Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks – Guide For 2024

Choose a Top Inflatable Fishing Canoe For Your Summertime

Inflatable kayaks are some of the most popular forms of kayak. They’re convenient and easy-to-use, and not only that but if you choose correctly, they are also suitable for fishing. But with so many inflatable fishing kayak products on the market, it can be hard to know which is best.

We’re here to help you find the best inflatable kayaks. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll break down the best models available on the market. Ready to get started?

Why Choosing the Best Fishing Kayak is Important

Inflatable canoes can be used for many different water activities. Not every vessel is made to create the same experience. One model may have features designed for certain activities such as carp fishing and skill levels than another.

Use the following criteria to determine what type of inflatable fishing canoe or kayak has the features you’ll enjoy most.

Portability

One of the best features of inflatable kayaks is how portable they are! Traditional hard shell kayaks are difficult to store and transport. Your kayak will be lighter than a traditional option.

Despite this, all inflatable options vary in weight and size. Consider your own dimensions when purchasing your craft. You can easily access comparison charts online to find which inflatable fishing kayak will best fit you.

Paddling and Water Type

Consider how often you will be using your boat, and what kind of paddling you would like to do. There are inflatable fishing kayaks available for paddling activities of all experience levels, from individuals who have never paddled before to the most advanced kayak paddler.

If you plan to use your inflatable often, make sure to purchase a product that is durable. It is also important to take the kind of water you plan on paddling into consideration. Will you be taking your inflatable fishing canoe on a lake, ocean, or rapids? The kind of water you plan to venture to will have a great impact on which boat will best suit you.

Number of Passengers

Like a traditional kayak, inflatables come in both single and double passenger options. How many people will be using the craft at once? Double passenger inflatables are a great option for families, couples, or individuals. They’re also great for anyone who would like to bring a furry friend along for the ride.

Certain fishing kayaks offer a convertible option. This means they can be converted into either a single or double kayak. If you are unsure of how often you may be riding solo or with a friend, this is a great option.

Maneuvering

How skilled are you at maneuvering a canoe? Certain inflatable fishing kayaks are easier to control than others. Shorter kayaks and canoes tend to be easier to maneuver than a longer option.

Beginner boats tend to be wider and shorter to allow for more control. If you are more advanced at kayaking, look at longer and narrower boats. These will allow you to gain more speed.

Cost

As with many products, a higher priced inflatable typically means it will be of higher quality and more durable. Consider your budget when looking into purchasing an inflatable fishing canoe.

A high-quality inflatable kayak can range from $200-$2000 meaning that there’s something out there for every budget and need. Additionally, inflatable kayaks help you save on expenses related to owning a costly boat, such as trailers, fuel, and ramp fees.

Best All Round Pick

Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer

Choose the stealthy, self-bailing, inflatable 350fx Fishing explorer.

With this fishing boat, you needn’t concern yourself with fuel or damages to the environment. The 350fx explorer only requires a pump and paddle. As such, it leaves no gas emission or contaminants.

This fishing boat comes with 16 self-bailing drain valves that operate at high intensity. As such, you will waste less time bailing water while you focus on your hunt.

Product Summary

  • Interior: 305 cm x 43 cm

  • Exterior: 350 cm x 99 cm

  • Load capacity: 261 kg or a person

  • Inflated and assembly time: 7 minutes

  • Deflated: 79 cm x 48 cm x 25 cm

Key Features:

Fishing-focused Spray Skirts:

At a glance, you will see that the 350fx explorer is for fishermen. The manufacturer customized the front and rear spray skirts to include the basics of fishing.

At the spray skirts, you will find built-in holders for your fishing hooks, lure, and built-in rod. That means you needn’t worry about extra storage for tools.

Another built-in feature that makes the 350fx top-grade is the fish ruler. With it, you can decide if your catch meets legal fishing rules.

Rigid Flooring With Protective Material:

Like other series of the Sea Eagle Explorer, the 350fx also comes with protective drop-stitch flooring. With such a feature, you get a convenient paddling across the water.

350fx, however, offers you even more protection. For a start, the outer layer boasts of 2000 denier. As such, the covering is almost as indestructible and tough as a crocodile’s hide.

Secondly, the inner flooring of the 350fx explorer comes with an extra 1000 denier. Thanks to the protective layer, your boat is safe from damages.

Lastly, the 350fx fishing kayak has EVA foam padding. With that, you can rest assured of no slips even when you stand fishing.

Self-bailing Drain Valves:

Another feature of the 350fx that enhances secured footing is its 16 auto-bailing drain valves. With those, you can focus on your fishing and worry less about bailing water or slips. Additionally, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with crowded boat ramps, making your fishing experience more convenient.

Besides slips, the drain valves also help you navigate all kinds of water bodies. How so?

With a closed drain-valve, you can go fishing on high flat water such as bays and lakes. And in low-water areas, opened valves bail the intrusions for you.

Review From Actual Customer:

“I bought this boat in December and have been using it all season long. 10 different lakes, 2rivers and a whole bunch of fun and fish. Getting the boat in and out of the water is easy and quick. I am new to kayaking, but it seems to handle very well in all situations. Very happy with my purchase!”

Reasons Why We Like This Product:

  • Compact design – the 350fx fishing kayak is a very portable boat. With it, you won’t worry about navigating tight corners.

  • Rigidity – with the 350fx, you can rest easy knowing your boat won’t burst at the slightest contact. The exterior is as indestructible as the hide of a crocodile.

  • Versatile – it doesn’t matter what waters you are visiting. The 350fx navigates both whitewater and flatwater. It has a removable skeg and auto-bailing drain valves to fit your needs.

  • Huge max load capacity – the 350fx can carry a significant load of up to 575 lbs, making it perfect for rough conditions and heavy gear.

Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler

Enjoy ease on your fish kayaking trips like never before, and with even more capacity. The 385fta FastTrack™ Angler Series can contain you and another other persons.

Despite the load capacity, the fishing boat hull only weighs about 20kg. Although the 385fta is lightweight, it is suitable for all fishing and kayaking – even on the meanest waters.

The hull material is almost as indestructible as crocodile skin. The interior also comes with drop-stitch protection.

Product Summary

  • Interior: 353 cm x 46 cm

  • Exterior: 381 cm x 91 cm

  • Load capacity: 288 kg or 3persons

  • Inflated and assembly time: 7 minutes

  • Deflated: 79 cm x 48 cm x 25 cm

Key Features:

Streamlined Body:

The 385fta comes with the Sea Eagle’s patent NeedleKnife™ keel. As such, it moves faster than most fishing kayaks.

However, this fishing boat doesn’t only move fast but straight. Thanks to the bow and mould of the keel, you can break through winds.

Those features give you the edge to chase after your catch. How?

Irrespective of how fast the fish is, with 385fta, you can equally paddle fast and make sharp turns.

Removable Skeg:

The 385fta comes with a removable skeg that enhances efficiency and control. As such, the boat doesn’t just move fast and straight but also adapts to the water.

When you remove the rear centre skeg, you will find more ease for your whitewater adventures. In particular, there will be less obstruction, and you will experience more balanced kayaking.

However, you might want to return the skeg on flat waters. For such water bodies, the structure helps to prevent imbalance.

Customized Spray Skirts:

The 385fta comes with inbuilt storage means for your fishing gears. It has provisions to store tools such as a rod, hook, and lure holders at the front and rear apart skirts.

Besides the skirt itself, other storage facilities lie above and below to store other items as you see fit.

Also, the boat has an in-built fish ruler. Before packaging your catch into the numerous storages, the 36inches measurement aid helps you maintain sustainable fishing practices.

Review From Actual Customer:

“I have used my Sea Eagle 385fta numerous times now and love how stable it is on the water. There is lots of floor space for gear when fishing or an extra passenger or two. The boat paddles easily and tracks well when calm. It is a bit harder to control with wind on a lake. But that is to be expected with how much of the boat is on top of the water. Easy to inflate or deflate. All the pieces take up a fair bit of room but can still fit in the back of any car or SUV. The weight is ok for me. But a little too heavy for my wife or daughter to lift and carry for any distance. The only things that could be better are if it was a bit lighter and cost less. Overall I am pleased with this inflatable kayak and would recommend it to anyone.”

Reasons Why We Like This Product:

  • Rigid – the 385fta has protective layers on both its interior and exterior. For the interior, it has a drop-stitch cover that prevents damage from fishing gears. The exterior part also has a crocodile-like covering that shields the boat from sharp objects.

  • Versatile – you can use the 385fta for kayaking and fishing. More importantly, the boat fits all kinds of water.

  • Fast – the patent keel gives the 385fta the speed advantage over similar fishing kayaks. Such a feature will come in handy when chasing your hunt.

Fish SUP 126

Want a break from paddling and kayaking? Perhaps you want something adventurous, low-energy and fun for your fishing trips. Then, try Sea Eagle’s Fish SUP™ 126.

With this paddleboard there is an option to connect it to an electric motor. That way, you can conserve your energy for what truly counts: fishing.

It doesn’t matter if you’re sitting or standing. You’ll enjoy the Fish SUP™ 126 all the same. The board is the perfect fit for fishermen like you on the go!

Product Summary

  • Dimension: 381 cm x 102 cm

  • Board thickness: 15 cm

  • Load capacity: 227 kg or 2persons

  • Inflated and assembly time: 7 minutes

  • Deflated: 114cm x 38cm x 25cm

Key Features:

Protective And Stealth Deck Pad

The first thing you will notice about the Fish SUP™ 126 is its water-camo patterns. With that, you can sneak in on fishes and catch them with ease.

While you are it, the EVA foam on the paddleboard ensures that you don’t slip off. It has a non-slip property that helps you attain secure footing. More importantly, the same covering also protects your board against punctures and damages.

Another similar protective feature of this stand-up paddleboard is its swallowtail. With it, you get even more buoyancy and stability in the water.

Attachment Points

You are probably thinking about what storage room you have on paddle boards. Well, the Fish SUP™ 126 offers something else: it’s D-ring attachment points.

With those points, you can hang your fishing gears, equipment, and other accessories. Beautifully, the paddleboard has 14 of such attachment entries.

The best part: the 14 attachment points are from stainless steel materials. In other words, you can rest assured that they are strong enough to hold your valuables.

Paddle Pocket

Unlike other boards with no storage provision for their paddle, the Fish SUP™ 126 is different. This product comes with a pocket.

With the paddle pocket, you can focus on your fishing without worry. Besides, the chances are that you will stick to using the engine motor to power your board.

Even at that, you don’t have to lose your paddle. The pocket will always come in handy.

Special mention:

The fish measuring board is another built-in feature of the Fish SUP™ 126 that provides the same convenience as the paddle pocket. With it, you will rest easy knowing you’re fishing sustainably.

Review From Actual Customer:

“My wife and I have used our two FS126 on a few occasions. We are impressed with the quality of the boats. They are very sturdy and stable and let you go where other boats can’t. The trolling motor works great. They are easy to store and inflate with the electric pump. The hand pump, even though large and of good quality, is a workout. Living in Florida, we had to register the boats and place numbers on the side. I purchased them from a company that I believe is on your website and glued them on myself. So far, so good.”

Reasons Why We Like This Product:

  • Lightweight – the hull of this paddleboard weighs only 20kg. Even with the motor mount, you can expect only a max of 22kg. Such figures mean you won’t even feel a thing dragging the product around.

  • Affordable – unlike boats, this paddleboard saves you ramp fees. Besides, the product itself is cheaper than fishing kayaks.

  • Easy to use – the Fish SUP™ 126 requires no expertise. It is easy to inflate and use. Within 7 minutes, the board is up, and you can start fishing.

  • Versatile – ideal for both fishing and recreational paddling, offering stability and comfort for long days on the water.

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Best For the Price

Sea Eagle 420x Explorer

This product is provided by a well-known and reliable manufacturer. It weighs in at 42 pounds, can carry 2 to 3 adults, and is able to fit into a large duffel bag for transportation when deflated. It requires the fishing add on option, which provides mounts for rod holder etc.

The Sea Eagle 420x Explorer is a fantastic option for navigating white water rapids. We suggest you use this kayak for rapids up to class IV. The handling on this inflatable kayak is unmatched. It is also extremely durable.

One of the best features offered by this inflatable fishing canoe is the self-bailing system. Of all the inflatable fishing kayak reviews, this one comes in on top for keeping users dry and safe. There is also a removable center skeg. This feature makes this kayak usable for both calm, open water and whitewater rafting.

Other features offered by this inflatable fishing canoe include a doubly reinforced floor, storage in the bow and stern, and carbon fiber paddles. We highly suggest this inflatable for advanced users.

Best High Budget Pick

Hobie Mirage i9S

This inflatable is made by trusted hard shell kayak producer, Hobie Mirage. This company provides award-winning kayaks, and this inflatable option is on par with any of their hard shell products.

This product weighs in at 70 pounds. It is 9 feet long and can hold a single person. It is able to hold up to 325 pounds total, so take this into consideration when packing gear. While this is a more costly kayak, we think the features it provides makes it well worth the price.

Our favorite feature is the vast storage this inflatable fishing canoe provides in both the bow and the rear. There will be more than enough space for all of your gear and your great catches throughout the day.

This kayak also allows for easy maneuvering, courtesy of its 180 propulsion system. This is a common feature among Hobie Mirage products that they are well known for. The propulsion system is hands-free and allows you to maneuver with little effort and reverse your kayak easily.

The floor of this inflatable is very durable. The drop stitch floor and rigid bottom keep this kayak afloat with little worry about tipping or rough water. We highly recommend this if you have the budget. It provides some of the best portability and space for fishers compared to most inflatable fishing kayaks on the market

Best Affordable Pick

Sevylor Quikpak K5

This inflatable is one of the best prices on the market and includes many great features! If your budget is tight, we highly recommend purchasing this boat. It can carry one person and offers reasonable storage solutions.

We suggest that you use this inflatable kayak in calmer water, as it is can be easy to puncture. If your kayak is punctured, make sure you get it repaired as soon as possible. Repairs are typically affordable, but it is an added expense you will want to take into consideration.

The Quikpak K5 comes with its own pump and paddle. That means you will not have to make these additional purchases. This is great news if you are on a tight budget.

Unlike models on our other inflatable fishing kayak reviews, this product is not self-bailing. This is, again, why we suggest using this product in calm water such as lakes. You may get quite wet when using this inflatable, so prepare before your adventure.

When it comes to inflatable fishing canoes, this option is one of the lowest prices on the market and is made by a reliable brand. If you do not plan to kayak often and are only venturing into still water, this is a wonderful option for you! You will be tightly pressed to beat the price on this inflatable.

Intex Challenger K1

Best Value Pick

Intex Challenger K1

This fishing kayak weighs in at a featherweight 27.2 pounds. The lightweight, long design of this boat means it is able to pick up high speeds. This is for intermediate to advanced kayakers only.

This boat is only for a single person and features a cargo net at the front to store gear. The purchase comes with aluminum oars that won’t weigh rowers down. This inflatable fishing canoe is also durable, made from vinyl and coming complete with a repair patch and portable hand pump. It can be inflated in just 10 short minutes!

It is a great boat for calm water, as it does not have a self-bailing feature. The openness of the design and lack of self-bailing makes stable. This decreases the likelihood of tipping as you venture through the water. It does mean that you will likely get quite wet, but this shouldn’t be a problem as long as you plan ahead.

This is one of the most portable inflatable fishing canoes featured on our buying guide. When deflated, it is able to fit into the small dry bag that is provided with your purchase. Packing down to 11.8kg, it’s perfect for any trip. This is one of the best valued inflatable fishing canoes we’ve come across, and we highly recommend this model for those who want a small but sturdy raft for a great price. The Intex Challenger K1 is also ideal for kayak fishing due to its portability, stability, and comfort in both salt and freshwater environments.

Intex Explorer K2

Best Beginner Pick

Intex Explorer K2

This kayak weighs in at 32 pounds, making it a super lightweight option. It is also a great option if you plan on kayaking with others frequently, which we suggest if you are a beginner. The design of this boat allows for easy maneuvering and lots of control. Kayakers of all levels can appreciate this model.

The bright yellow color of this inflatable makes it visible in the water. You will avoid crashing into any fellow adventurers. It comes with two paddles and its own pump, so you do not have to worry about purchasing these extra items. The rigid floor makes this inflatable fishing canoe durable and stable, so you can trust that this option will last. The Intex Explorer K2 allows for a stealthy approach to avoid deter fish.

This kayak has two inflatable seats for added comfort while you fish. Finally, this inflatable is both portable and easy to set up, making it suitable for all types of trips. We love this as both a beginner option and for kayakers of all levels!

Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Kayak

Best Advanced Pick

Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Kayak

Our favorite feature on this is the built-in rod holders designed specifically for fishing. This makes your fishing trips carefree and easy. There is also no setup needed for this boat, just inflate and hit the water! It only takes a few minutes to inflate this kayak.

This inflatable is great for angling and advanced use. It’s great in calm water. However, it can be used in class I, II, and III rapids. If you are a well-seasoned kayaker who loves adventure, this is a great boat for you!

This boat also features seats with high backs for comfort, d-rings, and lots of storage. This inflatable fishing canoe can handle all of your adventures and kayaking needs. It will remain durable through rough water and all types of weather, so advanced daredevils can appreciate this stellar inflatable boat.

Hobie Mirage Compass Kayak

Best Storage Pick

Hobie Mirage Compass Kayak

This boat is another great model from the reliable Hobie Mirage company! The Compass Kayak was designed specifically with storage in mind. It has a large storage area to handle all your supplies and your many wonderful catches throughout the day. Additionally, it allows you to stealthily glide into the heart of where the trophy fish are, without being detected.

This inflatable fishing canoe comes with many other incredible features. One of our favorites is the Drive Pedal which help make your kayaking more efficient with the use of propeller blades. These pedals are adjustable and can be used in tandem with your paddles.

This model also features a drop stitch floor. This allows for high inflation pressure. For portability, this includes a storage bag that is easy to carry. You can take this option along with you on any length of trip with ease.

Sevylor Tahiti Hunt and Fish Kayak

Best Durability Pick

Sevylor Tahiti Hunt and Fish Kayak

This inflatable fishing canoe is great for both fishing and hunting! Designed with durability in mind, this boat can handle strong currents for expert fishers. Hunters will appreciate that this boat features an olive green color. It will help you blend in with your surroundings on the hunt. The Sea Eagle Fishing Explorer is another excellent option for avid fishermen, offering reinforced protective layers, rod holders, spray skirts, accessory belts, adjustable foot brace, FishRuler™, anchor trolley D-rings, high load capacity, and a self-bailing design, making it suitable for rough conditions and fishing expeditions.

This inflatable is able to seat up to two people, so you can bring a friend along on your expeditions. It is able to hold up to 400 pounds total. This boat can handle all your gear and trophies.

The boat only weighs 19 pounds when deflated, so transportation is not an issue. Other great features include spray covers and adjustable seats. The spray covers add to the durability of this boat so it will remain protected from the elements while you use it without wear and tear. This boat has safety features to help in the case of puncturing. No need to worry about sinking in this sturdy and reliable kayak.

Sevylor Coleman Kayak Colorado

Best Two Person Pick

Sevylor Coleman Kayak Colorado

Sevylor is one of the dominating inflatable kayaking brands, and for good reason. This is yet another of their fantastic products featured on our buying guide. The two-seater fishing kayak is affordable, durable, and comfortable!

Two great features that set this model apart from others are its fishing rod holders and side handles. The fishing rod holders make for a relaxed experience that any fisherman can appreciate. The handles make it easy for kayakers to pull this kayak out of the water.

Other features include a weight limit of 470 pounds, excellent stability in choppy water, and a trolling motor. This inflatable fishing canoe has great quality, is transportable, and has great durability. If you enjoy fishing with a partner, we definitely think this boat is worth purchasing.

Sevylor Big Basin Kayak

Best Family-Friendly Pick

Sevylor Big Basin Kayak

Best Family-Friendly Pick

 

This boat carries not one, not two, but three passengers. It’s ideal for families and groups. This is one of the largest inflatable fishing canoes on the market and we absolutely love it. This boat can handle up to 490 pounds, more than any of the other models featured in our inflatable fishing canoe reviews. This means more room for big catches, even with all of your family members or friends.

This inflatable fishing canoe has spray covers. You do not have to worry about big splashes or getting wet. The seats are adjustable. Any age family member can sit comfortably in this boat. The seats are also removable. If you do not need all three you can remove a seat or two and have more room for supplies and big fish.

This boat is designed with strong PVC to ensure stability. It’s safe for the whole family and is ideal for calm water like a lake. We do not suggest taking this inflatable fishing canoe out on heavy rapids or choppy water due to its size.

Inflating and deflating is made easy with an airtight system and double threaded valve. Set up is a quick and painless process. This kayak ensures fun for the whole family and is the best family-friendly option on our buying guide this year.

 

Which Inflatable Fishing Kayak is Best for You?

There is no right or wrong answer to which kayak will be the best for you. Each kayaker has different preferences and needs, which will influence which inflatable fishing canoe they pick. The same goes for you and your needs.

  • Quality: If you are not concerned with money, we highly suggest buying a higher quality inflatable with as many features as possible. This will enhance your fishing experience overall and typically means greater durability. If you are able to purchase your dream fishing kayak, then the Sea Eagle 420x Explorer is the way to go.

  • Experience: Your experience level with fishing in kayaks is a big factor that will affect which boat is best suited for you. Different types of inflatable kayaks are easier or harder to maneuver and may require more skill. For beginners, the Intex Explorer K2 will give you the control you need to get used to kayaking. This is a great boat for kayakers of all experience levels but will be especially handy for those who have not ventured out on a kayak before. More experienced individuals will love the versatility available with the Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Kayak.

  • Users: Keep in mind the number of people who will typically use the kayak and how often you plan on taking it out. If you are not someone who likes riding solo, look for a two or three seated option like the Sevylor Big Basin or the Sevylor Coleman Colorado. These provide more seating without sacrificing important space for gear and equipment. If the number of people using your kayak will vary from time to time, consider an option with removable seats. Most of the kayaks featured in our buying guide offer a removable seating option for more or less space as needed.

  • Longevity: The features available in some higher priced kayaks may be less useful to you. We believe durability is the most important part of any inflatable fishing canoe. You do not want to end up spending money on costly repairs. In this case, this typically ends up being more expensive in the long-run. For the best durability, the Sevylor Tahiti Hunt and Fish Kayak are the best-of-the-best. It has great safety measures to avoid punctures in the inflatable and also has protective covers to prevent wear.

  • Budget: We understand that money is sometimes not an expendable object for many, and that is why we included the best affordable inflatable fishing kayak for a tight budget These kayaks all ring in at various prices to include budgets of all kind, but the best priced inflatable fishing kayak on the market is the Sevylor Quikpak K5. This boat comes from a trusted brand and has many great features despite the low price.

Once you’ve narrowed down your must-have features, it’s time to make your purchase! We hope this guide has been useful in your hunt for the best inflatable kayak for you and your family. Check out our best-recommended models and decide for yourself.

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