Love fishing?
What better way to spend an afternoon than casting a line in a river, lake or the ocean?
For some people, offshore fishing suits them just fine. However, for others, getting out onto the water, in a boat, is how they like to roll.
Unfortunately, not everyone can afford a boat. This is why fishing kayaks have become increasingly popular in recent times.
Not least because they are much cheaper than a small fishing boat. But also because they are easier to transport, clean and store.
Overall there is a massive selection of fishing kayaks available in Australia that range from budget entry-level ones to the most expensive, top-of-the-range ones which come with a wide range of features.
In this article, we will showcase 7 of the best fishing kayaks you can buy in Australia in 2023.
If you are an experienced fishing kayaker who is looking to upgrade to a newer model or a beginner who is relatively new to the pastime, there will be a vessel on this list for you.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
Best Fishing Kayak Reviews
Outlined below, in no particular order of importance, is a list of 7 of the best fishing kayaks you can buy in Australia in 2022.
Be sure to read them all to determine the best one for you.
Kayaks2Fish NextGenn 11 Kayak
Considered by many to be the ultimate fishing kayak, the Kayaks2Fish NextGenn 11 Kayak is a great model to get for those who believe you get what you pay for.
A single seater that extends for 3.3 metres, this top-of-the-range model weighs 33 kg and has a weight capacity of 190 kg, which means your dog or a pre-teen can easily accompany you on it, along with lots of your gear.
Pedal powered, this kayak comes with a rod holder, lightweight floatable paddle and paddle leash. It can easily take you long distances, thanks to its smooth fins which cut through the water as a hot knife does to butter and its easy-to-use hand control rudder system.
Made from a high-density polyethylene, which is both roto moulded and UV resistant, this kayak also has a very comfortable seat that comes with deluxe back support.
It also has bungee cord storage at its rear, as well as a sealed compartment which is located in front of the seat and is a convenient place to put your valuables.
Hobie Mirage Passport
While the Kayaks2Fish NextGenn 11 Kayak sits near the top of the range, the Hobie Mirage Passport IS at the top of the range. Certainly in terms of price anyway.
At 3.6 metres it is slightly bigger than the Kayaks2Fish version, and marginally heavier too, at 37.65 kg. However, this single-seater has almost 10 kg less of a weight capacity than the Kayaks2Fish.
Another pedal power model, which means you will have your hands free for fishing, taking photos or taking a quick drink of water, this model also includes a seat, as well as a paddle, track mounts and 2 rod holders.
This kayak is very easy to manoeuvre – all it takes is a simple walking-style motion to swathe through the water. You can also adjust the pedals too, to ensure you are operating it in the most comfortable position.
In addition, there is a handle right by your seat which is connected to the rudder. So you simply need to move it in the direction you want to go. Also, there are a set of kick fins underneath the pedals, which help you manage your course.
While these standard fins will see you powering easily through the water, you can even choose to upgrade to turbo fins to achieve even more power.
The seat features breathable mesh, which means you can comfortably sit in it for a very long time, even on the hottest of days. Unlike many other fishing kayaks on the market, the padded seat is also raised, which helps to keep you dry, and has a good backrest.
These seats can even be completely removed so you can use them as stand-alone chairs to sit on the banks of a river, or by the shoreline of the beach or lake.
When it comes to fishing, the kayak provides plenty of room for you not only to store your gear but also to stand up and cast a line directly on it.
Kings Pro Fishing Kayak
While the previous two options will put a dent in your finances, the Kings Pro Fishing Kayak is one that won’t put as much.
One of the cheapest fishing kayaks on this list, this single-seater is still a decent 3.3 metres in length. It also weighs in at 32 kg and also has a weight capacity of 175 kg, which is not bad either.
Despite being cheap, it has more than enough features to ensure your fishing experience is a good one. This includes a foot control rudder, 4 rod holders and plenty of space to put all your gear.
In addition, it also has a paddle holder, adjustable footrests that ensure you will also be in a very comfortable position to paddle and a storage compartment at the front which is designed for you to
put clothes, or other items you don’t want to get wet.
Behind the seat, there is a bungee cord storage area, as well as another small area which is perfect for storing valuables like your wallet, keys and phone.
A good choice for first-timers, this kayak has a width of 83 cm which makes it very stable. It also possesses an extra deep v bow that ensures it can handle choppy and calm water with equal aplomb. While its flat footwell enables you to stand steady whilst fishing.
Further features include a camouflaged colour, which makes it easy to blend into the water whilst fishing, as well as a couple of aluminium accessory rails which allow you to tie a range of other gear items to it too.
It also has extra tie-down points throughout, as well as the option of adding both a motor mount and an electric trolling motor.
All things considered, this is a perfect option for those who are new to kayak fishing or don’t do it all that often.
Kings Deluxe Kayak
Another option that falls at the cheaper end of the scale is the Kings Deluxe Kayak.
Unlike the other options, it is available as a single or double-seater. The single option measures 2.85 metres, weighs 26 km and has a 145 kg weight capacity, while the double is 3.7 metres long, weighs 34 kg and has a huge weight capacity of 250 kg.
Although not officially marketed as a fishing kayak, these models do come with a brace of built-in rod holders, as well as three separate storage areas for their gear, should anyone want to cast a line.
Made from a high density, rotomolded polyethylene, these kayaks have a strong resistance to UV rays. They also strike the perfect balance between being durable, lightweight and providing you with enough space to be comfortable.
With a flat footwell, adjustable footrests and both front and back carry handles, this kayak is particularly suited to the calmer waters of lakes and rivers. However, it also has a transom and deep bow which means it can hold its own on choppy waters.
Also boasting a separate storage area for your valuables, this is a good general-purpose option for those who like to fish and kayak.
Pryml Spartan Compact Fishing Kayak
For those wanting a lightweight fishing option, the Pryml Spartan Compact Fishing Kayak is a very good one to consider.
At just 17.2 kg in weight, it is extremely light as fishing kayaks go. However, with a weight capacity of 100 kg it should be able to accommodate the majority of adults.
Measuring only 2.35 metres in length, this single-seater model isn’t packed with features. Though it does come with all the essentials like a paddle, a swivel rod holder and two flush rod holders. The latter of which means you can have two fishing rods simultaneously on the go.
It also has a good amount of storage too, which takes the form of a sealed compartment at the front and a decent-sized bungee cord storage area at the back. While its two side carry handles and one front handle make it easy to transport to the water.
Considering its low price, this kayak represents outstanding value for money and is a very good option for those on a budget.
Intex Excursion Pro Fishing Inflatable Kayak
For those after a tandem kayak option that is also very lightweight the Intex Excursion Pro Fishing inflatable Kayak ticks lots of boxes.
Measuring 3.83 metres, there is plenty of room for two, so long as your combined weight is less than 180 kg. It also only weighs 17.4 kg, which considering it is inflatable is actually quite sturdy.
Don’t let the fact that this is an inflatable kayak fool you into thinking it is not a good option for fishing. For a start, it is easy to transport to any waterway you visit, especially those remote, hard-to-reach places where it is not feasible to carry a full-size kayak.
Also as it is made from very tough PVC laminate that has a polyester core, it is highly resistant to the impact of sunlight or any kind of damage from abrasion.
The kayak comes with two-rod holders and two adjustable bucket seats, which ensures you will always be comfortable on the water. It also features two paddles, a mounting bracket, a pressure gauge and a pump.
An excellent safety feature of this kayak is that it has three different chambers. This ensures that if one section of the kayak gets punctured the other two will keep you afloat.
At both the front and back of these kayaks, you will find plenty of storage, and there are also stainless steel d rings which are great for securing dry bags and other bits of your gear.
The Intex Excursion boasts high-pressure valves that are spring-loaded, which makes for very easy inflation and deflation. It also has two removable skews which will help you effortlessly glide through the water.
Offering superb value for money for those who don’t want to outlay a huge amount of money, this kayak is very well suited to an adult and child who want to fish together.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
If the thought of buying an inflatable double-seater kayak has piqued your interest, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is another option you should consider.
At 3.05 metres it is a lot smaller in length than the Intex Excursion. However, it weighs just 16.8 kg, so is even more lightweight than it, despite having the same weight capacity. Its smaller size also makes it more manageable when it comes to storing and transporting it.
Puncture-resistant, this very durable kayak is made from 18 gauge PVC. It also features an 840 denier nylon cover and a 1000 denier tarpaulin bottom, as well as multiple chambers which ensures it stays afloat even if one punctures out.
For fishing, the kayak comes with two adjustable rod holders, as well as the capacity to add a Sevylor trolling motor should you want to glide through the water faster.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a lot of room to store your gear it does have some convenient D rings to tie down some of your stuff, as well as mesh pockets.
With adjustable seats and paddle holders, this inflatable kayak is a very good option for those who want a lightweight option that is easy to store.
For easy inflation and deflation, it also has a double threaded valve, which also features an airtight system which is guaranteed not to leak. Although it does not come with paddles or a pump.
Conclusion
So there it is! Our review of 7 of the best Fishing Kayaks you can buy in Australia in 2022.
All of these kayaks are made of very good quality and are designed for angling enthusiasts who have different needs.
Whichever one you choose, is up to you. But rest assured they are all designed to ensure you have a fantastic time fishing on the water!