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What to Look For in a Fishing Kayak

Fishing kayak at an Illinois State Park

Have you ever wanted to go kayak fishing? First you’ll want to find yourself a fishing kayak. Where to begin? There are some decisions you’ll have to make when selecting a fishing kayak. It seems more and more people are choosing kayaks over the heavier and fuel-consuming powerboats. This makes sense when kayaks are easier to transport, launch, maneuver in shallow water, and quieter. 

There are questions you should ask yourself to make your choice of kayak easier. Does your kayak need to be fast and responsive, or does it need to be built hardy so it won’t be easy to tip over? These questions can be answered by reading the following tips along with some state park locations to visit.


Choose the Type of Kayak You Need

The first decision to make will be to decide upon a sit-inside kayak or a sit-on-top kayak. One option is to get a sit-on-top. When you are fishing, it’s best if you are not confined. You will be able to easily access cargo and other fishing accessories. It is easier to get in and out of a sit-on-top kayak. Water will drain out of the scupper holes in the bottom of the craft so this self-bailing feature is very handy. The only downside of the sit-on-top kayak is that you do get wet when paddling. If you want to stay dry, move faster, and paddle in cooler water, the sit-inside would be a better choice. 

The next thing to look at is whether you want a kayak you have to paddle or one that you pedal. Of course, the traditional kayak uses the paddle. But now there are pedal boats that let you propel the kayak like you are riding a bike. If you are pedaling your kayak, your hands are free and you can use them to fish. However, they are heavier and not as easy to maneuver. Pedal kayaks are also a bit more expensive. 

Another tip for buying your first fishing kayak is to buy a used one to start with. You can then fish for a season in your “new” used kayak and see what you like and what you don’t like about it. After you fish with the used one for a while, you can decide if you want to keep it or replace it.


How Your Kayak Should be Built

The length of your fishing kayak is important and you will need to decide on what length you want or need. If you want to be faster in moving, such as trolling offshore, you’ll want a long, narrow kayak. If you are going to be mostly in one spot and doing fly fishing or sight casting, a short, wide boat is best. That also makes standing easier. 

Check the legroom. You want to be able to sit with a slight bend to your knees. See what it’s like when you relax in it for a short while, as you’ll likely be sitting in it for hours on your fishing trip.

See what sort of space is available for all your accessories. You want space for cup holders, camera mounts, rod holders, and fish finders. It will be best if the storage available is built in. Many kayaks now come with built-in storage with waterproof hatches. 

For using a paddle in both the paddle and the pedal-driven kayak (where you want a spare on hand), you will need to ensure you have a paddle that takes into account your height and how wide the boat is. Your paddle will need to be as light as you can find, but also strong in case you need to push off the ground to maneuver without it breaking.


Recommended:  Where to Purchase a Fishing License


Is Your Kayak Stable?

Will you be fishing on lakes or ponds which are sheltered, or will you be out on large bodies of water with waves and wind?

When looking at fishing kayaks and whether you want a long, narrow one or a short, wide one, you will need to take into consideration its stability.  You can’t have a boat that tips when you’re casting or landing a fish. When fishing in sheltered lakes or other bodies of water, you’ll be better off with a flat bottom kayak. Look for a flat bottom hull of at least 30 inches in width. Too broad and too short, and the kayak will be sluggish. On large bodies of water, to ensure stability as well as speed, the long, narrow kayaks are good. This way you can easily maneuver and angle into the waves as needed. Longer kayaks also move faster and glide farther with each stroke.


Is Your Kayak Easy to Transport?

The more features you add to your fishing kayak, the heavier it will be. You want to keep it light so it is easier to move. You’ll have to consider where you will be carrying it. How are you going to move it from fishing spot to fishing spot? Will it be in the back of your truck, on the roof, or on a trailer? You’ll need to decide how your new fishing kayak will fit before you make your purchase.


Out on the Water

When you are going to be out on water where fast powerboats may be gliding by, having a brightly colored kayak will help to keep you safe by being more visible. A camouflage design is difficult for other boats to see. You might choose yellow or lime green as those will stand out. Wearing a very bright vest also helps to keep you more safe.

Fishing kayak on calm water


Here are some great state parks for kayak fishing:

Massasoit State Park, Massachusetts 

In Massasoit State Park Massachusetts at the north end of Lake Rio, there is a boat launch so you can take a kayak and get out there and fish.  The lake is stocked with fish each year, so you won’t come back to shore empty-handed.  Other activities at this park include hiking, mountain biking and fun for the kids on the brand new playground!

Book a Camping Spot Now


Fort Boonesborough State Park, Kentucky

Fishing from a kayak offers some good catches at Fort Boonesborough State Park Kentucky, a park founded by Daniel Boone. When not out on the water, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy, such as visiting the full scale replica of the original fort.

Reserve a Campsite


General Coffee State Park, Georgia

You’ll discover a varied environment at General Coffee State Park Georgia where you can take a kayak and fish on the Seventeen-Mile River through cypress swamps. Farm animals make this park their home and the kids will love to pet them when not out on the river.

More Information


East Canyon State Park, Utah

East Canyon State Park Utah offers some great fishing on the reservoir, with a boat launch. In addition to kayaking, the park offers many other recreational activities, such as swimming, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

Book a Space


Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!


Check with your Local Government Organization

Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.

For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.

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