Kayaks For Inland Fishing: 10 Best Options For Rivers And Lakes

Inland fishing from a kayak offers anglers unparalleled access to secluded fishing spots and a stealthy approach that can significantly improve catch rates. Whether you’re navigating flowing rivers or exploring calm lakes, choosing the right kayak can make all the difference in your fishing experience. Many anglers find themselves splitting their time between rivers and lakes, creating the need for a versatile watercraft that performs well in both environments.

The ideal inland fishing kayak balances stability for comfortable casting with maneuverability for navigating river currents and obstacles. It should also provide adequate storage for your fishing gear, comfortable seating for long days on the water, and the appropriate length and width for your specific fishing needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top kayaks designed specifically for inland fishing, highlighting models that excel in rivers, lakes, or both. We’ll also cover essential features to consider when making your selection and provide practical advice for those new to river fishing from a kayak.

1. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120

The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 stands out as an exceptional choice for anglers who split their time between rivers and lakes. At 12 feet long and featuring a stable, open deck design, this kayak offers the perfect balance of maneuverability and stability.

Key Features:

– Advanced Tactical Angling Kayak (ATAK) design with an elevated seating position for better visibility
– S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology that combines stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness, and tracking
– Adjustable AirPro MAX seat with multiple height positions
– Expansive, customizable deck for mounting fishing accessories
– Generous 400-pound weight capacity

The ATAK 120’s shorter length (compared to the 140 model) makes it more maneuverable in rivers while maintaining enough tracking ability for lake fishing. Its stability is particularly valuable when fighting larger fish in current.

2. Perception Pescador Pro 12

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 offers excellent value for anglers seeking a versatile inland fishing kayak without breaking the bank. This sit-on-top design performs admirably in both moving and still waters.

Key Features:

– 12-foot length balances maneuverability and tracking
– Lawn chair-style seat with two positions (high and low)
– Large front and rear open storage areas with mesh covers
– Integrated accessory tracks for customization
– Built-in rod holders and tackle storage
– 375-pound capacity

The Pescador Pro 12’s manageable weight (64 lbs) makes it easier to transport solo than heavier alternatives, while still providing enough stability and features for serious fishing expeditions.

3. Old Town Sportsman PDL 120

For anglers who want hands-free propulsion, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 offers a pedal-drive system that excels in lakes while still handling moderate river conditions effectively.

Key Features:

– Award-winning PDL drive system with 10.3:1 gear ratio
– Instant forward/reverse capability
– Removable pedal drive for shallow water
– Non-slip EVA foam deck pads for comfortable standing
– ElementAir seat with adjustable positions
– 500-pound capacity

The ability to pedal upstream against moderate current makes this kayak particularly valuable for river anglers who want to work specific areas thoroughly without constantly managing drift.

4. Jackson Kayak Bite

The Jackson Kayak Bite is designed specifically with river anglers in mind, offering exceptional maneuverability in flowing water while maintaining enough tracking ability for lake use.

Key Features:

– Shorter 11’6″ length optimized for river navigation
– Stable, tri-hull design
– Comfortable Hi-Lo seating system
– Standing pad with standing assist strap
– Molded-in tackle storage and rod holders
– 400-pound capacity

Jackson Kayak’s river fishing heritage shines through in the Bite’s design, making it particularly well-suited for anglers who primarily fish moving water but occasionally venture onto lakes.

5. Bonafide SS127

The Bonafide SS127 offers perhaps the best stability-to-weight ratio in the inland fishing kayak market, making it ideal for anglers who value a secure platform for standing and casting in various water conditions.

Key Features:

– HyCat hull design with exceptional primary and secondary stability
– 12’7″ length balances river maneuverability with lake tracking
– Premium seat with high/low positions and perched position
– DryPod center console for electronics and valuables
– Hybrid cat hull design for stability and performance
– 425-pound capacity

The SS127’s stability makes it particularly valuable when fishing in rivers with unpredictable currents or when sight-fishing requires extended periods of standing.

6. Vibe Shearwater 125

The Vibe Shearwater 125 represents one of the most versatile and customizable platforms for inland fishing, with multiple propulsion options and extensive accessory compatibility.

Key Features:

– Compatible with paddle, pedal drive, or motor
– Summit seat with four mounting positions
– Two articulating rod holders and four flush-mount holders
– Tackle storage pods and large rear tank well
– Standing perch with lean bar option
– 475-pound capacity

The Shearwater’s adaptability makes it ideal for anglers who fish a wide variety of inland waters and want one kayak that can be configured optimally for each environment.

7. Feelfree Lure 11.5

The Feelfree Lure 11.5 combines river-friendly length with exceptional stability and unique features that make it particularly well-suited for inland fishing adventures.

Key Features:

– Wheel in the keel for easier transport
– Gravity seat with multiple height positions
– Sonar pod for electronics installation
– Standing pad with stability bar
– Uni-Track rail system for accessories
– 425-pound capacity

The Lure’s wheel in the keel is particularly valuable for river anglers who need to portage around obstacles or transport their kayak across rough terrain to access fishing spots.

8. NuCanoe Pursuit

The NuCanoe Pursuit offers unmatched stability and an open deck design that’s ideal for anglers who prioritize standing and casting, particularly when sight fishing in rivers and shallow lakes.

Key Features:

– Extremely stable 13.5-foot design
– Open deck concept with customizable layout
– 360-degree swivel seat option
– Multiple accessory mounting points
– Transom option for motor mounting
– Impressive 500-pound capacity

The Pursuit’s canoe-kayak hybrid design makes it particularly effective for anglers who fish shallow, structure-filled waters where the ability to stand and sight-fish is crucial.

9. Hobie Mirage Compass

The Hobie Mirage Compass combines the renowned MirageDrive pedal system with a more affordable price point, offering excellent performance for both river and lake fishing.

Key Features:

– MirageDrive with Glide Technology for efficient pedaling
– Kick-up fins that automatically retract on impact
– 12-foot length balances maneuverability and tracking
– Mesh-covered bow hatch and rear tank well
– H-Track accessory mounting system
– 400-pound capacity

The Compass’s kick-up fin technology makes it particularly well-suited for river fishing, where submerged obstacles would damage traditional pedal drives.

10. Native Watercraft Slayer 12

The Native Watercraft Slayer 12 offers a refined fishing platform with excellent stability and performance characteristics suited to both river and lake environments.

Key Features:

– First-class seating system with high/low positions
– Hull designed for stability and tracking
– Bow and stern storage hatches plus tank well
– Groove tracks for accessory mounting
– Compatible with Propel pedal drive (sold separately)
– 400-pound capacity

The Slayer’s balanced performance makes it particularly effective for anglers who regularly fish both rivers and lakes and need consistent performance across environments.

Comprehensive Comparison of Inland Fishing Kayaks