The Best Ocean Fishing Kayaks [Top 10 Gear]

What makes the best ocean fishing kayak? Is it stable? Its maneuverability? Whatever floats your boat! In reality, however, no matter what type you choose, an ocean fishing kayak has a number of qualities that make them superior to other types of boats.

Ocean kayaking is one of the fastest growing sports in North America. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), more than 7.1 million Americans participated in outdoor recreation last year. And with good reason: Kayaking offers unparalleled freedom on water, allowing visitors to explore remote areas. There are several ways to enjoy this sport, from flatwater paddling to whitewater rafting, but one particular form stands out: ocean kayaking.

However, if you’re not prepared with the right gear, it can be a complete disaster. We’ve rounded up the 10 best fishing kayaks for the ocean that have everything for safe sea kayaking.

Top 3 Ocean Gear

Preview
Best Overall
Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Pedal Fishing Kayak (Photic Camo)
Best Value
Wilderness Systems Atak 120 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 12' | Aqua
Editor Pick
BKC TK122 Angler 12-Foot, 8 inch Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Upright Aluminum Frame Seats and Paddles (Desert Sand)
Title
Old Town Sportsman BigWater
Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
BKC TK122U
Price
$3,249.99
Price not available
Price not available
Best Overall
Preview
Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Pedal Fishing Kayak (Photic Camo)
Title
Old Town Sportsman BigWater
Price
$3,249.99
Where to get
Best Value
Preview
Wilderness Systems Atak 120 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 12' | Aqua
Title
Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
Price
Price not available
Where to get
Editor Pick
Preview
BKC TK122 Angler 12-Foot, 8 inch Tandem 2 or 3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak w/Upright Aluminum Frame Seats and Paddles (Desert Sand)
Title
BKC TK122U
Price
Price not available
Where to get

The 10 Best Ocean Fishing Kayaks

1. Old Town Sportsman BigWater Kayak for Ocean

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater is a great fishing kayak for the ocean that has good stability with lumbar support. This is a sit-on-top kayak that comes with everything you need for your fishing trip. It’s hands-free navigation system allows you to easily maneuver the kayak with ease. And it has a weight capacity of 500 lbs. With its 13 feet 2-inch length, the kayak can carry up to two people at once!

The pedal drive is removable if you want more space within the boat or if you have problems storing it. The kayak also features cushioned floor pads and a custom tackle box for keeping all of your gear together. It has plenty of rod holders so that it doesn’t matter where you put them. There will be somewhere secure for them to be placed on board! The universal transducer mounting system allows easy installation of sonar systems into this vessel. That makes storage easier on those long trips away from home when storage space might get tight around camp sites. Check these out on video:

YouTube video

More key features are below:

  • Kayak length: 13 feet 2 inches
  • Seat capacity: 1 person
  • Load capacity: 500 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 96 pounds
  • Type: Pedal kayak

2. Vanhunks Bluefin Tandem Kayak

The Vanhunks Bluefin is a top rated tandem sit-on-top kayak that is manufactured from tough 5mm polyethylene. The UV protection infused in the molding process makes it strong and durable. The weight capacity of 550lbs ensures you can take along two people with ease. This 12ft long kayak has an effortless handling and maneuvering.

There are plenty of other features that make this paddleboard stand out such as ensuring stability and easy paddling. Features an ergonomic seating with adjustable backrests to recline when needed. And there’s even ample storage space with two bungee-corded equipment tanks fitted forward of each paddler’s seat. Key features are:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 550 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 77 pounds
  • Type: Tandem kayak

3. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

This is an advanced tactical angling kayak for anglers who want to fish from a sea. It’s compatible with the new Helix MD motor drive, so you can let your motor do the paddling. The customizable platform lets you mount anything from a camera system to an anchor trolley or other accessories. The unmatchable stability and wind-shedding deck offer unmatched comfort and control in the water. The patented suspension-style seat provides comfort and support for long periods of time on the water.

The High, Low and Recline positions allow for great visibility and stability when fishing offshore or below structure. Adjustable Keepers XL foot braces offer easy adjustment that locks securely into place—just press down on both sides. The padded footrests provide support and comfort when fishing all day long off rocky shores. More key features of these fishing kayak are:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet 3 inches
  • Seat capacity: 1 person
  • Load capacity: 400 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 86 pounds

See also: Fishing kayak less than $1000 and budget kayak $500.

4. Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

The Perception Pescador Pilot is the best ocean fishing kayak, with adjustable lawn chair seat and tackle storage areas.

The Lawn chair style mesh seat with 2-level seat adjustment allows you to rest your feet while paddling. The Pilot drive pedal system enables you to paddle with ease while enjoying the sights of the sea. Leak-proof one-piece construction with built in buoyancy ensures that you are protected from water leakage. Large front and rear open storage areas provide ample space for all your gear, including a cooler for drinks! Integrated accessory rails on each gunwale for fish finders will help you locate schools of fish.

The kayak length is 12 feet 5 inches, which means it can load up to 475 lbs on this kayak! This stability makes this boat very maneuverable in both flat water conditions as well as rough seas. Because there are no hard edges like those found on other models where people sit directly atop their vessel rather than inside it.

Lightweight, removable Pilot Drive pedal system makes it easy to transport when not in use. One handed rudder control will give you 360 degree turning radius so that fishing spots can be reached. So without having too paddle far away from shoreline – just steer until desired location has been reached then stop paddling! The Ergonomic mesh captain’s chair is comfortable and removable allowing easy access inside cockpit area. So no need worry about getting wet clothes wet before putting back aboard boat after casting line away from shoreline! Four molded-in rear rod holders for hands free storage while paddling away from shoreline chasing down those elusive trout. More key points of these kayaks:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet 5 inches
  • Seat capacity: 1 person
  • Load capacity: 475 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 85 pounds

Read more: 15 Best Lightweight Kayaks for Seniors

5. Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack Inflatable Kayak

The Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack is a great choice for ocean fishing because of its compact design. That makes it easy to transport and store. It features a reinforced hull made of 1000 Denier Reinforced PVC vinyl material. That provides protection from the sun’s rays, increases durability, and prevents punctures or leaks. The kayak also has customized front and rear spray skirts, reinforced side walls. That prevent accidental damage from collisions with objects in the water. And the comfortable seat designed for maximum stability even when paddling over choppy waters.

The Sea Eagle 385fta Fasttrack has a weight capacity of 635 lbs., so you can bring along all your gear. Its length is 12 feet 6 inches, which means if you’re tall enough then this kayak should fit you well. But if not then simply use knee pads when sitting down so they don’t rest on top of each other instead. There are many accessories available including paddles, spray skirts/skirts which attach around waist area providing protection against moisture. Looking for more information about these kayaks? Check below key features:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet 6 inches
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 635 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 45 pounds

6. BKC TK122U Tandem 2-3 Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak

If you’re looking for a dependable fishing kayak for the ocean that is stable and spacious, the BKC TK122U is perfect. This kayak comes with two adjustable aluminum paddles and has two waterproof hatches, which keep your gear dry.

The seats and backrests have multiple adjustment points so that you can make it fit just right. It contains UV protection, so your skin doesn’t get burned by direct sunlight while out on the water. Construction materials include single-piece roto-molded high-density HDPE, which is impact and abrasion resistant as well as waterproof! It also features dual storage hatches! Check more info below:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet 6 inches
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 770 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 74 pounds

7. Reel Yaks Fishing Pedal Kayak for Ocean

The Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak is a great option for anglers looking to hunt in the ocean. This fishing kayak has a 500-lb capacity and is suitable for adults. It’s stable, easy to handle, and it can carry you on long trips comfortably.

The Reel Yaks pedal kayak has an effortless foot drive motor that makes it easy to glide across the water. It also has an effortless pedal drive which helps you move quickly in different directions. This fishing kayak has a stable W hull shape for either seated or standing action. That making it great if you prefer sitting or standing while fishing or hunting down those fish! The large cockpit with 3 secure storage hatches make storing your equipment safe and secure! Even though this particular model weighs only 62 lbs., carrying it around isn’t difficult because of how light it is. More information about these kayaks are below:

  • Kayak length: 11 feet
  • Seat capacity: 1 person
  • Load capacity: 500 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 62 pounds

8. Perception Tribe Sit on Top Tandem Kayak

The Perception Tribe is a great kayak for fisherman who want to go out on the ocean with their friends. It’s easy to assemble and transport, so you can take it anywhere.

The Perception Tribe Tandem Kayak has a weight capacity of 500 lbs and can fit two people comfortably. It’s 13 feet 5 inches long, and it has an adjustable framed seatback with cushy padded seat pans.

It also comes with integrated footrests that provide added comfort during longer trips. The center hatch with built-in bag and protective lid keeps essentials handy, while the multiple footrest options allow for customizing your seating position as needed. You’ll find rugged side handles as well as convenient drink holders to keep you hydrated while out on the water. More key features of these tandem kayak are:

  • Kayak length: 13 feet 5 inches
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 500 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 67 pounds

9. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead is one of the best sea kayaks for steelhead fishing. It has everything a fisherman could want in an inflatable, including multiple scotty style mount attachment points and Rigid Dropstitch Floor for added durability.

The Steelhead boasts a front bow spray shield to keep you from getting wet when you’re out on the water. And the Halkey Roberts Locking Valves that are easy to use and won’t leak if they get punctured by debris. This kayak will be able to take care of business without any issues at all!

These kayaks ideal for beginners as well as advanced anglers alike! Want to know more information about these kayaks? Check below:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet 6 inches
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 600 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 44 pounds

10. Ocean Malibu Two Tandem Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak

The Malibu Two tandem recreational kayak is another highly rated sit-on-top model. It’s a versatile, stable boat that can be used for multiple purposes, from fishing to paddling with the family. The patented overlapping foot design makes it easy to get on and off the boat. And its sit-on-top hull means you won’t have to worry about getting wet when you step inside it.

The wide, stable hull of this kayak makes it ideal for beginners. It also has a usable weight capacity of 362 pounds—enough room for two adults! This kayak measures 12 feet long and weighs only 50 pounds; since it doesn’t weigh much at all.

The center seating position allows two paddlers who face each other while they paddle; this configuration works well if either person has more experience than their partner because they can help guide them through difficult waters or stop them from losing control of their vessel if necessary by grabbing onto their oar handles. For more key features please check below:

  • Kayak length: 12 feet
  • Seat capacity: 2 person
  • Load capacity: 362 pounds
  • Kayak weight: 57 pounds

Are you still confused about choosing the right fishing kayaks? Learn how to choose a kayak from here.

Final words

Fishing is one of the best ways to relax and enjoy nature. With the rise of e-commerce sites like Amazon, searching for dependable items has never been easier. I’ve tried my share of boats over the years, but I’ve found these to be the best ones I’ve owned. They are lightweight, stable, and durable. If you’re looking to try out something new that’s affordable, check out these 10 options today!

Matthew Koch

Hi, I'm Matthew, a passionate blogger and traveler. I'm also a hard-core hiker. Hiking with friends and visiting new places is what I live for. Currently, I'm working at Gear Odds as CEO & Columnist. I would like to provide my best outdoor experience possible.