Best Beginner Kayaks

Review & Comparison, Last Update March 26, 2024
If you are new to the kayaking sport and want your journey to start off well, you need to purchase some proper gear. Here, we have selected beginner kayaks that will allow you to enjoy this outdoor activity safely and easily. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Dimensions
Max Load
Material
Extras
Accessories
Weight
Warranty
 
PROS

This model features 3 deck plates with waterproof cargo bags that will protect your clothes, smartphones, and other valuable belongings. The cargo storage area offers a lot of space for storing fishing equipment.

CONS

The sit could be more comfortable. 

OUR VERDICT

This model is the best choice for those who want to learn how to use a kayak in a very short time. The footpedal-operated rudder gives you full control over the watercraft. You can also learn how to turn it with a paddle.

detailed parameters
Type

1-person fishing kayak (solid)

Dimensions

11.5 x 2.83 feet

Max Load

450 lbs

Material

Rotomolded single-piece high-density polyethylene

Extras

Below deck storage areas, Rear cargo storage area, 2 x fishing rod holders, Carrying handles and paddle holders

Accessories

Seat, Paddle, Rudder

Weight

68 lbs

Warranty

5 years (accessories: 1 year)

PROS

The model features 2 spacious water bottle holders that allow storing thermos with hot drinks. The paddle keeper has a smart construction that ensures a stable fixation of the paddle so you won't lose it while kayaking.

CONS

As for a fishing kayak, the max load is relatively small. 

OUR VERDICT

If you don't have much experience in using a kayak, this model from Tamarack will fit the bill. Thanks to a sharp bow and tracking skeg, you will be able to control the kayak with ease. 

detailed parameters
Type

1-person fishing kayak (solid)

Dimensions

10 x 2.58 feet

Max Load

275 lbs

Material

High-Density Polyethylene

Extras

2 x deck plates with waterproof cargo bags, Front and rear cargo storage area, 3 x fishing rod holders, Molded-in foot braces, 2 x water bottle holders, Carrying handles and paddle holders

Accessories

Padded Seat Back and Seat Pad

Weight

52 lbs

Warranty

5 years

PROS

The set includes 2 paddles and 2 seats, so you don't have to buy them separately. The kayak also comes with a pump for quick inflating, a carry bag, and a repair kit that will let you quickly fix punctures. 

CONS

You may require some practice to learn to fold it tightly.

OUR VERDICT

The Intex Excursion Pro is a solid option for a couple of people if you want to take a journey on a quiet river or go fishing. Even when you go kayaking for a long time, you don't get tired with this one.

detailed parameters
Type

2-person recreational/fishing kayak (inflatable)

Dimensions

12.7 x 3.1 feet

Max Load

400 lbs

Material

3-ply super tough high molecular PVC

Extras

2 x removable skegs, 2 x floor mounted footrests, 2 x fishing rod holders, Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for accessories, Storage space in bow and stern with D-rings, carrying handles

Accessories

2 seats, 2 paddles, Pump, Pressure gauge, Carry bag, Repair kit

Weight

43.5 lbs

Warranty

3 months

PROS

The Airtight™ leakproof system will spare you the necessity of pumping up the kayak on a regular basis. Plus, this model comes with a mount for a mobile phone, GPS navigation system, fishfinder, and other important gadgets. 

CONS

The pump is not included in the set.

OUR VERDICT

The COLORADO™ 2-person inflatable fishing kayak is made of quality materials, so you can count on it even in difficult situations. What is more, you can easily turn it into a full-on motor boat since it comes with motor fittings.

detailed parameters
Type

2-person fishing kayak (inflatable)

Dimensions

10.75 x 3.25 feet

Max Load

470 lbs

Material

18-gauge PVC, 1000D tarpaulin bottom, 840D nylon cover

Extras

Airtight™ leakproof system, Mesh pockets, 2 x fishing rod holders, Trolling motor fittings, Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for accessories, Storage space in bow and stern with D-rings, Carrying handles and paddle holders

Accessories

2 seats, Carry bag, Pressure gauge

Weight

40 lbs

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The kayak is made of Fortiflex™ High-Density polyethylene and boasts extra robustness compared to other rotomolded PE models. Thanks to that, it can support the load of up to 500 lbs. 

CONS

It is a bit heavy. 

OUR VERDICT

This model is great for experienced anglers. The Catamaran hull design with a flat stable platform suits for stand-on fishing since it allows sitting comfortably in it. Plus, it has 5 rod holders.

detailed parameters
Type

1-person fishing kayak (solid)

Dimensions

12.3 x 2.77 feet

Max Load

500 lbs

Material

Fortiflex™ High Density Polyethylene

Extras

Below deck storage area, Rear and front cargo storage areas, 5 x fishing rod holders, Adjustable foot braces, Built-in cup holder, Carrying handles and paddle holders

Accessories

Seat

Weight

78 lbs

Warranty

Limited lifetime

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Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC RA220 11.6

Easy-to-Control Kayak

If you are completely new to the kayaking sport and seek an easy-to-control option for fishing, try using the Fishing Kayak from Brooklyn Kayak Company. This entry-level model for one will make you fall in love with kayaking.

First of all, this solid kayak features a foot-operated rudder that makes controlling and maneuvering much easier for all users (no matter if it is an inexperienced adult or a teenager). It also spares you the necessity of using a paddle for that purpose and thus, you will fill less fatigue in your arms. By the way, it also has pretty sturdy paddle holders.

When using this watercraft, you can be sure that not only you but also your belongings will be safe. The model comes with 3 deck plates with waterproof cargo bags. You can put there your clothes, smartphones, wallets, and so on to keep them away from the water.

The thing that makes this starter kayak so great for fishing is that it offers a lot of space for fishing gear and comes with 2 fishing rod holders. The seat comes included in the set. As for the weight, this 68-pound kayak can support loads up to 450 lbs.

In a word, this model from Brooklyn Kayak Company is one of the best options for fishing. It may be a bit pricey, but if you are willing to get a premium-quality product with a long service life, we recommend going with this one.

Review of Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC RA220 11.6 Single Fishing Kayak

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B0764K8KDM

 

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100

Effortless Rail-To-Rail Transitions

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak is among the most well-balanced SOT kayaks we've looked at.

First things first, its high-density polyethylene frame is durable and UV- and impact-resistant.

Besides that, the kayak comes housing two deck plates with waterproof cargo bags where you can store valuable items (smartphones, keys, cards, wallets, etc), keeping them safe and secure yet quickly accessible when necessary.

In addition to these bags, you'll also have access to front and rear cargo storage areas. You can put whatever you want there, from tackle to various fishing accessories.

Performance-wise, the kayak adopts this stable flat bottom with deep tracking channels and stability chine rails, so you'll be able to easily and effortlessly transition from rail to rail.

Sure, there are trade-offs here. The 275-pound maximum load is not that impressive considering the kayak's 52-pound weight and relatively standard 10- x 2.58-feet size.

Somewhat offsetting this issue from the versatility/flexibility standpoint are the molded-in foot braces that enable multiple footrest positions to accommodate different riders.

Also, there are two water bottle holders, making the kayak not only maneuverable and the most stable model within this lineup but also pretty comfortable too.

Review of Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $999.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B00843UMIU

 

Intex Excursion Pro K2

Light and Durable Model

Those who want a light and portable beginner kayak for two should take a closer look at the Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak. This inflatable model is pretty robust and is suitable both for fishing and for calm journeys down the rivers or on the lakes.

The set of this touring kayak includes everything you may need for using the kayak. First, you get 2 comfortable seats and 2 paddles for you and your partner. Second, there is a pump and a pressure gauge already included in the set, so you don’t need to purchase them separately.

In addition to this, you will get a carry bag but note that you may need a bit of practice to fold the kayak tightly and fit it in the bag.

Lastly, the repair kit also comes included, so no accidental punctures will spoil your rest.

The other convenient stuff you will get with this recreational boat is a couple of removable skegs, floor-mounted footrests, and fishing rod holders. There is also a mount for the accessories.

Moving on, this kayak is made of high-quality materials. It has a polyester core with a tough laminate PVC exterior. Hence, it doesn’t get damaged easily.

So, with the Intex Excursion Pro K2 Kayak, you will be able to go kayaking without extra hassle. It is a durable and easy-to-use tandem model that will allow you to rest outdoors with your friend, partner, or family member.

Review of Intex Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $314.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07F88P35C

What customers say about this product

Construction

The material is thick and durable.

Key Specs

There's lots of legroom and room for fishing tackle.

Features

Easy to load, inflate and deflate with the provided pump.
 

Sevylor Coleman Colorado

Great Option for Fishing

If you need a simple watercraft for fishing, there is no need to go with a bulky expensive boat. Instead, we recommend buying the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak. This 2-person model will let you enjoy your time outdoors with a friend.

This beginner kayak is inflatable and features an airtight leakproof system. Thanks to that, you won’t have to pump it up constantly. Note that the pump is not included, yet you will get a pressure gauge in the set.

This model has a tarpaulin bottom and a nylon cover, which makes it sustainable to punctures. The boat weighs 40 pounds but supports the weights of up to 470 pounds. There are also handles for easier carrying.

What makes this model so convenient is a rich set of extra accessories. First, it comes with 2 built-in rod holders and a mount for different accessories like fish finders and GPS navigators. It also offers a lot a space in a bow for keeping your fish. Plus, there are these D-rings for clipping your dry bags and other stuff. Lastly, the package is supplied with 2 paddle holders.

To wrap the whole thing up, if you want to go fishing with a friend and seek an inflatable, easy-to-carry watercraft, go with the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak. It has a rich set of accessories and comfy seats that allow you to enjoy your time on the river.

Review of Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $666.21
Stock In stock
ASIN B00J0S0JGS

 

SUNDOLPHIN Boss SS 12.3-Feet

Who's the Boss?

The Sun Dolphin Boss SS is pretty tremendous. Before anything else, this kayak is able to support 500 pounds, which is insane considering that the entire thing weighs less than 80 pounds.

Sure, somewhere around 78 pounds is no joke compared to most sit-on-top kayaks, making the product relatively heavy and somewhat inconvenient transportation-wise but, again, pretty lightweight considering its maximum load.

Partially, its strength is there thanks to the Fortiflex™ high-density polyethylene construction, making the kayak not only strong but also tough and durable. Also, the UV-stabilized finish will make sure you don't have to worry about the paintwork fading with time.

From the storage standpoint, the kayak comes fitted with wide below-deck storage area and rear and front cargo storage areas. These areas are spacious enough to hold everything you'd possibly need when you go fishing. There are five fishing rod holders, so you'll be able to multitask and stretch as thin as you want.

Apart from that, the Boss SS adopts adjustable foot braces, comfortable carry handles, and paddle holders, so you should have no issues with transportation, except for the aforementioned weight.

Last but not least, the built-in cup holder will enable quick and comfortable access to drinks.

Review of SUNDOLPHIN Boss SS 12.3-Feet Sit-On/Stand On Top Angler Kayak

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07L8Y31FT

 

What Is a Beginner Kayak?

Kayaking is a fun outdoor activity that is getting more and more popular nowadays. If you want to pick up a new hobby, you need to select the right kayak. Depending on whether you want to use it for fishing, competition, or just for going down the river, you can choose among a wide variety of different models available in the market.

Apart from the types of kayaks, they can be suitable for one and for a couple of people. They can be made of different materials, so you can choose between inflatable options that come with a pump (which are more ergonomic) or those that have a solid form. For the latter ones, you may also need decent racks to carry them around. There are also sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks, so if quickly getting in and out of the watercraft is crucial for you, it is better to go with the first type.

Last but not least is the max load. If you are a fishing enthusiast and want to try kayaking for this purpose, it should be strong enough to support you, your equipment, and the fish.

To help you with your choice, we have picked the best beginner kayaks that will make your hobby more enjoyable. You may also want to check out the best paddle boards for beginners and the best inflatable boats.

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Publish Date: 2020-02-03 12:17:57