Many anglers don’t have enough space or the ability to transport a large kayak. An inflatable could be the right choice for you if you have a small apartment or an economical car.
Don’t worry, inflatable kayaks aren’t expensive, and each one is a powerful fishing machine that can handle sharp rocks, branches, and shells with no fuss.
Here’s a complete buying guide and reviews of some of our favorite inflatable fishing kayaks.
Here’s a quick look at the top inflatable fishing kayaks.
- Hobie Mirage ITrek 11 –Best inflatable kayak for fishing
- Sea Eagle Inflatable 380X ExplorerThe Toughest Inflatable Kayak For Fishing
- Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler PRO
- Innova Halibut
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks Reviewed
Hobie Mirage ITrek11 – The Best Inflatable Kayak For Fishing
Material: 550 denier PVC
Weight: 44 lbs.
Length: 10′ 8″.
Width 40″
Capacity: 400 lb.
Although the Mirage ITrek 11 paddleboard is more popular than the kayak, it’s clear that Hobie’s Mirage ITrek 11 is an extremely tough competitor. The trek 11 is fast, stable, sturdy, and comfortable for serious anglers.
Hobie uses 550-denier PVC for the hull. While that’s tough stuff, the Sea Eagle is stronger. This being said, Hobie will not be threatened by a puncture and it is safe to take this ‘yak into difficult situations.
The trek 11 is extremely stable by design. It’s almost as easy to stand on dry land as it is sight fishing, so this is my top choice for fly angling.
Hobie is meticulous and spends a lot of time in the seat. It’s rigid, comfortable, high, and high. This makes it ideal for all-day adventures and gives you a great view of the water. Many people find it high enough to allow side-arm fly casting. Despite the elevated center of gravity, it feels solid.
The standard Hobie includes MirageDrive GT, a pedal-powered fin system that produces incredible torque and speed. It’s much faster than a paddle and can withstand current and wind. This inflatable is easy to “paddle” and has the included rudder. It is also the best for hard shell performance.
The deck space is ample and the 400 lb. You can carry everything you need. Even though the kayak does not have any fishing features, rod holders and tackle aren’t an issue.
Overall, I would say that I am very impressed. This inflatable is amazing. The only thing I dislike about it is its price. But, like most things, you get what you pay for.
Pros
- Capacity:
- Good handling
- Amazing peddle drive
- Amazing stability
- Excellent seating
- Very durable
Cons
- It’s expensive!
Sea Eagle Inflatable Explorer 380X Explorer – The Toughest Inflatable Kayak For Fishing
Material: 1100 Decitex reinforced PVC
Weight: 39.7 lbs.
Length: 12′ 6″.
Width: 3’3″
Capacity: 750 lbs.
Sea Eagle’s 380X Explorer whitewater kayak is a reliable and high-performing model. Many paddlers have heard about this inflatable’s remarkable performance in hull-crushing rapids. This kayak is tough, reliable, and easy to paddle, so it’s definitely worth considering.
The 380X Explorer is large enough to allow tandem seating. It weighs in at a staggering 750 lb. The 380X Explorer has a 750 lb. capacity. This inflatable is ideal for multi-day fishing trips, even with two adults aboard.
Space is more important for solo anglers than it is for others. If you can stuff this kayak with tackle, I will be impressed!
The 1100 denier reinforced PVC Sea Eagle uses on its 380X is designed for Class IV rapids, as well as all the punishment branches and sharp rocks can inflict. No inflatable compares in durability and I do not doubt how the kayak will handle hooks or other sharp objects.
Tracking and handling are acceptable but not as good as a hard shell. This is not a criticism. There’s no other way to get this kind of performance from an inflatable. The 380X is a good inflatable, with excellent rigidity and seaworthiness.
This ‘yak is buoyant by design so stability is excellent. This can make it easy to stand, which is great news for fly anglers who want to sight fish.
The 380X Explorer Explorer isn’t equipped with any fishing features. This issue can be solved with a bit of creativity and is likely to be worth it considering the quality of the inflatable kayak.
This inflatable tandem is the best choice for anglers searching for a great fishing partner.
Pros
- Amazing durability
- Large capacity
- Good handling
- Stability excellent
- Extremely spacious, solo or tandem
Cons
- No angling accessories included
Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler PRO
Material: Material:??
Weight: 45 lbs.
Length: 10′ 6″.
Width 38.5″
Capacity: 400 lbs.
Advanced Elements’ Straitedge angler Pro inflatable puts fishermen first.
Although the kayak’s basic material is not disclosed, it has a combination of rigid drop-stitch flooring and lots of aluminum-tube reinforcement that gives it exceptional rigidity. Performance is exceptional whether you are standing to cast or paddling against strong currents.
The fin box is used to improve tracking and mount an optional electric motor.
Advanced Elements added a fish ruler to the floor as a nice touch. This is something that every angler will appreciate.
Because it is high above the water, the anodized aluminum frame and fabric seat provide all-day comfort. You won’t feel any tippy at all, as the inflatable is stable like most others.
A slightly longer paddle would be a good idea, but the combination of beam and seat height will make reaching difficult.
The exposed aluminum tubes at the bow add rigidity to the innovative design I mentioned earlier. These tubes can also be used as 1″ rail mounts to attach a variety of accessories, such as rod holders or electronic mounting points. It must attach to a 1-inch rail.
This is a huge deal for many anglers as it can greatly enhance your fishing experience. Do you want to troll your ‘yak? It’s easy. You can run a fishfinder. It’s easy. You will need a flat surface to rig your tackle or cut bait. It’s simple.
Only your imagination can limit the possibilities.
Overall, the Straightedge Angler Pro impressed me. However, I would still love to know what material was used to make this inflatable.
Pros
- Capacity:
- Good handling
- Compatible with an electric motor
- Stability excellent
- Amazing customizability
Cons
- Is this inflatable durable? It’s impossible to tell.
Innova Halibut
Material: Nylon Synthetic Rubber over 1200-denier Polyester
Weight: 46 lbs.
Length: 12′ 3″.
Width: 38
Capacity: 441 lbs.
Innova’s Halibut inflatable looks the most like pool toys–there’s no doubt about that. But don’t judge books by their covers.
It is made of tough polyester and synthetic rubber. It offers real-world durability and can withstand impacts and pokes. Innova uses fiberglass plates for rigidity and a hard, flat surface for mounting and seating. However, I don’t think I would be able to stand in this kayak. Although there isn’t enough to provide footing, your mileage may differ.
Secondary stability is great, so it won’t tip the ‘yak on its side. However, primary stability is only okay. This inflatable can create motion that is disturbing for anglers and will make it difficult to control.
This is not necessarily a deal-breaker but it does mean that fly angler are less likely to be able to fish for other species.
This kayak is not a weak design. Innova clearly thought of anglers when designing it. The inflatable seat is soft and comfortable. It has rod-holding pockets at the rear and the front mounting plate can easily hold electronics and a cannon-style holder for the rod.
Our verdict? Our verdict? The Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Pro may be the best choice for fishing, and it’s a little cheaper.