Fishing Kayak: The Best Fishing Kayaks of 2026
We compared the best fishing kayaks sold in Canada, from the stable hard-shell kayak to the inflatable fishing kayak that fits in your car trunk.
Our #1 pick
Pelican
Best Overall Fishing Kayak
$499.99
A fishing kayak lets you reach bays, weed beds and small lakes that are out of reach by rowboat, quietly and without a motor. It’s also one of the most affordable ways to fish on the water.
A good fishing kayak is stable first and foremost: you need to be able to cast, set the hook and fight a fish without worrying about capsizing. “Sit-on-top” models (you sit on the deck) are the most stable and the easiest to climb back onto; inflatable kayaks pack into a bag and can be transported without a roof rack.
Our comparison presents our best fishing kayaks by use, followed by a guide to choosing between hard-shell and inflatable, one or two seats, and safety equipment. The specifications cited come from the manufacturers.
Pelican
Pelican Recreational Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak - SENTINEL 100X ANGLER fade black green / light khaki -9.5 Feet Lightweight - MBF10P100-00
A 10 ft sit-on-top kayak designed for fishing: stable, light for its class, with rod holders and storage space. An excellent first fishing kayak.
Pros
- Very stable
- Built-in rod holders
- Light enough to transport
Cons
- Slower than a longer kayak
Manufacturer description
- •Stable: The twin-arched multi-chine hull offers excellent stability giving you a secure and steady ride. It procures you the balance you need when casting lines and reeling in fish while making it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak.
- •Comfortable: Paddle in comfort with the adjustable ERGOLOUNGE seating system. It provides extra-thick cushioning and an extra high and wide padded backrest.
- •Fishing Features: Storage in this kayak will ensure you have enough room to bring along all your essential gear. It includes a front storage platform with deck cover, a center console with compartments and accessory holders, and a tank well with mesh deck cover. The EXOPAK removable storage compartment allows you to pack your gear at home and simply drop it into the kayak when you arrive at the waterside. The EXOPAK comes equipped with two vertical rod holders.
- •Safe: Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards. Holds a maximum capacity of 275 lb. Don't worry, the added scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak are completely safe and help drain any excess water that might get into your watercraft. Along with a flat hull type design, it ensures you peace of mind during your ride.
- •Lightweight: Our kayaks being made with exceptionally durable high molecular density polyethylene, less material is needed to produce each boat. At 9 ft 6 in., weighing only 44 lb, and with molded-in side carrying handles, it makes the perfect kayak for those looking for easy storage and transportation.
Specifications
- Color
- Fade Black Green
- Size
- 9.5ft
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Perception
Perception Sit On Top Pescador Pro 10 - Fishing Kayak with Adjustable Lawn Chair Seat - Large Front and Rear Storage - 10.6 ft - Moss Camo
A fishing kayak with a raised, comfortable seat designed for long days on the water, with a flat deck for standing and casting.
Pros
- Very comfortable seat
- Stable
- Good storage
Cons
- Higher price
Manufacturer description
- •Pro seat: Removable Pro seat features 2-level seat adjustment and breathable mesh for ultimate all-day comfort on the water or by the campfire.
- •Bow & stern storage: Large front and rear open storage with bungee lashings for cooler, tackle and other gear.
- •Gear tracks & molded-in rod holders: Gear tracks, fish-finder console, and 2 molded-in rod holders for hands-free rod storage.
- •Skid plate: Easily replaceable skid plate lets you drag your kayak without fear of damage.
Specifications
- Color
- Moss Camo
- Size
- 10'6"
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Intex
INTEX 68309EP Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – SuperTough PVC – Adjustable Bucket Seat – 2-Person – 400lb Weight Capacity
A two-person inflatable kayak in reinforced PVC with built-in rod holders: it packs into a bag, fits in the trunk and can be paddled solo or tandem.
Pros
- Packs into a bag
- Two seats
- Built-in rod holders
Cons
- Slower than a hard-shell kayak
- Must be inflated every outing
Manufacturer description
- •SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- •STABILITY and MANEUVERABILITY – High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation; the two removable skegs included allows for optimal manuverability in deep or shallow water
- •STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- •2 PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated boat size is 12.7 feet x 3.1 feet x 1.6 feet with a weight capacity of 400 pounds which can be used solo or tandem; easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
- •ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output air pump and one repair patch
Specifications
- Color
- Red
- Size
- 2-Person
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Intex
INTEX 68303EP Excursion Pro K1 Inflatable Kayak Set: Includes Deluxe 86in Aluminum Oars and High-Output Pump – SuperTough PVC – Adjustable Bucket Seat – 1-Person – 220lb Weight Capacity
A 1-person inflatable kayak in reinforced PVC with rod holders and a removable skeg to hold your course: light, compact and affordable.
Pros
- 1 seat, light and compact
- Rod holders
- Affordable price
Cons
- Less stable when standing
- Affected by wind
Manufacturer description
- •SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- •STABILITY and MANEUVERABILITY – High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation; the two removable skegs included allows for optimal manuverability in deep or shallow water
- •STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- •1-PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated size is 10 feet X 3 feet X 1.6 feet with a weight capacity of 220 pounds and easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
- •ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Single person boat set includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output pump and one repair patch
Specifications
- Color
- Red
- Size
- 1-Person
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Pelican
Pelican - Poseidon Angler Paddle - Aluminum Shaft with Reinforced Fiberglass Blades - Lightweight, Adjustable Kayaks Paddles - Perfect for Kayak Fishing
A light, take-apart paddle: a good paddle is easier on your shoulders and leaves more energy for fishing.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Takes apart
- Low price
Cons
- Less rigid than carbon
Manufacturer description
- •Length: Measuring 240 (94.5"), this quality paddle is ideal for angler paddlers over 152 cm (5'5") in kayaks over 86 cm (34") wide
- •Durable And Affordable: This kayak paddle is made of a two-piece anti-slip grip aluminum shaft and fiberglass reinforced polypropylene blades, the blades ensure better durability and performance on the water, it offers excellent value for money
- •Multifunction: This convenient fishing paddle includes an integrated hook retrieval system directly on the blade and measurement tape along the shaft that will allow you to measure your catch
- •Ovalization: This paddle offers a unique ergonomic shaft design called indexing, the right side of the shaft changes from a rounded shape to a slightly oval shape that tells you where to place your hand, this promotes proper technique that reduces wrist fatigue
- •Performance: The push button system allows the blades to be feathered with a 0/65° angle, paddling with offset blades will reduce the wind resistance on the top blade as it moves through the air, this will ensures an optimized and more comfortable paddling experience
Specifications
- Color
- Black Marble
- Size
- 94.5 in - 240.03 cm
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
Hikeen
Kayak Fishing Rod Holder, Fishing Boat Rod Holder for Track Mount / Deck Mount, Fishing Rod Holders for Boat, 360 Degree Adjustable Fishing Pole Holders(1pack)
An adjustable rod holder that mounts on the kayak: keep one rod ready while you paddle or fish with another.
Pros
- Frees up your hands
- Adjustable
- Easy installation
Cons
- Check compatibility with your kayak
Manufacturer description
- •【2 Installation Methods】Include 1 Fishing Rod Holder,1 Track Mount,2 T-shaped screw, 2 pointed screw. It can be mounted on the rails or on the hull. The kayak fishing rod holder is designed to fit most kayak tracks, providing a convenient and secure mounting solution. Its versatile design allows for easy installation and adjustment, ensuring a perfect fit for your kayak.
- •【Durable Material】This fishing boat rod holder is totally made of heavy duty ABS, which is strong & anti-corrosion, constructed with high impact resistant.The design is aesthetically pleasing and functional; This strong build also ensure it long lasting usage.
- •【360° Adjustable】The outstanding fishing rod holders integrate a practical feature, allow for 360-degree rotation adjustments and move up and down, anglers can effortlessly placing your fishing rod in the perfect position for a quiet wait for the fish to bite. This makes for a more enjoyable and productive fishing experience on the water.
- •【Stability and Robustness】 Universal cradle holds almost any rod and reel setup and has a front locking ring to fix rod position and prevent rod loss when travelling, this boat rod holder is versatile add ons to your fishing equipment.The holder is tough even in roughest fishing conditions.
- •【Free Your Hands】This fishing rod holder caters to fishing enthusiasts of many levels; Whether boating, seafood hunting, or simple leisure fishing, this fishing pole holder proves to be good companions; Brimming with versatility, this rod holder is convenient and hands free fishing experience.It is the best gift for your family or friends who are addicted to fishing.
Specifications
- Color
- Black
- Size
- 16.9" x 6.29" x 2.67"
- Quantity
- 1
Price and details provided by Amazon at display time — may vary. Affiliate link.
How to Choose a Fishing Kayak
Stability is the first criterion: a wider fishing kayak (about 30 inches or more) lets you cast and fight a fish with confidence. Length affects speed: 10 ft is manoeuvrable and easy to transport, while 12 ft and up moves better on big lakes.
Also check the load capacity (you, your gear and a cooler), seat comfort for long outings, rod holders and watertight storage.
Inflatable Fishing Kayak: A Good Choice?
An inflatable fishing kayak packs into a bag and can be transported without a roof rack, ideal for a condo, the cottage or lakes you reach on foot. Recent models with multiple air chambers are rugged, but more affected by wind and slower than a hard-shell kayak.
1-Person or 2-Person Inflatable Kayak?
A 1-person inflatable kayak is lighter and more manoeuvrable for fishing alone. A 2-person model offers more space and load capacity, and can be paddled solo while carrying more gear.
Sit-On-Top or Sit-Inside Kayak?
The sit-on-top kayak (you sit on the deck) is the most common for fishing: very stable, easy to climb back onto after a fall and practical for standing up. The sit-inside kayak (you sit in the cockpit) keeps you warmer and drier in cool weather, but it’s less practical for fishing.
Fishing Kayak Safety Equipment
Transport Canada requires, among other things, on board a small paddle craft, an approved lifejacket or PFD of the appropriate size for each person, a sound-signalling device (whistle) and other equipment depending on the vessel, such as a buoyant heaving line. See Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide for the complete list.
Wear your flotation device at all times: in a kayak, a fall happens fast, and the water stays cold in spring and fall in Quebec.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best fishing kayak for beginners?
A sit-on-top kayak of about 10 ft, stable and equipped with rod holders, such as the Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler or the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100.
Is an inflatable fishing kayak strong enough?
Yes, quality models with multiple air chambers are rugged for calm lakes and rivers. However, they are more affected by wind and slower than a hard-shell kayak.
What kayak length is best for fishing?
About 10 ft for manoeuvrability and transport, 12 ft and up to move faster and track straighter on large bodies of water.
What equipment is mandatory in a kayak?
In Canada, this includes an approved lifejacket or PFD for each person and a sound-signalling device, plus other equipment depending on the vessel. Check the complete list in Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide.