Most fly fishers are not interested in the type of kayak that is used for hunting white-water rapids or fishing from a boat. They want to know about kayaks that are designed for easy paddling, stability, and maneuverability. These qualities make it easier to cast out into the water without flipping over and make it possible to catch more fish. This article will provide information on popular models of these types of kayaks with reviews and useful tips about best fly fishing kayak.
A fly fishing kayak is a type of kayak that is designed for easy paddling, stability, and maneuverability. These qualities make it easier to cast out into the water without flipping over and make it possible to catch more fish.
There are many different types of kayaks on the market today, but when most people think of a kayak, they are thinking of a sit-inside recreational kayak. These boats have a closed cockpit in which the paddler sits. They are generally shorter and wider than other types of kayaks which makes them more stable but also slower and harder to turn.
When shopping for your first fly fishing kayak, you will want to consider some things like the weight capacity, the length of the kayak, and how easy it is to maneuver.
Fly fishing kayaks are suitable for fly fishers who have to get out into the water in order to catch their fish. They do not need to be extremely large since fly fishers mostly use them as transportation from where they have parked their car so they can cast out further on open waters without getting too tired or worn down by fighting against waves or currents.
If you want a boat that is small but very stable, then an inflatable model may suit your needs well. This will allow you travel with it easily while still providing all of the stability and features needed for effective fishing no matter how calm the water might be at any given time.
Fly Fishing Kayaks Reviewed
The Mirage Pro Angler 12 is the highest rated inflatable fishing kayak on Amazon currently which comes with a built-in swivel rod holder, two flush mount rod holders behind the seat, four molded in rods tip up storage spots above your head for quick easy access whenever you need it most without having to stop and pull out one of your own from inside its compartment first.
In addition, this specific model also has sealed bulkheads located within both front compartments specifically made with fly fishing rods in mind while still allowing enough room for other items that may need quick access if needed along the way such as tackle boxes or personal belongings like wallets and phones either stored away in the mesh pockets on the seat or just placed in between your legs while paddling.
The Mirage Pro Angler 12 also weighs only sixty-eight pounds and can be easily transported in most vehicles without taking up too much space. This kayak is fourteen feet long and thirty-two inches wide which gives you a very stable fishing platform to stand on when casting your line into that next spot you’ve been eyeing all day.
- Stable platform to stand on
- Sealed bulkheads for fly fishing specific storage
- Easy transportation with most vehicle types without taking up too much space.
- A bit pricey
The Old Town Predator 13 is a great fishing kayak for those fly fisherman looking to do some serious angling without having to worry about their next catch getting away from them before they have the chance at reeling it in.
This specific model comes with four flush mount rod holders, two of which are located just behind the seat giving you quick access where ever you may be along your journey as well as another one placed on each side within reach of either arm while still allowing enough room left over for other items such as tackle boxes or personal belongings like wallets and phones either stored inside its molded-in storage compartment right ahead of the paddle rest or simply placed between your legs while paddling down stream.
In addition, this particular model also has multiple molded-in fishing rod holders located along either side of the kayak not too far from its front and rear end which is perfect for those fly fisherman who like to stretch their legs out a bit more and need an extra hand free (or two) while they’re casting away.
- Four flush mount rod holders
- Two molded-in fishing rod holders on either side of the kayak allowing for quick access to rods
- Seating is not adjustable
The Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Angler is the perfect kayak for those fly fisherman looking to catch not only big fish but possibly some monster sized ones as well.
This particular model comes with a total of eight different rod holders all located along its perimeter and molded right into it allowing you quick access and stability while out on your journey whether that be down stream or somewhere more calm like a pond or lake.
Since this specific model comes with such a large number of built in fishing rod holders, these can be made use of by either using them as they are (four on each side) where two rods per holder allows both hands free without having to worry about dropping any equipment overboard or even removed entirely if needed so there will always be room for those extra rods you might purchase down the road.
- Smooth tracking thanks to its V-hull design
- A large number of rod holders both molded into the kayak and along the perimeter. Eight total!
- Hard to transport due to its size
The Feelfree Kayaks Lure 13.50 is perfect for those looking for a kayak that can do it all without having to sacrifice on quality or features. This model falls into the sit-on-top category and comes with all of the bells and whistles you could hope for, making it an excellent choice if you are just starting out in fly fishing as well as experienced anglers alike.
Some of its most notable features include a built in transducer mount allowing you access to detailed sonar readings below the water’s surface which can be critical when trying to locate fish, three molded rod holders (two forward facing and one perpendicular) giving you plenty of options when it comes time to start casting, and lastly a dedicated fly fishing seat to make sure you are comfortable even when on the water for hours at a time.
- The kayak is extremely stable making it a good choice for beginners or those who are not comfortable on the water
- The three molded rod holders make it easy to customize your fishing set up
- Plenty of storage space both in the hull and behind the seat
- Some users have complained about poor quality construction, however, this seems to be an isolated issue
The A.T.A.K 140 is a great choice for those looking for a fishing kayak that can do it all. This model comes with plenty of features, including a pedal drive system, that make it perfect for both novice and experienced anglers alike. The large storage capacity also means you can bring along everything you need to make your fishing trip a success.
Some of the A.T.A.K 140’s key features include a pedal drive system that allows you to cover more ground with less effort, a bow and stern storage hatch for all of your gear, four flush mounted rod holders, and lastly an adjustable seat to ensure you are comfortable no matter how long you spend on the water.
If you are looking for a great all around option, then this is one of your best bets as it offers something that few other kayaks do: a pedal drive system. This lets you travel long distances with less effort and makes fishing from moving water easier than ever before. The large storage capacity also means that no matter how much gear or tackle you need to bring along with you, there will always be room in the A.T.A.K 140 .
- Pedal drive system
- Storage capacity
- Price
One of the best things about this kayak is its stability, which allows you to stand and fish with ease. As such it’s a great choice for anglers that want something they can use in windy conditions without feeling like they have to sit down because their boat might tip over or sink.
The SS127 also has plenty of storage space thanks to its six large compartments. This means you will always be able to bring along what you need while keeping your gear safe from anything Mother Nature throws at you throughout your trip. The rod holders are flush mounted so there’s no chance of getting tangled up when trying to grab another line, making casting easier than ever before too!
This model comes equipped with all kinds off excellent features including a drain plug, a paddle holder for convenience and even front and rear bungee tracks to store all your gear. Plus it is made from durable materials that ensure you won’t have anything going wrong while out on the water.
- Very stable
- Plenty of storage space
- Rod holders are flush mounted for easy use
- Durable construction
- May be too large for some anglers to maneuver easily
The Native Watercraft Ultimate 12 is one of the easiest kayaks to get in and out of thanks to its extra-large size. It’s also extremely easy for you to stand up while fishing, which makes it perfect if your favorite hobby involves fly fishing or even kayak fishing. The Ultimate 12 also features an extremely large cockpit so you can easily move around in your kayak while on the water, which is ideal for fly fishing.
Another great feature of the Ultimate 12 is that it comes with a variety of accessories, including two rod holders, a Scotty mount for your fishing gear and even a cup holder. The kayak also has a comfortable seat and plenty of storage space so you can take all of your supplies with you on your next fishing trip.
- Very large cockpit
- Can easily stand up while fishing
- Comes with a variety of accessories
- May be too large for some anglers
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a great kayak for both beginner and experienced anglers. It comes with all of the features you need to make your next fishing trip successful, including two rod holders, a tackle box organizer and even a built-in crate for your extra gear. The kayak is also designed with comfort in mind, as it comes with a padded backrest and adjustable foot braces.
In addition to all of those great features, this kayak is very lightweight at only 59 pounds which makes it easy to transport from your car down to the water’s edge by yourself. It also has one-touch adjustments for height as well as leg length so you can make sure that your kayak fits perfectly. Additionally, this model comes in three different colors: redfish blue, cranberry red and black magic pearl making finding the right color an easy process!
- Three different colors available
- Built in storage
- Only one size option
The NuCanoe Pursuit is another great kayak for fly fishing. It weighs only 45 pounds, which means you can easily transport it to your favorite spot without worrying about breaking a sweat or hurting yourself. This model also comes in multiple different colors so finding the right one should be easy as well!
It features an ultra-stable hull design that will provide you with maximum stability and balance no matter what type of water you are on. The large storage capacity allows anglers to carry all kinds of gear including extra rods, tackle boxes and even coolers full of ice if necessary. There is plenty of room for long legs thanks to adjustable foot braces, plus there is even enough space between the seat back area and the cargo area below to store a small tackle box or other essential gear.
The NuCanoe Pursuit is also outfitted with a variety of great features, including a built-in cup holder, comfortable carrying handles and even an anchor trolley system that makes it easy to secure your boat in place while you are fishing.
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Multiple color options
- Stable hull design
- Plenty of storage space
- None that we could find!
What to Consider When Choosing a Kayak for a Fly Fishing:
One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a kayak is where you plan on fishing. For example, if your target area consists mostly of calm rivers with little waves or currents then an inflatable model will most likely be best for you since they are small and easy to transport while still providing enough space in their compartments for all of your gear.
On the other hand, if you know that open water areas with strong breezes are more common near your favorite spots then it would probably be better to choose either plastic or fiberglass models which tend have higher weight limits per person so they can accommodate bigger fishers easily along with their larger amounts of equipment without making them feel cramped inside even during long journeys out into wide-open waters.
Another factor to consider when choosing a kayak is the amount of deck space provided. If you are someone who likes having lots of different spots to keep your gear organized and within easy reach, then it would be best for you to look at models which feature one or two bulkheads in their front compartments specifically made with fishing rods in mind while still allowing enough room for other items that may need quick access if needed along the way.
On the other hand, if you do not have many things to carry with you on your trips out onto open waters but prefer keeping everything dry inside sealed storage compartments instead, then an inflatable model will most likely work better since they typically come equipped with large waterproof areas where all kinds of belongings can be stowed away without any worries.
One of the other factors to keep in mind when choosing a kayak is whether you want one that comes with sit-on-top or sit-in designs. For example, if your favorite fishing spot consists mostly of calm waters then it would be best for you to choose either inflatable models which are always made using this design so they can easily allow users inside and out without needing any extra steps whatsoever while also providing maximum comfort during long periods spent on open water.
If there happens to be strong currents near where you like fishing most regularly, then plastic/fiberglass models might work better since their lower center of gravity allows them to more easily handle lighter than inflatables along with rougher waters without flipping over – though they do come with a steeper price tag.
Another feature to look for when choosing a kayak is low gunnels which are perfect for fly fishing as they provide an easy way to slide your rod in and out of the water without having to constantly stop what you’re doing every time you need to reel in a fish. In addition, this also means that there will be less chance of your tackle becoming wet even during rough conditions or if you accidentally fall into the water since it will now stay high and dry on top of the kayaks deck instead.
As with all other decisions related to buying a new kayak, make sure to take all of these factors into account before making your final purchase so that you can ensure that you are getting the best possible model suited specifically for your own individual needs and fishing preferences.
Another thing to consider before purchasing a kayak is how much weight and encumbrance the model can handle. This is especially important if you plan on using your kayak for fishing as well, since you will likely want to bring along with you all of the necessary gear required for a successful day out on the water. For example, if your target area consists mostly of calm rivers with little waves or currents then an inflatable model will most likely be best for you since they are small and easy to transport while still providing enough space in their compartments for all of your gear.
On the other hand, if you know that open water areas with strong breezes are more common near your favorite spots then it would probably be better to go for a heavier and more durable kayak made from plastic or fiberglass which can handle tougher conditions without flipping over – though they will be harder to carry around when not in use.
Why Fly Fish from a Kayak? Advantages of Kayaks for Fly Fishing
One of the main reasons for fly fishers to use kayaks is that it gives them access to new fishing spots. Kayaking allows you move around in places where boats are not able or allowed to go and also helps you get closer to shorelines, banks, and islands which all provide ideal fish-holding areas.
Fly Fishing from a boat can be very strenuous if done properly due mostly because wind tends make things much more difficult than they should be especially when there is no motor attached.
For this reason alone, many fly fishers choose inflatable models as these do not require any paddling nor rowing but only inflating using an electric pump before getting out into open waters with their ready for action!
Another great advantage of kayaks for fly fishing is that they allow you to sneak up on the fish. When using larger boats, it can be very difficult to get close without spooking them and causing them to swim away.
However, when in a kayak, you are able to move quietly and slowly so you can position yourself perfectly before casting your line out into the desired spot. This also allows you to see the fish better as they will not be as far away from you as when you are standing on shore or in a boat.
One of the main advantages that kayaks have over other types of boats is their ability to be able to launch anywhere. Whether it’s off a public boat ramp or even out in open water where there are no docks, you will not need any assistance getting your kayak launched and ready for fishing as long as you can get yourself into it first!
Once you reach your desired spot, simply pull up onto shoreline rocks or grass if available close enough then jump out before easily dragging your craft back out with one hand while holding all of your gear in the opposite one.
Fly Fishing Kayak Tips
- When looking for the best fly fishing kayak, it’s important to consider your needs and the type of water you’ll be fishing in.
- If you’re a beginner, look for a model that is stable and easy to maneuver.
- Consider the weight capacity of the kayak, as well as its dimensions. This will help you determine if it will be able to accommodate all of your gear.
- Some kayaks come with built-in rod holders and storage compartments, which can be helpful for keeping your gear organized.
- Before making a purchase, take some time to test out different models to see which one feels the most comfortable and suits your needs best.
- The best fly fishing kayak is the one that makes you feel confident and in control while out on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Fly fishing from a kayak is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors and still catch fish. There are many types of fly fishing kayaks on the market, but all have some similarities in function and purpose. To choose one that will work best for you, consider factors such as your budget, the length of time you’ll be using it (daily or occasionally), how rough conditions can get where you live (high wind areas may require more weight capacity) and what type of waterway you’ll use most often (some models excel at river travel while others are better suited to lakes). We hope this article has helped clarify which type of boat would suit your needs best!