Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak For 2024 | Reviews and Buying Guide

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Every angler has their preferred spot, technique, and vessel for fishing. Some anglers like to fish with motorboats, and some anglers prefer kayaks for fishing.

I have had my fair share of experience with kayak fishing. I have used hard shell and inflatable kayaks and love them both. They come with their own perks and provide different levels of experience. But between these two vessels, I like inflatable kayaks the most.

So, if you are also willing to give it a try, I can hook you up with the best inflatable fishing kayak that I have discovered after using a couple of them.

Benefits of fishing with inflatable kayaks:

I want to enjoy some of the benefits that I have enjoyed by using inflatable kayaks for fishing. Let me share them with you.

  • Inflatable fishing kayaks are practically unsinkable. Even if the kayaks get flipped on the water, they will still float because of the built-in air chambers.
  • These kayaks are highly portable. I don’t live anywhere near my favorite fishing spots or camping grounds. So inflatable kayaks are my savior in that case.
  • An inflatable kayak is easy to take care of and takes less money and effort if it gets broken.
  • You can personalize them as you want them to be. You can remove seats to create additional space. Install fishing features for a better experience.
  • Inflatable kayaks are more affordable than hard-shell kayaks. And this fact about inflatable fishing kayaks has drawn my attention towards them.

Therefore, to help you enjoy all the benefits that come with inflatable fishing kayaks, I made a list of some of the best inflatable fishing kayak options for fishing. At the end of this article, you will have a clear idea about how to pick the right inflatable fishing kayak for yourself.

My Recommended Top 3 inflatable kayaks for 2024

Top Pick
9.7
Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Canoe Boat w/ Paddles
Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Canoe Boat w/ Paddles
  • 3 person/650 lb capacity, weighs 32 lbs, suitable for up to class iii whitewater
  • 370 deluxe kayak package features two movable, super comfortable deluxe kayak seats for improved bac
  • 2 ab30 7’10″” 4 part paddles with asymmetrical blade and aluminum shaft
  • 2 skegs on the bottom for better tracking & speed
  • Open and close drain valve, 5 deluxe 1-way inflation/deflation valves
Editor Choice
9.5
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak
  • Super tough laminate pvc with polyester core
  • High pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, 
  • Includes 2 removable skews for deep and shallow water, 
  • Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories, such as gps systems, fish find
  • Storage space in bow and stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down dry bags and gear
  • 3-ply super tough construction employs a high molecular pvc 
  • Includes 86in aluminum oars and high-output pump
Budget Friendly
9.1
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
  • Comfortable for anyone: kayak includes an adjustable inflatable seat with backrest; cockpit designed
  • Dimensions: inflated size 10 feet 3 x 3 feet x 1 feet 8 inch; maximum weight capacity: 400 pounds
  • Directional stability: removable skeg for directional stability
  • Increased visibility: in case of emergency, bright yellow color helps visibility
  • Made for smaller bodies of water: explorer k2 is made for smaller bodies of water including lakes an

Top 7 picks for the best inflatable kayaks for fishing

inflatable kayak for fishing

1. Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-person fishing kayak

This Sevylor inflatable fishing kayak is a compact and lightweight fishing kayak that is incredibly robust at the same time. It is covered with 840D Nylon, and the bottom is made of 1000D tarpaulin that protects it from any damage. You don’t see this kind of solid flooring on inflatable kayaks very often.

There are multiple built-in air chambers for extra buoyancy and safety. It has Berkeley adjustable rod holders so you can enjoy hands-free fishing. Additionally, it comes with a paddle rest to keep your paddles secure.

This inflatable kayak is 10.9 feet in length and has a width of around 3 feet. This proportion of an inflatable kayak is ideal to stay stable in the water.

It comes with multiple grab handles for ease of transportation. You also get a travel bag to carry to the fishing spot without any trouble. Moreover, the sturdy construction of this kayak allows you to install a motor for advanced propulsion.

So if you are looking for an inflatable fishing kayak with trolling motor, you can choose this option. 

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: 18-gauge PVC, thick tarpaulin bottom, and a tough nylon cover
  • Capacity: 2-Person
  • Length: 10.9 feet
  • Width: 3 feet
  • Weight: 40.5 Pounds
Pros
  • Robust outer layer with a solid, damage-resistant hull
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Comes with the option of installing trolling motor
  • Perfect for frequent lake fishing
  • Boston valves for the quick setup procedure
  • Air-tight, leak-proof construction
Cons
  • Shorter in length compared to other two-person kayaks
  • Does not come with a pump

2. Sea Eagle 370 pro three-person inflatable sport kayak

This incredible sport kayak comes with an excellent weight capacity of 650 lbs and carries three people simultaneously. You don’t need to be an expert kayaker to ride this watercraft as it is effortless to maneuver.

The Sea Eagle inflatable fishing kayak can smoothly handle class III rapidly. So, you can go on your whitewater adventures anytime you want. Despite having a robust construction of K80 PolyKryler, this kayak weighs only thirty-two pounds!

The inflation/deflation process of SE-370 is simple and easy and has five deluxe one-way valves to make the process quicker than ever. It also comes with two skegs for better tracking and speed. Moreover, it has a carry handle so you can carry it into the water without any hassle.

This kayak has comfortable inflatable seats and sprays skirts to protect the user from the exposure of elements. Though it is a tandem kayak, you can remove the seats to make room for your gear and the fish you will catch. 

The pro kit comes with two fishing rod holders, a paddle, a foot pump, an inflatable chair, a carry bag, and a repair kit for anglers. So, you are getting much more than you are paying to get this kayak. To be honest, it is one of the most efficient fishing inflatable kayaks that you can get.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: 38 mil PolyKryla
  • Capacity: 3 Persons
  • Length: 12.6 feet
  • Width: 2.10 feet
  • Weight: 32 Pounds
Pros
  • Robust K80 PolyKryler construction
  • Quickest setup system
  • Extremely stable and rugged
  • Can handle class III rapids
  • Ample storage space
  • Excellent weight capacity
Cons
  • Doesn’t perform well in bad weather

3. Intex Excursion pro inflatable fishing kayak – Professional Series

This kayak is constructed with the most rigid laminate material and polyester core, resisting abrasion and UV rays. If you are in search of an expert-grade inflatable fishing kayak, you can try this for better efficiency.

It comes with a massive loading capacity of 400 lbs, so you can take as many gears as you want to take. This kayak is built with high-pressure spring-loaded valves for a quick and easy setup method. Once you inflate it, the high-pressure inflation helps you to stay reliable and stable in the water.

The two adjustable skews on this kayak ensure an enhanced tracking system in any kind of water. It comes with two inflatable seats and two floor-mounted footrests that can be adjusted according to your comfort.

As it is a professional-grade fishing kayak, it comes with two fishing rod holders and an adjustable mounting bracket that allows you to install fishing accessories like a fishfinder or GPS. Moreover, you get ample storage space and D-rings for carrying your gear.

The high-density 3-ply PVC construction makes it invincible against saltwater, gasoline, oil, UV rays, and any other damages. You can use a kayak for fishing in both shallow and deep water.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: laminate PVC with polyester
  • Capacity: 2 Persons
  • Length: 12.7 feet
  • Width: 3.1 feet
  • Weight: 39.01 Pounds
Pros
  • Robustly made kayak with long-lasting ergonomic design
  • A quick and straightforward setup process
  • Solid stability on the water
  • UV, abrasion, and impact-resistant construction
  • Comfortable and adjustable seats with backrest
  • Mounting bracket for installing fishing accessories
  • Comes with a pump, two oars, repair kit and a carry bag

 

Cons
  • The oars can use some improvements

4. Sevylor Big Basin 3-person inflatable kayak

Sevylor’s inflatable kayak is great for lake fishing and comes with an air-tight system that ensures a leak-proof construction. Made with heavy-duty PVC, it has tarpaulin construction on the bottom to protect the kayak from any damage.

It can fit three people, and it comes with comfortable seats that you can adjust. If you think you need more space for your gear and cargo, you can adjust the seats to make your goods. Moreover, it is built with multiple air chambers to provide you with enhanced buoyancy and safety at the same time.

This kayak comes with a weight capacity of 490 lbs, and the Boston valves make sure that you inflate/deflate this kayak in the least amount of time. It also has to carry handles so you can transport it to your kayaking spot with maximum ease. Moreover, this kayak is around three feet wide and twelve feet long, which provides immense stability on the water.

It comes with protective spray skirts in the bow and stern and has a proficient drainage system to maintain the kayak’s performance quality. This kayak is designed to serve its users for an extended period with excellent efficiency.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: Heavy-duty PVC construction and rugged tarpaulin bottom
  • Capacity: 3 Persons
  • Length: 12.3 feet
  • Width: 3.1 feet
  • Weight: 34.76 Pounds
Pros
  • Heavy-duty, damage-resistant construction
  • Boston valves for quick setup
  • Grab handles and removable fins
  • Comfortable and adjustable seats
  • Effective drainage structure
  • Multiple air chambers and ample storage capability
  • Comes with a carry bag, pressure gauge, repair kit, and tracking fin
Cons
  • Quite tight for a three-person kayak

5. Sea Eagle PF7K PackFish Inflatable fishing kayak

This solo fishing kayak is one of the most lightweight and compact inflatable kayaks you will ever see. It is easy to maneuver and provides remarkable efficiency in lake, river, or even creek fishing.

It is one of the shorter kayaks with a length of seven feet, but extremely stable as it is around three feet wide. It weighs only 26 lbs with wooden floorboards but can carry up to 300 lbs. This loading capacity is excellent enough for a solo fishing kayak.

The outer cover of this kayak is made of 840D Nylon, and the floor is constructed with 100D PVC-coated polyester for maximum rigidity. It comes with a deluxe one-way valve to make the setup process simple and faster. Moreover, it has two air compartments for better buoyancy and protection in the water.

It comes with 36” fish rulers on both sides of the kayak for anglers, so you don’t have to carry extra anything to measure your fish. It has two built-in fishing rod holders and two side pocket pouches to keep your other tools and tackles.

It also comes with an oarlock system to secure your oars while fishing. There are two built-in tracking strips to maintain the utmost stability on the water in any weather conditions. So, this is one of the most conveniently designed solo fishing kayaks you can get for yourself.

If you get the deluxe fishing package of this kayak, you will get a carry bag, inflatable seat, foot pump, repair kit, and an oar set. So, you will get a more excellent value than the money you will spend on it.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: 100D PVC coated polyester and 840D nylon cover
  • Capacity: 1 Person
  • Length: 7 feet
  • Width: 3.3 feet
  • Weight: 26 Pounds
Pros
  • Durable construction
  • Suitable for bad weather condition
  • Performs well in many kinds of waters
  • Comes with excellent fishing features
  • Inflation process takes only three-five minutes
Cons
  • Limited storage space

6. Intex Excursion 5-person inflatable fishing kayak Boat 

This kayak is one of the most hard-wearing inflatable kayaks for fishing that can carry up to 1000 lbs! Moreover, it comes with a 12V Transom mount boat trolling motor and an Intex motor mount kit so you can expand the range of your fishing area.

Besides having three separate inflated chambers, it has an auxiliary air chamber in the hull. All these rigid air-tight chambers provide solid stability in the water. This boat’s width is around 66 inches, which makes it exceedingly steady in any weather condition.

The Boston valve of this kayak makes the deflation/inflation process. The floor of this vessel has an I-beam construction for maximum stability and protection. If you are one of those who think that inflatable boats are not rigid and long-lasting, the robust PVC construction of this kayak will change your opinion forever.

This kayak comes with grab lines for easy transportation and two welded oar locks to keep your oars secure. The trolling motor helps you to cover a large open water area for fishing without any trouble. You have plenty of space in this kayak to store your gear, cargo, and all the fishes you will catch on your trip.

It has comfortable seats with a backrest that allows you to complete your kayak fishing trip without any physical discomfort. For some kayak anglers, it is the best inflatable kayak for fishing.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: Heavy-duty, puncture-resistant PVC vinyl
  • Capacity: 5 Persons
  • Length: 10.4 feet
  • Width: 5.5 feet
  • Weight: 57.40 Pounds
Pros
  • Multiple air chamber for enhanced buoyancy and protection
  • Long and wide ergonomic design for the best performance
  • I-beam construction floor for better rigidity
  • Plenty of storage area
  • Boston valves for trouble-free and quick set up process
  • Comes with a trolling motor and a High-output pump
  • Oarlocks, grab handles and carry bag for a better kayaking experience
Cons
  • The warranty period ends only in 30 days

7. Intex Explorer K2 inflatable kayak

This inflatable kayak is constructed with 30-gauge sturdy vinyl material that can resist puncture and abrasion with ease. The inflatable I-beam floor adds the much-needed rigidity to stay steady in the water.

It comes with several air chambers better buoyancy, and the Boston valves keep the inflation/deflation process quicker than ever. Moreover, this kayak can perform well in both flat and slightly wavy water.

The removable skegs provide a pleasant tracking experience, and you can remove them if you are fishing in shallow waters. It comes with drainage holes so you can easily remove water if it gets inside the kayak. This kayak is designed with an ergonomic, streamlined shape so that you can paddle without any trouble.

It comes with comfortable seats with backrests, and the cockpit is designed for the utmost relaxation of the user. But some of the tall users of this kayak have said that they didn’t have much room for their legs.

You have enough storage space for your gear and a corded cargo area to keep your extra goods. It has grab lines on both ends so you can carry it to the fishing spot easily without anyone’s help. 

This kayak comes with two paddles, a repair kit, a pump, and a carrying case. It is also one of the most versatile and the best inflatable kayaks you will find within an affordable price range.

Features and Specifications:

  • Material: Heavy duty puncture resistant vinyl
  • Capacity: 2 Persons
  • Length: 10.3 feet
  • Width: 3 feet
  • Weight: 30.60 Pounds
Pros
  • Durable construction and ergonomic design
  • Comfortable seats with backrest
  • Performs well in various kind of waters
  • Comes with plenty of accessories
  • Removable skegs for better tracking and speed
Cons
  • Doesn’t have much room for tall legs

A buyer’s guide to the best inflatable kayak for fishing:

There is a vast range of inflatable fishing kayaks available on the market to support kayak fishing’s booming fame. But not all of them can fulfill the requirement of being the best inflatable kayak for fishing.

So, how do you know that the kayak you chose is the best one?

Don’t worry; I am presenting you with the ultimate buying guide to the most luscious inflatable fishing kayak for you. Remember the facts I am mentioning below before browsing for your kayak.

Stability:

Fishing kayaks need to be more stable than recreational kayaks as you may have to stand up on the deck for fishing. So the stability of the kayak should be your very first concern.

Some novice kayak anglers think that inflatable kayaks are flimsy and don’t perform well as fishing vessels. But this accusation is not utterly correct.

If you get an inflatable kayak with solid floor construction, multiple air-tight chambers, and 32-34 inches width, it will undoubtedly be a stable kayak for fishing. So, if you choose a kayak with all the qualities that I just mentioned, you do not have to worry about your kayak’s steadiness anymore.

Material:

Inflatable fishing kayaks are mainly constructed with PVC, Nylon, and Hypalon. Each of them comes with its own level of sturdiness, durability, and performance.

PVC is the most common material for making inflatable kayaks, and they are very affordable. Nylon and Hypalon are very effective against damage and punctures, but they are quite expensive.

The location of your fishing:

Every kayak doesn’t perform in the same way in different waters; that is the first rule of kayaking you need to follow. So, choose a kayak according to your regular fishing spot. 

If you fish in shallow waters or rivers, your fishing kayak will be totally different from ocean fishing kayaks. Therefore, determining your fishing location plays an integral part in choosing a suitable fishing kayak for you.

Fishing features on the kayak:

The best fishing kayak should have the features I am mentioning below:

  • Multiple fishing rod holders
  • Scupper holes
  • Several storage options 
  • Option for mounting accessories 
  • Grab handles
  • Rudder control system
  • Adjustable seats with backrests and footrests
  • Deck padding or textured deck for safer stand-up fishing

Optional features:

  • Pedal drive system
  • Anchor trolley or pole
  • Paddle rests 

Weight:

You should get a lightweight, one-person fishing kayak instead of a tandem one if you like solo fishing. If you do so, carrying your kayak to your favorite fishing spot will be much easier, and you don’t have to throw your back out every time you go for kayak fishing.

Loading capacity:

There are plenty of inflatable fishing kayaks available with different loading capacities. If you are into heavy-duty fishing, you can get a fishing kayak with a loading capacity of 900-1000 lbs. And if you are into shorter fishing trips, you can get a solo kayak with a loading capacity of 250-300 lbs; the choice is yours.

Fishing kayaks with massive lading capacity are usually slow as they are bigger and size and constructed with more rigidity. On the other hand, solo kayaks are often fast and can be easily maneuvered by any angler.

Design of the cockpit:

The open cockpit design is the best for fishing as it offers an extended view of the water, and it’s easy to cast from a sit-on-top kayak. Moreover, you get a spacious deck to do stand-up fishing.

But sit-in kayaks are still great for fishing as the enclosed cockpit protects against bad weather and water splashes. So, at the end of the day, you should pick the cockpit design that makes your fishing experience relaxing.

Some frequently asked questions about fishing with inflatable kayaks:

Q. Is a trolling motor necessary for inflatable kayak fishing?

Ans. Inflatable kayaks are easy to maneuver, so installing a trolling motor is not necessary. But if you want to cover a large open water area for fishing, you can install a trolling motor if your kayak comes with the installation option.

Q. What is the best width-length ratio of an inflatable fishing kayak?

Ans. An inflatable kayak 12 feet long and 34 inches wide is an excellent width-length ratio for fishing.

In conclusion:

The quest for the best inflatable fishing kayak needs a little determination and analysis, but it is not the world’s hardest task. A dedicated, passionate angler will delightfully invest their time and energy in the perfect vessel for fishing.

One of the fantastic things about inflatable fishing kayaks is that they are quite affordable compared to other fishing watercraft. Therefore, more anglers are drawn towards inflatable kayaks to use in their angling experience.

Hopefully, after reading this article, you have learned about some amazing fishing kayaks and how to get the most suitable one for yourself. So go on and start your kayak fishing as soon as you can!