Whether it’s a hobby or whether you see it as a form of exercise, kayak fishing is an enjoyable and relaxing activity that allows you to get out on the water in the outdoors. Many people enjoy the tranquility, peace, and solitude that comes with solo kayak fishing, but there are people who love sharing this experience with a companion, pal, or even a four-legged furry friend. The best tandem fishing kayak from well-known brands such as Intex, Lifetime, and more, and both with and without pedals ensure that you have great company while fishing for your next big catch. It also helps when one of you is excellent at operating kayaks, while the other is better at angling. So, you end up working in tandem to ensure a memorable fishing and angling experience for both of you.
The real challenge here is getting a craft that not only accommodates two people but also allows both of them to be comfortable at the same time. So, you need to look for not only fishing-friendly features but also whether the craft is comfortable for both of you as one will operate it and the other one will fish. Luckily for you, we’ve come up with a handy guide for choosing such crafts too. To that end, here are the 13 best tandem fishing kayak options from various brands and both with and without pedals.
How To Choose The Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks?
Material
When it comes to the build, the materials used to make kayaks influence their durability, functionality, and weight. The commonest materials used for constructing tandem kayaks are PVC, composite, and polyethylene. PVC materials, which are durable and puncture-resistant today are used for making inflatable kayaks. Not only are they extremely buoyant, but also they’re portable and can be folded and put into a backpack. The second material is composite fabric, which is a mix of fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon, making them both durable and strong. Moreover, they’re lightweight, making them very portable as well. However, they’re easily scratchable, and repairing them is a slightly complicated task.
One of the most popular materials for fishing kayaks is polyethylene, which is long-lasting, lightweight, and absorbs bumps and impacts without getting scratched. The only drawback? A lot of direct sunlight can cause the kayak to overheat and can become brittle in the long run.
Weight and weight capacity
The weights of tandem kayaks can go up to as much as 100 lbs, depending on their features, construction, etc. Since you’ll be two people who’ll be carrying the fishing kayak down to the water, weight shouldn’t be a problem. However, you don’t want it to be too heavy all the time and need to choose what you both can realistically carry to and from the fishing area with ease. Ideally, go for those that are more lightweight and come with other essential fishing features.
Next, we come to the all-important weight capacity of the kayak, which will dictate exactly how much gear you both can carry along with you. Usually, the weight capacities of two-person fishing kayaks range from 400 to 600 lbs, so you will need to check the weight of the fishing and kayaking equipment to make sure that it falls within the range. Also, the kayak’s materials come into play when it comes to weight capacity. For instance, a polyethylene tandem kayak with pedals or without pedals can hold more weight as compared to PVC kayaks.
Hull shape
The shape of the hull also typically is of three main kinds, V-shaped hulls, rounded bottom hulls, and flat bottomed hulls. V-shaped hulls are best for professional kayakers since they’re meant for long-distance fishing and can go at a high speed. They might be less stable, but can prevent themselves from tipping over to the side since they can turn on a dime, and maneuvering them is easier. Intermediate kayakers prefer rounded bottom hulls, as they can easily cut through the water and are faster than flat-bottom hull kayaks. However, they aren’t meant for choppy waters or rough surf. Finally, we have flat-bottomed hulls, which are perfect for beginners since they can be paddled easily and are extremely stable.
Fishing extras
Some of the features that you need to look for in fishing kayaks are tie-down straps for extra accessories, accessory pouches, and comfortable swiveling seats. You might also want to go for kayaks that are fixed with the Best Fishing Rod Holders, have enough space for the Best Tackle Boxes For Kayak Fishing, or come with rigid I-beam floors that allow you to stand for casting your bait.
What is the most lightweight tandem fishing kayak?
There’s no doubt that this title goes to the Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak, which weighs just 27 lbs! The reason? It weighs a mere 27 lbs! Not only is it the lightest kayak on this list, but it’s easily amongst the lightest kayaks ever. Even then, the weight capacity of this Elkton kayak is a whopping 450 lbs! A robust build, comfortable seats, and fishing-specific features such as rod holders and the likes make this a great tandem fishing kayak too.
Thanks to its many fishing-specific extras, the Cormorant has all the makings of an excellent fishing kayak. These include everything right from double-sided oars to the four trolling as well as two vertical rod holders. Going further, the double-action pump makes inflating and deflating an easy and hassle-free task.
Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T
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The first best tandem fishing kayak is also amongst the Best River Fishing Kayaks too – the Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T. One of the best tandem sit-on-top kayaks on this list, what both of you will like about this kayak is the hull. Made from a one-piece rotomolded polyethylene, it ensures amazing levels of durability, making sure that the craft doesn’t tip over even if both of you were to stand up. Plus, any and all water that enters the kayak can easily drain out, thanks to the scupper holes with plugs that come with the kayak. The craft is easy to paddle and maneuverable too, while the two plush seats allow you and your pal to stay comfortable on the water all day long without any leg or backache.
Going further, the kayak even comes with fishing extras such as mounting points for securing extra fishing accessories as well as two rod holders. Moreover, the spacious rear cargo space and bungee straps allow you to store everything from dry bags to coolers and tackle boxes. Finally, two six-inch sealed hatches store all your larger gear that cannot get wet, such as electronic devices and sleeping bags.
Specifications
- Weight: 72 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Durable.
- Stable and maneuverable.
- Includes two seats, two paddles, and two flush-mounted rod holders.
- Good storage space.
Cons:
- Heavy.
Sun Dolphin Sportsman 2 Man Fishing Boat
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It might not have pedals, but the Sun Dolphin Sportsman is an excellent tandem fishing kayak and also one of the Best Fishing Kayaks Under $700. For starters, the boat features both the rear as well as front motor mounts for installing the Best Kayaking Trolling Motors for excellent angling and tracking. Moreover, it comes pre-wired for electric trolling motors and is compliant with both the US Coast Guard as well as the CE standards. If that wasn’t enough, the hull and the deck of the boat are both coated well for protection against the harsh UV rays of the sun as well as saltwater.
Going further, the kayak can easily be tied atop your car and even sits easily in the back of your truck, in spite of being a hard kayak. What’s more, the flat bottom is perfect for standing up for casting your bait as well as getting into the boat quickly if you dive into the water. The removable and adjustable swivel seats ensure great comfort while you’re fishing. So, if a hardshell tandem kayak for angling is what you want, then this is the one.
Specifications
- Weight: 100 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Convenient handles for easy transport.
- Rear and front motor mounting system.
- Adjustable and removable swivel seats.
- A sturdy hull that’s UV-resistant and non-slippery.
Cons:
- Taller and larger people might find the deck space slightly lesser.
Lifetime Manta Tandem Fishing Kayak
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The Lifetime Manta Tandem Fishing Kayak is one of the widest kayaks on this list, which makes it one of the Best Fly Fishing Kayaks. Despite not having pedals, anglers love this Lifetime tandem fishing kayak as it boasts an excellent build and even better features. To start with, it has a huge weight capacity of 500 lbs, which means you and your companion can tag along as much gear as you want. Secondly, the Lifetime tandem kayak boasts a unique tunnel hull design that ensures stability for standing up while fly fishing to cast your bait without the boat tipping over. And even if the water enters the craft, the bottom scupper holes drain all the water immediately. After all this, it costs less than $700, thus offering a lot of value for a tandem boat.
But, that’s not all. The Lifetime tandem fishing kayak boasts a ton of comfort features, such as adjustable footrests that provide support to your back, butt, and legs and elevated seats that prevent you from getting wet. Plus, the carry handles make it extremely easy for you and your pal to carry the kayak to the water Rounding up the features are the bottle holder, the ditty trays, and the paddle push-buttons which are perfect for adjustment.
Specifications
- Weight: 66 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight.
- Stable and durable.
- In-built paddle cradles for stowing paddles.
Cons:
- Lack of a single dry storage hatch.
Intex Dakota K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
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One of the Best 2 Person Inflatable Kayaks, the Intex Dakota K2 2-Person Inflatable Kayak is also excellent for fishing expeditions with your pal. Costing $450, this is one kayak that offers a lot of bang for your buck. The robust and durable kayak is made from heavy-duty vinyl that’s also resistant to punctures. Thanks to the rigid I-beam floor, you and your companion can even stand up to cast your bait. It also has a lot of space for two people, including space for two adjustable seats with lots of legroom for stretching. Add to that the tons of storage space at the front and back, and you know why the Dakota K2 kayak is so popular with paddlers who go tandem fishing, despite not having pedals.
Aside from all of the above, the kayak even comes with two skegs for tracking well as well as two dry bags to stash your valuable gear and accessories in. Moreover, the grab handles at the front and the back makes carrying the kayak easy, especially since it’s two of you. Finally, the grab ropes are perfect for climbing back on the craft if you’ve taken a dive or an accidental fall into the water. If all this wasn’t enough, the kayak has a weight capacity of 400 lbs!
Specifications
- Weight: 30.6 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Comes with two dry bags and a carry bag.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Massive storage capacity.
- Strong build.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Ocean Kayak Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
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One of the best tandem fishing kayak with pedals is the Ocean Tandem Malibu Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak. There’s a lot to like about this reliable kayak, starting with the fact that it has one of the best stability features on this list. Add to that the tons of open deck space for both paddlers to stretch out and the decent top speed, and you’ve got yourself a gold mine of a boat. Designed from rugged and durable polyethylene plastic, the kayak is also resistant to abrasions, scratches, dents, UV rays, as well as saltwater. So, not only is it one of the Best Lake Kayaks that’s a tandem fishing kayak with pedals, but it can be taken out in the ocean as well.
Even though the kayak doesn’t have a rudder, it boasts a solid turn radius, allowing both of you to paddle and maneuver the craft easily. Additionally, the seats are completely adjustable and have multiple footwells that allow you to sit comfortably yourself in the craft. Plus, the well-padded bottom and back of the seats allow you to stay comfortable in the water all day long. A kayak that’s long-lasting, keeps you and your gear dry, and tracks well is certainly worth investing in.
Specifications
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Weight capacity: 425 lbs
Pros:
- Seats are adjustable and removable.
- Stable.
- Versatile.
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons:
- Not suitable for whitewater.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
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One of the Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1000 is also an excellent two-person kayak at that. Behold the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, a durable and robust kayak that is resistant to abrasions, scratches, salt water, and even UV rays of the sun. It’s practically unsinkable as well, all thanks to its three-chambered build. Thanks to the comfortable bucket seats adjustable floor-mounted footrests and ergonomic backs, you and your fishing pal can fish comfortably without leg aches or backaches all day long. The best part? It boasts a weight capacity of 400 lbs, which means that you both can take along all the gear you need with you.
However, what elevates it to the position of a great fishing kayak is the many fishing-specific additional features. These include the adjustable mounting bracket. It’s what makes installing additional fishing accessories such as the Best Kayaking GPS Units and the Best Kayaking Fish Finders very very easy. The boat even has two paddles and two swiveling fishing rod holders for angling hands-free or grabbing a bite. Finally, the massive storage space in the bow and stern means that you can stuff the craft with gear as well as your catch.
Specifications
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Removable and adjustable bucket seats.
- Simple to use and easy.
- Durable and stable.
- Integrated fishing rod holders.
Cons:
- Heavy.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak
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There are few tandem fishing kayaks without pedals that are so beloved by kayakers, and the rugged-looking Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is one of them. This Sevylor kayak is extremely durable, thanks to its 1000D tarpaulin and 8-gauge PVC build. Hence, the bottom surface of your kayak can withstand the harshest of abrasions, scrapes, and damages even if you’re out in the rocky waters. Even then, it doesn’t compromise on its weight capacity, which is a whopping 470 lbs! However, what anglers will really like about the kayak are all its fishing-specific extras.
These include the well-designed and high-quality Berkley rod holders, which allow you and your companion to take a break from fishing to grab a bite or such, with your rods sitting safely. Also, the kayak’s trolling motor fittings allow for attaching trolling motors and navigating through the waters for exploring more fishing grounds. Finally, you even have extremely convenient mesh pockets, which are indispensable for stashing snacks and beverages for the both of you for an entire day of fishing.
Specifications
- Weight: 40.5 lbs
- Weight capacity: 470 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight and durable.
- Resistant to abrasions, scratches, and punctures.
- Convenient mesh storage pockets.
Cons
- Tracking can be better.
BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak
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Brooklyn Kayak Company has been making some fantastic crafts over the last few years, and the BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak is no exception. Whether you’re kayak fishing with your pet pooch, your pal, or your partner, this is the perfect craft for you guys! Costing exactly $1000, the kayak weighs 74 lbs and has a whopping weight capacity of 770 lbs. So, it’s more than equipped to carry you, your companion, as well as all the kayaking as well as fishing gear that you could possibly want to carry. What makes this kayak great for fishing is the multiple fishing rod mounts that allow you to take a break for pictures or food, while you still continue to troll for fish.
There’s a lot to like about this fishing kayak, such as the well-designed and aluminum-framed seats with backrests, thus making both of you very comfortable all day long on the water. It also comes with two watertight hatches, two articulated rod holders, as well as two paddle keepers.
Specifications
- Weight: 74 lbs
- Weight capacity: 770 lbs
Pros:
- Flush-mounted rod holders for hands-free fishing.
- Secure watertight hatches.
- Tons of storage.
Cons:
- Heavy.
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
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There are two brands that’ll feature on almost all lists of the best tandem fishing kayak with pedals, one is Lifetime and the other is Intex. Behold the Intex Explorer K2 Tandem Inflatable Kayak, which also happens to be amongst the Best Folding Kayaks, thus making it extremely packable and portable between the both of you. Did you know that this kayak costs less than $90? It’s one of the cheapest kayaks on not just this list. If you both are starting out with kayaking, then the K2 Explorer the perfect option for practicing your paddling moves before venturing out to the sea. There’s a lot more to like about this inflatable tandem kayak, starting with the heavy-duty three-chambered vinyl build makes the kayak practically unsinkable. Plus, it makes it resistant to leaks and punctures as well.
What’s more, the kayak even has a rigid I-beam floor that allows both of you to even stand up to cast your rod and bait. The durable and rugged kayak even comes with a pump and an oar, as well as a repair patch kit for patching up any unforeseen leaks or punctures and getting you both safely to the shore.
Specifications
- Weight: 30.6 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros
- Quick and easy inflation and deflation.
- Comfortable seats.
- Durable and lightweight.
- Comfortable and stable.
Cons
- Slightly shallow for larger or taller people.
Ztotop 2-Person Inflatable Kayak
4
There’s no better kayak that combines the price, comfort, and capacity better than the Ztotop 2-Person Inflatable Kayak. If you’re looking for a portable and yet comfortable kayak, then this craft is perfect. For starters, this fishing kayak boasts two inflatable seats that can be adjusted to the comfort of both individual paddlers. There’s even a separate storage bag where you can put everything from your fishing gear and accessories to the precious catch that you haul. Since the craft has a maximum carrying capacity of 400 lbs, it can fit in both paddlers with any body type and size as well as all of their gear too.
Since the craft is made from heavy-duty materials, it’s resistant to abrasions, scratches, and even leaks and punctures. Even then, the makers have thoughtfully integrated a repair/patch kit into the package in case you were to run into an unforeseen puncture. Moreover, the included air foot pump makes for easy inflation, while the Boston valve makes for quick deflation before the craft can be folded for packable and compact storage.
Specifications
- Weight: 30.6 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Easy inflation and deflation with an air pump.
- Included repair patch kit.
- Adjustable seats.
- Ample storage space.
Cons:
- Not suitable for rough whitewater kayaking.
Lifetime Sports Fisher
3
Yet another excellent Lifetime tandem fishing kayak is the Lifetime Sports Fisher Kayak. There are a lot of positives about this kayak, such as the fact that it comes with two ergonomic side-conforming focus seats, complete with contoured backrests. It’s what keeps you comfortable all day out on the water. Moreover, the sides of the boat feature rod holders where you can store your fishing rods, thus making for hands-free fishing to give your arms some rest. If that wasn’t enough, the base of this Lifetime tandem fishing kayak is also slightly rigid, allowing you and your companion to stand up and cast your bait for fly-fishing!
Furthermore, the kayak even has bungee straps on the deck for securing your gear and valuables items. Since it’s made from durable polyethylene HDPE that’s also resistant to UV rays, it prevents the kayak from fading, cracking, or peeling. Hence, it lasts you a long, long while. Additionally, the bottom scupper holes with plugs ensure that any water entering the kayak immediately goes out. Clearly, this is one Lifetime tandem fishing kayak that you should definitely invest in.
Specifications
- Weight: 73 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Long-lasting.
- Lightweight.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak
2
If portability is what you and your pal are looking for, then you should definitely consider the Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak. The reason? It weighs a mere 27 lbs! Literally the lightest kayak on the list, the craft goes from box to boat, or rather from bag to boat in less than 10 minutes. However, the icing on the cake is that despite its lightweight nature, the weight capacity of the kayak is a whopping 450 lbs! This is thanks to the 1000D 18-gauge rip-resistant PVC construction, which also makes the craft resistant to rips, tears, and punctures. Besides being adjustable, the comfortable kayak seats also feature great back support that makes fishing for longer time periods a fun-filled rather than an aching experience.
Thanks to its many fishing-specific extras, the Cormorant has all the makings of an excellent fishing kayak. These include everything right from double-sided oars to the four trolling as well as two vertical rod holders. Going further, the double-action pump makes inflating and deflating an easy and hassle-free task.
Specifications
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Weight capacity: 450 lbs
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight.
- Comes with a ton of setup and accessories for fishing.
Cons:
- Despite the presence of the fin, tracking straight is slightly tricky in choppier waters.
Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak
1
We finally come to what is the best tandem fishing kayak, which is the Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak. This tandem fishing kayak might not have pedals, but it’s elegant and easy to use. For starters, it’s one of the few kayaks with not just a fun green color, but also a graphic and fun-looking design that makes you extremely visible out on the water. If that wasn’t enough, this bright green exterior also happens to the resistant to saltwater and UV rays. So, this kayak will stay in the same pristine condition for a long, long time to come.
But, that’s not all that’s great about this kayak. The Intex high-output pump makes inflation a five-minute task, while the Boston valves make it easy to deflate the craft after a long, long kayaking expedition. Rounding up the features are the two 86-inch aluminum paddles and the carry bag that makes even carrying this craft around after it’s been deflated an easy task.
Specifications
- Weight: 33 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros
- Tracks very well.
- Spacious cockpit.
- Removable seats with backrests.
- Easy inflation and deflation.
Cons
- Practically none!
