A lot of people are interested in fishing, but not everyone has the time or money to get out on a boat. Luckily, there are plenty of options that give you the opportunity to go fishing without ever leaving dry land! One option is a sit-in kayak. This article will discuss what they are and how they work, as well as provide reviews for some of the best sit-in fishing kayaks available today so you can pick one that suits your needs!
A sit-in kayak for fishing is a small boat that features a closed cockpit and allows the user to sit inside. The enclosed space means you can store your gear or take shelter from bad weather without having to worry about it getting wet! These types of boats are popular with fisherman who want to get out on the water but don’t have access, either financially or practically, to larger vessels like sailboats or speedboats . In addition, these kinds of kayaks provide excellent protection against any kind of rough waters since they’re designed just below recreational kayak level in terms of seaworthiness .
Since these boats were developed specifically for fishermen, their hulls tend to be rounder than other models so track better while moving forward.
Sit-in kayaks for fishing can be used by anyone, but they are especially popular with beginner anglers. That’s because sit-ins provide more stability than other kayaks, which makes them less likely to flip over when you’re casting your line or trying to reel in a big one! In fact, many experienced fishermen prefer these boats as well since they provide a more comfortable and efficient experience while on the water.
Additionally, sit-in kayaks are great for people who want to fish in colder climates since they tend to keep you warmer than traditional open models.
Sit Inside Kayaks for Fishing
The Bonafide EX123 sit-in kayak is a great pick for anglers who want to get started with fishing from their own vessel. This model features sturdy construction and offers enough room inside for one person plus gear.
Bonafide’s key feature of the EX123 is its wide beam which makes it incredibly stable on water and allows you stand comfortably without wobbling around too much (even in choppy conditions). The polyethylene hull feels durable yet lightweight so even if your weight goes up or down, you won’t notice any significant changes while paddling this boat out on open waters. On top of that, there are more than enough storage compartments such as: two bow hatches, three covered rear wells, and a very spacious tank well. With all the features it provides, this model will help you stay organized on your fishing trips so you can focus on reeling in that trophy fish without being too distracted with where to store your rods or tackle box.
- Stable and roomy
- Plenty of storage compartments
- Lightweight construction
- Limited seating space for taller anglers
The Old Town LOON 106 Angler kayak is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable fishing vessel that still offers quality features. This sit-inside model comes with a comfortable seat, plenty of dry storage, and molded rod holders which will make your fishing trips much easier.
One thing to note about the LOON 106 is that it has a narrower beam than some of the other models on this list, so it might not be as stable in choppy waters. However, if you’re looking for a fast and lightweight kayak that can handle well in open water , this might be the right choice for you.
The LOON 106 is available in three different colors, so if aesthetics are important to you, it’s a great option as well. The weight capacity of this kayak is 275 pounds and it weighs around 48-pounds which makes it easy to transport. It also comes with an adjustable foot brace system that will help your legs stay comfortable all day long while fishing on the water.
- Affordable
- Comfortable seat and foot brace system make fishing much easier
- Lightweight kayak which makes it easy to transport
- Narrower beam than the other models on this list, not as stable in choppy waters
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 sit-in kayak is another great option for those who are looking for an affordable fishing vessel. This model comes with a number of features that will make your fishing trips much easier, such as molded rod holders and a comfortable seat.
One thing to note about the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is that it’s quite large, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for something compact. However, its larger size does offer plenty of stability in choppy waters and makes it a great option for those who want to fish in open water . The weight capacity of this kayak is 500 pounds and it weighs around 59-pounds which makes it easy to transport.
The Pungo 120 is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable kayak that will leave plenty of room for storage and provide enough stability to keep you comfortable even in choppy waters. With many positive reviews, this model has been recognized as one of the best sit-in fishing kayaks on the market today.
- Affordable
- Molded rod holders
- Comfortable seat
- Stable in choppy waters
- Large size might not be suitable for some anglers
The Perception Sound is another great option if you’re looking for a sit-in fishing kayak. This model has been designed with comfort in mind, so it comes with plenty of features that make your trips more enjoyable and stress free, such as adjustable foot braces and backrests.
Another thing to note about the Perception sound is its size – at 11 feet long this kayak offers an impressive amount of storage space which makes it suitable for longer fishing expeditions . The weight capacity of this unit is 500 pounds , while the hull itself weighs only 55 pounds due to its polyethylene material construction.
This unit can be used on both saltwater and freshwater environments without any issues since it’s made from UV protected materials that are also scratch resistant, making it a great choice if you’re looking for something that will last for years.
- Comfortable design with adjustable foot braces and backrests
- Large storage capacity – suitable for longer trips
- UV protected and scratch resistant construction
- None identified so far!
The Lifetime Payette Angler is a great sit-in fishing kayak that offers all the features you need including adjustable foot braces, paddle holders and removable storage pods.
This unit comes with plenty of different mounting options so it can be used on both small rivers or lakes while still being able to accommodate paddlers up to 300 pounds . It’s 12 feet long , weighs 56 pounds and has a weight capacity of 400 pounds which makes it very versatile for many environments.
Another reason why this model stands out from similar products on the market are its durability – if taken care properly, this kayak will last for years without any problems. The hull itself was made using UV protected materials, making it suitable even more extreme conditions when used around salt water.
- Adjustable foot braces
- Paddle holders
- Removable storage pods
- Durable construction
- None
The Old Town Canoe Trip is a sit-on-top kayak that offers plenty of useful amenities while being very easy to maneuver. It’s one of the cheaper models on our list, but still comes with important features such as adjustable foot braces and paddle holders .
The seating system has been designed in order for you to be able to carry all your gear without any problems – two storage areas are located under both seats so you can easily store all your equipment from fishing rods, life jackets or even coolers. The hull itself was made using UV protected materials and includes molded handles for easier transportation when it needs to be carried over short distances.
This model weighs around 33 pounds , making it perfect not only for rivers and lakes but also for the ocean. It also has a length of ten feet and width of 30 inches, making it one of the larger kayaks on our list.
- Very affordable;
- Comes with adjustable foot braces and paddle holders;
- Two storage areas located under both seats;
- Molded handles for easier transportation.
- Not as maneuverable as some of the other models on our list.
The Pelican Argo 100XR Cosmos Sit-in Kayak is a great choice for those who are looking for a model that can be used in both salt and fresh water. It’s made of durable materials that will withstand the test of time, making it perfect for avid fishermen .
This kayak comes with plenty of features, such as adjustable foot braces, a comfort seat and even a built-in paddle holder . It has been designed to make your fishing experience more enjoyable, without having to worry about losing any gear or equipment. The kayak also includes a storage area located behind the seat so you can store all your supplies while you’re out on the water.
It weighs just over 35 pounds and has dimensions of ten feet by five feet, so it’s compact enough to be brought anywhere with ease. It features a fishing cockpit that is large enough for most fishermen , making it the perfect choice if you are looking for comfort and space while out on the water.
- It’s sturdy and durable
- It has plenty of space for storage
- The cockpit is large enough to accommodate most people
- There are no built in rod holders
The Perception Flash is another great option for those who are looking for a sit in fishing kayak. It comes with all the features you need to make your next fishing trip successful, such as adjustable foot braces, a comfort seat and even a built-in paddle holder .
This model was designed specifically for fishermen , making it perfect if you are looking for plenty of space while out on the water. The cockpit is large enough to accommodate most people, so you can bring along a friend or family member without having to worry about feeling cramped.
It also comes with two flush mount rod holders that will allow you to securely store your rods while you’re not using them. The kayak is made durable materials that will stand up to abuse while out on the water and offers great stability to provide you with peace of mind.
This kayak is highly rated by most users, who love how well it performs while fishing thanks to its large cockpit. It also comes at a reasonable price point, making it an ideal choice for those looking for something affordable without having to sacrifice quality or features .
- Large cockpit
- Adjustable foot braces
- Comfort seat
- None reported by users.
If you are looking for a kayak that is specifically designed for fishing, the Vapor Angler First Light Kayak should be at the top of your list. It comes with all the features you need to make your next trip successful, such as built-in rod holders and a comfortable seat .
This kayak was designed by fishermen , so you can trust that it will perform well while out on the water. The cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate most people, so you can bring along a friend or family member without having to worry about feeling cramped.
It also comes with two flush mount rod holders that will allow you to securely store your rods while you’re not using them. The kayak is made from durable materials that will stand up to the test of time, no matter how rough the water gets.
- Designed by fishermen
- Spacious cockpit for extra comfort during long trips
- Holds up well in all types of water conditions
- No built-in storage compartments or places to mount other accessories.
How to Choose the Best Sit-In Kayak for Fishing
The size of the sit-in fishing boat plays key role in determining how comfortable and safe one feels inside while paddling. A perfect fit in the kayak is when the elbow of your bent arm touches the side of your torso. If you are taller than average, then it’s best to go for bigger size boats with more room inside otherwise shorter persons should choose smaller models that won’t be tight on them while paddling.
Size and weight also determine how stable or maneuverable a fishing vessel will feel like under one’s feet. Larger sit-in kayaks do provide greater stability but they tend to make slower turns due to their substantial dimensions.
When it comes to fishing features, sit-in kayaks are not as customizable as their outfitting options. Yet even the most basic models have a few functionalities which can prove useful for anglers such as:
- Seat – more comfortable and adjustable plastic seat with higher backrest is always desirable since your legs will get tired from remaining in one position under strain exerted by paddling;
- Rod holders – besides standard rod holder on either side of the cockpit you may opt for two additional ones located below deck (one at each end) that allow you to keep rods within arm’s reach when they aren’t used;
- Storage hatches – these small compartments feature lids that close tightly and securely, thus providing enough room to store a live well or other gear that you want kept in dry conditions, such as wallet and keys;
- Paddle keepers – the basic paddle holders (bar-like hooks) located at either side of your cockpit allow for easy access when paddling;
- Foot braces/pedals – adjustable foot braces aren’t necessary since your legs won’t get tired from holding them up while standing but pedal systems can be quite convenient due to their quick and simple adjustment capabilities.
Storage is a key feature for any fishing kayak and sit-in models offer plenty of space to keep your gear safe and dry. The amount of storage on a particular vessel, however, greatly depends on its size so it’s important that you consider this aspect before making your purchase.
In general, larger kayaks have more storage capacity than smaller ones but even the latter can usually accommodate a good amount of equipment if you pack it efficiently. Some common items that you may want to store include: tackle box, bait bucket/cooler, nets/gaffs, life jacket/PFDs, extra paddles, hats/gloves etc.
Benefits of Sit-In Kayak for Fishing
There are a number of reasons why sit-in kayaks are so popular for fishing, but some of the most important benefits include:
- Ease of Use
As mentioned before, sit-in kayaks are incredibly easy to ride and don’t require any previous experience. This makes them perfect for beginner anglers or those who want to spend more time fishing and less time learning how to operate a boat!
- Stability
Sit-in kayaks provide more stability than other models, making them less likely to flip over when you’re casting your line or trying to reel in a big one!
- Protection from the Elements
Since they feature enclosed cockpits, sit-in kayaks protect you from bad weather and keep your gear dry even in rough seas!
- Comfort
Kayaking can be a tiring activity, but sit-ins have been designed with comfort in mind. This means you can spend more time fishing and less time getting tired on the water!
- Versatility
Many sit-in kayaks are designed to be extremely versatile, which makes them great for a variety of activities like casting, paddling or catching fish .
- Warmth
Sit-in kayaks are designed with enclosed cockpits, which makes them perfect for colder climates since they keep you warm.
Tips for Using Sit-In Kayak for Fishing
- The first and foremost thing you need to do is find the right kayak for fishing. There are many kayaks on the market, but not all of them are good for fishing. You will want a kayak that is stable and provides plenty of storage space for your gear.
- When choosing a sit in fishing kayak, be sure to consider your height and weight. The kayak should be able to support your body weight without tipping over.
- Another important factor to consider is the type of water you will be fishing in. If you plan to fish in shallow water, you will need a shorter kayak with less clearance from the water surface. If you plan to fish in deep water, you will need a longer kayak with more clearance.
- Be sure to try out the kayak before you buy it. Most kayak dealers offer demo days where you can test out different models of kayaks.
- Once you have chosen the right kayak, it is important to learn how to use it properly. Be sure to read the owner’s manual and practice in a safe area such as a pond or lake.
- When fishing from a sit in kayak, always wear a life jacket for safety.
- Fish with caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. You don’t want to run into another boat or get too close to shoreline hazards such as rocks and logs.
- Stay calm and patient when fishing from a kayak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
With so many options out there, it can be hard to know which sit-in kayak is best for you. The Sit-In Kayaks FAQ section should help answer any questions that may come up as you research your next purchase. We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect fishing vessel for yourself! Please contact us if we can be of further assistance in finding a great fit for your needs and budget. Thank you again – here’s wishing all readers good luck on their search!