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In the market for a fishing kayak? The choices can be daunting!
The first major decision you’ll make when picking your kayak is to decide on a sit-on-top fishing kayak or a sit-in kayak. If you don’t know which style is best, we’ll help you narrow things down by looking at the pros and cons of each style and a few other key factors.
Want to cut to the chase and skip some of the details? Sit-on-top kayaks are best for fishing.
Sit-on-top kayaks are the top choice of kayak among fishermen. They are extremely stable boats with a lower learning curve in proficiency and safety than sit-in fishing kayaks. They even make models stable enough to stand on while fishing.
If you’ve never paddled in both a sit-in kayak or sit-on-top kayak, I’d recommend renting from a local outfitter and trying out each style of kayak first. Granted an outfitter may not have fishing kayaks available but you can get a good idea of each kayak style before shelling out the big bucks.
Similarities of Sit-On-Top vs Sit-In Kayaks
The design of a kayak’s hull along with length and width are the primary factors that affect their tracking and speed. When analyzing these factors, there is little difference between a sit-on-top and a sit-in kayak if you’re comparing kayaks of the same type with the same hull shape, length, and width.
Primary Factors When Picking a Fishing Kayak
There are a few factors to consider when picking a sit-on-top fishing kayak vs a sit-in…
- Your type of fishing
- Your style of fishing
- Your kayaking skill level
- The type of water you’ll be fishing on
- The location such as open water or tighter confines
- Water temperature
- Air temperature
- Wind speeds
- Type of kayak which may be dictated by the water you’ll be on. (i.e. river, ocean, or lake)
- Will you want a fishing kayak that you can stand up in?
- Manufacturer
- Price
These and other factors will help guide you toward the right kayak. Some will dictate whether a sit-on-top kayak or sit-in kayak is best. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of these boats.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks
Though sit-in kayaks may offer certain advantages for fishermen, sit-on-top kayaks have become the top choice. Sit-on-top kayaks provide ease of use that’s hard to beat.
Sit-on-top kayaks have a wide, open deck that you sit on top of. Your legs aren’t enclosed inside the kayak like a sit-in kayak. Everything is on top of the kayak, including the foot braces.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks Pros
Warm-weather kayak: Sit-on-top kayaks are great warm-weather paddling boats that allow the paddler to get wet without filling up the kayak with water. Water often splashes up over the deck or casts on you from the use of your paddle. You may also get a little splashing from the scupper holes as well.
Self-bailing: Sit-on-top kayaks have scupper holes that allow water to drain off the deck. If you want to block the splashing that comes up through the scupper holes, they do make scupper plugs and scupper valves but they’re generally left open in warmer weather.
To learn when you might block the scupper holes, check out The Ins And Outs Of Sit-On-Top Kayak Scupper Plugs.
Skill level: Sit-on-top kayaks have a lower learning curve in proficiency and safety.
Easy to get in and out: Whether you’re getting in and out of your kayak in open water to cool off, avoid obstacles, or wade fish, sit-on-top kayaks are far easier to get in and out of than sit-in kayaks.
Stability: The trend in fishing kayaks is toward wider, bigger, more stable boats specifically designed for fishing.
Ability to stand up while fishing: A wider kayak gives you the ability to stand up while fishing, however, these kayaks are slower than their narrower counterparts. If you’re not going to stand in your kayak to fish or if you value the ability to get to the fish faster or to cover more water in a day you may not want a wide, slow boat.
Variety: There’s a great variety of types and styles to accommodate your fishing style.
Fishing accessories and savings: Most sit-on-top fishing kayaks come standard with many extra fishing accessories that will save you money over having to buy kayak fishing accessories separately and install them. If you, however, want to customize your own kayak with specific fishing accessories you have the ability to do so.
More space and easier access to your gear: Sit-on-top kayaks have plenty of room for your fishing, kayaking gear, electronics, and other items you’ll be bringing on your kayak fishing trip. Watertight hatches, tiedown areas on the hull, and a dedicated area behind the seat are a few storage features you’ll want to look for when purchasing your kayak.
Far more kayaks and options to choose from: The demand for sit-on-top fishing kayaks has driven the market. There are many more options available to fishermen when looking for a sit-on-top.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks Cons
Wet: Sit-on-top kayaks can be a wet ride. Being wet in warmer temperatures isn’t always bad, but being wet in cold weather and/or water conditions can lead to hypothermia. A dry suit may be needed for warmth.
Exposure to weather conditions and water temperatures: If the temperatures of the air or water are cold, you’ll be cold if you aren’t wearing a dry suit. Rain, heat, snow, wind… Sit-on-top kayaks leave you exposed to the elements more than a sit-in kayak.
Challenging in windy conditions: Sit-on-top kayaks are harder to control in windy conditions. An anchor or anchor stake will come in handy in windy conditions.
Higher center of gravity: The center of balance in a sit-on-top kayak is higher than the same width sit-in kayak making it easier to flip, however, wider kayaks compensate for this. But wider means heavier.
Heavier: The weight of sit-on-top kayaks often outweighs their sit-in counterparts. If you’re hauling a heavier kayak any distance overland you may need a kayak cart like this one from Sea to Summit.
Sit-In Fishing Kayaks
Sit-in kayaks are the more traditional kayak that most people think of when picturing a kayak. It has a cockpit that you get inside.
Sit-in kayaks are most popular in cold-weather areas of the country. These kayaks provide the ability to add a kayak skirt that goes around the kayaker and over the cockpit opening to close off the cockpit and keep water out.
Sit-In Fishing Kayaks Pros
Agility and speed: Sit-in kayaks provide you with greater speed, control, and maneuverability.
Lower physical demand on the paddler: Their design makes them easier to paddle, especially on long fishing excursions.
Lighter weight: Sit-in kayaks weigh less than sit-on-top kayaks making them easier to secure to your vehicle’s kayak carrier and easier to carry to the put-in point.
Easier to carry: The cockpit of a sit-in can be used for carrying the kayak on your shoulder.
Lower wind exposure: Sit-in kayaks don’t get blown around as much as sit-on-top kayaks. There’s less surface area exposed to the wind.
Reduced exposure to weather conditions and water temperatures: Being down in the cockpit of a sit-in kayak reduces your exposure to adverse air and water temperature. The use of a kayak skirt will further reduce exposure to the element to keep you comfortable.
Warmer rides: Sit-in kayaks are warmer rides which makes them great if you like to fish in cooler weather and using a kayak skirt will help trap your body heat inside your kayak’s cockpit, keeping you even warmer while reducing the odds of using your bilge pump. If you are looking for a fishing kayak with greater seasonal versatility, a sit-in may be right for you.
More waterproof storage: There is more waterproof storage in a sit-in kayak than that of a sit-on-top.
Sit-In Fishing Kayaks Cons
You’re lower to the water’s surface: With a sit-in kayak, you’re lower than in a sit-on-top. This can be a disadvantage for many fishermen.
Greater skill levels required: Greater skill levels must be learned with sit-in kayaks such as water exiting and reentry in case of tip over.
Hard to exit and reenter from the water: Sit-in kayaks are hard to exit and reenter without swamping the kayak.
Need for a bilge pump: If you’re not using a kayak skirt, you will have water entering the cockpit. You’ll probably need a bilge pump or sponge to remove the water.
Can get hot and stuffy in warm weather: There is little to no ventilation for your lower half in a sit-in kayak, none if you’re using a kayak skirt.
Less room for fishing gear: Sit-in kayaks have less room for gear and what’s available can be difficult to access while on the water.
Far fewer kayaks and options to choose from: The lower demand for sit-in fishing kayaks have reduced the availability of prebuilt sit-in models for fishermen.
Size, Weight, and Load Capacity of Fishing Kayaks
The size, weight, and maximum load capacity of your kayak are of great importance.
The average weight of a polyethylene sit-on-top fishing kayak is 77lbs and the average weight of a polyethylene sit-in fishing kayak is 52lbs.*
You have to be able to get your kayak to the water and your fishing kayak needs to be able to support your weight and the weight of your gear. If hardshell fishing kayaks are too heavy for you, an inflatable fishing kayak or a fishing float tube may be a great option.
Consider the size of your fishing kayak…
- Size and shape affect your kayak’s tracking and speed.
- Size is also a huge issue when storing and transporting your kayak.
You’ll be able to easily narrow down your search for a fishing kayak by browsing over the tables below. As you’ll notice, the manufacturers and outfitters have far more options for sit-on-top fishing kayaks than sit-in kayaks. This is due to the popularity and demand for sit-on-tops. It’s typically the go-to fishing kayak.
There are a few sit-in kayaks that are outfitted by manufacturers or outfitters for fishing. Most of these have limited accessories. If you’re looking for more than a couple of fishing rod holders, building out your own sit-in fishing kayak is often necessary.
Need a tandem kayak? They have those too and having a buddy to help haul your kayak and gear to the put-in can be a great help.
( * The average weight figures listed are based on the fish kayaks we have listed below.)
Extra Weight of Fishing Kayak Accessories
Weigh your options when it comes to kayak fishing accessories. The added weight can increase quickly.
Fins, rudders, pedal drive, motor drive propulsion… Their weight adds up. But at the same time, many of these features add ease and convenience to kayak fishing.
They even have fishing kayaks for two if you’re looking to go with a buddy or family member.
I have included inflatable fishing kayaks with the sit-on-top kayaks. If you’re looking for a sit-on-top fishing kayak but having issues with their additional weight over that of a sit-in, inflatable fishing kayaks make for a great alternative.
Related Content: Design Features To Look For In An Inflatable Kayak
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak: Size, Weight, and Maximum Load Capacity
There are two types of sit-on-top kayaks in the lists below the standard hardshell and the lower-weight inflatable kayak. If you’re looking for a sit-on-top fishing kayak but have concerns about the additional weight over that of a sit-in, inflatable fishing kayaks make a great alternative.
Advanced Elements (Inflatable Fishing Kayaks)
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
StraitEdge Angler PRO | 10ft 6in | 38.5in | 400lb | 45lb |
Aquaglide (Inflatable Fishing Kayaks)
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chinook 90 | 9ft | 35in | 250lb | 19lb |
Blackfoot Angler 110 HB | 10ft 6in | 37in | 400lb | 32lb |
Chinook 120 | 12ft | 41in | 500lb | 29lb |
Blackfoot Angler 125 HB | 12ft 8in | 39in | 600lb | 38lb |
Hobie
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mirage Passport | 10ft 6in | 34in | 325lb | 65lb |
Mirage Passport 12 | 12ft | 34in | 400lb | 73lb |
Mirage Compass | 12ft | 34in | 400lb | 68lb |
Quest 13 | 13ft | 28.5in | 350lb | 71lb |
Mirage Compass Duo | 13ft 5in | 35in | 475lb | 92lb |
Jackson Kayak
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Coosa 12 | 11ft 2in | 32in | 350lb | 65lb |
Bite Angler 11 | 11ft 6in | 36in | 400lb | 84lb |
Cruise FD | 11ft 10in | 33in | 400lb | 85lb |
Liska 12 | 12ft 1in | 34in | 400lb | 84lb |
Yupik 12 | 12ft 2in | 34in | 425lb | 84lb |
Kilroy | 12ft 4in | 31in | 375lb | 72lb |
Coosa HD 12 | 12ft 6in | 34in | 425lb | 78lb |
Mayfly 12 | 12ft 8in | 35in | 450lb | 89lb |
Kilroy HD 13 | 12ft 10in | 36in | 450lb | 93lb |
Cuda HD | 12ft 10in | 33in | 425lb | 85lb |
Kraken 13 | 13ft 3in | 30.5in | 350lb | 72lb |
Big Tuna 13 | 14ft 2in | 35in | 500lb | 92lb |
Ocean Kayak
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Trident 11 | 11ft 6in | 30.5in | 305lb | 71lb |
Malibu PDL | 12ft | 34.5in | 450lb | 100lb |
Prowler Big Game II | 12ft 9in | 34in | 550lb | 70lb |
Malibu II XL Angler Tandem | 13ft 4in | 34in | 450lb | 74lb |
Prowler 13 | 13ft 4in | 28in | 325lb | 56lb |
Trident 15 | 15ft 6in | 28.5in | 455lb | 91lb |
Old Town
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Topwater 106 | 10ft 6in | 34.5in | 440lb | 73lb |
Topwater PDL | 10ft 6in | 36in | 450lb | 76.5lb |
Topwater 120 | 12ft | 33.5in | 500lb | 82lb |
Topwater 120 PDL | 12ft | 33.5in | 500lb | 83.3lb |
Predator 13 | 13ft 2in | 33.5in | 425lb | 86lb |
Predator PDL | 13ft 2in | 36in | 500lb | 117lb |
Pelican
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Catch 100 | 10ft | 34in | 350lb | 54lb |
Catch 110 Hydryve | 10ft 6in | 34in | 350lb | 67lb |
Catch 130 Hydryve | 12ft 6in | 34in | 425lb | 78lb |
Perception
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Crank 10.0 | 10ft | 35in | 350lb | 75lb |
Pescador 10.0 | 10ft 6in | 32in | 325lb | 57lb |
Pescador Pro 10 | 10ft 6in | 32in | 325lb | 57lb |
Outlaw 11.5 | 11ft 6in | 35in | 425lb | 77lb |
Pescador 12 | 12ft | 32.5in | 375lb | 64lb |
Pescador Pro 12 | 12ft | 32.5in | 375lb | 64lb |
Pescador 12.0 Pilot | 12ft 5in | 33.75in | 525lb | 85lb |
Pescador 13.0 Tandem | 13ft | 34in | 500lb | 69lb |
Riot
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Escape 12 | 12ft | 30.3in | 300lb | 66lb |
Star (Inflatable Fishing Kayaks)
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Challenger | 10ft 8in | 38in | n/a | 27lb |
Rival | 12ft 6in | 38in | n/a | 31lb |
Pike | 12ft 8in | 38in | n/a | 45lb |
Wilderness Systems
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Radar 115 | 11ft 6in | 36in | 500lb | 85lb |
A.T.A.K. 120 | 12ft 3in | 35in | 400lb | 86lb |
Tarpon 130 | 13ft | 32in | 375lb | 72lb |
Radar 135 | 13ft 6in | 34in | 475lb | 90lb |
Tarpon 140 | 14ft | 28in | 375lb | 68lb |
* Manufacturer claimed kayak weight may exclude features like the seat and pedal drive.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak: Size, Weight, and Maximum Load Capacity
Ascend
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
FS10 | 10ft | 30in | 325lb | 57lb |
Old Town
Perception
Model | Length | Width | Max Load | Weight* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sound 9.5 | 9ft 6in | 28in | 300lb | 38lb |
* Manufacturer claimed kayak weight may exclude features like the seat and pedal drive.
Final Thoughts on Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayaks vs Sit-In Fishing Kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks offer ease and convenience for fishermen that sit-in kayaks don’t have but each style of fishing kayak has its advantage. There is no real right or wrong. It’s best to make a decision after trying out different styles and brands to determine which type might be best for your fishing style.
If you’re looking to save money on the purchase of a fishing kayak, look for those specifically sold as fishing kayaks or angler kayaks. Purchasing a kayak already outfitted will be less expensive than building out a custom fishing kayak.
Have fun out there and stay safe. Always remember to carry the necessary kayak safety equipment.
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Really digging the breakdown between sit-on-top and sit in kayaks. I’ve always been a sit-on-top guy for the ease of access to my gear. Makes it a breeze when you’re constantly casting and moving spots. Good stuff, Steve Hood.
Loved the article! Always a debate in my circle whether to go for a sit-on-top or sit-in, especially for those Instagram-worthy expeditions. The pro and con lists are super helpful for anyone getting into kayak fishing. Thumbs up, Steve!
Nice comparison! Was wondering about the tech advancements in these kayaks. Any insights on integrated fish finders or GPS systems in models from Hobie or Old Town? Would be cool to see how tech is enhancing the fishing experience.
While I appreciate the detail on the kayaks, I believe this article misses out on a critical aspect: the learning curve associated with sit-in kayaks, especially for fishing. It’s not just about comfort or accessibility but also about control and handling in different water conditions. Curious to hear others’ experiences.
Got to agree with PaddlePusher here. I’ve found my sit-in kayak to be much more maneuverable in rivers and streams. Sit-on-tops are great, but they don’t cut it for me in faster water.
Awesome overview! As someone who rides the rapines and aims for the big catches, I find the comparison super valuable. Looks like I might lean towards a sit-on-top for my next purchase for that extra stability and access. Cheers!
Very informative. I’ve used both types of kayaks in my quiet lake excursions. There’s something about being close to the water in a sit-in that’s just peaceful, especially for nature watching. But for fishing? It’s got to be sit-on-top for me. Easier to deal with the gear and keep stable.
This comparison is gold for anyone like me who’s in the market for a new fishing kayak. The detailed pros and cons tell me exactly what I need to know. Sit-on-tops are looking like the go-to for my competition needs. Easy access to gear is crucial in a timed competition. Thanks for the insight.
While I appreciate the effort in putting together a list of kayak brands, I find it somewhat lacking in depth. Brands are one thing, but what about the performance specifics? Speed, stability, tracking – that’s what really separates the men from the boys in kayak fishing.
Found myself nodding along reading about the size, weight, and load capacity. It resonates with my struggle transporting and maneuvering kayaks as I’ve gotten older. Simple, clear info here. Makes me weigh the pros and cons of trying an inflatable for my next fishing trip. Could be a game changer.