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Top 6 Best

Beginner Fishing Kayaks in 2022

Best Options and Reviews

Published June 8, 2022

Fishing kayaks for beginners aren’t always easy to find with so many options on the market and too many choices, but I’ve got you covered. Whether you are looking for a guide to purchasing your very first fishing kayak or want to upgrade from your old fishing kayak, this list of best beginner fishing kayaks will be helpful for you in choosing the best one.

Top 6 Best Beginner Fishing Kayaks: Summary

Best Beginner Fishing Kayaks

Here are the top 6 best beginner fishing kayaks that you can buy in 2022. I have been kayaking for over a decade and have tried using more than 50 kayaks in my entire journey. So, my recommendation is based on my personal experiences.

I hope these recommendations will help you choose the best fishing kayak according to your needs and the budget.

1. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

1000+ Reviews
4.4/5

The first on my list is Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak. It is the best beginner fishing kayak for the money. It has all the features you need to get you started, including a well-designed seat, a high-capacity storage compartment, and a paddle holder.

Specifications

Size: 10 feet 1 inch long, 2 feet 7 inches wide

Material: Hard Shell

Weight: 57 lbs

Seating Capacity: Single Person

Key Features

Size

It is 10 feet 1 inch long and 2 feet 7 inches wide, making it an ideal option for the avid kayaker who wants to move quickly through the water while also being able to carry all of their gear.

Design:

Its design is perfect for fishing. The hull is made of a sharp shape, making it easy to cut through the water and reach your destination faster. It has a suitable width that makes it more stable, so you don’t have to worry about tipping over to the water.

Build Quality:

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is made with UV-protected high-density Polyethylene. This makes it very durable and able to withstand harsh conditions. The material is not very lightweight, so you can’t easily carry it around.

Weight Limit:

It has a weight limit of 220 pounds, which is enough for a single person, plus the gear you will need to bring for fishing.

Riding Experience

Handling:

The handling of the Tamarack Angler 100 is good, and it is good for beginners. The kayak is easy to maneuver and has a good turning radius. The kayak also has a small amount of wobble, but this can be easily fixed by adjusting your position in the boat.

On-Boat Storage:

It’s easy to keep your gear safe and secure with the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak’s on-boat storage. The boat features 2 six inches of storage compartments, one on the rear side and one in the kayak center.

You can use the rear compartment to store your personal items, while the center compartment can be used to store the fish.

Durability:

It’s not just the material that makes this kayak durable, though; its design is also very sturdy and will hold up to a lot of use and abuse. This kayak can be used on rivers and lakes alike, so you can take it out on the water whenever you feel like it.

Comfortability:

It is ideal for those who want to go fishing on the water but don’t want to spend a ton of money on a kayak that provides a comfortable user experience. The kayak is stable enough for people up to 150 pounds, and the seat is comfortable enough to sit in for long periods.

Safety:

If for a kayak that can handle the worst conditions, this is the one that can help you. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is made with a hard shell material that can withstand rough and shallow waters and hard-to-get punctures and leaks.

Pros

Cons

  • Made of high-quality UV protected material
  • Multiple Footrests to help you get a comfortable ride
  • Adjustable seat and backrest
  • Two storage compartments to help you go fishing with all the gear
  • Heavy weighted
  • Challenging to transport

2. Pelican Sit-On-Top 100x Kayak

500+ Reviews
4.5/5

The second kayak on my list of best beginner fishing kayaks is Pelican Sit-on-Top 100X kayak, it is great for beginners and experienced fishermen alike. This kayak is lightweight and easy to carry, so it’s perfect for taking on fishing trips or just keeping around the house when you are looking for outdoor activity.

Specification

Size: 9 feet 6 inches long, 2 feet 6 inches wide

Material: Hard Shell Plastic

Weight: 44 lbs

Seating Capacity: Single Person

Key Features

Size

The Pelican Sentinel 100X kayak is 9.5 feet long, making it perfect for one person to paddle around with ease. The kayak weighs only 44 pounds, so you will have no issue carrying or transporting the boat to the water’s edge.

Design:

The hull is sharp enough to easily cut the water and take you into deep and shallow water. It also has deck rigging for attaching fishing rods or other accessories and two molded cup holders so you can store your drinks close by without worrying about them spilling over into your lap while paddling around in the water.

Build Quality:

It’s made from durable polyethylene and plastic material to withstand all sorts of weather conditions and still look good after frequent use. So, the overall build quality is great.

Weight Limit:

This kayak has a maximum capacity of 250 pounds, making it suitable for anyone from children to adults. Besides that, the weight limit is also ideal for people who want to go fishing with lots of fishing gear.

Riding Experience

Handling:

The Pelican Sit-on-Top 100x Kayak is a great choice for novice paddlers. The kayak is easy to handle because of its ideal size, lightweight, and stable design. Its large cockpit opening allows for easy entry and exit, while its wide bottom keeps the kayak steady in rough water conditions.

On-Boat Storage:

The Pelican Sit-on-Top 100x Kayak is designed with ample storage space to make it easy for you to keep your fishing gear within reach. The kayak comes with two mesh pockets perfect for storing everything, including your fishing gear and the catches. One pocket is located at the rear of the kayak, and the other is located at the front.

Durability:

It is made with high-quality hard shell plastic material that can withstand sun rays. This material is UV resistant and will not break down over time. The kayak also features a dual-chamber design which keeps the boat afloat even if one chamber is punctured.

Comfortability:

It is comfortable for both beginners and experienced paddlers and fishermen alike. The seating design is ergonomic, with a wide and spacious seat that provides plenty of space to move around, ensuring that you can keep yourself balanced in the water.

Safety:

The Pelican Sit-on-Top 100x Kayak is built with your safety in mind. The kayak comes with a number of safety features, including a durable construction that can withstand the elements and rough water conditions.

It also includes a drain plug to empty out any excess water.

Pros

Cons

  • Made with durable materials to last long
  • Suitable for all waters
  • Extra stable design
  • Decent weight-bearing capacity
  • Heavy weighted

3. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

4400+ Reviews
4.4/5

The third one from best beginner fishing kayaks is Intex Excursion Pro Kayak. It is an inflatable kayak and a great way to get out on the water, enjoy the sights and sounds, and begin the fishing journey. This kayak can hold a decent amount of weight, which is why it is suitable for fishing. The kayak also has a built-in carrying handle, and fishing rod handles for extra convenience.

Specifications

Size: 9 feet long, 2 feet 6 inches wide

Material: Plastic

Weight: 36.25 lbs

Seating Capacity: Single Person

Key Features

Size

It is 9 feet long and 2.5 feet wide and the perfect size for a single-person fishing adventure. The built-in carrying handles make it easy to transport, and the high-density polyethylene hull ensures that you stay stable as you are paddling through the water.

Design:

The Excursion Pro kayak is an inflatable, stable, and durable design that can be used in various water conditions. This inflatable kayak features a high-pressure perimeter floor, which provides excellent stability and comfort. A decent cockpit opening with adjustable foot braces makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak while seated.

Build Quality:

The build quality of this kayak is quite good. The hull is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material designed to be strong and durable. The material is lightweight, making it easy to carry around and transport.

Weight Limit:

The weight limit on this kayak is 220 pounds, which means that it can hold one person with all the fishing gear comfortably. However, if you plan on taking it out with your family or friends, then you may want to consider buying another kayak that has a higher capacity as well.

Riding Experience

Handling:

The idle size is the size of the kayak when it is floating. The idle size made handling so much easier. But as per my experience, you will have to keep the paddle close to your hand in case of any mishap.

On-Boat Storage:

There’s no dedicated storage compartment on the Excursion Pro, so you will have to do with what you have.

The cockpit area is spacious enough to hold your fishing gear and catches, but if you are looking for an area to put your dry bag, you may need to get creative.

Durability:

This kayak has been constructed with durable polyethylene material. While no kayak can be 100% indestructible, this model is built to last. The plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to transport, and tough enough to withstand damage from rocks and other sharp objects encountered while on the water.

But, you will have to take it away from rough and shallow waters to prevent unwanted punctures.

Comfortability:

The seat provides comfort while on the water, but it doesn’t have much padding, so you might get sore after long trips. The backrest is adjustable, so you can set it up according to your height if you need more support while paddling.

Safety:

The Excursion Pro is the safe choice for your next adventure. The kayak is built with a heavy-duty floor that can withstand rocks and other sharp objects. The airtight seal keeps water out, so you won’t have to worry about sinking or capsizing.

Pros

Cons

  • Constructed by UV Protected PVC Material
  • Strong and Stable build quality
  • Handles and fishing rods attached
  • Adjustable Footrest and Seat
  • Lack of dedicated storage space

4. Elkton Cormorant 2 Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak

70+ Reviews
4.4/5

The fourth one on my list of best beginner fishing kayaks is Elkton Cormorant 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak. It is a great choice for anyone who loves to spend time on the water. This inflatable kayak is designed for two people, perfect for couples and families alike. The kayak features durable construction and has an adjustable seat backrest for comfort.

Specifications

Size: 9 feet 10 inches long, 2 feet 11 inches wide

Material: Polyvinyl Chloride

Weight: 27 lbs

Seating Capacity: 2 Persons

Key Features

Size

The Elkton Cormorant is a 9-foot-10-inch long, 2 feet 11 inches wide inflatable fishing kayak. It is an ideal size for 2 people to enjoy their time on the water while also fishing.

Design:

The design of this kayak is very simple and straightforward. The kayak has two seats, one in front and one in back, with a storage compartment at the front. The bottom of the boat is made from PVC tarpaulin material, which makes it tough enough to withstand most bumps and scrapes without getting damaged too badly.

Build Quality:

It is made out of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. It is durable and relatively lightweight, making it ideal for use in the construction of inflatable kayaks. It has a high-pressure rating and a great resistance to UV damage. It’s also resistant to mold and mildew, so it won’t absorb water or become heavy over time.

Weight Limit:

The Cormorant has a maximum weight capacity of 450 pounds, so even larger individuals can enjoy using this kayak. It is a unique and versatile inflatable fishing kayak that can be used for various activities, including fishing, camping, water sports, and more.

Riding Experience

Handling:

Handling is good, but it could be difficult to handle if the wind blows. If you are looking for a kayak that handles great and doesn’t mind having a hard time handling it in the wind, then this kayak is perfect for you.

On-Boat Storage:

It also has storage space for your gear and accessories at the front of the boat, so you don’t have to worry about losing anything while out on the water.

Durability:

This inflatable fishing kayak is a durable, tear-resistant material with two large air chambers that provide extra stability and safety. It also comes equipped with an oar system to paddle along smoothly on the water.

Comfortability:

The front and rear seats are padded, so you will be comfortable during long trips out on the water. You can even add an optional rudder system to keep your balance easier while paddling around.

The kayak also has two flush-mount rod holders to keep your fishing rods secure and within reach at all times.

Safety:

The Elkton Cormorant 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak is safe and stable. Its large, inflatable bottom and high-pressure PVC bladder make it a sturdy craft that can hold a huge weight without getting punctured.

Pros

Cons

  • Comes with Portable Fishing Rod Holders
  • Rigid and Durable Build Quality
  • Made with high quality 1000D PVC material
  • Extra big size for better stability
  • No Dedicated Storage Space
  • No Mesh Pockets

5. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak

300+ Reviews
4.1/5

The fifth one is Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak that is a great way to get out on the water with your friends or family. With its stable design and comfortable seating, this kayak is perfect for beginners. The handles make it easy to carry and transport, and there are plenty of places to store your gear.

Specifications

Size: 12 feet 8 inches long, 3 feet wide

Material: PVC 

Weight: 37 lbs

Seating Capacity: 2 Persons

Key Features

Size

It is a big boat size 12 feet 8 inches long, 3 feet wide. That’s what makes it so great for fishing; you can bring all your gear and have room to spare. It’s also got a spacious cockpit that’s perfect for two people.

Design:

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak can be used by two people at once. It includes two padded seats that fold down for storage when not in use and footrests for added comfort during long trips.

Build Quality:

The kayak is constructed from durable, high-quality materials built to last. It features a rigid PVC tarpaulin bottom for stability and comfort and an adjustable seat to accommodate any size user.

Weight Limit:

Since it is a tandem inflatable fishing kayak, it can hold up to 470 lbs. But, as per my experience, you shouldn’t put more than 450 lbs because it is an inflatable kayak, and being overweight can cause it to get punctured.

Riding Experience

Handling:

This kayak provides a great handling experience. The double-seated design and the wide, flat bottom make for a stable ride in the water. It is also very easy to maneuver and transport.

On-Boat Storage:

The kayak has plenty of space for storage in the cockpit area, so you can bring along everything you need for your fishing trip in one convenient vessel. Besides that, there are also rod holders and other holders mounted on the kayak’s sides for extended storage space.

Durability:

The hull is made from PVC-D material, which is tough enough to withstand impact but also lightweight enough that you won’t have to worry about taking up too much space in your car or at home. So, it is a durable kayak.

Comfortability:

It features a comfortable seat that can accommodate up to three adults. The seat has multiple adjustments to customize to your body type or preference. The kayak also has two handles at each end for easy transportation on land or water.

Safety:

The Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak is a safe way to take your family out on the water. It has two seats and a center console designed with safety in mind. The kayak also comes equipped with a fishing rod holder to get a good hold while you fish.

Pros

Cons

  • Comes with Complete Fishing Accessories
  • Strong Build Quality with Anti Puncture 
  • Paddle Holders also included
  • Equipped with Boston Valve
  • No footrests
  • No storage compartment

6. Goplus Inflatable Kayak

10+ Reviews
4.8/5

The last kayak on my list of best beginner fishing kayaks is Goplus Inflatable Kayak. The kayak has an aluminum frame that makes it light, easy to transport, and durable enough to last through multiple seasons. The adjustable aluminum oars are perfect for those who want more control over their paddling experience.

Specifications

Size: 10 feet 10 inches long, 2 feet 6 inches wide

Material: PVC

Weight: 30 lbs

Seating Capacity: Single Person

Key Features

Size

The GoPlus Inflatable Kayak is 10 feet 10 inches long, 2 feet 6 inches wide.

Design:

The kayak has two air chambers that can provide enough support to keep the kayak afloat even if one chamber gets punctured. The kayak floor is made up of a heavy-duty PVC material that is durable, waterproof, and puncture-resistant.

Build Quality:

The build quality of the Goplus Inflatable Kayak is really solid. It’s made from a heavy-duty PVC material, which means it will last you for ages. And it has multiple layers of reinforcement, so you won’t have to worry about punctures or leaks.

Weight Limit:

It has a weight limit of 300 lbs which is very good compared to other single-person kayaks. You can easily go fishing with all of your belonging on the board.

Riding Experience

Handling:

The handling of this inflatable kayak is very easy and straightforward. It is a great choice for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. It has a moderate rocker, making it easy to maneuver in the water. The kayak is also durable and has reinforced handles. So you can carry it on your back or use it as a seat in a pinch.

On-Boat Storage:

The Goplus Inflatable Kayak comes with an onboard mesh pocket storage area to hold your fishing gear or small camera equipment. It doesn’t keep them dry during your ride in the water because it’s on the front of the kayak.

Durability:

It’s also durable enough to withstand some wear and tear from being used regularly. It has a PVC material that is thick and strong, which helps resist punctures and tears. It also has double-sided Velcro straps for extra security.

The paddles that come with this kayak are aluminum, which has a high strength-to-weight ratio. This means that they are light enough for you to easily carry them around but still sturdy enough to provide good support when you are paddling.

Comfortability:

It is a very comfortable kayak as it provides a good riding experience. It comes with a comfortable seat and backrest to sit down and rest your back for extended periods. It also has easy-to-adjust footrests, so you can adjust them to fit your needs.

Safety:

The Goplus Inflatable Kayak is a safe, fun way to get out on the water. It’s built from durable materials and comes with a repair kit if you end up with a leak. This kayak has been safety tested and meets all international standards for inflatable boats.

Pros

Cons

  • Strong and Rigid Build Quality with high-quality materials
  • Comes with Boston Valves
  • Adjustable Seat with Footrest
  • Simple and Sleek design
  • Increases Stability with Flat Bottom
  • Less Storage Capacity
  • No Fishing Equipment Holders and extra features

Things to Consider while Choosing the Best Beginner Fishing Kayaks

Fishing is a great hobby to have. You can exercise, socialize with friends, and get some fresh air while having fun. It’s also a great way to get the kids outdoors and away from their screens.

When it comes to choosing the best beginner fishing kayaks, there are a few things you need to consider before making your purchase.

Here are some of them:

It must be Lightweight:

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a beginner fishing kayak is that it must be lightweight. While you may be tempted to choose something larger, heavier, and more expensive, this will only make it harder for you to transport your kayak from place to place.

A good beginner fishing kayak should weigh less than 40 pounds so that you can lift it up easily and take it with you on your adventures.

The best beginner fishing kayaks are usually made of aluminum or plastic, but there are some other materials used as well. You should choose a material that is light in weight so that you don’t have any trouble while carrying it around or storing them in your garage.

It must have a good storage space:

We all know that there are some things that you can not go fishing without. These include your fishing rod, tackle box, and the bait. Therefore, it is important to choose a kayak with enough space for all these things.

Good storage space will also help you carry your personal belongings such as food, water bottles, clothing, and other essentials. This will ensure that you are well prepared for any weather conditions.

Besides that, if you are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, you will want to make sure that the kayak you choose has plenty of room for all your gear. The best kayaks are made with ample storage space inside and out, so you can take everything with you without worrying about where it will go or how much room it will take up.

It must be comfortable to sit in:

A good beginner fishing kayak should be able to accommodate your body comfortably. This means that it should have enough room for your legs and feet and a place to rest your arms while paddling or resting between casts.

If you can’t find a comfortable position in your kayak, it will be hard for you to enjoy yourself out on the water. You will probably develop back problems or leg cramps from sitting in an awkward position for too long.

You should also consider whether or not the kayak has adjustable footrests, as this can make a big difference in terms of how comfortable it feels for you.

It must be durable:

Durability is another most important thing to consider when choosing a fishing kayak. You want to make sure that your kayak can withstand the conditions of whatever body of water you plan to use it in and that it will last for years.

The best way to test the durability of a kayak is to check out reviews from other users; they will give you an idea of how well their boats held up under different conditions. They can also tell you about any problems they had with their boats, so you know what issues are common among models within your price range.

You should also make sure that any material used in construction is UV-resistant and weatherproof so it doesn’t break down over time when exposed to sunlight or water.

It must be Portable:

A portable fishing kayak ensures that you can take it wherever you go. The size and weight of the kayak are important factors to consider when looking for a good beginner fishing kayak.

You should look for something compact enough to fit into your car or truck. A portable kayak will make life much easier for you as you will have no trouble transporting it from one place to another.

It should have extra options like rod holders, paddle holders, and things like that:

If you plan to go on a fishing trip, you need to be prepared for every situation. You will want to make sure that your kayak has everything you need for a successful trip.

You should look for a kayak with extra options such as rod holders, paddle holders, and other fishing equipment holders. This way, you won’t have any trouble storing all of your fishing supplies in one place.

You should also make sure you have room in the kayak for your fishing gear. If you have too much equipment packed into your kayak, it could cause problems with balance and maneuverability.

Conclusion

So, these are the best beginner fishing kayaks that you can buy in 2022. These kayaks are great for all types of fishing adventures for beginners, and if you have just started kayaking and now want to do fishing, these kayaks will work best for you.

Jay Schwartz author of Kayak Guidance

About the Author - Jay Schwartz:

Hey there kayak lovers! I’m Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! You know water sports – you know me! My life is all about it. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. I love to share my passion and knowledge with all of you. 

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