6 Top Fishing Kayaks

Some anglers buy fishing kayaks because they’re a more portable and less expensive alternative to a big fishing boat. Other anglers – who already own big fishing boats – buy them because they’re simple and hassle-free. But regardless of your reasons for buying, there can be no argument that today’s fishing kayaks are truly amazing boats.

Today’s kayak anglers take advantage of the kayak’s incredible stealth to sneak into heavily pressured waters and trick big bass out of shallow spots where the big bass boats can’t go. In salt water, coastal anglers take them out into the open ocean to tangle with sailfish and king mackerel. The fact that these remarkable boats can handle such polar opposite ends of the fishing spectrum, and do it so well, speaks volumes to the incredible versatility found in these amazing boats.

Regardless of your interests or price range, there’s a fishing kayak out there that’s perfect for you. Here’s a look at 6 of the best new models for 2021.

Advanced Elements StraightEdge Angler PRO

Advanced Elements StraightEdge Angler PRO

Even people who live in apartments and have nowhere to store a boat can get in on the fun with the Advanced Elements StraightEdge Agler Pro, which inflates in minutes then at the end of the day packs into a duffel bag that stows in an apartment storage locker, or just hangs out in the car trunk. Features include a drop-stitch floor, two accessory frames and an Airframe Pro seat. There’s even an optional ElectraFin motor available for the ultimate in fishing convenience. Learn more here.

• Length: 10’6”
• Width: 38.5″
• Weight: 45 lbs
• Capacity: 400 lbs
• Retail: About $1,400

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Bonafide EX123

Bonafide EX123

The Bonafide EX123 is new this year, featuring a sit inside profile that provides a drier ride than sit on top varieties and making it a preferred choice for anglers who fish early or late in the season in cold water. Stable, comfortable and lightweight at just 67 pounds, the EX123 comes in a choice of 6 colors from a stealthy Top Gun Grey to a brilliant Venom Yellow. Plenty of cargo space and multiple gear storage options let this boat handle a small mountain of tackle with ease. Learn more here. 

• Length: 12’3″
• Width: 29.5″
• Weight: 67 lbs
• Capacity: 375 lbs
• Retail: About $1,000

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 360 14

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 360

Widely considered the Cadillac of fishing kayaks, Hobie’s Mirage Pro Angler 360 14 gets a few new twists that keep it among the top performers for anglers who take their fishing seriously. The pedal-driven 360 Drive technology leaves both hands free for fishing while providing remarkable turning control, power and speed. Touch bottom in shallow water and the fins automatically retract to protect against damage and allow you to operate in incredibly shallow water. Mountains of storage space for gear, an endless range of accessories including fish finders and electric motor options keep even the most demanding anglers happy. But top-of-the-line luxury doesn’t come cheap, as this bad boy will set you back about $4,500. Learn more here.

• Length: 13’8”
• Width: 38”
• Weight: 148.5 lbs
• Capacity: 600 lbs
• Retail: About $4,500

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Ocean Kayak Trident 13 Angler

Ocean Kayak Trident 13 Angler

Ocean Kayak has earned a well-deserved reputation for making some of the most easy-paddling kayaks in the business, and that’s definitely a high point for the Trident 13 Angler. The innovative hull design assures a comfortable and dry ride even when the wind comes up, while the standard ACS2 seat only adds to that all-day comfort. Features include thoughtful amenities like gunnel accessory tracks, an oversized tank well, plenty of storage space for gear, a newly redesigned Mod Pod with a magnetic lure holder and dry compartment for your car keys and phone, a paddle holder with rod rest and both side and end carry handles. Learn more here. 

• Length: 13’6”
• Width: 29”
• Weight: 79 lbs
• Capacity: 355 lbs
• Retail: About $1,400

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Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota

Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota

No serious fishing boat would be considered complete without an electric trolling motor, and Old Town shares this philosophy by including a 45-pound thrust Minn Kota electric as part of its Old Town Sportsman 106. By leaving both hands free to fish, the electric kayak glides through the water silently and effortlessly with its 12-volt Minn Kota power, which works with either a traditional lead acid or one of the newer, longer running Lithium-Ion batteries. Other features include foot pedal steering control, a premium seat for maximum comfort, plenty of storage space for gear, 4 accessory racks for electronics and accessories, a non-slip EVA foam deck and mounting inserts for a shallow water anchor.  Learn more here. 

• Length: 10’6″
• Width: 37”
• Weight: 121 lbs. (with motor console)
• Capacity: 525 lbs.
• Retail: About $2,500

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Pelican Catch PWR 100

Pelican Catch PWR 100

Pelican’s Catch PWR 100 comes pre-wired for a transom mount motor, allowing the owner to use their own electric or even a small gas engine of up to 2.5 horsepower, keeping the boat’s weight to 75 pounds so it can still be carried on a standard roof rack. Features include a massive stern storage deck for tackle or a removable live well, an EVA-covered non-slip front deck, a total of four flush-mount rod holders and a recessed port in the hull to protect the fishfinder transducer should you hit bottom in shallow water. Learn more here.

• Length: 9’9”
• Width: 39.75”
• Weight: 75 lbs
• Capacity: 450 lbs
• Retail: About $1,000

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