayak

The good thing about this Vibe Foot Angler Sit Sea  130 Ghost Fishing Kayak it is quite affordable but doesn’t compromise on quality. Most customers find it to be quite stable and do not easily as you move around in it.

Product Description

The kayak has a hull that’s quite wide and has enough storage room. This kayak weighs 62 lbs and is 13 ft long and which makes it sturdy and robust enough to withstand rough water and provides high speed. It is furnished with flush-mount pole holders and four coordinated gear tracks for customized rigging. You get a huge back tank as well; handle plate holders and back to arrive at front and back seals.

The kayak is intended for a single individual and is a sit-on-top model with a lot of space to store your items. The kayak has a sturdy construction, and the hard plastic body allows you to hit the waters in all climate conditions.

Features and Benefits

If you have additional equipment for mounting, you can mount with the extra storage that accompanies the lid. If you intend to be the water for long, then you will probably enjoy the comfort level of this kayak since it is designed for long angling outings.

 As if that is not enough, the legend seat can be changed to double positions so that your back gets great support during those long periods on the water. You won’t need to stress over paddling altogether on breezy days or rough water as it comes with a rudder which enables you to steer with your feet.

The good thing is if water gets inside, you can use the channel plug to get rid of it right away.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Sturdy and stable
  • Plenty Storage space
  • Has essential extras

Cons

  • Center console may prevent easy movement

3. SUNDOLPHIN 10 Foot Sun Dolphin Aruba Kayak

If you are looking for a kayak that will give you an amazing adventure then consider getting this the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 Kayak. This product can make your waterfront dreams come true, and we have a review to prove this to you.

Product Description

This recreational kayak is designed for having a ton of fun on lakes and waterways. It’s a sit-inside, which makes it suitable for all-climate and all-season paddling, as you will stay warmer and drier inside the cockpit, than with the sit on the top open deck. Sit-internal parts are used with spray skirts to prevent water from entering the cockpit.

This yak is portable and lightweight, so it is quite easy to keep it into the back of your pickup truck. This also makes it much easy to carry. Although there are no angling features on this kayak, you can add your very own adjustments to make it more ideal for fishing.

Features and Benefits

This kayak is made using high-thick polyethylene and can withstand submerged obstacles and frequent run-ins with rocks. There might be a few dents in the shell, but any breach is uncommon. In case you find a few scratches, they can be effectively fixed at home.

The good thing is that the SUNDOLPHIN 10 Foot Sun Dolphin Aruba kayak comes with a two-year warranty which guarantees protection and gives you a peace of mind.

What’s more, this kayak is quite lightweight, which makes maneuvering super easy and less tiring than when padded with heavy vessels. This means it is suitable for both kids and adults.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Great value for money
  • Great stability
  • Adjustable backrest

Cons

  • Solo kayak

4. Perception Pro Pescador Sit on Top for Fishing Kayak

If you are a serious angler, then you probably prefer a stable and quick kayak and one that is designed for straight tracking. If this describes you, then the Perception Pro Pescador Sit on Top for Fishing Kayak might be an ideal option.

Product description 

You can find comfort from this kayak’s foot brace design that can easily be adjusted. For an amazing angling experience, this kayak features two flush-mounted bar holders that can hold landing nets and standard fishing bars.

In addition, the Perception Pro Pescador Sit on Top for Fishing Kayak has a paddle park where you conveniently and safely place your paddles to free up your hands to do other errands. It has a width of 36 inches and a length of 12 feet, and a height of 15 inches.

It has an overall weight of 64 pounds with a limit capacity burden limit of 375 lbs. Although the weight the makes it quite durable, it can be quite heavy and can also make maneuvering with it quite challenging.

Features and Benefits

This kayak has a large storing and accessory mount that is ideal for an entire day water activities. It is made with high-grade polyethylene plastic and a unique rotational design process that give its quality and durability.

 More importantly, it offers UV protection, scraped spot, and effect resistant, which provides you with a convenient and problem-free performance. It also has an adjustable, removable and padded seat which can be angled in an upstanding or leaned on a back position.

Pros

  • Rigged compartments
  • Adjustable seats
  • Wide storage
  • Durable and high quality

Cons

  • Quite heavy

Also read: 10 Best Duck Hunting Kayaks – Reviewed and Compared

5. Sevylor Colorado Coleman Fishing Kayak

The Sevylor Colorado Coleman Fishing Kayak can give the ability to hike on your favorite fishing spots and enables you off getting offshore quite easy. If you want a lightweight kayak and one that can fit two grownups, then this option might be perfect for you.

Product Description

This kayak is made with durable material, which means it can withstand punctures. Also, it has a hand free design which makes fishing with it quite comfortable. In addition, the kayak is built with strong polypropylene and has an adjustable mountain bracket that can securely hold different types of rods.

Features and Benefits

The kayak has pockets where you can organize your equipment and tools. Also, it features a handle holder for keeping your paddles when not in use. Besides that, it can fit two people and can hold a maximum of 470 lbs. 

The seats are super comfortable, and you can sit in this kayak for a long time without getting tired. On top of that, this kayak is made with highly thick polyethylene that not only makes it durable but also ensures that it is resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading.

Pros

  • Strong and durable
  • Good trolling Kayak
  • Ideal for fishing
  • Comfortable seats

Cons

  • Valves may be difficult to handle

6. Wilderness Tarpon Systems 100 Angler Kayak

The Wilderness Tarpon Systems 100 Angler Kayak is another great option for a serious angler who is searching for a kayak with great features. This kayak is a whole package and still maintains a single identity yet maintains up a straightforward, and great character.

Product Description 

The Wildslidetrax rail design adds great potential to this kayak’s features. A great track framework on a kayak’s rails kayak is quite significant. Mounting rod holders, gadgets, or camera mounts i super easy with the tracks given on this vessel.  In our opinion, the inside plate in the cockpit situated over the cup holder would be perfect for mounting your  GPS or fishfinder or GPS

Most customer report that Airpro phase 3 sit-on-top sea is quite t comfortable. The seat is all around cushioned and ventilated for keeping the t breeze around on hot days. Interestingly, this kayak weighs only 42 pounds, very light for such a large boat.

Features and Benefits

We liked that the seat is partly set down in the cockpit, which gives you a more sheltered ride compared to the most sit-on-top kayak. This trademark uncertainty reduces the impact of wind blowing as it regularly does in kayaks with open cockpits. 

A huge stern tank has bungee design makes sure you’ll have enough space for a more relaxed or other bulky gears without sticking up your deck space. Besides that, has two Orbix lids that are situated between the legs and on the bow of the paddler for stowing tiny gear securely. A couple of additional bungees on the cockpit and the bow add to the additional storage capacity.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Great for adding accessories
  • Inside pockets
  • Comfortable seats

Cons

  • Had no rod handles

7. SUNDOLPHIN Bali 10 SS Sit in Top Kayak

Sun Dolphin is one of the best known kayak manufacturers out here. And indeed, their SOT kayak is one of the most popular ones with fly anglers. But what exactly makes it stand out? Here’s our two cents.

Product Description 

This kayak is quite lightweight because it weighs 44 lbs. This make is it super easy to paddle, and you don’t have to worry about your arms getting tired. In front of the seat, there is a sealed storage hatch where you can conveniently store smaller items. There is also a cup holder to ensure you that you are hydrated while on the water.

This kayak is a sit-inside, which makes it suitable for all-climate and all-season paddling, as you will stay warm and dry inside.

Features and Benefits

The seat is formed into the structure of the kayak and is also well padded on the seat back. The seat back contains lashes that can be adjusted to suit various sizes of paddlers. The structure is designed to provide great tracking, and stability and support performance because of the more V-formed frame at stern and bow.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable lashes
  • Comfortable seats

Cons

  • A bit pricy

8. Native Slayer Watercraft 13 Propel Kayak

The Native Slayer Watercraft 13 Propel Kayak will enable you to catch fish all day. One unique feature about this kayak is that it has forward and reverse system, which makes it paddling it super easy and fast. Let’s do a brief review of this Kayak to give you a better understanding.

Product Description

The Native Slayer Watercraft 13 Propel Kayak is built with durable polypropylene and has an adjustable mountain bracket that can securely hold different types of rods. Additionally, it has a paddle park where you can safely place your paddles to free up your hands to do other activities.

Features and Benefits

This kayak has a large storing and accessory mount that is great for whole day water activities. It is made with high-grade polyethylene plastic and a unique rotational design process that give its quality and durability,

On top of that, this kayak also has an adjustable, removable, and padded seat. The seats can be angled in an upstanding or leaned on a back position. The Native Slayer Watercraft 13 Propel Kayak is a great option for any water type from inshore, freshwater, sea and waters.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Adjustable seat
  • Smooth and easy to use
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not leak prof

9. SUNDOLPHIN  Sun Excursion Bali 10-foot Sun Kayak

Finding a kayak with great features that won’t break a bank can be quite challenging. The SUNDOLPHIN Bali 10-foot Sun Kayak has amazing features and comes at an affordable price. A more in-depth review should give you a better understanding of this kayak.

Product Description 

This Kayak has to carry handle that makes carrying and lifting the entire accessory system quite easy. In front of the seat, there is a sealed storage hatch where you can conveniently store smaller items. There is also a cup holder to ensure you that you are hydrated while on the water.

This kayak is a lightweight since it weighs just 44 lbs, which comes in handy when paddling. However, in case the breeze picks up, it might be challenging to remain on course since it’s a lighter vessel.

 The structure is designed to provide the kayak  tracking and stability  ability due to more V-formed frame at stern and bow

Features and Benefits

The bow has small storage well where you can store your lunch box, small dry bag or camping gear. One notable feature is the cushioned thigh props, which means there’s some protection between the sides of the vessel and your legs.

The seat is formed into the structure of the kayak but also has a cushioned seat back. The seat back contains lashes that can be adjusted to suit various sizes of paddlers. More importantly, the seating area is quite spacious, and the Kayak’s width is 30 inches, so you ought to have a lot of room.

Pros

  • Compact
  • Lightweight
  • Good storage
  • Suitable for beginners

Cons

  • Has no rod holders

10. Hobie Outback Mirage Kayak

Kayaking is one of the most Common watersports today, and if you love to participate in the fun, we recommend the Hobie Outback Mirage Kayak. The good thing about this kayak is that it is incredibly light, which makes it suitable for roaring on ocean waves.

Product Description

The Mirage crew outback features a fitted hull that weighs 81 pounds Thru-Hull wire plugs and three path connector for Lowrance Ready. The standard highlights include huge bow hatch that is well covered, a two-piece paddle plus body storage and mesh protected stowage pockets.

Also, the Hobie Outback Mirage Kayak gives a limit of 400 lbs and 5 inches in height is 12 inches in length and 33 in width.

Features and Benefits

The Mirage Drive framework is said to be one of the quickest paddling frames with the only downside of being unable to reverse. The kayak features a CT Vantage seat that is which is quite durable and comfortable. The kayak’s Mirage is 12’1″

The Hobie is a great choice for use on any water type from inshore, freshwater, sea and waters. Besides that, this kayak has an amazing turning, and the rudder design is exceptionally smooth and intended to be anything but difficult to use.

Pros

  • Quite stable
  • Large storage space
  • Unique captain chair
  • Allows accessories

Cons

  • A bit pricy

Buyers Guide- What to Look Out for When Buying Fly Fishing Kayak

There is no one-size-fits-all model when it comes to finding the best kayak for fly fishing to fit your needs. Therefore, there are a couple of things you might need to consider before buying a kayak to ensure you get nothing but the best.

Below are some of the features to look out for so you can make an informed decision.

Stability

Fly fishing requires a lot of movement while casting, retrieving, and landing fish. Not to mention, you will likely be fishing while standing up. Therefore, stability is everything if you want to have thrilling fishing experience.

Ideally, long and wide kayaks offer adequate side-to-side stability. Also, most fly fishing kayaks designed for stand-up fishing have either a pontoon or flat-shaped hulls for optimal stability.

Fishing conditions

You also need to consider where exactly you will be fly fishing to determine which kayak is best for you. This will help you narrow down your choices. For instance, if you like fishing in light surf, you’ll need a fly fishing kayak that can handle waves with confidence.

But if you’ll be fishing in calm lakes or a slightly moving river, a longer and wider kayak would be your best option. This way, you can stand up comfortably on the deck. In short, think carefully about where you fish and look for a kayak model that meets your needs.

Deck

For fly fishing, you need a kayak with a clear, flat, and spacious deck where you can stand up comfortably. It should also allow you to move freely and sit down. The deck should also be free of objects and clutter that might snag line. After all, the last thing you want is to snag your line on the boat while fishing.

Seating comfort

Whether you intend to fish while standing up or seated, a comfortable seat is important. This is because you’re probably going to be spending a lot of time on your boat.

Generally, the seat should be high enough so you can cast comfortably. Also, it needs to be adjustable to different heights so you can find a height that works best for you. More importantly, the seat should have enough padding, leg space, and support for your back.

Sit-in vs Sit-on-top kayak

When it comes to sit-in kayaks, they are designed to provide extra protection from the water. Also, they are faster than their sit-on-top counterparts. However, they can be hard to cast from when seated because of their enclosed cockpit.

As far as sit-on-top kayaks are concerned, they are easier to cast from when sitting because of their open cockpit. They also tend to lift you a bit higher off the water making casting easy while seated. However, they usually expose you to the elements a bit more.

While sit-on-tops are best preferred for fly fishing, you should try experimenting with both options to see which is right for you.

Weight

Last but not least, you need to consider the overall weight of your fly fishing kayak. Generally, the boat should not be too heavy or too light. This is because a very lightweight kayak is not likely to be stable especially on a windy day.

On the other hand, if it’s too heavy, it will be cumbersome to transport it to and from the water. So, the solution is to find a kayak that is not cumbersome to move about.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we’re going to provide you with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that you might have.

What is the best fly fishing kayak on the market?

It all depends on your needs and preferences. However, all the models that we’ve listed above are some of the best on the market.

Is it possible to fly fish out of my kayak?

Not every fly angler will want to stand and fish. However, given the advantages in stand-up fly fishing kayaks, then this is something that you should definitely consider.

What type of fly fishing kayak is the most stable?

A: A good number of sit-on-top kayaks are considered to be more stable because they tend to be ultra-wide and long.

Which is the Best Fly Fishing Kayak?

Depending on your needs, any of the above fly fishing kayaks could serve you well. However, the Vibe Kayaks 13 Foot Sea Ghost Kayak is in our opinion the overall best. It is a sit-on-top kayak making it ideal for fly fishing especially when it comes to stability. Not to mention, it boasts an adjustable seat that offers superior comfort and back support.

Final Thoughts

If you are yet to try fly fishing from a kayak, then you should. And if you’re looking to upgrade to a better fly fishing kayak, the above models are worth the money. We are confident that these best kayaks for fly fishing will significantly up your fishing game.

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