Fishing Kayak Buyers Guide 2024

Welcome to the ultimate Fishing Kayak Buyers Guide 2024. Kayak fishing is booming and consumers are spoiled for choice when it comes to buying a fishing kayak. With so many brands and types of fishing kayaks to cover a whole range of budgets. Starting with entry-level traditional paddle kayaks with basic features, all the way to high-end kayaks with foot peddles or electric motors. Finished with an endless supply of exciting accessories to take your kayak fishing experience to another level. This detailed guide will provide you with helpful information to make an informed decision about what kayak to purchase.

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It can become costly to buy a fishing kayak so we would highly recommend that you.

Set a realistic budget
Learn the real differences in stability between models
Forecast what features and accessories you will need
Understand how and where you will use the fishing kayak

Fishing Kayak prices on the market in 2024

Forget about specifications and features the very first decision you will need to make is cost. Setting yourself a realistic budget before buying will help narrow your options. Below we have listed different fishing kayaks available from most major retailers. We have sorted this in price from highest to lowest. Remember many buyers will increase their budget once they truly understand the differences in stability and features between low and high-end kayaks. The prices below don’t include necessary extras such as rod holders, mounts, accessories, roof racks, trailers, ropes, wheels, sounders, life jackets, leashes, etc. It can become costly quickly but don’t worry we have detailed the costs of these extra needed items as well.

When buying a fishing kayak the most important decision should be stability. All the additional features are great but staying safe on the water is by far the most important. Safety aspects you should consider things such as stability, drainage, and steering. In most cases ( not always ) you get what you pay for. Many of the top-end kayaks have excellent stability whilst we see many of the entry-level kayaks have poor stability but instead try to wow you with clever marketing and heaps of extras like rod holders. Just keep that in mind as we often see consumers buying cheap and then upgrading quickly to a more stable platform.

*Please note the kayaks featured below have been sorted in price order from most expensive to cheapest so please scroll down to find the price ranges within your budget. In today’s market, popular choices will include the Hobie Outback, Hobie Copass, Kayaks2Fish NextGen, Hobie Pro Angler & Dragon Pro Fisher which cover a variety of budgets.

Hobie Pro Angler 14 360 Review

The Hobie Pro Angler 14 ( 360 ) continues to be a standout choice. Years and years of refinements see this kayak dominate the tournament scene whilst also being very popular with recreational anglers who don’t mind spending more. It has unparalleled stability, storage, and accessories. The new features include the 360 mirage drive steering and kick-up fins which takes this fishing vessel to another level. Great design, great features, and great accessibility. Plain and simple if you buy one of these you won’t be disappointed. If this is out of your price point then consider an older model Hobie Pro Angler, a Hobie Outback, Compass, or entry-level pedal kayaks which are featured below.

The PA14s can be a tad sluggish on the water and don’t turn as easily as lighter models like the Outback, Compass, or Lynx. They are quite heavy therefore we would highly recommend having a trailer and using the Hobie Trax wheel cart or Kimmi Cart to move around.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $7,990
Drive type – Mirage 360 drive peddle
Length – 13 feet 8 inches
Width – 0.97 of a meter
Weight capacity – 272 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 67.4 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Hobie Pro Angler 12 360 Review

If you are after something that’s lighter and more compact than the PA14 I would strongly suggest having a good look at the new Hobie Outback ( below). It’s cheaper and lighter than the PA12 and the new model handles really well on the water.

The Hobie Pro Angler 12 ( 360 ) is the more compact option to the Pro Angler 14. It’s 2 feet shorter, 0.06 thinner, and 7 kilos lighter which may appeal to many buyers. It has less front hatch storage and less horizontal rod storage as opposed to the PA14 which are small trade-offs for less size and weight. Like the Pro Angler 14, the PA12 is a standout choice. Years and years of refinements see this kayak dominate the tournament scene whilst also being very popular with recreational anglers who don’t mind spending more. It has unparalleled stability, storage, and accessories. The new features include the 360 mirage drive steering and kick-up fins which take this fishing vessel to another level. Great design, great features, and great accessibility. Plain and simple if you buy one of these you won’t be disappointed. If this is out of your price point then consider an older model Hobie, a Hobie Outback, or entry-level pedal kayaks which are featured below.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $7,790
Drive type – Mirage 360 drive peddle
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.91 of a meter
Weight capacity – 227 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 60.1 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Hobie Pro Angler 14 Review

The Hobie Pro Angler 14 is one of the most used fishing Kayaks on the market today. This is the older model PA14 which essentially is the same hull as the new 360 models but missing the 360 mirage and kick-up fins. Please note that since 2010 there have been many revisions of the PA series so do check what year release it is. Examples of previous model changes included Mirage 180 V2, improved turbo fins, multiple rudder controls, chair modifications, etc. You can identify the year of a Hobie kayak using the serial number located at the back underneath the hull ). The older model Hobie Pro Anglers are still very common on the tournament scene and very popular with recreational anglers who don’t need the very latest bells and whistles. It has unparalleled stability, storage, and accessories. An older model Hobie PA is a great option If this is out of your price point then consider a Hobie Outback or entry-level pedal kayaks which are featured below.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $5,990
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle
Length – 13 feet 8 inches
Width – 0.97 of a meter
Weight capacity – 272 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 65.5 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Hobie Pro Angler 12 Review

The older model Hobie Pro Angler 12 is the more compact option to the Pro Angler 14. This is the older model PA14 which essentially is the same hull as the new 360 models but missing the 360 mirage and kick up fins. Please note that since 2010 there have been many revisions of the PA series so do check what year release it is. Examples in previous models changes included Mirage 180 V2, improved turbo fins, multiple rudder controls, chair modifications etc. You can identify the year of a Hobie kayak using the serial number located at the back underneath the hull ). The older model Hobie Pro Anglers are still very common on the tournament scene and very popular with recreational anglers who don’t need the very latest bells and whistles. It has unparalleled stability, storage and accessories. An older model Hobie PA is a great option If this is out of your price point then consider a Hobie Outback or entry-level pedal kayaks which are featured below.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $5,790
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.91 of a meter
Weight capacity – 227 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 58.2 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Old town predator pedal drive review

It’s tough competing with big brand names like Hobie. When you’re selling an equivalent product at a similar price you need to have points of difference. There is a lot to like about these kayaks but perhaps not enough to sway those keen on a Hobie. Old Town Predator Pedal Kayak has agile maneuverability with forward, reverse. Providing control while your hands remain free to focus on fishing. The removable pedal drive installs quickly and tips up quickly for shallow-water docking. The specially-designed hull provides a smooth pedal stroke speed and decent stand-up stability. Features PDL Drive for hands-free fishing, Element seating system features 3 seat positions, Drive has 10.3:1 gear ratio for fast and efficient pedaling, Features 6 mounting plates, paddle storage, tackle holders, center console with Mod Pod cover, Exo-Ridge deck, and molded paddle rest

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $5,495
Drive Type – PDL drive
Length – 13 feet 1 inch
Width – 0.91 of a meter
Weight capacity – 226 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 53 kilograms
Material – Polyethylene

Hobie Outback Review

The Outbacks have come a long way in recent years and the new model Hobie Outback is an outstanding choice. It’s significantly cheaper than the Pro Angler range and also significantly lighter which will appeal to many buyers. Recent improvements include a wider hull, elevated vantage seat, and kick-up fins. Whilst providing excellent stability and storage, This is a versatile fishing vessel for rivers and estuaries and out in the bay in the right conditions. Many Pro Angler buyers are now stopping to look at the Outback because it’s cheaper, very stable, and easier to handle than a Pro Angler. It currently doesn’t have 360 mirage steering but keep an eye on movement on the Outbacks because of their popularity Hobie has whispered of some new features to be released in the not to distance future.

This will be one of the most popular choices on the market in 2024 a good mix of price, stability, and portability.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $4,990
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle
Length – 12 foot 9 inches
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 192 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 46.7 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Native Watercraft Titan 13.5 Review

Native Watercraft make excellent fishing kayaks, with a good mix of stability and features. But there are some things that you need to be aware of with the Titan and Slayer series of kayaks before buying one. The Hull design of the Titan and Slayer has poor water drainage and relies heavily on scupper plugs to drain water out of the vessel. General storage isn’t easily accessible meaning tackle boxes and terminal tackle needs to be stored in the front hatch which can be awkward to access. The kayaks have a limited range of available accessories and rely heavily on third-party vendors such as railblaza to make them more user-friendly. Native watercraft a few years back were pioneers in being able to put the vessel in reverse using a propel system. However much has changed and this propel system now seems a little clunky and clumsy when compared to the newer Hobie 360 mirage drive with kickup fins. These kayaks are very good and our team enjoyed many years on the water with them, but they are priced similarly to a Hobie and don’t have the same set of features, storage, drainage, and accessories.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $4,395
Drive Type – Propel pedal drive
Length – 13 foot 5 inches
Width – 1.05 meters
Weight capacity – 249 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 70 kilograms
Material – Plastifoam

Hobie Lynx Review

Please read our full Hobie Lynx Review here.

The Hobie Lynx is an awesome fishing platform that will surprise many. It’s so light and so easy to transport. It handles exceptionally well on the water. It thrives in shallow flats, estuaries and lakes, and the bay in the right weather conditions. It’s unique and solves many of the problems found with yaks in today’s market. However, it lacks storage but with some creativity using products such as Berley Pro accessories you can easily get around this problem. However, its real downfall is its steep buying cost and necessary accessories.

Portability
Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,990
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle with kick-up fins
Length – 11 foot
Width – 0.94 of a meter
Weight capacity – 158 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 27 kilograms
Material – EPS foam

Native Watercraft Titan 12 Review

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,795
Drive Type – Propel pedal drive
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.99 of a meter
Weight capacity – 227 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 49 kilograms
Material – Plastifoam

Stealth Profisha 525 Review

The Profisha Stealth products are among the best offshore fishing kayaks in the market currently. The Profisha Range offers lightweight speed-focused kayaks. The 525 is the middle of the range and is ideally suited for people weighing more than 90 kg. It’s their most popular kayak and suits a lot of local paddlers. It surfs well, is fast, light, stable and can carry a decent capacity. Features: Storage hatch, 4x fishing rod holders, Large Fish hatch with rod chute, Improved hull for greater speed and wave control, Fully Adjustable foot pedals, with rudder and steering system, Self Draining Footwells, Latch clips, Rubber and paddle elastic, 2x Drain holes, 4x Carry handles

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,695
Drive type – paddle
Length – 17 foot 2 inches
Width – 0.61 of a meter
Weight capacity – 195 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 26.5 kilograms
Material – epoxy-based resin
Notes – Built for offshore fishing and speed. It’s lightweight and cuts through waves effortlessly

Hobie Compass Review

Quietly the Hobie Compass has become one of the highest-selling fishing kayaks on the market. Because of its cheaper price point ( when compared to the Pro Anglers and Outback ), it provides kayakers with all the basics from the High-end Hobie name. In fact, The Hobie Mirage Compass is the most affordable of all Hobie’s rotomolded kayaks. The trade-off with a Compass is less storage, stability, size, and features than you would get with an Outback or Pro Angler.

The Mirage Compass has been upgraded to both forward and reverses with the power of the MirageDrive 180 pedal system and Kick-Up Fins. Outfitted with a breathable mesh seat, the Compass offers good stability and a reasonable-sized cockpit and flat deck for standing. A sharp turning radius makes this fishing kayak nimble in tight quarters, yet able to speed over open water in a stealthy fashion. Kayak fishing features include pre-installed rod holders, H-Track accessory mounts, and a transducer cavity ready for you to install a Lowrance® fishfinder. For a stealthy look, upgrade to the Compass Camo package that is outfitted with Kick-Up Turbo Fins and comes in Camo color.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,540
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 181 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 39 kilograms
Material – Rotomolded Polyethylene

Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Review

In 2021 Native Watercraft released a major refresh of their slayer range of kayaks. Some new nice features and improvements but our tests still show some major flaws in the general design. New features including a revised pedal system, revised storage, paddle holders, rod tip protectors are nice however there are still issues with general water drainage, storage and accessories. The Slayer 10 Max would be a great option if you after a lightweight portable kayak for lakes and estuaries.

Native Watercraft make excellent fishing kayaks, with a good mix of stability and features. But there are some things that you need to be aware of with the Titan and Slayer series of kayaks before buying one. The Hull design of the Titan and Slayer has poor water drainage and rely heavily on scupper plugs to drain water out of the vessel. General storage isn’t easily accessible meaning tackle boxes and terminal tackle needs to be stored in the front hatch which can be awkward to access. The kayaks have a limited range of available accessories and rely heavily on third-party vendors such as railblaza to make them more user friendly. Native watercraft a few years back were pioneers in being able to put the vessel in reverse using a propel system. However much has changed and this propel system now seems a little clunky and clumsy when compared to the newer Hobie 360 mirage drive with kickup fins. These kayaks are very good and our team enjoyed many years on the water with them, but they are priced similarly to a Hobie and don’t have the same set of features, storage, drainage and accessories. Read the full Native Watercraft Slayer 10 Review here

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,395
Drive type – Propel pedal drive
Length – 10 foot
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 181 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 36 kilograms
Material – Polyethylene

Stealth fisha 500 Review

The Fisha 500 incorporates the latest hi-tech materials with a construction that’s similar to our Pro fisha range. The kayak is built using epoxy-based resin systems. The kayak has excellent stability within its design so the position on the widest point of the kayak and the depth of the seat and foot-wells were placed so as to make it very comfortable with loads of stability and performance.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $3,195
Drive type – paddle
Length – 16 foot 2 inches
Width – 0.67 of a meter
Weight capacity – 200 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 27 kilograms
Material – epoxy-based resin

Hobie Passport 12 Review

The 12-foot Mirage Passport handles with ease and incorporates hands-free pedal propulsion. This year Hobie upgraded the drive system with Glide Technology and Kick-Up Fins. The Passport includes a breathable mesh seat, and a wider cockpit area with EVA floor padding that provides a stable platform for standing and stretching your legs or casting a lure. Storage is done via a center 8” Twist-n-Seal hatch. The Passport 12 has a transducer cavity and scupper for simple installation of your favorite fishfinder and Power-Pole Micro bracket. Additional features include a steering system with stowable rudder, two fishing rod holders, accessory tracks, and under-seat and gunnel tackle storage.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $2,550
Drive type – Mirage 180 drive peddle
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 181 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 33 kilograms
Material – Thermo-formed Polyethylene

Old town predator MX 12 Review

The Predator MX features a rounded hull, designed for moving water conditions without sacrificing the Predator’s stability and performance. The Predator MX has a spacious Exo-Ridge deck providing a standing platform. Features an Element Seating System, Performance Crafted Tri-Hull, Slip Resistant Exo-Ridge Deck, Scupper Holes, 6 Removable Mounting Plates, Rod Tip Holders & Rod Retainer Bungees, Exo-Ridge Tank Well, Side-Mount Paddle Storage, Molded Paddle Rest, Large Bow Hatch with Click Seal Cover
Dual Tackle Holders, Support Track Foot Brace System, Stand-Up Assist Strap

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $2,519
Drive Type – PDL drive
Length – 12 foot 1 inch
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 181 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 37 kilograms
Material – Polyethylene

Perception Crank 10.0 Review

The Crank is a new generation of easy-to-use, fast, and fun pedal-drive kayaks from Perception Kayaks. It’s suitable for lakes, ponds, and calm coastal waters. The Crank provides a basic yet comfortable kayak with an easy pedaling system and available aftermarket accessories including two Solo Mount recesses within easy reach.

Features an-improved pedal drive, folding adjustable chair, One-handed rudder control,
Transducer scupper in hull for fish and depth finders, Front and rear storage areas, One-piece rigid carry handles on front and rear for easy transport.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $2,399
Drive Type – PDL drive
Length – 10 foot
Width – 0.89 of a meter
Weight capacity – 159 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 40 kilograms
Material – Polyethylene

Kayaks2Fish Kronos Review

Many anglers will explore the Kayks2Fish kayaks due to their affordable price point and strong marketing presence. Overall the kayaks offer a decent volume of features at a suitable price. These kayaks are generally good value for money and have become very popular amongst kayak anglers on a budget. They offer a good range of features and OK stability on the water. Several of our team members own these kayaks and have rated them well for lakes, rivers and the bay in calm conditions.

Do be careful of marketing hype as these kayaks are advertised as extremely stable featuring commercials that can be misleading. These are generally filmed in calm conditions in shallow water showing people standing and rocking the yak. Stability should never be judged in that way as the practical use of kayak stability is very different when you are sitting and casting. We have had mixed reactions in testing and mixed responses from many who have bought these kayaks. Many say the kayaks are stable and good value for money and others say they felt unstable and needed to add stabilisers. If you get the chance test one yourself before buying to make your own conclusion as everyone will have different usage needs for the kayak and different skills and balance.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $1,899
Drive Type – PDL drive
Length – 12 foot 1 inch
Width – 0.88 of a meter
Weight capacity – 200 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 34 kilograms
Material – HD PE

Revolve 13 Pedal Fishing Kayak review

The Revolve 10 pedal fishing kayak is a solid platform that allows for standing when sight casting, and features a comfortable Elite Pro-X seat. Adequate front and back storage provides a clutter-free cockpit and a bow-to-stern track mount for Railblaza accessories. The REVOLVE Pedal Drive System gives you hands-free fishing.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $1,899
Drive Type – Revolve drive
Length – 13 foot
Width – 0.85 of a meter
Weight capacity – 170 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 42 kilograms
Material – Polyethylene

Beavertail Stealth 2000 Review

The Stealth 2000 is constructed from polyethylene, a one-piece rot o-mold construction. The unit is also foam lined for durability and flotation. The unique twin-hull design allows you to run in shallow water of only 5-6 inches.

This boat is perfect for Duck Hunters and fishermen. Designed for 1-2 persons. Foam-padded dog platform, Double interior gun racks, and shell holders, 360 degrees, cushion swivel seat with folding backrest, Storage compartment under seat to hold a marine battery, Handles on both ends, Water-tight storage compartment, Tie-down slots – front and rear, 5-year warranty, Made in the USA

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $1,899
Drive Type – Paddle
Length – 12 foot
Width – 0.91 of a meter
Weight capacity – 170 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 54 kilograms
Material – 100% custom compound polyethylene

Drop Bear X300 Kayak Review

The Drop Bear X300 is a new kayak to the Australian market in 2023. On the surface, it offers a wide range of features including pedal drive, rudder steering, rail track system, storage, and plenty of included rod holders. More to come soon.

Price – $1,495
Drive Type – Peddle Drive
Length – 10 foot
Width – 0.80 of a meter
Weight capacity – 200 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 32 kilograms
Material – 100% custom compound polyethylene

Kayaks2Fish NextGen 10 MKII Review

These kayaks are good value for money and have become popular amongst kayak anglers on a budget. They offer a good range of features and OK stability on the water. Several of our team members own these kayaks and have rated them well for lakes, rivers, and the bay in calm conditions.

Do be careful of marketing hype as these kayaks are advertised as extremely stable featuring commercials that can be misleading ( as shown below ). These are generally filmed in calm conditions in shallow water showing people standing and rocking the yak. Stability should never be judged in that way as the practical use of kayak stability is very different when you are sitting and casting. We have had mixed reactions in testing and mixed responses from many who have bought these kayaks. Many say the kayaks are stable and good value for money and others say they felt unstable and needed to add stabilisers. If you get the chance test one yourself before buying to make your own conclusion as everyone will have different usage needs for the kayak and different skills and balance.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $949
Drive Type – Paddle
Length – 10 foot
Width – 0.79 of a meter
Weight capacity – 185 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 25 kilograms
Material – UV10 Stabilized plastic Roto Moulded High-Density Polyethylene

Dragon Pro Fisher Kayak Review

These kayaks are good value for money. Sold exclusively through BCF you can often pick up these kayaks for cheaper than $749 with regular specials. This is a no-frills kayak that offers a basic good range of features and stability on the water. Team member Mark used one of these kayaks for 12 months with much use out in the bay. He was pleased with its price, and stability and he had added his own customizations with a basic sounder and extra storage. If you do plan to buy one of these do keep an eye on clearance sales from BCF. If you get the chance test one yourself before buying to make your own conclusion as everyone will have different usage needs for the kayak and different skills and balance.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $749
Drive Type – Paddle
Length – 9 foot 1 inch
Width – 0.86 of a meter
Weight capacity – 150 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 22 kilograms
Material – virgin UV-rated linear polyethylene

Pryml Titan Fishing Kayak Review

Exclusive to BCF, the Titan Legend Fishing Kayak Pack includes a deluxe seat with 2 anchor points and an adjustable back. Basic storage and 2 water-resistant hatches. However, we cannot stress enough that entry-level kayaks like this must be used with caution. They do not have the necessary stability to be used in many situations and must be used carefully. I cannot stress enough that I have rescued 8 kayakers this past 12 months 3 of those kayakers who had tipped had a Prymal Titan kayak. If you value your safety and plan to fish in the bay spend more and buy something more stable.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $699
Drive type – Paddle
Length – 10 foot
Width – 0.82 of a meter
Weight capacity – 160 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 25 kilograms
Material – UV linear polyethylene

Pryml Legend Fishing Kayak Review

Exclusive to BCF, the Pryml Legend Fishing Kayak Pack includes a deluxe seat with 2 anchor points and an adjustable back. Basic storage and 2 water-resistant hatches. However, we cannot stress enough that entry-level kayaks like this must be used with caution. They do not have the necessary stability to be used in many situations and must be used carefully.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $549
Drive type – Paddle
Length – 9 foot 4 inch
Width – 0.84 of a meter
Weight capacity – 140 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 22 kilograms
Material – UV linear polyethylene

Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 Review

Multiple delays in getting this kayak into the country means that it’s still new and unproven. Please check back at a later date with more specifics once it’s here and has been tested. This is an extravagant setup, with purpose-built electronics. But for most buyers, this will simply be out of their price point.

Features
Storage
Stability
Drainage
Performance
Price

Price – $8,499
Drive type – Motorized
Length – 12 feet 1 inch
Width – 0.94 of a meter
Weight capacity – 250 kilograms
Kayak weight fitted – 53 kilograms
Material – Single Layer Polyethylene

Other noteworthy kayaks

Viking Profish GT E with Bixpy Electric Jet – $3,999
Viking Pro Fish GT – $1,799
Pedal Pro Fish XL – $1,765
Viking Pro Fish 400 – $1,599
Pedalfish 10 – $1,533
Revolve 10 Pedal fishing Kayak – $1,499
Serge Fusion 10 pedal – $1,499
Pedal fish Sea Lion – $1,299
Kayaks2fish Triton – $1,099
Aqua Yak Ranger – $850
Malibu Stealth 12 – $849
Prymal Titan – $719
Dragon Slayer – $699
Gremlin 9x – $569
Aqua Yak snapper Pro – $550
Berkley angler kayak – $299

The real cost of owning a kayak

As we mentioned earlier buying a kayak is the first step. The second step is buying necessary items for safety, transportation, and accessories for usage. Yes, there there are many costs associated with owning a fishing kayak. Below is a rundown of some of the costs you can expect to take on once buying a fishing kayak.

Paddle – $100
Life Jacket – $150
Single rod holder with port – $50
Esky – $90
Leashes – $10
Kayak trolley wheels – $100
Basic Fishfinder ( Lowrance Hook Reveal 5x ) $379
Battery to power Fishfinder – $235
Fishfinder sun visor – $39
Fishfinder mount – $48
Tie-downs – $40
Trailer – $1,500
Roof racks – $250
You may also consider insurance to cover your kayak from theft or damage.

Fishing Kayak Buyers Guide. The video below walks you through the features and upgrades added to our Hobie pro Angler which you might find helpful.

Fishing Kayak stability guide

Stability should be the most important factor when buying a fishing kayak. Like price, there is a massive difference between models and brands. You get what you pay for so never don’t the importance of stability. Budget can get in the way of having a truly stable kayak.

I’ve received countless messages over the years from followers with horror stories nearly drowning after buying a supposedly stable kayak. When buying a kayak be very careful about the advertising you see and the recommendations of retail sales staff. Try not to believe all of the marketing hype and false advertising. It’s almost criminal how some of the low-end kayak manufacturers advertise their kayaks as extremely stable. This type of false advertising is what puts people’s lives at risk. Some make bold claims that their cheap kayak is as stable as a Hobie Pro Angler.

The best advice we can offer is if you’re unsure of stability choices that suit you then trial a fishing kayak before buying one. Some shops will allow you to try before you buy or have scheduled open trial days. You may also know someone who has the fishing kayak model that you are interested in buying who would be willing to meet you and let you try it. I have actually don’t this on countless occasions to help others.

When it comes to stability you get what you pay for and nothing compares to high-end kayaks such as the Hobie pro angler but not everyone can afford one of these. The video below runs you through 10 fishing safety tips on a Native watercraft kayak and then we hot the water and find ourselves surrounded by a school of aggressive salmon.

Fishing Kayak Guide for usage and features

Before buying a Fishing kayak stop and consider these basic questions. Here are some points to stop and consider starting from the most basic ideas.

Will you use your kayak in lakes, rivers or offshore? ( this will influence the model you choose )
Will you travel frequently with your kayak?
Are you able to lift a kayak on your car roof by yourself?
Would you prefer an elevated seat, so you do not spend the session sitting in the water
Do you prefer internal storage of fishing gear?
Would you prefer a rudder so you can steer using hand controls instead of a paddle?
Do you need a foot to peddle kayak or are you OK with a basic paddle kayak
Will you require lots of accessories as Hobie has the biggest available range
Do you plan to ever use an electric motor

Asking yourself these questions before buying will help you to identify the most suitable brands and models.

Additions and corrections

Thanks for reading this Ultimate Fishing Kayak Buyers Guide 2024. If you have any questions, corrections, or additions then please direct them to enquiries@fishingmad.com.au and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Fishing Kayak Buyers Guide 2024