...
What should I look for when buying a fishing boat or kayak?
There are many factors to consider when buying a fishing kayak including the following:
• Type – There are both inflatable and more heavy-duty kayak options to choose from depending on the nature of your trip. More traditional styles have room to mount accessories and come with other features.
• Performance – Consider whether the boat is easy to control, has the storage and rigging tracks you need, and how mobile it is.
• Stability – Due to the nature of boat fishing, stability is crucial when casting fish. A good width of around 30 inches and a flat bottom hull will help.
• Comfort – Fishing may require you to sit in your boat for long periods of time. Ensure the seats in the boat are comfortable and that you have room to move.
• Portability – Especially after rigged up with gear, your fishing boat may get heavy. Have you got a boat rack on top of your car for transport, and can get it comfortably into the water?
What's the difference between a kayak and a fishing kayak?
Recreational kayaks are often 10 to 12 feet long, while fishing kayaks have a shorter and wider construction. This helps anglers get better stability rather than the speed recreational kayakers are looking for. Fishing kayaks are also made with a sit-on-top design rather than a sit-inside design. This allows for ample space to place tackle, supplies, and other personal belongings.
To find more boat fishing essentials, browse our full selection of fishing gear.
