Ocean fishing is a favorite pastime for many anglers. It can be an amazing experience to spend time on the water and catch fish from your kayak. If you are new to ocean fishing, it can be difficult sorting through all of the different brands and models available. In this article we will answer some common questions about what to look for in a good ocean fishing kayak as well as review some of our favorites!
An ocean fishing kayak is specifically designed for fishing in open water. They are typically longer and narrower than a typical recreational kayak, which makes them more stable in rough conditions. Ocean fishing kayaks also have features like rod holders and scupper holes that are not found on other types of kayaks.
Some people choose to use a regular recreational kayak for ocean fishing, but it is important to be aware of the limitations of these boats. A regular kayak is not as stable or durable as an ocean fishing kayak, so it may not be the best choice if you plan to do a lot of offshore fishing.
Ocean fishing kayaks are different from regular kayaks for a number of reasons. First, they are designed to be more stable in choppy water conditions that can happen offshore or on larger lakes. Ocean fishing kayaks tend to have wider hulls and curved bottoms which make them less tippy than other types of kayak designs.
Many ocean fishing yakkes also sit higher out of the water, which makes it easier to paddle through rough waves without taking on too much water over the bow (front) end of your boat. These high-floating features are one reason why people choose an ocean fishing yakke instead of another type of recreational vessel like a canoe or raft.
Some models also include built-in rod holders so you can easily store and access your fishing rods while you are out on the water. Scupper holes allow you to drain any water that leaks into the kayak, which is important when fishing in saltwater conditions.
Ocean Fishing Kayaks Reviewed
The Malibu Kayak Stealth 14 is a lightweight kayak that’s easy to transport and has plenty of room for storage. It’s one of the best ocean fishing kayaks because it comes with an adjustable seat, multiple rod holders, built-in tackle boxes, and other accessories that make it perfect for catching fish on your next trip out onto the open water.
It sits high in the water which makes this model very stable even when there are strong currents or waves splashing up against its side. The large cockpit opening allows you to enter and exit easily without upsetting the boat’s stability while providing ample space so you never feel cramped during long trips out on the waters. The durable plastic hull will handle years of bumping into rocks or scraping across coral reefs and the included paddle can withstand constant use without breaking or warping.
The Malibu Kayak Stealth 14 is a great fishing kayak for beginners because it’s designed to be easy to set up, easy to transport, and produces little drag as you move through the water so you never have trouble tracking your prey. It comes with everything needed for assembly including an adjustable seat that allows proper posture while seated even when wearing bulky waders or other thick clothing items. The included paddles are also top-quality and easy to assemble which means this boat can be ready in just minutes after being taken out of its storage bag.
- Easy to transport due to light weight and small size
- Plenty of storage space for accessories, including a tackle box that slides into a pre-made slot on the back end
- The molded paddle clips can break under repeated use so it’s best to replace them with standard hooks.
The Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 130T is a great fishing kayak for beginners and experienced anglers alike due to its versatile design that allows you to easily access all areas of the water. It’s one of the best ocean fishing kayaks because it has plenty of room for storage, excellent stability even in strong currents, and enough speed so you can track fast-moving prey quickly.
It comes with multiple rod holders as well as molded foot wells which provide extra grip during those times when your legs need some support while standing or kneeling on deck. The large open cockpit gives you plenty of space without sacrificing stability but still keeps splashes from entering the boat through an adjustable splash guard at the front end.
This model also features a removable gear bag at the front which helps you store all your essentials close at hand, including a tackle box. This kayak is an excellent choice for anglers looking to take their first steps into fishing from a kayak or those who want something they can use in various conditions without fear of tipping over due to its extremely stable build and superior balance.
- Very stable
- Plenty of storage
- Fast and tracks well
- No front hatch
The Vibe Sea Ghost 130 Angler is a top-of-the line kayak that’s great for anglers who need something extremely durable and stable due to its large size. It offers plenty of storage space, including a roomy front hatch where you can keep larger items such as lunch or extra gear so they don’t get wet when it rains.
It also features side bungees which will help secure your rods in place during those times when you’re reeling them back in, and an optional rudder system if you want greater control over your direction on the water. This model has excellent stability even at high speeds with minimal effort from the paddler, making it one of best ocean fishing kayaks available today . The build quality is also top-notch, ensuring that you’ll be able to use this kayak for many years to come.
- Extremely durable and stable
- Plenty of storage space
- Excellent stability even at high speeds
- A bit pricey compared to other models on the market
If you’re looking for a kayak that’s easy to transport, the Sea Eagle SE 370 Inflatable is one of best ocean fishing kayaks on the market. It can be taken anywhere and set up in just a few minutes, making it great if you want something convenient but also top-notch quality. This model has been designed with convenience in mind so there are no paddles included – instead it uses an eight-inch skeg system which helps make turning easier while still providing excellent tracking capabilities . The hull itself features high performance drop stitch construction which makes this inflatable boat ultra durable yet lightweight at only 47 pounds , perfect for those who need portability without sacrificing durability or stability.
The entire package also comes with a three-year warranty so you can be sure that your purchase is protected. This kayak also features multiple air chambers for safety, plus an I-beam floor for added rigidity. It’s able to hold up to 650 pounds of weight, making it perfect for even the heaviest fisherman , and has a variety of other great features like fishing rod holders and a storage area in the back.
- Lightweight at only 47 pounds
- Very easy to transport due to an I-beam floor and multiple air chambers for safety – great if you need something that can be transported easily.
- Due to its inflatable nature, it’s not as sturdy or durable as some other kayaks on the market.
If you’re looking for a fishing kayak that is both durable and stable, the Ocean Kayak Caper Angler might be one of best ocean fishing kayaks . It’s built with durability in mind so there are no paddles included – instead it uses an eight-inch skeg system which helps make turning easier while still providing excellent tracking capabilities. The hull itself features high performance drop stitch construction making this inflatable boat ultra durable yet lightweight at only 47 pounds , perfect if you need something portable but sturdy enough to handle some bumps along the way.
The entire package also comes with a three-year warranty so you can feel confident about your purchase, plus this model has been designed specifically to provide fisherman with everything they’ll need including multiple storage areas, a comfortable seat with back support, and even a molded-in fish finder holder.
- Relatively lightweight, especially when compared to other fishing kayaks on the market
- Very durable with high performance drop stitch construction and three year warranty
- Not exactly safe for beginners who might want something more stable
If you’re looking for a kayak that is both designed specifically for fishing and also stable, the Ocean Kayak Malibu Two XL Angler might be the perfect choice. This model comes with all sorts of features that make it ideal for anglers, including two flush mount rod holders, a center console with storage, and an anchor trolley system. It’s even outfitted with Comfort Plus seats which provide plenty of back support as well as adjustable foot braces to give you customized comfort while you’re paddling.
The hull is made from durable polyethylene plastic and can hold up to 450 pounds , making it a good option if you plan on bringing along some extra gear or want to share the kayak with a friend. It also has a large storage area in the rear that can easily accommodate a cooler, tackle box, and other gear.
- Plenty of storage
- Durable construction
- Ideal for larger anglers or fishing with a friend
- Pricey compared to other models on the market.
The Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Fishing Kayak is a great option for anglers who like to fish large bodies of water such as oceans and lakes. It has ample storage space, adjustable footrests that allow you to pedal with your hands or feet, and two flush mounted rod holders on either side which can hold up to six rods each. The kayak also features integrated gear tracks so you can mount any fishing accessories onto the deck without having them fall off during transportation or use.
Lastly, it’s super comfortable! There are several ergonomic seating positions including upright and leaned back at an angle which makes this one of our favorite models because we love being able to adjust how we’re sitting depending on what type of fishing we’re about to do.
Hobie Mirage Drive Kayak The Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Fishing Kayak has a pedal drive propulsion system which is extremely difficult for other kayaks to compete with because it’s so smooth and powerful! This makes pedaling through the water effortless, even when you’re using your hands instead of feet because the footrests are adjustable by height as well as distance from each other. You can also use this feature in reverse if you find yourself about to be thrown into rocks or any type of underwater obstruction during transport.
- Large storage capacity
- Adjustable footrests and seating positions
- Integrated gear tracks
- Pedal drive propulsion system is smooth and powerful
- Expensive compared to other kayaks on the market
The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a great option for beginner anglers who are looking for their first ocean fishing kayak. It’s stable and easy to maneuver, making it the perfect choice for those just starting out. The kayak also has a variety of features that make it ideal for fishing including two flush mounted rod holders, an anchor trolley system, and multiple storage areas both in the front and rear of the boat.
The only downside to this kayak is that it doesn’t have a pedal drive propulsion system like some of the other options on our list. However, it does come with a paddle which can be used if you find yourself needing more power while paddling through choppy or moving from one spot to another on the water.
The Pescador Pro has a weight capacity of 275 pounds which is more than enough for most people’s needs, and its lightweight design makes it easy to transport back and forth from the water. Overall, this kayak would be an excellent choice for beginners looking for their first ocean fishing boat or those who go out at least once or twice each month during all four seasons.
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Stable and maneuverable
- Multiple storage areas including front and rear
- Doesn’t come with a pedal drive propulsion system similar to other kayaks on our list.
The Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 is an excellent option for those who are looking for a kayak that can do it all. This boat is great for both fishing and recreational use, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants one kayak that can handle any activity they want to do on the water.
The Prowler 13 comes with a variety of features that make it ideal for fishing including two flush mounted rod holders, scupper holes which allow you to easily remove water from the boat, and a large storage area in the rear of the kayak. It also has a comfortable seat with built-in back support, adjustable foot braces, and multiple storage areas including mesh pockets on either side of the cockpit.
This kayak is also great for recreational use, and can accommodate up to three people. It is stable and easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a boat that they can use for all of their water activities.
- Great for both fishing and recreational use
- Comfortable seat with back support
- Adjustable foot braces
- Multiple storage areas
- May be too large for some anglers
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is another great option for those looking for a kayak that can do it all. This boat is perfect for both fishing and recreational use, and can accommodate up to three people. It is stable and easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a boat that they can use for all of their water activities.
One of the best features of the Pungo 120 is its large storage area in the rear of the kayak. This storage area is perfect for storing gear or bait, and makes it easy to keep everything you need right at your fingertips. The kayak also comes with multiple other storage areas including mesh pockets on either side of the cockpit and dry storage compartments in the front and rear of the boat.
This kayak is also designed with fishing in mind. It comes equipped with a variety of features that make it easy to fish from, including rod holders and a tackle storage system. The Pungo 120 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a kayak that can do it all.
- Stable
- Maneuverable
- Large storage area
- Multiple storage areas
- Fishing features included
- May be too large for some anglers
How To Choose The Best Ocean Fishing Kayak: A Buying Guide
The first thing you’ll want to consider when purchasing an ocean fishing kayak is its hull design. The hull is the bottom of the boat and it can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, fiberglass, or wood.
Plastic hulls are the most common type and they’re usually less expensive than other types. They’re also lightweight and easy to transport, but they can be more prone to damage if you hit rocks or coral offshore.
Fiberglass hulls are stronger and more durable than plastic, but they’re also heavier and more difficult to transport. They’re a good choice for anyone who plans to fish in rougher conditions or offshore.
The next thing you’ll want to consider is whether you need a flat water kayak or an ocean fishing kayak. Flat water kayaks are designed for calm, inland waters and they’re not as sturdy or durable as ocean fishing kayaks. If you plan to fish in calmer coastal waters or lakes, then a flat water kayak may be the right choice for you.
Ocean fishing kayaks are specifically designed for offshore use and they’re much more rugged and durable than flat water kayaks. They have thicker hulls that can withstand the bumps and waves of the open ocean, and they often come with features like built-in rod holders and tackle storage that them ideal for fishing trips.
When you’re out fishing on choppy waters, it’s easy to get knocked around or even flipped over. Ocean fishing kayaks are usually more stable than flat water kayaks because of their larger size and wider hulls, but they can still be difficult to paddle through rough conditions.
Some ocean fishing kayaks come with skegs that help the boat track straight in windy conditions or when there are currents pushing against your paddling efforts. Skegs don’t increase speed or turnability, but they do make it easier for you maintain a forward momentum without having to constantly adjust the angle of your paddle blades as waves push from side-to-side.
The length to width ratio is another important thing to consider when purchasing an ocean fishing kayak. A kayak with a short length-to-width ratio (like a canoe) will be more stable and easier to turn, but it won’t track as well in the water or go as fast as a kayak with a longer length-to-width ratio.
A kayak with a long length-to-width ratio is less stable and harder to turn, but it will track better and go faster than a kayak with a shorter length-to-width ration. When choosing an ocean fishing kayak, you’ll need to decide what’s more important to you: stability or speed.
Ocean fishing kayaks with rudders are more difficult to turn than those without, but they’re also easier for beginners because it’s easy to maintain a straight line while paddling.
Skegs don’t affect the boat’s ability to steer or its speed, but they do make it much easier to track in windy conditions and when there are currents against your efforts. When choosing between an ocean fishing kayak with a rudder or skeg, you’ll need to decide which feature is most important for your needs.
The cockpit size is also an important consideration when purchasing an ocean fishing kayak. If you’re a larger person, then you’ll want to choose a kayak with a larger cockpit that will give you plenty of room to move around. If you’re a smaller person, then you can choose a kayak with a smaller cockpit for more comfort and control.
In addition, many ocean fishing kayaks come with adjustable seats that allow you to customize the fit for your body size and shape. This is another important feature if you plan on spending long hours out on the water.
The final thing to consider when purchasing an ocean fishing kayak is the center of gravity. A stable kayak will sit higher in the water and it’s easier for you to maintain your balance if the boat sits high on flat waters or waves.
An unstable kayak will sit lower in the water and it can be more difficult for you to maintain your balance, especially when there are strong currents pushing against your paddling efforts. If possible, take a test paddle with different types of ocean fishing kayaks before making a purchase decision so that you know what type of stability each model offers.
Benefits of Using Ocean Fishing Kayak
- Stability
The biggest benefit of using an ocean fishing kayak is its stability. Ocean fishing kayaks are designed to sit higher in the water and have flat, shallow bottoms that make them less likely to tip over unexpectedly. This means you can fish in rougher conditions or farther offshore without worrying about your yakke flipping over on top of you!
The high-floating features also allow for a lot more storage space than a regular recreational kayak offers. You’ll be able to pack all of your gear into the boat so it’s within reach whenever you need it while out at sea. Many models even include large rear tanks with bungee cords built right onto the deck so you can quickly store items like rods, coolers, extra tackle boxes, and more!
- Durability
Another big benefit of using an ocean fishing kayak is its durability. These boats are built to withstand the harsh conditions often found offshore. The hulls are made from thicker materials that can stand up to being dragged over rocks and coral, and most models come with a watertight seal around the cockpit so you don’t have to worry about any water getting inside.
- Storage Capacity
Another big benefit of using an ocean fishing kayak is its ample storage capacity. Most models include large rear tanks with bungee cords built right onto the deck so you can quickly store items like rods, coolers, extra tackle boxes, and more! You’ll also find that most ocean fishing kayaks have a lot of dry storage space below the deck where you can keep your gear safe and dry from the elements.
- Scupper Holes
Many ocean fishing kayaks also include scupper holes that allow you to drain any water that leaks into the kayak. This is important when fishing in saltwater conditions, and it can help keep your gear from getting wet.
If you’re looking for a boat that’s specifically designed for ocean fishing, then an ocean fishing kayak is the right choice for you! These boats offer a number of benefits, including stability, durability, and ample storage capacity. They are perfect for anyone who wants to spend a day offshore fishing in comfort and style!
- Ease of Transport and Storage
Another big benefit of using an ocean fishing kayak is its ease of transport and storage. These boats are often shorter in length than regular kayaks, which makes them easier to fit into smaller spaces. They also weigh less, making them much easier to carry from your vehicle to the water’s edge.
Many ocean fishing kayaks also come with built-in transportation wheels that make it easy to move the boat around when it’s loaded down with gear. And since they fold up easily, you can easily store your ocean fishing kayak in a closet or garage when not in use.
- Ability to Handle Rough Water Conditions
The final benefit of using an ocean fishing kayak is its ability to handle rough water conditions. Ocean fishing kayaks are designed to sit higher in the water and have flat, shallow bottoms that make them less likely to tip over unexpectedly. This means you can fish in rougher conditions or farther offshore without worrying about your yakke flipping over on top of you!
- Price compared with other types of water vessels
The price for ocean fishing kayaks is a bit more expensive than other types of water vessels. Prices vary according to the materials used, extra features, and the brand name. The average cost for an ocean fishing kayak starts at $600 and can go up to $2000 or more. But when you compare the price to that of a boat, it’s a lot cheaper! And remember, you can use your ocean fishing kayak for years without having to worry about repairs or replacements like you would with a regular boat.
Tips for Using Ocean Fishing Kayak
- Try to go fishing early in the morning or late at night, this is when it’s easiest to catch fish.
- It may not be possible with a kayak, but if you can find a boat that is large enough for two people and has a flat deck then choose that option over a small one person kayak. The extra weight will make your ability to control the vessel easier as well as give you room for all of your gear!
- Never turn your back on the ocean while out on an ocean kayaking trip no matter how calm it seems because unexpected waves can always come up from behind and flip you over unexpectedly . Always face forward towards where you are going so that if another wave comes along its direction of travel instead of towards you.
- Keep a sharp eye out for the direction of the wind and be prepared to paddle against it if necessary, but pay attention that your movements don’t cause excess movement or wave creation from paddling too hard in one area . If you are canoeing then use both hands on opposite sides of your vessel so as not to rock it back and forth with every stroke!
- It is always best practice when kayaking across open waters such as oceans or lakes to keep something between yourself and any large storm clouds moving into the area because sudden storms can pop up quickly , especially over larger bodies of water where there isn’t much land mass around to cushion their blow.
- Always wear a life jacket no matter how good a swimmer you are, and also avoid wearing anything that might get caught on something below the surface while diving or moving about in your kayak such as jewelry.
- Bring plenty of water along to stay hydrated while out fishing , but don’t drink too much at once because it will fill up your stomach quickly which can lead to nausea . The best way is to bring little sips regularly so that you do not become dehydrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Ocean fishing kayaks are specialized boats with features that make them more efficient for ocean fishing. You can buy an ocean fishing kayak or rent one if you don’t want to purchase it outright, but either way there are a number of things you should know before buying one so you get the best value for your money. To help ensure that happens we have put together this list of tips and FAQs about how to use your new boat as well as what type is right for you. We hope these will help answer any questions or ease worries on whether this investment in time and money is worth the effort!