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Inflatable fishing kayaks have come a long way over the last few decades. The days of sitting in a glorified, floating dustbin with a couple of poorly positioned rod holders are a thing of the past.
The inflatable kayak has begun to rival the more traditional kayak thanks to its portability, ease of storage and general performance improvements. In fact, nowadays the best hull materials have such strong abrasion resistance you’d need some power tools to rip them. You can access shallow, rocky waters otherwise impenetrable by boat to fish where no man (or woman) has ever fished before. You can find out more in our guide to buying a fishing kayak.
In this post, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best inflatable fishing kayaks on the market. Kayaks that are tough, lightweight, easy to transport and require little maintenance. With something for every budget and level of experience.
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Table of contents
What makes a good inflatable fishing kayak?
At a minimum, a good inflatable fishing kayak must be durable enough to withstand the conditions you want to use it in, lightweight enough to carry and pack away, comfortable, stable and suitable for casting and landing a fish. Breaking this down:
- Durability: Typically a good inflatable fishing kayak is made out of reinforced plastic and rubber. This is usually measured in Deniers, with the strongest on the market coming in at around 2000 Deniers. Anything under 500 is not suitable for rougher fishing conditions.
- Transport: It should pack up into a pre-supplied bag that weighs no more than 25kg. The best models on the market weigh closer to 15kg than 25kg.
- Accessories: Most of the best inflatable fishing kayaks come complete with footrests, pumps, repair kits, adjustable seats and storage options. So make sure you get what you need.
- Stability and comfort: The kayak must be stable and comfortable enough for your needs. Longer, thinner kayaks are more streamlined but less stable. So less suitable for sea fishing. Both have their uses, but models that are around 11 – 12 feet long and 3 feet wide are ideal for rougher waters.
- Maintenance and setup simplicity: The kayak should be easy to deflate, inflate and repair when required with clear guidance on all the above.
- Steering: Kayaks with pedal options are superb for fishing and the highest-end inflatable fishing kayaks have built-in pedals and motor mount options. If you’re serious about landing bigger fish then you should opt for a kayak with pedals.
- Storage and loading capacity: if you’re planning longer trips you’ll need a kayak with ample storage and potentially a built-in cooler. For more serious fishermen or those setting out on expeditions you’ll want a kayak with a carrying capacity of nearly 200kg as a minimum
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What is the best inflatable fishing kayak?
The best all-around inflatable fishing kayak is the Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer Kayak. Made with the most durable fabric on the market it’s virtually rip-proof and capable of traversing pretty rough conditions with ease. The increased length and width make for a fast, stable ride with the option to add a fish-finder or motor onto the appropriate mounts.
Supremely comfortable, with outstanding storage and a carrying capacity suited to even the largest of gentlemen, sailing through rapids and portaging to camp has never been so easy.
At a glance
The 7 best inflatable fishing kayaks
Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer KayakBest overall inflatable fishing kayak
- Inflatable kayak with 261kg capacity – a beefed-up version of the popular Explorer Series
- A superb multi-purpose kayak that’s more durable and comfortable than any other inflatable
- Designed for comfort with an in-built adjustable ergonomic footrest, space to stand and cast
- A completely self-bailing kayak with 16 drain valves
- Accessory storage in the form of belts that run down the kayak
- 2000 Denier reinforced fabric – the strongest tear-resistant fabric in the market
- Motor mount can be purchased and attached
- No accessories supplied by the brand outside of a paddle and travel bag
Sea Eagle Boats
| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Inflatable Touring Kayak |
| Length | 11’5″ |
| Weight | 23kg |
| Load Capacity | 261kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 6 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 1 |
Sea Eagle’s 350fx is the best inflatable fishing kayak on the market and we really don’t see any argument to the contrary. The combination of outstanding stability, power through the water, ability to combat virtually any conditions and whopping 261kg of carrying capacity is unmatched. With a 2000 Denier strength fabric hull ripping it would be an extraordinary feat of incompetence.
Included with the kayak are six-rod holders and convenient accessory storage your fishing needs are more than met. A personal favourite feature is the in-built self-bailing system. If you’re out on long-tour or fishing expeditions you cannot do better than this kayak. At 23kg packed away, it isn’t the lightest on the market, but it’s well worth the extra weight.
Sea Eagle kayaks are the only inflatable fishing kayaks that have an in-built fish ruler and virtually indestructible hull fabric. 2000 Deniers is an incredibly stress-resistant fabric.
Elkton Outdoor Steelhead Inflatable KayakBest value inflatable fishing kayak
- Inflatable kayak with 181kg of load-bearing capacity
- Superb multi-purpose kayak that’s more durable and comfortable than almost any other inflatable
- Designed for comfort and distance casting
- Ultra-stable allowing for stand-up casting
- Adjustable seats and foot rests, providing ample comfort
- Great for those with longer legs
- No accessories supplied by the brand outside of a paddle and travel bag
| Price history for Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak – One-Person Angler Blow Up Kayak, Includes Paddle, Seat, Hard Mounting Points, Bungee Storage, Rigid Dropstitch Floor and Spray Guard | |
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| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Inflatable Kayak |
| Length | 10’10” |
| Weight | 17.7kg |
| Load Capacity | 181kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 5 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 1 |
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak (say that five times fast) is a brilliant inflatable fishing kayak. Stable enough to allow you to stand up and cast – which is truly revolutionary – with self-bailing drain valves, it’s remarkably sturdy. We really like the removable skeg feature(s) as it gives you A-class stability and direction in rougher conditions. Even better when you consider it is removable.
Made with 1000D reinforced PVC it’s built for fishing on the high seas and in pretty rough waters. Particularly if your trip is going to involve camping, and portaging with the potential for maintenance issues. The pack comes complete with a travel pack and pump so if you’re planning on staying overnight, the packing and re-inflating are relatively straightforward.
On a kayak, a skeg is a movable fin that adjusts the boat’s centre of lateral resistance, designed to keep you on the straight and narrow in rougher conditions.
Sea Eagle 385fta Inflatable Fishing KayakBest two-person inflatable fishing kayak
- Two-man inflatable kayak with 261kg capacity – a similarly beefy version of the popular Explorer Series
- A superb multi-purpose kayak that’s more durable and comfortable than any other inflatable
- Designed for comfort with an in-built adjustable ergonomic footrest, space to stand and cast
- Built-in rod, tools, hook and lure holders
- 1000 Denier reinforced fabric – with 2000 Denier reinforced sections
- Motor mount can be purchased and attached
- Less durable than its 350fx counterpart
eBay
| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Inflatable Touring Kayak |
| Length | 11’6″ |
| Weight | 20kg |
| Load Capacity | 261kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 6 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | Up to 2 |
Much like its superb cousin, Sea Eagle’s 385fta is just – and we mean just – second to the ever-robust 350fx. In terms of specs, it’s much the same. Powerful through the water with an outstanding load capacity to weight ratio and is loaded with fishing accessories. It’s better for two people than the fx version and – whilst it has the same weight capacity – is not as sturdy or as rip-resistant.
The hook, lure and fishing tool-specific storage and accessories are a really great addition. And like with the 350fx there’s a motor mount attachment for the serious fishermen. Particularly if you’re someone who likes a bit of company.
Although some portions of the kayak’s hull have been reinforced to 2000 Denier, the majority of the body sits at 1000. Still substantially better than most of the inflatable market and certainly no cause for concern.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak SeriesBest value two-person inflatable fishing kayak
- Extremely comfortable two-person inflatable fishing kayak
- Ultra-lightweight kayak made with durable, abrasion-resistant PVC plastic
- Comes complete with two paddles, repair patch kit, pump, removable skegs, adjustable seats and footrests – visible pressure gauge included
- Adjustable seats and footrests make longer trips much more palatable
- Resistant to UV and saltwater damage
- A mounting bracket for fishing accessories is an excellent addition
- Load-bearing capacity is low for two people
- Material is not designed for rough conditions
| Price history for Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Super Tough Laminate with Oars and Pump, 384x94x46cm, Multi-Coloured | |
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| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Two-person inflatable kayak |
| Length | 12’7″ |
| Weight | 21.2kg |
| Load Capacity | 181kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 2 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 2 |
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series is an excellent entry-level inflatable kayak. With a two-person capacity and adjustable footrests and seats, it’s built for longer trips. What sets this kayak apart – particularly at this price range – is the spring-loaded pressure valves designed for quick inflation/deflation and the plethora of accessories that come as part of the kit. Paddles, repair kit, removable skeg et al. This is better than some of the premium models on the market.
An obvious downside is the kayak’s weight capacity. Whilst 181kg is the market’s going rate for quality inflatable kayaks, that is for a single-person kayak. If you decide to use this kayak for two, your storage is very limited. And whilst it comes complete with some excellent fishing accessory storage in the form of a mounting bracket, there are only two-rod holders.
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Aquaglide Blackfoot Angler 130 Inflatable Fishing KayakBest touring inflatable fishing kayak
- Superbly comfortable, with supreme storage, drainage and grip
- Made with reinforced duratex PVC, about the most durable material in the market
- Comes complete with adjustable seats, fin, fishing cooler, storage bag, valve adaptor, river crossing bag and repair kit
- The best weight-storage capacity on the market
- Incredibly lightweight at just over 15kg
- Universal accessory mounts are brilliant for cameras, rods, cups and fishing gear
- Doesn’t come with a pump or paddles, which is a shame for the pricepoint
| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Touring inflatable kayak |
| Length | 13′ |
| Weight | 15.2kg |
| Load Capacity | 295kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 6 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 1 |
Aquaglide’s Blackfoot Angler 130 Inflatable Fishing Kayak is one of the very best inflatable fishing kayaks on the market. At 13′ long and 3 and a half feet wide it’s a giant vessel with outstanding stability, comfort and capacity to store everything you could need for the longest fishing trips. The accessories are outstanding – the cooler with fishing rod holders is a personal favourite.
Really what lets it down is the fact it doesn’t come complete with paddles, a pump or a PFD (personal flotation device). This is a shame given that at this price point, some kayaks have in-built fish finders. But that shouldn’t detract from the overall quality of the kayak and – if you’re planning long trips and need a lightweight, transportable option with substantial storage and comfort – the Blackfoot 130 is perfect.
The Blackfoot 130 is named after Montana’s legendary Blackfoot River. A snow and spring-fed river renowned for its trout fishing.
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Bote LONO Aero Inflatable KayakBest pedal-powered inflatable fishing kayak
- Pedal-driven kayak with paddle option available with a two year warranty
- Complete with removable fin, adjustable rod holders, removable paddle sheath, pedal port, repair kit, hand pump and travel bag
- Aesthetically our favourite inflatable fishing kayak on the market – the teak / wood combination is our colourway of choice
- The kayak’s flexibility and durability are truly superb
- Excellent array of removable accessories – a really flexible kayak
- Outstanding stability when casting
- Not the best weight – load-bearing capacity
- Pedal drive system sold separately
| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Inflatable kayak |
| Length | 12’6″ |
| Weight | 23.1kg |
| Load Capacity | 181kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 4 (2 trolling – 2 storage) |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 1 |
The Bote Lono Aero is an excellent inflatable fishing kayak and aesthetically one of the best on the market. It’s certainly our favourite-looking vessel. Whilst it doesn’t have the same weight to storage capacity as the Blackfoot or the equivalent durability of the Sea Eagle kayaks, it’s a pedal-powered kayak that’s suitable for stand-up casting thanks to its excellent stability. 23.1kg is 8kg heavier than the lighter models on the market, so it isn’t the best when it comes to transportation.
Unfortunately (there’s always a catch!) you need to purchase the pedal drive system separately. However, it does come complete with a removable fin, adjustable rod holders, removable paddle sheath, pedal port, repair kit, hand pump and travel bag. Which is substantially more than most. The two-year warranty is an excellent touch too.
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Hobie Mirage iTrek 11Best inflatable fishing kayak for any trip
- Exceptional quality perched seat, ultra-lightweight touring kayak made from durable 550 Denier PVC fabric
- Pedal and paddle-powered kayak designed for speed and comfort
- Perched seat unique in the market and provides ultimate casting and comfort
- Fitted weight of just under 13kg, ultra transportable
- Portable enough to be taken on a plane
- Kick-up fin technology makes accessibility through shallows, rocky or weedy areas simple
- Not suitable for rougher seas
- Fabric not as tough as some others on the market
| Technical Information | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Kayak Type | Inflatable kayak |
| Length | 10’8″ |
| Weight | 20kg |
| Load Capacity | 181kg |
| Fishing Rod Holder Locations | 4 |
| Rudder Control | Yes |
| Number of Persons | 1 |
The Hobie Mirage iTrek 11 is a pedal-powered kayak built for day trips and long, overnight expeditions. With a raised seat and built-in pedal drive system, it is supremely comfortable and one of the fastest inflatable kayaks on the market. The perched seat is brilliant for longer casts and the comparatively larger width-to-length ratio prioritises stability. And as it’s pedal-powered with patented kick-up fins, rougher seas and shallow waters aren’t a problem.
Really the only gripes are that the storage capacity isn’t the best (although more than suitable for most people) and that the hull material could be made to a more durable spec. Particularly given it’s designed for touring and travelling. However, a three-year warranty is the very best on the market and tantamount to how much Bote trust its product.
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FAQs
Are inflatable fishing kayaks worth it?
Inflatable fishing kayaks are worth it if you’re short on storage space or are looking for an ultra-portable fishing kayak option. Whilst they aren’t quite as durable as hard-shell kayaks, their pack-away, lightweight nature makes them a really viable option. The top-of-the-range models are more than stable enough to fish in calmer bodies of water.
However, if you’re looking for a kayak that will allow you to fish in all conditions, then a hard-shelled sea fishing kayak would make more sense.
What features should I consider when choosing an inflatable fishing kayak?
When purchasing an inflatable fishing kayak you should consider;
- Material: Higher quality inflatable fishing kayaks are made out of more durable material like PVC or urethane, designed to withstand abrasions and rougher conditions
- Load-bearing capacity: inflatable fishing kayaks cannot handle the same amount of weight as hard-shelled kayaks. So make sure you choose one that can hold your gear
- Size, comfort and stability: Of course, you need to choose a kayak is suitable for your weight and height. Wider kayaks are slower, but more stable and adjustable seats are always a good choice.
- Additional features: how many rod holders would you like? Where do you want the storage? Do you want a fish finder included? Or a built-in cooler.
What is the weight capacity of inflatable fishing kayaks?
The cheaper, lighter inflatable fishing kayaks tend to have a weight capacity of around 100kg. Which leaves very little room for additional equipment. Whereas the higher-end, largest inflatable models can hold up to 200kg.
Hard-shelled kayaks tend to have a weight capacity of 1.5 – 2 times that of their inflatable counterparts but are significantly less portable.
Are inflatable fishing kayaks OK for the sea?
Inflatable kayaks are generally OK to use in the sea as long as the conditions are not too rough and you have purchased a high-quality inflatable kayak. Cheap inflatable kayaks are not seaworthy and should not be used in anything other than the calmest conditions.
Even high-quality inflatable kayaks are not as seaworthy or stable as hard-shelled kayaks and are more prone to abrasions, punctures and damage. If you’re on touring or longer fishing trips, then inflatable kayaks are not the best option as they don’t have the same load-bearing capacity or speed through the water.
What is the best two person fishing kayak?
In our opinion the Sea Eagle 385fta is the best two-person inflatable fishing kayak on the market. With 1000D reinforced fabric (in some places reinforced with 2000D) it’s capable of traversing pretty rough ground. Which is even more important when you have a heavier load.
With superb accessory storage and a motormount for the most serious fishermen, this is a tremendous two person kayak that designed for comfort with space to stand and cast.
How much do inflatable fishing kayaks cost on average?
On average a mid-range inflatable fishing kayak will set you back around £3 – 400. The lowest cost models come in at around £100 and the very best on the market can cost in excess of £1,000. There’s a vast difference in quality, stability and durability at either end of the market and the cheapest options are not suitable for rougher conditions.
Are inflatable fishing kayaks cheaper?
Whilst inflatable kayaks tend to be cheaper than hard-shelled kayaks, you’re compromising on quality, stability and – potentially – your own safety. The cheapest inflatable fishing kayaks come in at around £100, but the most expensive in excess of £1,000. On average they are around 1/3 cheaper than hard-shelled kayaks.
However inflatable kayaks require pumps, repair kits and storage bags that don’t always come with the kit. This can make the cost of an inflatable kayak skyrocket as the initial outlay is compounded by these essentials.
Are there any maintenance or upkeep requirements for inflatable fishing kayaks?
Yes there are a few maintenance requirements to consider when purchasing an inflatable fishing kayak;
- Cleaning the surface: It’s important to clean the salt water and dirt off the surface to prevent any erosion
- Checking for punctures: like with a bike tyre you need to ensure there are no slow leaks, so it can be repaired with a puncture repair kit
- Drying: Drying the kayak after each use prevents mould or mildew from forming
- Storage: store away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place also preventing mould, mildew and UV-specific damage
Of course, you also need to keep an eye out for damage to spare parts that need to be replaced too.
How easy is it to transport and store and inflatable fishing kayak?
Compared to hard-shelled kayaks, inflatable fishing kayaks are supremely easy to transport and store. Most inflatable kayaks come with a carry bag that is easy to transport for an individual, which is arguably an inflatable kayak’s most prominent feature.
When it comes to storage inflatable kayaks pack away, making them easy to store even for city-dwellers. Again chalk and cheese compared to a hard-shelled kayak.
