The best inflatable fishing kayaks take fishing to another level.
As soon as you own a dedicated inflatable fishing kayak, you can go to any part of the water on your own outdoor adventures.
Best 2 Man Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For 500
If you’re an avid angler, say goodbye to days stuck fishing from the shoreline, you can now explore water further afield.
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Inflatable fishing kayaks add a whole new dimension to your fishing freedom, and have exploded in popularity over recent years, used by anglers of all levels.
Having used many, many kayaks, I’ve decided to share my knowledge to ensure you don’t get swept away in information and ensure you find the best boat for you.
The Best From The Review
Top Pick
BOTE Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak
An excellent fishing kayak that can be used as a one-person inflatable kayak or an inflatable paddleboard.
BOTE Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak
The top kayak is the Bote Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak.
These inflatable kayaks are perfect for travel fishing and come ready in a wheelie carry bag to check-in on a flight to anywhere in the world.
These inflatable kayaks are durable, track well, and are full of features for fishing like anchor points, a lot of storage, a pre-molded bucket cooler space, tackle mounts, and holders for your rods.
It’s also one the best fishing paddle boards as it can be converted into one.
Best 2 Man Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
One of the best kayaks around for an angler, as you can build your own preferred fishing accessory layout.
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
The best two person inflatable kayak for fishing is the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Kayak.
Thes inflatable kayaks are spacious, have a great capacity, good storage areas, and have 6 mounts for you to set up your own personal fishing rig.
You can stand up on the rigid floor of these inflatable kayaks, they can handle rough water, and are the perfect inflatable kayaks for a multi-day fishing expedition.
Best 3 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Inflatable Kayak
Durable, light, and portable kayak that’s perfect for 2 fishermen and one paddler.
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Inflatable Kayak
The best 3-person kayak for fishing is the Sevylor Big Basin Inflatable Kayak.
These inflatable fishing kayaks are perfect for 2 fishermen and one paddler, and if you like to fish with your buddies or family, it’s a great way to do it without a boat.
These inflatable kayaks are durable, light, portable, and a lot of fun to go fishing in.
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For 500
Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat
This model is like a catamaran raft that provides awesome stability and loads of space for anglers to fish off.
Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat
The top inflatable fishing kayak for 500 is actually a boat and is the Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat.
This inflatable kayak/boat is hugely spacious, stable, sits high on the water, and comes with excellent fishing accessories, plus the ability to add whatever you like too.
You can add an electric trolling motor to the boat, there is a space for an anchor, and a lot of storage options to keep all your fishing gear organized.
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For Lake Fishing
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
Made for two people, this tandem kayak comes with some great fishing additions that make life for anglers a lot easier.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
The top tandem kayak for lake fishing is the Sevylor Coleman Colorado. It’s also the best tandem fishing kayak that’s inflatable.
These kayaks are well made, durable, spacious, portable, and come with great features for fishing.
There is plenty of storage for all your gear, plus 4 holders for your rods and paddle clips so you can keep your paddles out the way.
You can also add a trolling motor to these inflatable fishing kayaks making getting across big lakes a lot easier than paddling.
Best Inflatable Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
Advanced Elements StraitEdge
These sit on top kayaks are durable and well and come equipped and ready for any kayak fishing adventure.
Advanced Elements StraitEdge
The top inflatable sit on top fishing kayak is the Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak.
These are some of the best inflatable fishing kayaks around for solo fishing thanks to their additional aluminum frame that makes it easy to cut through the water, gives better tracking, and gives you a rail for adding any accessories you want like a GPS.
These fishing kayaks also come with holders for your rods and you can drop an electric motor through the fin box to turn it into a boat so you don’t have to paddle to get to your fishing grounds.
Our Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks
Best Inflatable Sit On Top Fishing Kayak
Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler PRO
This durable and well designed kayak comes equipped and ready for any kayak fishing adventure.
Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler PRO
The Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak comes equipped and ready for any kayak fishing adventure.
Anglers will love this kayak for its durability and its design.
Build
This inflatable boat is designed to last thanks to the use of heavy-duty materials and is made from PVC with a tarpaulin bottom to protect it from abrasion and make it puncture resistant.
These kayaks also come with a drop-stitch floor that is solid enough to stand on and will handle fish spines and hooks going into it with ease.
For extra durability, the kayaks also come with abrasion pads in areas that see more use than others.
Portability
These Advanced Elements Straitedge inflatable kayaks come in a backpack for portability and inflate in under 10 minutes.
There are 5 air chambers in these kayaks for resiliency, so if one punctures, you’ll still float and be able to get home.
The kayaks also feature an aluminum frame for rigidity plus a fin for good tracking.
Storage
The inflatable fishing kayak also has an accessory frame at the front and an accessory frame at the back for adding any fishing features like fish finders or extra holders for your rods.
There are two holders for your rods included with the inflatable kayaks, and there is plenty of gear storage with bungee ties at the front and back.
There is also a slot to add an ElectraFin Motor plus and stainless steel D-rings for adding a drift anchor.
Seat
The chair is a framed lawn-style chair that is super comfortable for paddling, and on the side, you have paddle clips so you can get out the way when you start fishing – However, it’s quite expensive.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 1
- Length: 10’6”
- Storage: Front and rear bungee ties
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: PVC Tarpaulin Hull Material
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- 5 air chambers for resiliency
- Advanced frame aluminum rib frame for good tracking
- Durable build with a tough drop stitch floor you can stand up on
- Comes with a removable fin for better tracking
- 2 accessory frames give the ability to mount fishing features
- Fin box designed to hold an ElectraFin Motor
- High support, adjustable AirFrame PRO seat provides comfort for hours of paddling
- Comes with a duffel carry bag w/ shoulder straps for portability
- Includes an owner’s Manual and repair kit
- Stainless steel d-rings for drift anchor and stringer attachment.
- Abrasion pads in high use areas for maximum durability
- 2 well-placed fishing rod holders
Cons
- Expensive
Best Inflatable Kayak For Lake Fishing
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
Made for two people, this tandem fishing kayak comes with some great fishing additions that make life for anglers a lot easier.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
The Sevylor Coleman Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak is made for two people and comes with some great fishing additions that make life for anglers a lot easier.
Storage
These tandem inflatable fishing kayaks come with 4 holders for your rods: two for trolling at the back, and one swivel holder by each seat – so every angler has access to a rod when they need one.
You’ll also find some great storage options on these inflatable fishing kayaks with mesh pockets, front and stern compartments, and D-rings for lashing things down.
You can also add a trolling motor to these kayaks thanks to the inclusion of Sevylor trolling motor fittings.
Build
This will take anglers to another level of kayak fishing, being able to get places further afield in less time.
This kayak is made from durable 18-gauge PVC and comes with a 1000D tarpaulin bottom and an 840D nylon cover for further protection from abrasion and punctures.
If you do get a puncture, there are multiple chambers, so anglers won’t sink and will be able to make it safely to shore.
Portability
When deflated, the kayak packs down small for portability, and it inflates quickly. Once inflated, you’ll find it spacious inside, even with two people.
The kayak tracks well while you’re paddling and when you hook a fish, there are paddle clips on the side for anglers to stow them in, so they can focus on lading the fish.
The only downside to this tandem inflatable kayak is that the holders for the rods can get in the way when paddling and that the inflatable seats aren’t comfortable for some people, others think they are fine.
Specs
- Seating: Inside
- People: 2
- Length: 10 ft. 7 in.
- Storage: Mesh storage pockets, bow, stern storage compartment, plus D rings
- Weight Capacity: 470 lbs
- Material: 18 gauge PVC
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Durable 18-gauge PVC construction
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom, 840D nylon cover to provide extra puncture protection
- Multiple air chambers incase one is punctured
- Comes with an Airtight System that is guaranteed not to leak
- Includes two rod holders for trolling and 2 swivel rod holders
- Comes with paddle holders to keep the paddles out of the way when fishing
- Quick to inflate
- Great storage options
- A good amount of space
- Has a mounting for a Sevylor trolling motor
- Portable and packs down small
- Easy to carry
Cons
- You can hit the two rod holders when paddling
- Seats aren’t comfy
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
An affordable kayak that is ideal for leisure paddles and anglers who go inflatable kayak fishing occasionally.
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
The Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak is the most affordable inflatable kayak in the review and is ideal for leisure paddles and anglers who go fishing on a kayak occasionally.
Build
This kayak is made for two people and is made with a rugged vinyl construction.
It can handle up to 400lbs of weight and is light so you can move it around with ease.
You can happily throw it into the trunk of your car deflated and have it inflated in minutes when you get the starting point of your fishing trip.
Seats
This inflatable kayak for fishing comes with two adjustable and comfortable chairs and has a removable skeg to give you good tracking when paddling to your spot.
You’ll find a small amount of space for storage at the front and back but it is minimal.
Space
Being so affordable, this 2 person fishing kayak is lacking in some areas.
Firstly, it’s not too spacious and comes with no integrated fishing rod holders, so you’ll have to lay your rods down or find a slot for them somewhere on the kayak.
Weight
Secondly, the wind does blow this kayak around but there isn’t much room for an anchor, and the kayak comes with a manufacturer warning stating ‘Made for Smaller Bodies of Water Including Lakes and Mild Rivers’ so you can’t take it to big waters which is quite limiting.
Specs
- Seating: Inside
- People: 2
- Length: 10 ft 3 inches
- Storage: Bow and stern
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Rugged vinyl
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Each adjustable seat is comfortable
- Comes with a removable skeg for good tracking
- The most affordable in the review
- Well made and durable
- Portable, light, and quick to inflate
- Easy to transport
Cons
- No rod holders included
- Limited storage space
- Wind does blow it around
- Made for small lakes and rivers only
Sea Eagle Sport Kayak
One of the top inflatable kayaks for any kayaker or angler who enjoys multi-day expeditions.
Sea Eagle Sport Kayak
The Sport Kayak is one of the best inflatable kayaks for any kayaker or angler who enjoys multi-day expeditions, due to the carrying capacity of these inflatable kayaks.
You can load up these inflatable kayaks with a weight capacity 650 lbs, making going on 3-5 day fishing trips down the river a real option.
Build
You might think these kayaks won’t be able to handle rough waters because they’re inflatable, but they are actually made for up to class III whitewater, making adventures even more possible for anglers.
This Sea Eagle inflatable kayak is for two people and is made from 38 mils PolyKrylar PVC material and is puncture resistant.
The kayak also has multiple air chambers to ensure resiliency if one goes down.
Portability
This Sea Eagle inflatable kayak is light and easy to transport. Once you hit the water, you’ll have this kayak inflated in less than ten minutes to high pressure with the included hand pump, so anglers can get to fishing quickly. You can also invest in a foot pump and a pressure gauge to make things more convenient.
Features
This inflatable kayak comes with self-bailing valves to ensure any water leaves the kayak and has two skegs for excellent tracking on the water too.
The high back seat on this Sea Eagle inflatable kayak is also super comfy making paddling on the water easier.
Storage
The only downside to this Sea Eagle inflatable kayak model is that it doesn’t have holders for your rods, or paddle holders, but there is enough space for fishing equipment inside the kayak and you could make a frame to make for mounting accessories like fish finders to make this a better kayak for fishing.
Specs
- Seating: Inside
- People: 2-3
- Length: 12 foot
- Storage: Front and rear
- Weight Capacity: 650 lbs
- Material: 38 mil PolyKrylar (K80 PVC)
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Portable and light to carry
- Designed for Class III whitewater
- Comes with 2 skegs for good tracking
- Very large carrying capacity
- Durable extra thick 38-millimeter Polykrylar hull
- Multiple air chambers for resiliency
- Comfortable seats
- Inflates in under 10 minutes
- Self-bailing drain valve
- Good for carrying lots of gear
Cons
- No rod holders or areas to add accessories
- No paddle clips
Best 3 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Inflatable Kayak
Durable, light, and portable kayak that’s perfect for 2 fishermen and one fishing buddy as a paddler.
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Inflatable Kayak
The Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak is a good inflatable fishing kayak when used the right way.
Build
Being a 3 person kayak model, it’s perfect for one paddler to sit in the middle, while they guide and move the inflatable boat for one angler sitting at the front and one angler at the back.
If you use this inflatable kayak as I described above, it will work well for anglers as there isn’t much space for three people to be fishing at the same time.
This model of inflatable kayaks doesn’t have the largest weight capacity either with just 490lbs for 3 people, meaning the average weight of each angler must be 163 lbs or under.
Durability
These inflatable fishing kayaks are made from multi-layer material, with tough PVC on the top and a heavy tarp on the bottom to handle any abrasion and wear and tear.
These kayaks also come with an Airtight System that’s guaranteed not to leak, and multiple chambers for resiliency.
Seats
The seats offer inflatable lumbar support while paddling, and when you hook a fish there are clips to store your kayak paddles on.
It’s quite a light inflatable kayak for portability and pumps up quickly with the included hand pump.
Storage
The downsides to this inflatable kayak are the lack of fishy features.
There are no holders for your rods, no areas for accessories, and minimal room for storage. You’ll want your anglers organized with all their gear on their person and rods in hand, while one person paddles.
Specs
- Seating: Sit On Top
- People: 3
- Length: 12’3”
- Storage: Front and rear
- Weight Capacity: 490 lbs
- Material: Heavy-duty PVC & tarp bottom
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Durable puncture resistant build with a reinforced bottom
- Airtight System is guaranteed not to leak
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Spray covers block splashes to help keep you dry
- Paddle clips so you can fight fish with ease
- Carry handles and adjustable seats for comfort
- Affordable
Cons
- Minimal storage room
- No fishing features like rod holders
- No accessories area
- Small carrying capacity
Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak
Comes fully rigged with everything an angler could need to have a good day on the water.
Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak
The Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Kayak comes fully rigged with everything an angler could need to have a good day on the water.
Build
This Sea Eagle inflatable kayak comes with a huge weight capacity of 575 lbs but is designed for just one person, so you can load this kayak up for multi-day trips if you want to.
There are two larger storage areas all equipped with D-rings so you can secure your gear with ease.
Storage
At the front and back of this Sea Eagle kayak, you’ll also find 6 holders for your rods, so you can take a lot of options, and there are also lure holders so an angler can keep their favorite lures handy for a quick change.
You’ll also find a 40-inch fish ruler so an angler can measure their catch if they want to.
Materials
This Sea Eagle inflatable kayak is made from heavy PVC and comes with a removable 1000D floor that also features EVA slip-resistant padding, so anglers can stand and fish if they want to.
The materials are durable and handle any wear and tear well.
How does it Feel?
The seat on these solo kayaks is comfortable to sit in, and you have adjustable footrests in front to make paddling a bit easier.
Although they can get in the way while you’re fishing.
This inflatable kayak comes with 16 drainage valves to ensure any water that comes in leaves it quickly.
You can also add a 34 lbs. thrust electric engine to this kayak to turn it into a little boat, so an angler can fish without paddles.
Features
This sit-on-top kayak is almost one of the top inflatable kayaks around but for the price, it drops the ball hard with some of its features and it doesn’t come with a paddle.
The holders for your rods are just holes in the PVC and are not rigid, so they don’t support your rods and you could easily lose one.
This inflatable kayak also comes without any areas for adding any accessories, and no paddle clips.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 1
- Length: 11’6”
- Storage: Front and rear
- Weight Capacity: 575 lbs
- Material: Heavy-duty PVC
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Built-in rod, tool, hook and lure holders plus plenty of storage
- Conveniently located built-in 40" Fish Ruler
- Removable 1000D Floor & EVA Slip Resistant Padding
- Comfy seat and adjustable footrests
- Lightweight and portable
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Quick 7 minute inflation
- 16 drain valves for water to leave quickly
- Takes a 34 lbs. thrust electric engine
Cons
- Very expensive
- Rod holders are of poor quality
- No paddle holders
- Not accessories attachments
- Poor overall for the price
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For 500
Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat
This model is like a catamaran raft that provides awesome stability and loads of space for anglers to fish off.
Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat
It might be cheating adding this inflatable to the review, as it’s closer to inflatable boats than a kayak, but it’s worth every angler knowing about.
The Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat is like a catamaran raft that provides awesome stability and loads of space for anglers to fish off.
Build
These inflatable boats are made from multi-layer material with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and rugged nylon tops on the pontoons for durability and has an aluminum frame that connects the two pontoons to create the boat.
This boat is quick and easy to inflate, but it’s heavy once set up due to the frame.
Plus, taking the frame from A to B is a little challenging, making it not as portable as normal inflatable fishing kayaks.
Features
This boat is kitted out for fishing though and anglers will love its features.
The storage options are endless with 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, 2 insulated drink holders, and a large steel basket that’ll hold a big duffel bag or a large cooler for your catch. You could probably fit in a repair kit as well.
You’ll also find a fly patch and two holders for your rods on the aluminum frame, and a rail that allows you to add more holders, a trolling motor, and anything else an angler might need.
Anchor System
This boat also comes with an anchor system with a fillable mesh bag that sits under the seat for your anchor.
This means an angler can quickly anchor the boat without making a splash when they find a good fishing spot.
Space
While this is more of an inflatable boat than a kayak, it’s exceptionally stable and spacious for an angler, with all the extras they need. It’s also good on the water and has a river rating of class 1.
The only major downside is the tracking of the boat, and you’ll have to use the oars well to make sure you’re going in the right direction.
This is less of an issue on rivers as you’ll go with the current but can get annoying on lakes.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 1
- Length: 9 ft
- Storage: 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, 2 insulated drink holders, steel basket
- Weight Capacity: 405 lbs
- Material: Abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and rugged nylon tops
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Two-year limited warranty
- Super stable and River rating—Class 1
- Sits high off the water for easy fishing
- Comes with great storage options
- Includes a fly patch and 2-rod holders
- Compatible with a trolling motor
- Anchor system with a fillable mesh bag
- Rail for accessorizing easily
Cons
- Heavy once set up
- Not the best tracking
- Not overly portable
Top Pick
BOTE Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak
A versatile kayak that can be used one-person inflatable kayak or an inflatable paddleboard.
BOTE Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak
The BOTE Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak is quite a revolutionary design.
You can use this as a one-person inflatable kayak or switch it up into an inflatable paddleboard, making it very versatile, especially for shallow water fishing.
Build
You can go fishing on a kayak and then when you come to a shallow flat, remove the top and leave it on the shore to start standing up paddling to give you a better view of fish so anglers can sight fish.
This inflatable kayak is made with tough Aero Technology materials, a drop-stitch floor, and has 4 chambers for resiliency.
It’ll handle scrapes and abrasion with ease.
Is there space or storage?
At the front, you have loads of room for storage plus sturdy bungee lacing.
At the back, you also have bungee rigging and a slot for a 5-gallon bucket cooler for your catch and/or bait.
There are 4 holders for your rods dotted around the inflatable kayak, and you can easily lie some rods down at the front as it’s very spacious.
Anchor
At the back, you have two anchor hookups on this inflatable kayak, one for a Power-Pole micro anchor for a kayaker, and another sand spear anchor slot for shallow water and when paddleboarding.
Portability
Another great thing about these inflatable kayaks is that they come in a wheelie travel bag that is designed to be the perfect size for check-in luggage.
This means you can take it with you to anywhere in the world, so no matter where an angler goes, they’ll have a boat to get to the fishing grounds.
The downsides to these inflatable kayaks are the high-price and that a paddle is not included with the kayak, you’ll have to buy it separately.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 1
- Length: 12’6”
- Storage: Bungee ties front and rear, plus lots of front space
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Aero Technology
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Self-draining cockpit
- Four independent chambers making it extremely stable and durable
- The removable top to convert the kayak into a stand-up paddleboard
- 5-gallon bucket cooler space
- Loads of storage
- Micro anchor and sand spear anchor slot
- 4-rod holders
- Spacious at the front
- Comes in a wheelie travel bag for traveling with
- Tough and durable build
Cons
- Expensive
- Paddle not included
Best 2 Man Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
A great inflatable kayak around for an angler, as you can build your own preferred fishing accessory layout.
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak is one of the best inflatable kayaks around for an angler, as you can build your own preferred fishing accessory layout.
Design
Instead of coming with pre-installed accessories, these inflatable fishing kayaks come with 6 mounts that allow you to tailor the layout of these kayaks to your fishing needs.
You can add holders, downriggers, a GPS, depth sounder, and more.
Build
These inflatable fishing kayaks are made from laminated PVC for durability and come with drop-stitch flooring.
The drop stitch flooring allows you to stand up to fish and it protects the kayaks from any hooks or sharp fish fins that could cause any damage.
Though if you’re primarily looking to stand up on a a kayak, you should check out the best stand up fishing kayak options on the market.
Once set up, these inflatable kayaks are stable and track well thanks to the skegs and fins. The kayaks also have self-bailing drainage valves on the floor to ensure that any water that comes in leaves the kayaks quickly.
Function
Unlike some other inflatable kayaks, these are made to handle class 3 rapids and have a large carrying capacity of 600 lbs making them one of the best inflatable fishing kayaks for long multi-day expeditions, as they can handle a larger load and turbulent water.
Seats
The adjustable padded seats on these kayaks are comfy to sit on, and each seat has a footrest in front of it for easy paddling.
The only downside to most inflatable kayaks like these is that they are quite expensive and you’ll have to buy your holders and other accessories for the mounts separately.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 2
- Length: 12’6”
- Storage: Front and rear
- Weight Capacity: 600lbs
- Material: Laminated PVC
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Rigid drop stitch floor for standing on the kayaks
- Stable and easy to set up
- Handles class 3 rapids
- Adjustable seats allow you to move up and down
- Comfy seats
- Good tracking with skegs and fins
- 6 mounting brackets for rod holders and other accessories
- Easy setup and portability, includes a travel backpack and air pump
- Self-bailing drains in the floor
- Large carrying capacity for long expeditions
Cons
- Have to buy a rod holder and other accessories for the mounts
- Quite expensive
Driftsun Rover 120/220 Inflatable Fishing Kayak
One of the best kayaks if you’re planning on fishing in some turbulent water.
Driftsun Rover 120/220 Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Driftsun Rover 120/220 Inflatable Kayak is one of the best inflatable fishing kayaks if you’re planning on being in some turbulent water.
These inflatable kayaks are designed to handle white water and up to class III and class IV rapids.
So if you like an adventure or live in an area where the water gets rough, these inflatable kayaks are a great choice.
Build
These fishing kayaks are made from 1000D reinforced layered PVC side tubes and a Heavy PVC tarpaulin bottom that makes them exceptionally durable.
You’ll be able to bounce off rocks without any worries in these inflatable kayaks.
These kayaks inflate in less than 10 minutes and once you’re in them, they track very well and are easy to move around.
Seats
The seats offer great support for paddling in and are comfortable for long days out on the water.
You’ll also find numerous self-bailing ports in these inflatable kayaks and a lot of space for storage at the front and back.
The kayaks can handle a load of 600 lbs and with all their tie-down points are ideal for long trips over multiple days.
Features
These inflatable kayaks don’t come with any fishy features unfortunately except for a front mount for an action camera so you can take videos of any awesome fishing moments.
Overall, these inflatable kayaks are light, portable, and excellent for handling heavy water but you might want to modify them so you can add some holders for rods and other fishing accessories.
Specs
- Seating: Sit on top
- People: 2
- Length: 12.5 ft
- Storage: Front and rear
- Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
- Material: 1000D Reinforced Layered PVC side tubes, Heavy-duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom
- Pump Included: Yes
Pros
- Inflates in less than 10 minutes
- Light, portable, and comes with a carry bag
- Suitable up to class III and IV rapids
- Self-draining ports
- Tie-down points for gear
- Front action camera mount
- Durable build
- Tracks well and is maneuverable
- Comfy & adjustable seats
Cons
- No rod holders
- Minimal dry storage
Are Inflatable kayaks worth the money?
Considering that you can buy inflatable kayaks for less than $200 and they are a long-lasting product that allows you to enjoy time on the water fishing and exploring, I’d say they are worth every penny.
Advantage
Inflatable kayaks are also far more affordable than buying and maintaining a traditional kayak or a boat but give you similar access to outdoor adventures on water like rivers, lakes, and inshore coastal water.
There are, of course, more expensive kayaks, particularly hardshell kayaks, out there that come with all the bells and whistles for some serious fishing, but you can’t put a price on enjoying the water, fishing, and nature.
Are inflatable kayaks safe for fishing?
Yes – especially if you buy an inflatable kayak that is designed for fishing. You also want to make sure you setup your fishing kayak right.
They are made to handle bumps and scrapes and have multi-chamber designs to ensure you never sink, so you’re safe even if something goes wrong.
The safety of an inflatable kayak also comes down to how you use them.
They are not a boat that can take you anywhere and handle huge ocean swells, they are still an inflatable kayak, so use them responsibly.
Do inflatable kayaks flip easily?
Inflatable kayaks can flip, any vessel can flip, but do they flip easily?
No. Inflatable kayaks, especially when loaded up with gear and people are stable. And inflatable kayaks for fishing are designed to be a little more stable than others due to a more stable design,
Things To Consider When Buying an Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Where are you going fishing?
When buying a product like an inflatable kayak for fishing or any vessel for that matter you should think about where you’re going to use it.
Are you planning on hitting every bit of water you can find from the sea to rivers and lakes with your kayak? Or are you going to head through rapids on your local river to get to new fishing spots? Maybe you’re just going to use it on small lakes?
Water Body
You need to pick a kayak that is going to match the water you intend to paddle on. If it’s a rough lake, ocean, or river rapids, then look for a kayak that has good self-draining valves and is rated for white water. For more extreme, class IV rapids, I would consider hard shell kayaks instead.
Location
If you’re planning on just paddling around small lakes, you can pick any of the inflatable fishing kayaks you like.
If you’re going to be on big lakes, remote locations, or in the ocean, I’d recommend a kayak that you can add a trolling motor to so that you can cover large distances without having to paddle.
NOTE
Plus, a trolling motor is a great added safety measure, as it can get you home when you’re or quickly when the weather picks up.
Materials & Durability
Being inflatable, these types of kayaks are susceptible to punctures that can end your fishing day quite quickly. Thankfully, companies have been constructing kayaks with durable, quality materials.
The most durable kayaks will be made of thick PVC for the chambers, and come with a heavy and thick tarpaulin bottom and nylon top cover to protect the chambers from any wear, abrasions, and risks of punctures.
Flooring
The floor of the kayak is also important for durability, as this is where your hooks and spikey fish are likely to end up.
You might also use things like fishing knives near the floor to cut bait or your line while you’re rigging up.
The floor should be solid so that it doesn’t suffer any damage from your fishing wear.
Length & Capacity
Kayaks come in a range of lengths and they all have different maximum loads they can carry.
These will range from 300-600lbs or more and it’s worth noting. Some of them will have room for paddles, coolers and kayak fish bags.
Are you getting a kayak for two? For one? How much gear are you taking with you? Can the kayak handle it?
TIP
Make sure to work out the weight of the passengers and the gear, and get a kayak that has an equal weight capacity plus 50-100lbs more just to be safe.
Long Trip
If you’re planning on doing multi-day, long fishing trips, like drifting down a river and camping out, you’ll want as much capacity as possible and will want to go for a kayak that can hold 600lbs and a repair kit to spare.
Multi-day drifts are my favorite way of fishing on a kayak.
You get to water that isn’t fished in often and really get away from it all and deep into nature.
Portability & Weight
One of the best things about owning a product like inflatable kayaks compared to traditional kayaks is the freedom the product gives you to explore.
You can deflate an inflatable kayak for fishing, pack an air pump, put it in your car, and drive it anywhere you want and be on the water in no time.
Not every kayak is as portable as the next though.
Some kayaks come in a wheelie bag that is ready to be put on a plane and flown anywhere, others come with a duffel bag, some come with a backpack style carry bag to lug them around more easily.
Destination
Something to also consider is how heavy the kayak is to move around.
I love to take an inflatable kayak to mountain lakes that you have to hike to where you’d usually be stuck fishing from the shore.
In this scenario, hiking up a mountain is only made harder with a heavy kayak, and harder if the kayak isn’t in a backpack.
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Think about where you want to take your kayak fishing and make sure you pick one that matches the journey.
Fishy Features
What’s a fishing kayak without the things you need to go fishing?
Pretty useless right. The best kayak for you will come with the features you need for fishing, or with the ability to customize and add the accessories you need. Some even come with a foot pump.
The features I’d recommend on a fishing kayak at a minimum are holders for your rods so they are safe and ready to catch fish, paddle clips so you can stow them when fishing, and enough storage space for your gear. Maybe even a place to mount your fish finder.
NOTE
It’s not just about having these features on your kayak though, it’s also about where they are put.
Rod Holder
For example, a rod holder that is on the kayak right where you paddle is completely useless as you’ll be hitting your rod all day long while you paddle around.
The same goes for storage on a kayak that you can’t reach with ease and have to risk a little walk to the front or back.
Accessory Bars
Other useful features that are worth having are accessory bars where you can mount things like a GPS or a fish finder.
Having a GPS or a fish finder makes a huge impact on your fishing success. And if you need one, I’d recommend you check out my best fish finder for a small boat review.
Anchor ties and holds are also extremely useful. And, if you want to add a trolling motor to your kayak, make sure it has a mount for it included.
Tracking
Paddling a kayak that doesn’t go in the direction you intended is so annoying.
You’re putting in all this effort to try and get to a place where you’ll catch a fish, and the kayak is against you turning left instead of right, or doing a U-turn when you have some momentum.
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Look for kayaks that come with skegs or fins, as these keep the kayak tracking straight and stop it from having a mind of its own.
Summing Up
Finding the perfect inflatable kayaks for you comes down to portability, durability, and having the right set up to suit your fishing style.
I hope this article has helped you find exactly what you were looking for when it comes to fishing kayaks.
If you’re still wondering which kayak to go for, here are the two fishing kayaks I would choose and for different reasons.
Best 2 Man Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For 500
If you’re a solo fisherman and want a boat or kayak that will handle the sea, lakes, and rivers with ease, or if you’re a fly fisherman, the Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat is the kayak I would go for.
This boat/kayak is spacious, sea-worthy, you can add a motor to it, it has an anchor system and it’s covered in storage areas and mounting areas for all your fishing gear and any accessories you might want to add to it.
Personally, I’d think about attaching the best pontoon grill I can find to it so I can dine on my catch.
Best 2 Man Inflatable Fishing Kayak
If you like fishing with your buddies and want a boat for the two of you, go for the Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak.
This kayak is made for rough water, has a huge capacity for multiple-day trips, comes with mounts to create your own fishing setup, and is portable so you can take it anywhere.
Happy Paddling
Thanks for reading my fishing kayaks article, I hope you enjoyed it. Fishing kayaks are awesome and remove the need for a boat, and let you go fishing anywhere you like with ease, especially if you add a trolling motor.
It’s also a good decision to add a fish finder like the Humminbird PiranhaMax 4 Di on your fishing kayak to give you details on what’s lurking below and increase your fishing success.
You could also check out this best telescopic fishing rod review if you need rods that are easier to travel with.
Please share my article around without friends and family, and feel free to have a look at some of my other articles. I cover everything you might need for spin, fly, ice, and offshore fishing.
Until next time! Enjoy your kayak adventures, and don’t forget to wear a personal floatation device before heading into the water.
