Fly fishing is perhaps one of the most thrilling forms of fishing, as it involves using an artificial fly as bait and a rod. Fly fishing is an excellent way of getting outdoors and enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the water. That said, fly fishing is an activity that requires a ton of dedication, practice, and skills. Since it requires a great deal of stability on the water, having reliable equipment always proves helpful in ensuring a large catch. This is why besides different types of fishing equipment such as rods, flies, etc., you also need to get good fly fishing kayaks with the best reviews. That way, you get to access a much larger fishing territory as well as successfully catch those schools of fish that lurk just beneath the water’s surface.
The fact of the matter is that you only have access to fish that wander within your cast’s range if you always fish from the shore. When you have a kayak, you end up finding new fishing grounds that haven’t been discovered by others yet. So, you’re guaranteed an excellent catch at an accessible and yet undiscovered yet ripe fishing ground. To that end, here are the 13 best fly fishing kayaks with the best reviews.
Why choose a fly fishing kayak at all?
Kayaks have been long used by anglers as stealthy vessels for fishing. However, if you’re a fly angler, you specifically need a fly fishing kayak. There are a lot of positives about a fly fishing kayak, starting with stability. Since casting a fly rod is more dynamic and active than lobbing a bait, you’ll most likely be standing up while fishing. Such kayaks are more stable with harder bottoms that make it easy for you to stand up. Secondly, they cost less than traditional kayaks and are easy to maintain. Thirdly, they can be transported very easily and are extremely maneuverable on the water. Finally, they even come with specific places for fly rods that allow you to have a more fulfilling and effective fly fishing experience.
How To Choose The Best Fly Fishing Kayaks?
Whenever you set out to do a specific activity, it’s important to invest in equipment that’s specific to that activity, such as Best Fishing Rods With Reel or Best Dry Bags For Kayaking. The same goes for fly fishing kayaks, which means that there is a certain set of aspects you need to look for before investing in them. So, what are they all about?
Types of kayaks
Kayaks are broadly divided into sit-on-top and sit-in kinds, of which the former is more suitable for fly fishing. Sit-in kayaks basically have a snug cockpit, are more secure, and are also faster, but are more suited for stronger currents. Sit-on-top kayaks, on the other hand, make casting easier since they’re more elevated than sit-in kayaks.
Stability
The first and foremost important factor when it comes to fly fishing crafts is stability. Since fly fishing requires frequent moving around for casting, retrieving, and landing the fish, you’ll need to stand up on the craft to perfect these movements. If your vessel keeps tipping over, then there’s really no point in the activity, isn’t it? So, it’s best to choose kayaks that measure at least10 feet in length, with the majority of the length being dedicated to the beam. If your kayak is more than 12 feet in length, then make sure that the beam measures at least 30 inches.
Deck
The next thing you need to consider is a flat deck that gives you more room and freedom to move around. In addition, it’s better to go for kayak models with clean-designed decks that have no clutter. They minimize the chances of your gear snagging in them and you tripping over. Ideally, fly fishing kayaks feature traction pads that make it safer to walk atop them even when they’re wet. One thing to note is that sit-on-top kayaks tend to offer more deck space due to the lack of a cockpit.
Storage and Weight Capacity
It doesn’t make sense to buy kayaks that can’t carry all the equipment you need for your kayaking trip, especially if it’s a multi-day one. So, look for fly fishing kayaks with storage enough to haul all your different types of gear, including sleeping bags, clothes, food, fishing lines, rods, flies, and more. Also, you need to consider the weight of the fish you’ll catch and where you’ll stow your catch. While some kayaks feature large water tanks, there are yet others that come with separate storage systems. Finally, look for kayaks with a watertight area to keep your valuables sans worrying about them getting wet.
Comfort and maneuverability
It’s very important that the kayak that you pick is comfortable; after all, you’ll be spending many man-hours in the craft. Look for kayaks with padded, cushioned, adjustable, and removable seats that are more comfortable than their counterparts. Also, look for supporting seatbacks and legroom that ensure better comfort for longer times. Another thing you need to look for is maneuverability, especially since fly fishing involves a ton of movement of hands and legs. In such cases, pedaling kayaks save you energy and keep your hands free for fishing. Paddling kayaks tend to consume energy and time and are more convenient for kayaking as a sport.
Perception Pescador Pro 12
13
One of the best fly fishing kayaks to get glowing reviews is the Perception Pescador Pro 12, which is also one of the Best Beginners Kayaks – so you know you’re set! The kayak measures a perfect 12 feet in length, making for an excellent fly fishing kayak. Its seat is not just removable, but also adjustable, and that too on two levels. Not only can it be elevated so that you can cast your bait and rod better, but also it can be lowered so you can paddle in a relaxed manner rather than furiously. If that wasn’t enough, the seat’s breathable mesh is a blessing for staying cool and comfortable on hot days out fishing on the water.
There’s a lot more to this kayak than the above, especially its many features that provide utmost comfort. To begin with, you will find two quick-to-adjust footrests so your feet and legs can relax and take a break. Moreover, the two integrated rod holders allow you to fish hands-free and rest your arms as well. Plus, the storage hatches at the front and back can hold all the gear imaginable. Rounding up the features is the in-built cup holder for your beverage and the fish finder console where you can install one of the Best Under-200 Fish Finders for a good haul.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs
- Length: 12 feet
Pros:
- Spacious and roomy storage hatches at front and back.
- Many extras including footrests, paddle park, rod holders, and a fishfinder console.
- Comfortable, adjustable, and removable seat.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Heavy.
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Wilderness System Tarpon 100 (CU)
12
The reliable Wilderness System Tarpon 100 kayak is what you need for a fantastic and successful fly fishing session, besides different types of flies. Not only does it have waterproof options, but also it provides a ton of storage. Measuring 10 feet in length, the kayak is pretty stable and steady and allows you to even stand up for casting your rod. Plus, with the absence of the pedal system, you have lots of room to stand up too. The kayak boasts a bevy of comfort features, such as the Phase 3 AirPro seat with a mesh cover to allow breathability and prevent discomfort during hot, sticky weather.
Thanks to the SlideTrax system, you can choose whatever accessories you want to mount on the craft, including additional rod holders. Finally, the two waterproof hatches at the center and on the bow provide you with lots of space and storage to pack all your gear with you.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs
- Length: 10 feet
Pros:
- Lots of storage at the front and back.
- Two waterproof compartments for gear.
- Comfortable mesh-covered Phase 3 Airpro seat.
- Stable and steady.
Cons:
- Weight capacity is slightly limited.
Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 Foot (CU)
11
One of the best value-for-money fly fishing kayaks that gets excellent reviews for budget anglers is the Sun Dolphin Bali 10 Foot. Costing less than $300, the kayak is also one of the most lightweight hardshell ones in the market, weighing all of 44 lbs. This makes it easy to control, paddle, and maneuver in the water. Thanks to the sealed storage hatches at the front and back of the kayak, you can store all the essential gear you need, despite the weight capacity being only 250 lbs.
The entire unit is quite sturdy and highly stable, allowing you to stand up for fishing without worrying about taking a dive into the water. The open cockpit design makes it easy to get in and climb out of, and the protective foot braces and thigh pads keep you further secure. Rounding up the kayak’s features are the deck rigging and paddle holders, making it excellent value for money.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Length: 10 feet
Pros:
- Comfortable seating.
- Affordably priced.
- Roomy and stable.
Cons:
- Low weight capacity.
Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler (CU)
10
If you’re looking for a kayak for speedily fly fishing in the ocean, then the Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 has some outstanding reviews. Not only is the craft stable that makes it perfect for fly fishing, but also it has excellent speed, thanks to its narrow hull that can glide across the ocean waves with dexterity. If that wasn’t enough, the kayak’s hull has a lifetime warranty, which just goes to show how sure the brand is about the quality of the unit. Thanks to the kayak’s build and weight capacity of almost 325 lbs, you can stow a lot of gear into the roomy hatches for your gear and catch both. On top of that, a bungee deck rigging is perfect for attaching any additional equipment that you might have.
The comfortable and padded seat makes fishing out on the waters even for the entire day an extremely comfy experience. Finally, the two cup holders, the molded footrest, and the two flush-mounted rod holders make fishing a hands-free experience, while even taking a breather or grabbing a bite or a drink. What’s more, it’s also one of the Best Under-$100 Fishing Kayaks you can find!
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 56 lbs
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs
- Length: 13 feet 4 inches
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty on the hull.
- Comfortable seats.
- Stability and high speed.
- Lightweight.
- Spacious storage.
Cons:
- Only two rods.
Hobie Mirage Compass Kayak (404)
9
If you’re looking for a fly fishing kayak with excellent tracking abilities, then look no further than the Hobie Mirage Compass Kayak. Ever since it launched, the craft has been used by anglers world over for fly fishing. Thanks to the MirageDrive paddle System. you are in control of the kayak while keeping your hands free for fishing. The driving frame is quick; in fact, it’s one of the quickest in the market. The seats offer further comfort due to being adjustable for lower back support.
However, one of the most standout qualities of the craft is the retractable rudder system, which is what makes it such an excellent tracking kayak. In addition, it’s equipped with four rod holders to cover more surface area. Since the kayak has a weight capacity of 400 lbs and multiple storage compartments, you can take all your gear with you, and then some.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 87 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Length: 12 feet
Pros:
- MirageDrive paddle system.
- Large weight capacity.
- Extra comfy seats.
- Stable.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Old Town Predator 13 (CU)
8
The Old Town Predator 13 is one of the fly fishing kayaks to have excellent reviews all around. One of the longest kayaks on this list, the craft has exceptional stability so you can easily stand up and fish without worrying about tipping over. Thanks to the textured deck, you have traction and grip as you stand, while the convenient assist strap assists you in moving from a seated to a standing position. Furthermore, the kayak’s seat can be adjusted between the ‘Attack’ and ‘Travel’ positions, depending on whether you’re casting your bait or are on your way to the fishing spot.
Moreover, the kayak also comes with two recessed tackle holders for you to store your different types of flies and bait for fly fishing, as well as keep them accessible. The kayak is also packed with features such as a watertight storage hatch, horizontal rod storage options, a fishfinder transducer scupper, and an inventive ModPod storage system.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 86 lbs
- Weight capacity: 425 lbs
- Length: 13 feet 2 inches
Pros:
- Dual tackle holders for holding different types of flies and bait for fishing.
- Two seating positions with stand-up assist strap.
- Large, textured deck.
Cons:
- Some users said that the weight capacity is slightly lesser than advertised.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado
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One of the Best Tandem Inflatable Kayaks that has excellent reviews for fly fishing is the rugged yet elegant Sevylor Coleman Colorado. This two-seater beauty is designed from 8 gauge PVC with a 1000D tarpaulin construction, and can thus take on all sorts of scrapes and damages. Furthermore, the craft’s stable and rather steady bottom even allows you to stand upright while fly fishing as well. Thanks to the airtight system and multiple air chambers, the kayak is virtually unsinkable and anti-leaking. Plus, since it was designed as a fishing kayak, you’ll find everything you want for attaching fishing accessories and attachments.
For one, it has trolling motor fittings from the brand that allow you to attach a motor for navigating the water body easily for fishing opportunities. Secondly, it also has Berkley rod holders that allow you to fish hands-free easily while grabbing a bite or a drink. Finally, there are even mesh storage pockets for stocking up on snacks and other food items for snacking during long hours of fishing.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 41 lbs
- Weight capacity: 470 lbs
- Length: 12 feet
Pros:
- Has space for all fishing accessories and extras you’d want.
- Lightweight and durable.
- Anti-leaking and anti-sinking.
- Convenient pockets for storage.
Cons:
- Tracking can be better.
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Lifetime Manta Tandem 10 Foot (CU)
6
One of the widest kayaks that’s great for angling and fly fishing trips is the Lifetime Manta Tandem 10 Foot. Since it’s also one of the Best Under-$700 Kayaks, it offers a lot of bang for the buck. Firstly, the tandem kayak has a huge weight capacity of 500 lbs, allowing you to tag along all and any gear you want. Secondly, the craft has a one-of-a-kind tunnel hull design that ensures excellent stability for fly fishing even while standing up. So, you don’t have to worry about the craft tipping over. Even if water does enter the kayak, the scupper holes at the bottom drain any and all water that enters the kayak.
At the same time, the boat is comfortable too, thanks to the elevated seats that keep you from getting wet and the adjustable footrests that provide support to your legs and back. The carry handles make it easy to transport it between the vehicle and the water, while the paddle push-buttons are ideal for adjustment. Finally, the ditty trays and bottle holder hold all odds and ends that are important to you and stay accessible on the water.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 66 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Length: 10 feet
Pros:
- In-built paddle cradles for stowing paddles.
- Stable with excellent tracking performance.
- Durable and stable.
- Lightweight and comfortable for a big craft.
Cons:
- No dry storage hatch.
Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 (404)
5
The high-quality, robust Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 is one of the best fly fishing kayaks for hands-free fishing. This is thanks to the two flush-mounted rod holders due to which you can take a break or even enjoy a bite in between your activity. Adding to the comfort of the activity is the paddle, the rudder at the back, and the adjustable frame. What’s even better is the rather spacious storage hatches at the rear and front. So, you can stash whatever it is that you need for a multi-day kayaking trip, and still have room left over.
While it isn’t exactly lightweight, the kayak is extremely stable. You’ll love the comfort offered by the Vibe Hero seat as well as the toe-controlled rudder system, both of which help save your energy in choppy waters.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 75 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Length: 13 feet
Pros:
- Excellent tracking and stability for fly fishing.
- Roomy storage hatches at the back and front.
- Comes with a number of essential fishing accessories.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Slightly heavy.
- Expensive.
Feelfree Lure 11.5 (CU)
4
Behold one of the best fly fishing kayaks with yet excellent reviews – the Feelfree Lure 11.5, which is equipped with a ton of features that make it absolutely perfect for fly fishing. Despite being just 11.5 feet in length, the kayak measures 34 inches in width, which makes it extremely stable. In addition to that, it has plenty of space allowing the freedom of movement that is needed while fly fishing. However, the absolute highlight is a standing bar that you can use to pull on for hoisting yourself up. If that wasn’t enough, there’s even a standing platform at the bottom where you can stand and fly fish!
Despite being somewhat heavy at 74 lbs, the kayak also has an equally ample weight capacity of 425 pounds. The Feelfree Gravity Seat is adjustable in four directions with the simple pull and push of a lever. Finally, the small, waterproof sonar pod is ideal for attaching electronic devices such as fish finders.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs
- Length: 12 feet
Pros:
- Two storage hatches and rod holders.
- Four-way adjustable seat.
- Standing bar and platform for stability.
Cons:
- Tracking is a bit difficult.
Perception Pescador Pilot 12
3
Are you surprised to see another Pescador from Perception on this list? Because we sure aren’t. Behold the Perception Pescador Pilot 12, another excellent fly fishing kayak from the brand with equally excellent reviews. With a 475 lbs weight capacity, you can literally bring all the gear you have and stash it onboard this boat. It’s also an excellent choice to go fishing hands-free, thanks to the pedal drive system that allows you to use your feet to power the kayak forward. What’s more, you also have the option to remove the pedal system if you want and use the paddle instead.
The kayak does great on ergonomics too. The craft boasts an ergonomic seat that’s designed to fit anyone and everyone and that too comfortably. Moreover, you’ll also find four in-molded rod holders that allow you to keep multiple fishing pole setups ready. So, you’re assured a large catch since you can use any of the setups whenever you need them. Finally, the Pilot 12 comes with tons of dry storage space too.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 85 lbs
- Weight capacity: 475 lbs
- Length: 12 feet 5 inches
Pros:
- Four in-molded rod holders.
- Three dry storage hatches.
- Ergonomic seat.
- Removable pedals.
Cons:
- Slightly expensive.
- On the heftier side.
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Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120
2
The fly-fishing-optimized Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 is one amazingly spacious kayak. One look at its cockpit and deck, and you know why it’s so popular with fly fishing enthusiasts. To begin with, it comes in a gamut of camouflage designs. Secondly, the kayak’s design is all about stability, thanks to the wind-shedding and low gunnels, and narrow, well-designed hull. Thus, it provides form footing sans sacrificing tracking or speed, for that matter. You’ll find it very easy to cast from this kayak without tipping, which is a necessity for the average fly angler.
The easily customizable layout of the A.T.A.K. means that it has everything the average angler will ever need, starting with spacious storage in the form of bow and stern hatches. The deck design is as clean as they come, while the scuppers drain any water that accumulates. Plus, it can accommodate side-scanning fish finders as well. The AirPro Max seat is adjustable to three positions and extremely comfortable. Rounding up the features is a removable pod perfect for hooking on transducer, cables, and battery.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 86 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Length: 12 feet 3 inches
Pros:
- Tech-friendly.
- Lots of storage.
- Low gunnels.
- Adjustable, comfortable seat.
- Clean deck.
Cons:
- No rod holders.
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NuCanoe Pursuit
1
Sitting atop the list of best fly fishing kayaks is the Pursuit from NuCanoe. The high-potential, high-performance craft is perfect for competitive kayak anglers. For one, it provides exceptional maneuverability and tracking. At the same time, it maximizes stability and speed, making it a stupendous craft for catching a large haul. The open-deck design provides anglers with complete control over the outfitting and configuration. Moreover, the brand-new H2ProDrive pedal system allows the craft to be powered by a motor, pedal, as well as paddle.
What you’ll really like about this kayak is all the space and that too for each and everything. To begin with, you’ll find internal rod tubes, heel braces, and a bow crate, and yet the kayak isn’t congested. Plus, it also has a custom-height pinnacle seat and cupholders on both sides. Finally, it also has hooks and places for creating a makeshift shelter in case it rains. Overall, this craft makes your journey relaxed and smooth, and not frustrating or tiring. It’s no wonder that this fly fishing kayak has such glowing reviews everywhere.
Specifications
- Style: Sit-on-top
- Weight: 93 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Length: 13.5 feet
Pros:
- Open deck.
- Speedy.
- Stable.
Cons:
- Attaching the seat takjes a bit of time.
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