Your Guide:
Andy Bell
There are two basic types of kayaks, a sit-on-top kayak or a sit-inside kayak, differ on the presence of a hull; which is the part of a sit-inside kayak that encloses the lower body of the kayaker. Sit-on-top kayaks are more often used for fishing because the open seating makes it a lot easier for anglers to move around. This is why some of the best fishing kayaks are also sit-on-top kayaks.
We’ve put together a list of the best sit on top fishing kayaks available. This in-depth review of kayaks comes with a guide to help you understand what you need to look for in a good fishing kayak.
Looking for the overall best fishing kayaks? Here is a list of the best fishing kayaks we think offer the best kayaking experience mixed with great prices.
Our recommendation is the Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer, packed with high end materials and great functionality.
Quick Summary: Top 5 - Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayak of 2020
Our seasoned editors have picked and rated these products for each specific category and area of expertise to recommend you the best models and products we can. We receive commission from some of these affiliate links.
Best Overall: 1. Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer
"This inflatable yet durable fishing kayak is fully packed with a ton of features designed for anglers: from the rod and tool holders, ample storage space, stable platform, and fish ruler."
Best Value: 2. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
"The Skipjack 90 is an affordable fishing kayak from Vibe Kayaks. It still offers the standard features you need but at a more budget-friendly rate."
"The Skipjack 90 is an affordable fishing kayak from Vibe Kayaks. It still offers the standard features you need but at a more budget-friendly rate."
Best for Travel: 3. Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler Series
"The advantage of having an inflatable fishing kayak is the ease of storing and packing the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler, whether you need to travel near or far."
"The advantage of having an inflatable fishing kayak is the ease of storing and packing the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler, whether you need to travel near or far."
Best for Control: 4. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110
"The size and design of the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 give it a good level of maneuverability and control. Tracking and speed for this kayak are also well-rated."
"The size and design of the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 give it a good level of maneuverability and control. Tracking and speed for this kayak are also well-rated."
Best for Comfort: 5. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130
"The Sea Ghost 130, with its large size and Vibe Hero comfort seat, is a good option for long hours on the water."
"The Sea Ghost 130, with its large size and Vibe Hero comfort seat, is a good option for long hours on the water."
Top 5 Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayaks
The Sea Eagle 350fx is a durable inflatable fishing kayak which has stable build, built-in fishing accessories, and is made from sturdy and long-lasting Decitex materials. Some of the main advantages of the Sea Eagle 350fx Explorer are the many features that clearly make the Sea Explorer a fishing kayak. It is fitted with front and rear spray skirts that aid in keeping water out. It also keeps the interior storage space dry. These spray skirts have an added functionality as holders for rods, hooks, lure, and other tools for fishing. Other impressive features that you will find in the Sea Explorer include the 16 drain valves which make this a self-bailing kayak, anchor trolley D-rings to attach different gear and equipment, and a 40 inch fish ruler you can use to measure your catch.
Aside from those features, the build of the kayak provides a good mix of comfort and stability. It is fairly wide with large inflatable sides that make the interior space quite narrow. However, there is still ample legroom and extra space to keep a bag or cooler. The kayak seat is comfortable because of the soft and thick bottom padding, which is paired with a firm and adjustable back rest. It is actually comfortable staying in the kayak for hours at a time.
Aside from those features, the build of the kayak provides a good mix of comfort and stability. It is fairly wide with large inflatable sides that make the interior space quite narrow. However, there is still ample legroom and extra space to keep a bag or cooler. The kayak seat is comfortable because of the soft and thick bottom padding, which is paired with a firm and adjustable back rest. It is actually comfortable staying in the kayak for hours at a time.
Product Review
“The kayak and accessories easily fit in our pickup. Set up, cleaning and take down was easy.”
The Skipjack 90 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that offers great value for your money. Built for one person, there is ample leg space on this 9 foot long kayak. Additionally, ample storage is provided with the tightly sealed 6 inch storage compartment, and added front and rear open storage compartments which are secured with bungee cords. A tackle toss tray is conveniently incorporated into the design as well.
There are four fishing rod holders that are built into the kayak. Installing either a fish finder or GPS system is also quite easy since there is already a universal mount on the kayak. The Skipjack 90 is a relatively affordable fishing kayak. However, it is still comfortable and stable. There are also the options for either the Wildfire, Moss Camo, or Jam Berry colors. All these designs showcase a gradient-like pattern which looks great.
There are four fishing rod holders that are built into the kayak. Installing either a fish finder or GPS system is also quite easy since there is already a universal mount on the kayak. The Skipjack 90 is a relatively affordable fishing kayak. However, it is still comfortable and stable. There are also the options for either the Wildfire, Moss Camo, or Jam Berry colors. All these designs showcase a gradient-like pattern which looks great.
Product Review
“It is very comfortable, easily manoeuvred, and stable.The Skipjack 90 is an excellent value for the money.”
This inflatable fishing kayak is part of the Sea Eagle Fast Track Angler Series. It features a rugged camouflage design, thick PVC materials, and several built-in features designed for anglers. Like the Sea Eagle Sea Explorer, the 385fta also comes with front and rear spray skirts, rod, hook, lure, and tool holders, and drain valves. However, there are only 2 sets of drain valves on this kayak and only 18 D-rings. (1)
It is relatively easy getting this inflatable kayak ready and out into the water. There are 4 separate air valves that need to be pumped; one of which is for the separate floor chamber. This compartmentalization actually makes the kayak more stable. Added on to the 385fta is the crocodile EVA foam padding which covers the floor and the inner portion of the inflatable pontoons. This is a non-slip material which also adds a sturdy protective layer against tearing or punctures from sharp edges.
With this kayak, you can easily inflate and use, or deflate and store it away. It can also be put into a Nylon carry bag, which is provided by Sea Eagle, and be easily carried to your next fishing spot.
Product Review
"Very quick and easy to go from storage bag to the water. Extremely stable in the water and easy to maneuver with oars or the trolling motor."
Another sit-on-top fishing kayak from Vibe is the Sea Ghost 110. This is a comfortable 11 foot long kayak built for one person. However, its high weight capacity allows anglers to bring along tons of fishing gear. Already built into this kayak are a set of flush mount fishing rod holders, set on each side of the seat. The seat is a dual position Vibe Hero seat, which has been known for its comfortable padding and ergonomic design. The seat on this kayak is definitely one of the best, especially for anglers who spend hours out in the water.
The kayak is fitted with multiple mounting points and a track system so you can attach all your necessary fishing accessories. The Sea Ghost 110 has good tracking due to the built-in rudder while the compact build gives it great manoeuvrability. It's one of those kayaks that are easy to control.
Product Review
“It's very stable and very comfortable. You can add all of the rod holders and mounts you want with the rails included on the yak.”
The improved Sea Ghost 130 is a longer 13 inch version of the previous kayak discussed. The larger size makes it a bit more difficult to control but it amplifies the level of comfort with a larger central cockpit that now provides even more legroom. It has many of the same high end features as the Sea Ghost 110: to controlled rudder, watertight cargo storage, fishing rod holders, Vibe Hero seat, and multiple storage compartments. The larger size, however, makes the Sea Ghost 130 more stable; anglers can stand on kayak while casting their line.
Because it is bigger, this kayak is also heavier than other fishing kayaks. There are carrying handles placed at the ends and on the sides of the kayak, allowing several people to help load and unload it onto your car or into the dock. For a single-person kayak, it also has an impressive loading capacity of 550lbs.
Because it is bigger, this kayak is also heavier than other fishing kayaks. There are carrying handles placed at the ends and on the sides of the kayak, allowing several people to help load and unload it onto your car or into the dock. For a single-person kayak, it also has an impressive loading capacity of 550lbs.
Product Review
“This boat is very wide and sits high as a canoe in the water. Very comfortable with lots of storage place...”
Things To Consider Before Buying a Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
Many people think that there are only limited options when it comes to sit-on-top fishing kayaks. But, there are actually different styles, designs, and builds available. The best sit on top fishing kayak isn’t the same for everyone simply because people have different sets of priorities. Some would like to have more space while others would prefer having a kayak that is just easier to control. These are a few factors that you should look into when buying a sit on top fishing kayak.
If you are looking for high end kayaks, you might want to check out the best fishing kayaks under 1000.
Capacity
This refers to how much a kayak can carry in the water. If you have tons of equipment, you’ll need a fishing kayak with a higher weight capacity. This is also a good basis on how stable a kayak is.
Comfort
The two main things that affect comfort are the kayak seat design and padding, and the leg room. Another thing you’ll need to look at might be the leg rests or braces. However, this is something that depends on personal preference.
If you are new to this adventurous activity, read this article to help you get involved in kayaking.
Storage
Capacity and storage are different. Storage refers specifically to the compartments that a kayak has. More isn’t necessarily better since multiple small storage pockets will not be able to securely keep certain items in place. Some things you can look for include waterproofed compartments, D-rings, and the general size of the kayak itself.
Inflatable Kayaks
Some anglers prefer inflatable kayaks over hard shell kayaks while others prefer otherwise. The main advantage of an inflatable kayak is the portability when the kayak is not in use. On the other hand, a hard shell kayak is usually more durable.
Resources(1)
- PVC - https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/polyvinyl-chloride/
