When you’re planning to go ocean fishing, it’s important to find the best fishing kayak for your needs. The right type of kayak will keep you safe on the water and provide excellent performance.
The best fishing kayaks are designed to help you explore new areas for fishing in the ocean. These kayaks have features like ample storage and fishing handles to make your experience easier. I’ve compiled a list of some of the best fishing kayaks for ocean fishing to help you in your search.
Best Fishing Kayaks for Ocean
1- Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler One-Person Sit-On-Top Ocean Fishing Kayak
The Prowler 13 Angler is a sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak designed for one person. It features a performance hull that is fast, stable, and quiet, making it suitable for both calm and rough waters. The four-way adjustable comfort plus seat is durable and comfortable, allowing paddlers to spend long periods on the water without getting tired.
The kayak also includes a large front hatch with an easy-to-open click seal that provides dry internal storage for personal belongings and allows for safe storage of multiple rods below deck. An oversized tank well is located at the rear of the kayak for storage of coolers, crates, boxes, and other items, while two cup holders are included for holding drinks.
As a fishing kayak, the Prowler 13 Angler has all the necessary features, including flush-mount rod holders and a transducer-compatible scupper for paddlers with a fishfinder. The paddle holders located on both sides of the kayak also allow for easy switching between paddle and rod.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Safe, stable, and non-confining hull design
- Four-way adjustable comfort plus seat for comfortable paddling
- Click seal front hatch provides dry internal storage
- Flush-mount rod holder and transducer-compatible scupper
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 13′ 4″
Width: 28″
Weight Capacity: 325 Lbs
2- Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130
Vibe Sea Ghost 130 is a sit-on-top kayak that offers unmatched hull stability and premium tracking, allowing you to venture into far-off tracking areas with ease. The kayak’s unique design ensures both speed and stability, requiring minimal effort to paddle.
As an ocean fishing kayak, the Sea Ghost 130 boasts a weight capacity of 500 pounds and comes with a toe-controlled integrated rudder system, as well as diverse rigging and storage options. It also features fishing rod holders, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
The kayak comes equipped with a fish finder and accessories mount, making your paddling journey more convenient. Additionally, it features six integrated top-loading accessory gear tracks and ample storage space for carrying all your gear. The premium comfortable seats allow for long hours of paddling.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Max weight load capacity of 550 pounds.
- Toe-controlled rudder system.
- Fishing rod holders.
- Fishfinder and accessories mount.
- Six integrated top-loading accessory gear tracks.
- Ample storage space for carrying all your gear.
- Premium comfortable seats for long hours of paddling.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 13′
Width: 33″
Weight Capacity: 550 Lbs
3- Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak
The Sea Eagle 370 Pro is another one of the best three-person inflatable portable fishing kayaks for the ocean. It has a weight capacity of 650 lbs and weighs only 32 lbs. The rigid construction and tough design of this ‘yak make it a perfect vessel to take on the ocean.
To make your whole ocean fishing experience smooth and comfortable, it has two movable, comfortable Deluxe Kayak seats along with improved back support. There are two skegs on the bottom of this kayak that help with better tracking and speed.
Since it can be used for fishing in the ocean, it has an open and close drain valve and five deluxe one-way inflatable/deflation valves. The package includes two paddles, a foot pump, and a carrying bag.
PRODUCT FEATURE
- It is a three-person inflatable fishing kayak.
- Suitable for Class III whitewater.
- Two movable, super comfortable Deluxe Seats with back support.
- Two skegs for better tracking and speed.
- Open and close drain valve.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12′ 6″
Weight Capacity: 650 Lbs
Material: 38 mil PolyKrylar (K80 PVC)
Chambers: 3
4- Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a sit-on-top kayak that is the perfect vessel for ocean fishing. It is designed to ensure fast, efficient, and straight tracking on various types of water.
When planning to go ocean fishing, you’ll likely spend long hours paddling, so comfortable seating is essential. The Tarpon 120 comes with Phase 3 AirPro Seating that is fully adjustable. The seat covers have honeycomb-vented, ergonomic 3D foam that ensures good airflow to keep you cool.
A unique feature of this ‘yak is the magnetic bottle holder, allowing easy access to your drinks. The large rear storage well is perfect for storing crates, coolers, fishing equipment, camping gear, and scuba tanks. Additionally, the Tarpon 120 comes with a DryTec removable dry box that can be used to store your wallets, phones, keys, and other valuables.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Phase 3 AirPro Seating for comfortable paddling.
- Magnetic bottle holder.
- Large rear tankwell & DryTec center storage which is removable.
- Rigid carry handles.
- Rigid construction.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12′ 3″
Width: 31″
Weight Capacity: 350 Lbs
5- Perception Pescador Pro 12
Perception Pescador Pro 12 is an ocean fishing kayak with numerous amazing features designed to ensure incredible fishing performance, stability, and comfort. The Pescador Pro 12 comes with a removable Pro Seat with 2-level seat adjustment and breathable mesh, allowing you to paddle comfortably for long hours.
The Pescador Pro 12 has ample storage on its deck, including large front and rear open storage compartments with bungee lashing that can be used to tie down coolers, tackle, and other gear. The Pro 12 is a ready-to-fish kayak with all the necessary gear for fishing, such as gear tracks, a fish-finder console, and two molded-in rod holders.
It also has quick-adjust footrests to accommodate paddlers of all sizes. A replaceable skid plate is included to help you drag your kayak without causing damage.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Removable and adjustable Pro seat with breathable mesh fabric allows for comfortable paddling.
- Quick-adjust footrests to accommodate paddlers of all sizes.
- Ample storage at the front and rear of the kayak.
- All necessary fishing accessories are included.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12′
Widhth: 32.5″
Weight Capacity: 375 Lbs
6- Ocean Fishing Kayak Malibu Tandem
Ocean Kayak Malibu is a tandem fishing kayak designed for use in the ocean. It can be paddled by two adults or by an adult and a child. The kayak features Comfort Plus seats that can be adjusted four ways for a custom fit, and they are designed to prevent slipping.
The Malibu kayak has patented overlapping footwells that can accommodate paddlers of any size. Being a sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak, getting in and out of it is easy. It also features a skid plate that aids in tracking and speed.
The molded-in handles on the kayak allow for easy carrying from or to the water. With a weight capacity of 425 pounds, there is enough space to store all the relevant gear.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Can accommodate 2 adults and a child or pet.
- Comfort Plus seats that are four-way adjustable with anti-slip fabric on molded seats.
- Patented overlapping footwells.
- Easy to get in and out of.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12′
Width: 34″
Weight Capacity: 425 Lbs
7- Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 Angler Kayak
Skipjack 90 by Vibe Kayaks is a one-person sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak. It has deluxe kayak seats that ensure portability and stability in a smaller package. Skipjack 90 comes with a Journey paddle that gives you complete control over the vessel.
Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 is a fishing kayak, which is why it has 4 capped flush mount rod holders and mounting points for Scotty, RAM, and Vibe mount accessories. You can also park your paddles when not in use, which lets you enjoy fishing.
Vibe Kayaks has given you multiple storage options, consisting of 2 sealed hatches along with bag inserts and a large bungee rear tank well. In order to easily carry the kayak to or from the water, it has 4 easy-grip carry handles.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- It comes with a Journey Paddle and a deluxe Kayak seat.
- 4 capped flush mount rod holders and mounting points for Scotty.
- It has two paddle parks.
- 2 sealed hatches and a large bungee rear tank well.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 9′
Width: 32″
Weight Capacity: 300 Lbs
Material: Rotomolded single piece high-density polyethylene
Paddlers: Single Person Kayak
8- Ocean Kayak Caper Classic One-Person Recreational Sit-On-Top Kayak
The Caper Classic by Ocean Kayaks is a stable and easy-to-paddle kayak that is designed to ensure greater stability and performance. It uses Caper’s famous Tri-Form hull, which is sturdy and safe to paddle. Since it is a sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak, getting in and out is pretty easy.
It comes with a four-way adjustable Comfort Plus seat that adds to the comfort level of your paddling. If you are worried about your cell phones, keys, and other valuables getting wet, it has a splash-resistant storage area to keep them safe and dry.
The bow and stern grab handles, as well as the side-mounted carrying handles, make the kayak easily transportable to or from the water. Overall, the Caper Classic is one of the best one-person sit-on-top ocean fishing kayaks available in the market.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Tri-Form hull design: This innovative hull design ensures maximum stability and safety while you’re out on the water.
- Four-way adjustable Comfort Plus seat: Stay comfortable for hours on end with this fully customizable seat that adjusts to your body’s needs.
- Dry storage hatch: Keep your belongings safe and dry with the kayak’s built-in storage hatch.
- Side paddle holder: Keep your paddle close at hand with the convenient side paddle holder.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 11′
Width: 31″
Weight Capacity: 325 Lbs
Seat: Comfort Plus Seat
Paddlers: Single Person Kayak
9- BKC TK181 12.5′ Tandem Sit On Top Kayak
The BKC TK181 is a tandem sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak designed to handle rough and deep waters with ease. Featuring soft padded seats with adjustable straps, it allows for multiple seating positions to ensure comfort during long fishing trips.
The TK181 is highly stable in various water conditions, from choppy to glassy, making it perfect for casting, trolling, paddling, or simply relaxing. Equipped with two watertight storage hatches, you can safely store your wallet, keys, and other essentials while out on the water.
As the ultimate ocean fishing kayak, the TK181 features multiple fishing rod mounts and allows you to install a trolling motor for hands-free fishing. With a total of seven rod holders, including three articulated and four flush-mounted holders, you can bring all your gear and catch even more fish.
In addition to the kayak itself, the TK181 comes with two adjustable aluminum paddles and boasts a comfortable seating area that can accommodate two adults and one child or pet. With six built-in rod holders and exceptional stability in various water conditions, the BKC TK181 is the perfect kayak for any fishing enthusiast.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Comfortable seating for two adults and one child or pet
- Two adjustable aluminum paddles included
- Two waterproof hatches for storage
- Six built-in rod holders
- Highly stable in various water conditions
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12′ 8″
Width: 34″
Weight Capacity: 770 Lbs
Paddlers: 1-3
10- Malibu Kayaks Stealth-14 Ultimate Fishing Kayak
The Malibu Kayaks Stealth-14 is the ultimate ocean fishing kayak, designed to keep you fully prepared for your fishing adventures. It’s a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced paddlers, thanks to the kayak’s shape and hull, which provide excellent tracking and stability.
The Stealth-14 is designed to glide effortlessly over the water, requiring minimal effort on your part. It features an X-Seat for added comfort during long hours of paddling, and its long size allows you to easily store all your gear.
One unique feature of the Stealth-14 is its built-in center bait tank, which is not found in other kayaks from Malibu’s Stealth series. Additionally, there is a large open storage area with bungee cords at the rear of the kayak, as well as a closed hatch at the front.
PRODUCT FEATURE
- Stable, efficient, and fast ocean fishing kayak
- Comfortable X-Seat for extended paddling sessions
- Built-in center bait tank for storing small items
- The ultimate fishing kayak.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 14′ 4″
Width: 33″
Weight Capacity: 550 Lbs
Paddlers: 1-2
Offshore Kayaks Buyer’s Guide
So, I have just shared some of the best offshore fishing kayaks with you. Now, in order to make it easy for you to decide which offshore kayak you should buy, I am adding this section. You can read our buyer’s guide to get a complete idea about it.
Things to Consider Before Buying an Offshore Fishing Kayak
Below, I have just listed some of the basic things that you need to consider before buying an offshore fishing kayak.
Stability – Very Important
It is very important for you to consider stability while buying an ocean fishing kayak for yourself. It is more likely that you will be paddling against strong waves and currents in the ocean, which is why you require a tough stable vessel. You should consider both primary and secondary stability in this regard.
For those who don’t know what primary and secondary stability mean: primary stability means how stable your vessel is when sitting flat on the water, and secondary stability means how stable your kayak is when it is on edge.
You can consider the shape of your kayak’s hull. A rounded or V-shaped hull can offer better secondary stability, which makes them a perfect choice for the sea as it will help you to attain better speed as compared to flat hulls.
A pontoon hull, which is also called a tunnel hull, is also great for the ocean as they are designed to offer both primary and secondary stability.
Maneuverability
Maneuverability is another important factor to consider while buying an ocean fishing kayak. You are supposed to find an offshore kayak with both good tracking and speed. It should be able to move in a straight line without drifting off.
Mostly, a kayak that is designed for the ocean comes with a removable or rudder system which helps in paddling straight, especially in crosswinds or currents. A skeg or rudder system helps in turning when there are strong winds or currents, where a skeg will help station the stern and rudder will keep you straight and narrow.
Storage Space
It is a general rule that a fishing kayak must have enough storage space to carry all your gears and equipment.
In your offshore fishing kayak, you should consider how many close hatches are there to store stuff dry. If the kayak has dry storage hatches on both the front and rear of the kayak, then you can store your fish in the front and all other valuables at the rear. Moreover, you may also consider the space dedicated to fish storage only.
On all offshore fishing kayaks, there are built-in rod holders, paddle holders, and other accessories mounts to keep everything in its place.
If you are planning to go fishing for a couple of days, then you should make sure that your kayak has enough storage to accommodate all your gears, equipment, and other important stuff.
Comfort Level – Seating
Offshore paddling requires you to spend hours on water either paddling, fishing, or just enjoying the scenic view. Therefore, you should make sure that the kayak is comfortable enough. Some of the kayaks come with removable seats, and some come without seats where you can purchase your own keeping comfort level in mind.
I would recommend you to consider buying a kayak that has adjustable seats with a padded backrest so that you remain comfortable throughout paddling.
Cockpit
The size of the cockpit will ensure your movability on the deck. I would recommend you to consider buying a ‘yak with a wider cockpit, if you are a beginner, as it will give you enough room to move around.
And if you are an experienced paddler, then you should consider buying a ‘yak which is more tight-fitting as it will give you complete control over the vessel.
Weight Capacity
Fishing requires you to carry a lot of stuff while going on the water, so it’s important to consider the weight capacity of your offshore fishing kayak. There is a general rule that the weight capacity of your kayak should be at least 100 pounds more than your body weight and the weight of all your gears and equipment.
In such a case, a kayak with a 400 pounds weight capacity is suitable for two people. However, if you plan to go solo, a weight capacity of 250-350 pounds should be sufficient.
Keep in mind that exceeding the weight capacity of your kayak can affect its stability and performance, so it’s important to choose a kayak with an appropriate weight capacity for your needs.
Which Offshore fishing Kayak type should I buy?
As you may know, there are two main types of offshore fishing kayaks: sit-on-top kayaks and sit-in kayaks.
Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak
A sit-on-top kayak is a kayak where paddlers sit on the top of the kayak, which gives you the liberty to move easily. While sitting on top of the kayak, it’s easier to catch fish by setting the hook and reeling in. Moreover, these kayaks have extra storage space on the front and rear ends of the vessel.
Sit-In Ocean Fishing Kayak
A sit-in ocean fishing kayak is a kayak where the paddler sits inside the cockpit. A spray skirt is used to keep water away from the lower body. If you’re an experienced paddler, then you should consider this type of kayak as it gives you more control over the vessel compared to other types of kayaks.
FAQs
Q. How long should an ocean kayak be?
A. It should be long enough with a flat bottom to remain stable on the water and track well. Typically, it should be around 15 to 20 feet in length. However, shorter kayaks can also work well in the ocean if you know how to use them.
Q. Where should I store my catch?
A. An ocean fishing kayak usually comes with dedicated storage where you can store your catch safely. However, if your kayak does not have closed storage, then you should bring a cooler with you.
Q. Should I use sit-on-top kayaks for the ocean?
A. It is recommended to use a sit-on-top ocean fishing kayak because there is enough storage on the deck. However, if there are lots of waves and the water is pretty rough, then you should consider buying a sit-in kayak.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right ocean fishing kayak is crucial to make the most out of your fishing experience. There are several factors that need to be considered before making a purchase, including the size, weight capacity, stability, and storage options. As per the evaluations conducted by experts and experienced kayakers, the Prowler 13 Angler, Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100, and Old Town Predator PDL are some of the top choices for offshore fishing kayaks.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that the choice of kayak also depends on personal preferences and fishing style. Whether you opt for a sit-on-top or sit-in kayak, make sure to select one with adequate storage and weight capacity to safely store your catch. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you’re now better equipped to choose the right ocean fishing kayak that fits your needs and budget.
