What comes to your mind when someone mentions the best stand up fishing kayak? It may conjure up thoughts of sitting down in a boat while paddling along. However, an experienced angler will tell you that fishing necessitates frequent standing ups. Just like a sit-on-top kayak, the best stand up fishing kayak also comes with seats. The difference occurs at the center of the deck where you can stand on one of the two platforms.
Note, you can still fish while standing up using a typical boat or a paddle board. In this article, we will focus on stand up kayaks. Are you wondering how to choose one that suits your style and needs? We are your kayaking experts who are willing to help. We have compiled a list of noteworthy stand up kayaks as well as valuable advice on what to check when purchasing one. Keep reading our buying guide and review if you want to end up with the best model.
Advantages Of Stand Up Fishing From A Kayak
In summary, these are the benefits of using fishing kayaks you can stand up in.
A wider range of view
When fishing, you want to have the widest range of view of the water. Standing up from a kayak gives you just that. You can see deeper into the water and see further away. Plus, you can see impending obstacles and avoid them because your eyes notice more looking down than when looking across the water surface. These aspects are improved if you find the best stand up fishing kayak.
Good for your back
Many hours of sitting is a recipe for a backache. You can practice a healthier lifestyle by changing your fishing position from sitting to standing up. Don’t let your feet get numb or your back get sore. Get a stand-up fishing kayak and give your back a break – you will be able to fish longer.
Better positioning and improved accuracy
Casting is an important aspect of fishing. When standing up, you’ll be able to cast further and more accurately. You will be amazed how quickly your accuracy improves once you start fishing while standing on a kayak. A good point to note is you should use your arm strength to cast instead of using your entire body.
Easier pitching and flipping
It is easier to flip and pitch while standing up than sitting. These techniques are more successful when you get on your feet.
Easy access to your gear and storage area
When standing on a kayak, it’s easier to access your gear since you are better positioned. You can even multitask! But this depends on your experience. Not everyone likes standing up.
It takes time to get used to fishing from a stand-up kayak. Practice good balance and flexibility. What if you have never fished? All you have to do is practice and hone your skills especially on shallow waters, where everything is calm. This means you should start fishing as close to the shore as possible.
Always have a good personal floatation device no matter how far you are from shore just in case things go wrong. The more you fish, the more experienced you’ll become – you’ll be a pro before you know it.
What if you are not ready to stand up all the time? You can kneel on the Kayak’s platform. Kneeling is a happy medium and better than sitting all day long. It may not be as beneficial as standing up, but it’s a great option when you feel exhausted from standing on your feet. The most important thing is to be confident about stable positioning.
What Features Make A Kayak Good For Standing Up?
Are you ready to buy a new standing kayak for fishing? Want to choose from one of the many fishing kayaks in the market? Don’t panic. There are particular features to be mindful of if you want to get the perfect fishing companion. Depending on preferences and priorities, here is a short list of criteria you should take into account.
Size and weight of stand up kayak for fishing
Have you just started out with kayaking? Look for a stable design and find a weight you are comfortable with. An extremely light standing fishing kayak is more likely to lose stability so a heavier one is a good feature to look for, especially for beginners.
Did you know wider kayaks tend to be more stable than narrow ones? As a beginner, you may have issues trying to maintain a balance as you hold your fishing pole. That is why you need a wider and a heavier fishing kayak.
When it comes to size, look for a length that is easier to maneuver. Longer kayaks ranging in size from 10 feet are a bit difficult to maneuver, especially when navigating through tight spaces. Instead of choosing a longer model, go for a wider one.
How often do you plan to transport your kayak? Make sure it is portable if you like traveling. Some models are lightweight and also come with convenient handles. The weight of a stand-up fishing kayak will help you to gauge its portability.
Weight capacity and storage of stand up kayak
What is the maximum weight you plan to take with you fishing? This includes your body weight and other people if you aren’t fishing alone. Also, consider how many fish you want to carrying in the kayak. The best stand up fishing kayak should accommodate all this.
Don’t forget to give an allowance of extra weight in case you change your mind. You want a model that is safe for you and anyone else on board.
What’s the point of buying an expensive kayak only to have it wrecked by poor storage? Every kayak needs proper storage whether you are using it or not. Find out how to store a kayak before spending money. When transporting a kayak, ensure it is clean and completely dry. It is a no-brainer that lightweight designs are easier to store than heavier ones. Use a suitable storage bag and learn more tips for kayak storage.
Design of stand up kayak for fishing
The perfect design of a stand-up kayak for fishing depends on personal taste. A good rule of thumb is to go for a futuristic design that offers the best features. If you prefer a retro-looking model, you might miss out on current trends. Longer kayaks can move fasterbut there should be a balance between the length and the width to maintain stability.
Do you want to stand out from the rest of the anglers while on the water? You might want to pick a bold design. If you are more into neutral hues, choose shades of white, beige, black, ivory, gray, and taupe. Or you could choose a more exciting design with multiple colors or camo.
You must be careful when standing up on a fishing kayak. Some kayak designs are easy to get in and out while others are difficult. Read the product description from the manufacturer to see if it’s a beginner-friendly or a complex model
Flat Hull
The kayak’s hull is the skeleton on which the rest of the body sits. If you take a close look at several kayaks, you’ll realize they never have a similar shape. Some might look almost alike but their designs vary significantly. The reason behind this is the hull shape. The shapes vary from rounded, pontoon, v-shape, and flat.
A flat hull has fewer obstructions, making it easier for you to find balance in a kayak you can stand on. Moreover, the shape allows for a variety of uses. A flat hull is not only perfect for fishing but also for playing in the water. Depending on other aspects like curvature, width, and length – a flat hull can be easier to maneuver due to a higher level of stability.
Comfort of stand up kayak for fishing
This is probably the most important factor to consider in a stand-up kayak for fishing. It takes several hours of fishing to enjoy the optimal experience. For the time you’ll be on the kayak, you want to feel comfortable and a few accessories will come in handy. One is a strapping system that helps with standing. The other is an elevated seating platform that allows you to sit once in a while without losing your view.
If you plan to fish for long hours, you will need a break once in a while. Standing on a kayak the whole day can be tiring. The best stand up kayak comes with adjustable thigh support and foot sections for better comfort when sitting in the cockpit. Also, look for cushions and changeable sitting positions to ensure the ultimate fishing experience.
Top 10 Best Stand Up Fishing Kayak of 2019 & Buying Guide – Part 2
In the world of fishing kayaks, there are a lot of choices. Many companies make fishing designs of their most popular models. From tiny singles you can toss in the back of your truck to 14-foot long monsters with all of the options, check out these fantastic vessels before making your next kayak purchase. Here’s our list of the top fishing kayaks.
BKC UH-TK181 Sit On Top Tandem 2 Person Fishing Kayak – Best Stand Up Fishing Kayak in 2019
BKC’s UH-TK181 is a tandem kayak with lots of storage. It includes some great features for anglers and is an all-around stable platform for any fishing you enjoy.
Brooklyn Kayak Company makes and sells kayaks and paddleboards from their New York City facility. Their goal has always been to create easy to use vessels that come ready to enjoy the water, whether fishing or just paddling around.
BKC’s stand up fishing kayak is perfect for anyone looking to paddle with company. Without a second person on board, the boat may be a bit harder to handle in some conditions, but still offers a lot of flexibility and storage options.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 12 feet 5 inches long, 34 inches wide
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Weight capacity: 440 pounds (two people)
Pros
- Built for fishing with seven rod holders, waterproof compartments, and paddle rests
- Includes two paddles and two seats
- Five colors to choose from
- Lightweight and easy to carry compared to other tandem options
Cons
- Tandem kayak may not paddle well when used solo
- Molded seats limit load balancing options
If you want a tandem boat, the BKC UH-TK181 is the best stand up fishing kayak. It holds lots of gear and comes ready to go fishing!
Check on AmazonLifetime 10 Foot, Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak – top rated kayak you can stand up in
Lifetime’s 10-foot tandem features a uniquely designed cockpit that allows you to install seats nearly anywhere. This is a great benefit if you aren’t always going to be paddling with a second person. The company says it can hold two adults and one small person, so it has plenty of space and storage capacity for a kayak you can stand up in.
Lifetime manufactures many products out of the same high-density polyethylene plastic they use for their kayaks. From outdoor sheds to playground equipment, Lifetime is an expert at outdoor plastic products.
This boat is great if you occasionally fish with others or take the family out for a day on the water. You can rig it for a solo fishing trip one day or sightseeing with your significant other the next.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 10 feet long, 36 inches wide
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds (two or three people)
Pros
- Flexible design allows you to position the seats and load anywhere along its length
- Pontoon design gives great stability for standing up
- Footwells are comfortable to stand in
- Three built-in rod holders
Cons
- The short and wide design may make it difficult to control in stronger wind and waves
- Limited storage options with only one hatch in back
- May be difficult to rig coolers and extra gear due to molded design
- May require aftermarket seats for comfort
Lifetime’s 10-foot stand-up kayak is a great value and offers a lot of flexibility when you rig it. If you plan to divide your time on the water between fishing and family fun, give this boat a good look.
Check on AmazonHobie Mirage Outback Kayak – Best Angler Stand Up Kayak
Hobie’s Mirage Outback is a beautiful fishing kayak that has some fantastic features. Hobie’s “Mirage Drive” allows you to peddle through the water instead of paddling, freeing up your hands for casting and reeling in the big ones. Furthermore, the kayak looks sharp and has plenty storage in the bow locker and hatches.
Hobie manufactures stand up paddleboards, surfboards, and their famous Hobie Cat sailboats, along with several fishing kayaks you can stand up in. Many models feature their foot-powered Mirage Drive, a unique feature among kayaks.
Hobie kayaks with their foot-powered drive system are a favorite among anglers since they allow you to navigate the boat and control the rod at the same time. It also provides another exercise, allowing you to use your leg muscles.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 12 feet 1 inch long, 33 inches wide
- Weight: 99 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Peddle-powered Mirage Drive allows you to fish while moving
- Rudder included
- Comes with a comfortable seat and paddle
- Designed for fishing with rod holders, great storage, and easy to install fishfinders
Cons
- Much more expensive than other options
- Limited fishing features
- Heavy to carry
The Outback is a great looking boat and it’s one of the cheaper boats that include the Mirage Drive system. It’s outfitting options are limited, especially when compared to other Hobie models. If you are looking for an excellent all-around kayak, the Outback is a fantastic vessel.
Check on AmazonHobie Mirage 180 Pro Angler 14 Kayak Golden Papaya – Best Fishing SUP Kayak for the Money
Another offering from Hobie, also featuring their Mirage Drive, is the Pro Angler standing fishing kayak. This boat adds non-skid flooring making standing easier and has an H-Rail mounting system for add-ons like extra rod holders, fish finders, and the like.
Hobie has successfully applied everything they’ve learned from years of building kayaks to building the perfect fishing kayak. Everything on this boat is for fishing, from the functional rail mount accessories to the perfectly implemented Vantage Seat.
This kayak is a fishing monster. The rail mounted accessory system opens up a world of options for any angler. No matter what fish you are hunting, you’ll be able to give it your best from Hobie’s Pro Angler.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 13 feet 8 inches long, 38 inches wide
- Weight: 120 pounds
- Weight capacity: 600 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Rail mount accessories make outfitting and rigging easy
- Vantage Seat provides a comfortable platform for long days with and an adjustable back folds for stand up fishing
- Paddle or peddle with Mirage Drive
- Built-in tackle boxes
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for transport to and from the water
- Most expensive option
If you’re looking for the best angler kayak, look no further. It’s big and it’s heavy, but it’s jam-packed with features that will make everyone else on the lake green with envy.
Check on AmazonVibe Kayaks Yellowfin 10 Foot Angler Sit On Top Kayak – High-Quality Fishing Kayak You Can Stand Up In
The sharp-looking Yellowfin 100 from Vibe Kayaks is described as a “throw and go” vessel. It’s ready to throw in the water and start fishing with included rod holders, loads of storage, a comfortable mesh seat, and two storage hatches, the Yellowfin is an excellent value for a stable and attractive fishing platform.
Vibe Kayaks makes rotomolded kayaks and coolers, perfect for the outdoor life. The company is based in Georgia and makes the best rated fishing kayak around.
The Yellowfin 100 is easily the best stand up fishing kayak for many reasons. For one, it’s a great value at 1/6th the cost of the Hobie Pro Angler. For another, it’s the perfect size and weight to be stable and still easy to carry. It comes with a comfortable seat, rod holders, and enough space and storage for you to rig and expand with any accessories you like.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 10 feet long, 32 inches wide
- Weight: 57 pounds
- Weight capacity: 375 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Built-in tackle box holders fit standard Plano boxes
- Flat deck with side-mount footrests makes standing up easy
- Hero Seat for all-day comfort
- Comes in four color combinations and is available with or without a paddle
Cons
- No solid colors available
- Shorter boat with a flat bottom may be more difficult to control in wind and choppy waters
We can see very few reasons not to like Vibe’s Yellowfin. This is the best stand up fishing kayak because it provides incredible space and stability in an inexpensive and easy to maneuver package.
Check on AmazonSUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-on-top Kayak – Best SUP Angler Kayak for the Money
Sundolphin’s Dolphin Bali SS is the best sit on top fishing kayak if you’re on a budget. This is a basic boat with few bells and whistles, but it will get you on the water and having fun in no time. It’s lightweight, so it’s easy to transport and easy to carry.Sundolphin is a Michigan based company that makes a full line of plastic kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats, fishing boats, and canoes.
With only a 250 pound capacity, this boat probably isn’t for you if you are going to load it up with all of the latest fishing gear. If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to get on the water with your favorite fishing pole, the Bali SS is a great choice.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 10 feet long, 30 inches wide
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Removable insert allows rear well to be used open for coolers or enclosed for a waterproof hatch
- Side-mounted foot braces leaves the deck clear for standing up
Cons
- No rod holders or other fishing specific features
- Molded seat and backrest may be less comfortable without an aftermarket seat
- Limited storage options compared to different designs
- Not self-draining
It may not be the best angler kayak for everyone, but if you’re a small person looking to hit the lake every once in a while, this Sundolphin is hard to beat.
Check on AmazonLifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle – Great Fishing Kayak You Can Stand On
Lifetime’s Lotus kayak is a small vessel perfect for calm lakes and creeks where you don’t need a lot of gear, and you don’t want to carry around a large kayak. The boat is short and lightweight.
Lifetime makes several models of kayaks, along with outdoor furniture and playsets for kids.
Even smaller and lighter than Sundolphin’s Bali, the Lotus is easily transportable. It’s probably not the best stand up fishing kayak as it lacks sufficient stability unless you are a small person.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 8 feet long, 30 inches wide
- Weight: 38 pounds
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Lighter and shorter than other options means it’s easier to transport
- Self-draining
- Large rear well for cooler and gear storage
Cons
- No rod holders or other fishing features
- Molded foot braces limit standing options
- Shorter vessels will be harder to paddle and control
- Only available in blue
It won’t win any races or beauty contests, but the Lotus is an excellent value for an easy to carry boat. You’ll need to plan on spending some money on aftermarket accessories like rod holders and paddle mounts to make this a true angling kayak.
Check on AmazonSUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Bali SS 12-Foot Sit-on-top Kayak – Good Fishing SUP Kayak for the Money in 2019
This 12-foot version of Sundolphin’s Bali SS makes the most stable kayak for fishing. It’s a little more expensive, but the extra two feet of waterline length gives you great stability and almost 150 pounds more carrying capacity.
Sundolphin makes a complete line of value-priced kayaks, so if you’re looking for one that is smaller or bigger, give them a look.
Sundolphin’s 12-footer is a sharp looking vessel with all the right features. Its open cockpit does not self-drain, but it has lots of space to stand up. The open foredeck gives you maximum flexibility for storing your gear, and the Portable Accessory Carrier is a nice feature.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 12 feet long, 29.5 inches wide
- Weight: 48 pounds
- Weight capacity: 395 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Wide open foredeck storage area and rear compartment give much flexibility for rigging
- Flat and open cockpit deck comfortable for standing
- Good looking design tracks well and offers plenty stability
- Two flush mounted rod holders
- Available in red, green, or blue
Cons
- Cockpit and rear storage areas are not self-draining
- You may want to upgrade the seat
The Bali 12 SS is one of the nicest kayaks you can stand up in. It comes with a few rod holders and has plenty of space and stability to expand it however you like.
Check on AmazonLifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak – Best Stand Up Fishing Kayak for the Money
Lifetime’s Tamarack Angler is designed for fishing. It’s one of the top-rated SUP kayak for fishing since it comes with rod holders and a self-bailing cockpit.
Lifetime makes a variety of vessels for outdoor fun, and a few are fishing specific. The company also brings us the Lotus. Their kayaks are value-priced and offer competitive features.
As a kayak you can stand in, the Tamarack Angler is limited since it has molded-in foot wells that limit where you put your feet. It does offer rod holders, a self-draining cockpit, two storage compartments, and a large aft well.
Key features and benefits
- Size: 10 feet long, 31 inches long
- Weight: 52 pounds
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Fishing version includes two flush rod holders and one adjustable rod holder
- Padded seat with adjustable back
- Available with or without a paddle
Cons
- Built-in foot braces limit places to stand up
- Rear storage hatch is unreachable with a cooler on board
- Only available in olive green
For a 10-foot boat, the Tamarack has a limited capacity at 275 pounds. The molded footwells will make standing and moving around more difficult. Regardless, it is a well thought-out boat with some fishing features that make it worth a look.
Check on AmazonSUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Journey 12-Foot Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak – Most Stable Kayak for Fishing You Can Stand Up In
The Journey 12-footer from Sundolphin is a fishing specific version of the Bali 12 above. This model features rod holders and a different color selection. There is also a paddle holder and a big, adjustable seat. With so many features, it’s no wonder the Journey is one of the top rated SUP kayaks out there.
Sundolphin, who also brought us the Bali SS 10 and 12-footers, offers several versions of the Journey.
For a 12-foot kayak, the Journey provides significant weight capacity and excellent stability. It’s a great looking kayak that will make your fishing buddies think you spent a lot more on your boat than you actually did!
Key features and benefits
- Size: 12 feet long, 29.5 inches wide
- Weight: 48 pounds
- Weight capacity: 395 pounds (one person)
Pros
- Built for fishing – includes rod holders
- Self-bailing cockpit
- Open deck for standing
- Large foredeck storage
- Useful Portable Accessory Carrier for rear deck or towable storage
Cons
- Limited color choices
- The seat is low, so you may want to add an aftermarket chair
This best rated fishing kayak is a great choice given it’s excellent carrying capacity and built-in fishing features.
Check on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions About Stand Up Kayaks for Fishing
There are a varieties of kayaks, and choosing one is a tough choice. In the end, it comes down to balancing how you are going to store and transport your kayak with how much capacity and stability you need out on the water. Here are some answers to your most asked questions about fishing kayaks you can stand up in.
Question #1 – Is there a weight limit for kayaking?
Each kayak design has its own maximum capacity. The amount of load a kayak can safely handle while still maintaining stability depends upon its length, width, and hull design. Most sit-on-top kayaks have a generous weight capacity, but if you are looking to carry a lot of fishing gear be sure to check. Kayaks that are 12 feet or longer offer the most capacity and stability, but are heavier and harder to transport.
Question #2 – What is the average weight of a SUP kayak?
Plastic kayaks differ in weight depending on their size and the thickness of the high-density polyethylene plastic they are made of. These kayaks range from 40 to 100 pounds or more. Thinner and lighter kayaks will be more prone to damage and scratches from rocky shorelines and mishandling.
Question #3 – What is the average length of a SUP kayak?
While there are a few outliers, most kayaks for fishing are between 10 and 14 feet long. Shorter kayaks must be wider to maintain stability, and this will result in poor handling. Kayaks longer than 14 feet will be hard to get to and from the water, as well as being heavy and awkward to carry. A 12 or 14-foot long boat will offer the best balance of stability, maneuverability, and storage for all of your fishing gear.
What is the best SUP kayak for fishing?
In our opinion, the best stand up fishing kayak is easily the BKC UH-TK181 Sit On Top Tandem 2 Person Fishing Kayak. If you are looking for a smaller boat or are not interested in a tandem, be sure to also check out the Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 10 Foot Angler Sit On Top Kayak. If you want the ultimate, fully-loaded fish hunting machine, don’t miss the Hobie Mirage 180 Pro Angler 14 Kayak Golden Papaya.