Inflatable fishing kayaks are becoming more popular. This article explains why and reviews the finest inflatable fishing kayaks available.
It might be challenging to carry a hard-shell kayak, particularly if you need a more oversized garage or a vehicle. An inflatable kayak could help. They’re simple to maintain, lightweight, and portable.
What are Inflatable Kayaks?
Inflatable kayaks are suitable for fishing. The mobility of inflatable kayaks and their cost-effectiveness make them great fishing platforms. You can use them in tiny ponds, huge lakes, ocean bays, and long, rough rivers.
When purchasing an inflatable kayak, consider your budget, whether you want a tandem or single kayak, and your intended use.
Why inflatable Fishing Kayaks?
Fishing kayaks are ideal for a day on the water. Transporting them is challenging. Inflatable kayaks help here. They take up less room to store or carry. More fly fishermen and women prefer inflatable kayaks to hard-shell ones.
What qualities do inflatable fishing kayaks have that others don’t? Here’s some.
- Higher seating position
- Swiveling seats for comfort
- A rowing frame for using oars in place of paddles
- Can utilize trolling motors and low-powered gas motors
- Motormouths- Allow for the attachment of motors
- Skegs or keels (or both) to keep the kayak stable while paddling. In doing so, yaw is prevented.
- Rod and lure holders
- Accessory pouches and tie-down straps for additional fishing accessories that an angler wants to install on the boat (such as fish finders)
- Fish rulers
- Standing space in the kayak, which facilitates casting and landing fish
- Ability to ride out more giant waves typically found on lakes during periods of high winds
- Ease of paddling across lakes and other bodies of flat water.
Factors to be considered when buying an Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Purchasing an inflatable fishing kayak requires consideration.
- Kayak type: sit-on-top, sit-inside, Tandem, solo.
- Performance: how does it perform?
- Material & Construction: inflatable boats should be solid and lasting.
- Size/weight: how long kayak is?
- Weight Capacity: how much can it hold?
- Fishing-Friendly Features: What makes it a fishing kayak?
- Customization: Can you customize?
- Safety: consider practical features.
- Costs: inflatables are cheaper than hard shells but still expensive.
Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing-Review
Now that you know what to look for in an inflatable kayak, we’ll recommend some of the finest. We’ll look at one-person and two-person inflatable kayaks for fishing. Now!
Comparison Summary-Best Inflatable Kayak for Fishing
| 1 |  | Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak | View on Amazon |
| 2 |  | Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series | View on Amazon |
| 3 |  | Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  | Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  | BOTE Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  | Aquaglide Blackfoot Hb Angler Kayak XL | View on Amazon |
| 7 |  | ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak | View on Amazon |
| 8 |  | Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak | View on Amazon |
Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak Pro Angler Package
The Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler is a super-lightweight, portable fishing kayak constructed of 1100 Decitex reinforced textiles and is advertised as almost unbreakable.
A crocodile skin EVA foam protection cushion is installed inside the kayak to minimize slippage and provide additional protection against punctures.
The 385fta FastTrack kayak has a drop-stitched keel. Keels assist kayaks in keeping track while cutting through the water and reaching faster speeds.
You can store fishing gear in the front or rear bungee storage space, and if you’re paddling alone, you can remove the front seat to create room.
Sea Eagle fitted front and rear spray skirts to their kayak with the built-in rod, hook, and lure holders. Drain plugs at the rear of the boat eliminate any cockpit water, and you can measure your catch with 36″ side fish rulers.
Technical Details
- Size:45 inches length & 23 inches width & 12 inches Hight
- Weight: 45lbs
- Seating Capacity: 635lbs/3 people
- Material: 1000 Denier Reinforced
- Inflation Time: 7 minutes
- Things Included: Two paddles, a carry Duffel bag, a hand pump, a repair kit
- Items Not included: Fishing Rod, Lures
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It can use as a tandem kayak or remove the seat for extra storage | The duffle carry bag is rugged, which is not suitable for long-distance |
| Ideal for anglers with heaps of gear | Little Expensive |
| Customizable spray skirts | |
| Compatible with trolling motors | |
| Durable, rugged construction | |
| Stainless steel D-rings | |
| Highly Stable | |
| Easy to inflate | |
| Drop stitch floor |
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is built of super rigid laminate PVC and polyester, making it lightweight and durable. Intex high-pressure inflation provides stability and extra rigidity with high-pressure spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation.
It is made of exceptionally robust laminated PVC with a sturdy polyester core that is unaffected by salt, water, and oil. It is protected against punctures, scratches, abrasions, and UV radiation.
There are front and rear storage places for your gear, but you can also install fishing rod holders and fish finders to an adjustable mounting bracket beside the back passenger seat or one of the many D-rings in the cockpit.
The kayak’s detachable seats offer adjustable backrests and footrests for comfort. Intex includes a booster seat to increase the rear paddler’s visibility on the water.
Intex Excursion has a Repair Patch kit, High output pump, two removable skegs, two adjustable bucket seats, two floor-mounted footrests, and two integrated recessed fishing rod holders.
The Intex Excursion Pro comes in a smaller single version for lone paddlers.
Intex is known for affordable quality inflatables, and the Excursion Pro tandem fishing kayak is no exception.
Intex incorporated a detachable and adjustable accessory frame system, so if you want, you may add new fishing features and accessories.
Technical Specs
- Size: 12’7″ inches length & 3’1″ inches width & 1’6″inches Hight
- Weight: 46.731lbs
- Weight Capacity: 400lbs
- Seating Capacity: 2 people (also comes in solo version)
- Material: Polypropylene
- Air Chambers: two
- Things Included: 2 paddles, Hi-Output Pump, Carry Bag, Pressure Gauge, two skegs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable, Lightweight, Comfortable, and Sturdy | The carry bag is of low quality. |
| Easy and fast inflation & Deflation because of high-pressure spring valves | No Paddle parks |
| Available in solo and tandem models | The seating could be better. |
| Easy to store and easy to transport |
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Elkton Outdoors’ Steelhead Fishing Kayak was made with PVC and a solid drop stitch floor for stability when standing and casting. The bottom strengthens the kayak, allowing it to handle class III rapids.
This kayak is specially designed for fishing. The boat’s front has a bungee storage compartment and a spray shield to dry you and your belongings. You can mount rod holders, bait trays, fish finders, and other equipment throughout the cockpit and store bigger items under the back seat.
Both Models of Steelhead (Steelhead 130 and 150) have high-raise EVA adjustable seats, so you may shift them forwards, backward, or eliminate them. For long days on the water, they include detachable footrests.
The kayak is designed for rougher conditions and has well-positioned self-bailing ports in case you are splashed. It has several hardware attachment options to customize it.
This little yak can endure anything you or the environment throws at it because of its 1000 Denier, reinforced PVC, and solid plastic nose and tail cones.
Elkton Outdoors Steelhead is excellent for fishing and a touring platform for any angler, kayaker, and explorer. It is best on shallow water and for deeper depth navigation.
Technical Specs
- Size: 10’10 inches long, 39.5 inches width & 13 inches height
- Weight:44lbs
- Load Capacity:600lbs
- Seating Capacity: 1 Person/ 2 persons in Tandem
- Warranty: 1 Year Warranty on all Materials
- Things Included: One Paddle (two paddles in Spearhead 150), Removeable Skeg, Travel Bag, Dual Action Hard Pump, Adjustable Footrest, Padded High Back Adjustable EVA Seat.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable Construction & Super Lightweight | A little expensive |
| Stable because of rigid floor | Two passengers in a kayak reduce storage space |
| Bungee Storage | |
| It comes with a complete package | |
| Super easy to inflate |
Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak
A fishing kayak with a self-bailing deck, the Star Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak truly pushes sit-on-top kayaks. This dedicated inflatable fishing kayak has shallow sides compared to other kayaks.
Star Challenger wanted their fishing kayak to be simple and sleek because sometimes simple is enough. The open deck has plenty of space to store gear, and front bungee systems protect everything.
An aluminum-framed mesh seat in the kayak center puts you at a high vantage point and provides a fantastic water view. Attach rod holders and fish finders to the bow and stern daisy chains or one of the five surface mounts to stay hands-free on the water.
The Challenger Inflatable Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak is lightweight, but Star added front and rear carry handles to simplify transporting it.
For stability, the sturdy high-pressure 10’8″ long, 6″ thick drop-stitch deck features 9″ side tubes. Feel free to stand up and move around.
Technical Specs
- Size: 39 x 18 x 10 inches
- Weight: 27lbs
- Load Capacity:275lbs
- Seating Capacity: 1 Person
- Material: Polyethylene
- Things Included in Package: Carry Backpack, a pump, repair kit, all on water fins
- Things not included: Paddles
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable and stable | Not included paddles in the package |
| Super portable, lightweight, and easy to maintain | A little expensive |
| The wide open deck gives you ample space for storage | |
| On five mounts, you can attach things like rod holders | |
| Excellent for fishing | |
| Fast Inflation |
BOTE Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak
The BOTE Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak, designed for novice to intermediate paddlers, is the most flexible vessel since it can be converted from a single to a tandem kayak with no effort. You read that correctly; the company now allows you to use either a single or double kayak. An optional Aero Paddle Seat allows two people to paddle together in an inflatable kayak.
This tandem kayak from BOTE is among the finest inflatable fishing kayaks available. You may ride it alone or with a companion, and it features a high weight limit and a broad frame for stability.
The inflatable fishing kayak is easily modified with additional rails, paddle holds, and equipment attachments. It’s a great all-around kayak that can take you on tours or out on the water searching for fish.
Despite its compact size, the BOTE Zeppelin Aero 38-inch beam ensures a steady ride. It sits just 10 inches above the water to reduce drag and increase wind resistance.
Due to its compact design, this kayak is one of the lightest inflatables available, weighing only 37.5 pounds without a seat. Even yet, the small giant can lift 300 pounds.
With its broad base and open deck, the Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak raft is stable and safe for its paddler and their gear, thanks to its three-chamber construction.
The Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak Raft Seat and self-bailing floor ensure you stay dry and comfortable while enjoying your much-anticipated time on the water.
The Zeppelin Aero Inflatable blow-up Kayak is an excellent choice for family outings on the water due to its spacious interior and simple assembly.
Thanks to its AeroBOTE Construction, BOTE Inflatable Kayaks may quickly and easily convert from a compact, folded travel bag into a fully functional kayak.
Technical Specs
- Size: 37 x 25 x 17 inches
- Weight: 37 Pounds
- Load: 300 lbs
- Seating Capacity: 2 persons
- Material: PVC
- Things included:
- Zeppelin Aero 10′ Inflatable Kayak,
- 6″ Removable Aero Center Fin
- Zeppelin Aero Paddle Seat
- Pair of Slide-In Aero Rac Receivers
- Aero Repair Kit
- Hand Pump
- Travel Bag
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Light, compact & Highly Versatile | Rod holders have to be purchased separately |
| Comfortable & de-inflatable seat | Expensive |
| Extra width increases stability | It needs a rod holder base near the seat |
| Accessories for fishing | Paddle holder requires two hands |
| An excellent floor for extra stability | |
| Extra width comes in handy when casting. | |
| It can be turned into a tandem kayak | |
The ability to use it in a multitude of ways and environments. |
Aquaglide Blackfoot Hb Angler Kayak XL
If you’re in the market for a high-quality inflatable fishing kayak, the Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler is a great choice. Because of the PVC covering, it will last a long time and won’t be scratched up easily. You can connect a camera, fish finder, or rod holder.
The Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler has front and rear cargo bungees for stowing any gear you need for a full day of fishing. The kayak’s side carry handles make it simple to take it to and from the water. It Includes a limited guarantee of 2 years. This inflatable kayak is an excellent option for more prominent anglers due to its 650(!) pound weight capability, and it can even accommodate a passenger.
This durable and stable kayak has a Duratex high-pressure drop-stitch bottom and EVA trackpads for standing casts and reels.
A fishing cooler and several universal attachment mounts allow you to store various fishing gear, tools, and technology.
Technical Specs
- Length: 13 feet
- Weight: 15.2kg
- Load Capacity:295kg
- Material: reinforced Duratec PVC
- Seating Capacity: one person
- Fishing rod holder locations: 6
- Things not Included: Paddles & a Pump
- Things Included: Adjustable seats, Fin, Fishing cooler, storage bag, valve adopter, river crossing bag, repair kit
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to travel | Finding the most stable seated posture may be challenging. |
| Stable, durable, and Super lightweight design | A bit expensive |
| Weedless fin | |
| Five scupper drains | |
| Adjustable footrests. | |
| Hook and loop adjustment strips. | |
| High weight capacity. | |
| Rod holders on the integrated cooler | |
| Universal accessory mounts brilliant for cameras, rods, cups, and fishing gear |
ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak
The drop-stitch floor of the ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak is both durable and stable, making it easier to maintain a casting posture. The multilayer structure ensures durability. It has numerous air chambers, like the Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak, for extra stability.
The accessory frame system of the ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak is its greatest strength, as it allows you to simply connect extra gear like a fish finder or rod holders for extra rods.
The ADVANCED ELEMENTS StraitEdge Angler PRO Inflatable Kayak boasts an airframe seat made from a functional mesh fabric, particularly on hot summer days. Include a ruler on the ground and a variety of deck lacing possibilities.
You can propel yourself farther by adding a Bixpy Motor to the fin box. The high-support, adjustable AirFrame PRO seat is comfortable for hours of paddling. Abrasion pads are installed on the kayak in high-use locations to ensure optimal durability.
Technical Specs
- Size: 10′ 6″ Long – 38.5″ Wide
- Load Capacity:400lbs
- Weight: 45lbs
- Seating Capacity: 1
- Material: PVC Tarpaulin Hull Material
- Things Included in Package: Drop-stitch floor, two accessory frames, an Airframe PRO seat, a duffel bag with shoulder straps, an owner’s manual, and a repair kit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accessory frames on both ends offer great attachment options. | Repackaging the kayak into the bag is a little challenging |
| Great seat position provides extra stability. | |
| Excellent lacing options in the stern and bow. |
Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak
Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak is an enhanced version of the well-known Explorer Series inflatable kayak with a built-in self-bailing system.
You cannot find a kayak better suited for long tours or fishing expeditions than this one. It’s not the lightest product on the market—at 23 kg—but the extra weight is more than justified.
There is no argument against the Sea Eagle 350fx being the best inflatable fishing kayak on the market. The unmatched combination of exceptional stability, propulsion through the water, ability to handle almost any situation and massive 261kg carrying capacity is unmatched.
Sea Eagle kayaks are the only inflatable fishing kayaks with an integrated fish ruler and virtually indestructible hull fabric. A fabric with 2000 deniers has exceptional stress resistance. It would be an extraordinary incompetence to tear a hull made of 2000 Denier fabric.
Technical Specs
- Size: 136.5 x 38.61 x 1 inch
- Weight: 45lbs
- Load Capacity: 575lbs
- Seating Capacity: 1 person
- Inflation Time: 7 minutes
- Material: 1000 denier w/2000 denier reinforced sections
- Things included: Seat, carry bag, repair kit, pump, paddle
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stable, Durable | It’s a bit too heavy and large to transport by hand. |
| A lot of space for things | |
| Nice Look | |
| You can easily stand up while fishing | |
| The boat comes with D-rings installed on both sides to install an anchor trolley easily |
Final Thoughts-Best Inflatable Kayak for fishing
We want to demonstrate that inflatable fishing kayaks are not all made equal. However, the best ones share characteristics that ensure you will love them for a long time.
No matter which models you choose, make sure you familiarize yourself with it and get used to it before beginning to fly fish from it. You’ll discover that operating an inflatable fishing kayak, especially standing up in it, takes some getting used to. Once you’ve mastered the technique, we’re confident you’ll have a blast and realize that fishing from an inflatable fishing kayak raises the bar.