7 Best Kayak Paddle For Fishing
When it comes to kayak fishing, your paddle is as crucial as your rod and reel. The right paddle can make the difference between a day of effortless gliding and casting versus exhausting yourself before you even reach your fishing spot. As kayak fishing continues to grow in popularity, manufacturers have responded with specialized paddles designed specifically for anglers’ unique needs. Recent discussions on forums like r/kayakfishing highlight how passionate anglers have become about finding the perfect paddle that balances performance, features, and value. Let’s explore the best kayak paddles for fishing that combine durability, efficiency, and fishing-friendly features for 2024.
1. Bending Branches Angler Pro Carbon
The Bending Branches Angler Pro Carbon continues to dominate the fishing paddle market in 2024, having won Kayak Fishing Paddle-of-the-Year six times. This premium paddle features a carbon shaft that provides exceptional strength while keeping weight to a minimum at just 23-26 ounces.
What sets this paddle apart for anglers is the built-in hook retrieval system in the blade and a measuring tape along the shaft – perfect for quickly sizing up your catch. The paddle’s design excels in open water conditions, making it ideal for lake fishing and coastal adventures.
The Angler Pro Carbon offers excellent power transfer with each stroke, reducing fatigue during long fishing expeditions. The blade design minimizes flutter and provides consistent power, crucial when navigating to distant fishing spots.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely lightweight | Premium price point ($250-300) |
| Built-in measuring tape | May be overkill for casual anglers |
| Hook retrieval system | Requires more careful handling than aluminum |
| Superior performance in open water | Limited color options |
2. Werner Camano Hooked
Werner has long been respected in the paddling community, and their Camano Hooked model continues to impress in 2024. This mid-range paddle features a fiberglass shaft and blades, offering a good balance between weight, durability, and cost.
The paddle includes a hook retrieval notch and ruler markings for measuring fish. Its mid-sized blades provide efficient paddling without causing undue strain, making it perfect for day-long fishing trips. The ferrule system allows for feathering adjustments to accommodate different paddling conditions and preferences.
Many anglers appreciate the Camano Hooked for its versatility across different water conditions. It performs admirably in both calm lakes and moving rivers, making it a solid all-around choice for fishing in various environments.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile performance in various waters | Heavier than carbon options (27-30 oz) |
| Durable fiberglass construction | Mid-range price ($180-230) |
| Fishing-specific features | Blades may chip over time |
| Adjustable feathering | Not as lightweight as premium models |
3. Cannon Wave FX
The Cannon Wave FX has gained popularity among r/kayakfishing users as an excellent middle-ground option that doesn’t break the bank while still delivering reliable performance. As noted in recent forum discussions, this paddle comes with an adjustable length (240-260cm), making it versatile enough to work with different kayak widths and paddler heights.
The aluminum shaft provides durability at a reasonable price point, though it is slightly heavier than fiberglass or carbon alternatives. The paddle’s blades offer a good balance of power and efficiency for recreational fishing trips.
What makes the Wave FX particularly appealing is its simplicity and reliability. While it may lack some of the specialized fishing features of higher-end models, its adjustability and durability make it a practical choice for anglers who want a dependable paddle without a significant investment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable length (240-260cm) | Heavier than fiberglass/carbon (32-35 oz) |
| Affordable price point ($80-120) | Fewer fishing-specific features |
| Durable aluminum construction | Less efficient for long-distance paddling |
| Works well for most recreational anglers | Can feel cold in winter conditions |
4. Ascend Tournament Kayak Paddle
For anglers looking for quality under $100, the Bass Pro Ascend Tournament Kayak Paddle delivers impressive value. Unlike many budget paddles that use aluminum shafts, this model features a fiberglass shaft that reduces weight while maintaining durability.
The paddle’s sturdy blades provide good power transfer for efficient paddling, which is particularly important when navigating to fishing spots or maneuvering for the perfect cast. At around $79, it represents one of the best values in fishing-oriented paddles.
The Ascend Tournament paddle lacks some of the specialized features found on premium models, but its performance and durability at this price point make it a standout option for beginners or occasional anglers who don’t want to invest in a high-end paddle initially.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent value ($70-90) | Basic design without specialized features |
| Fiberglass shaft reduces weight | Limited adjustment options |
| Good durability for price point | Not ideal for all-day paddling sessions |
| Adequate performance for most fishing | Heavier than premium options (29-32 oz) |
5. Bending Branches Angler Classic
The Bending Branches Angler Classic offers many of the fishing-friendly features of the Pro model but at a more accessible price point. This paddle features a fiberglass-reinforced nylon blade with a fiberglass shaft, creating a good balance between performance and affordability.
The Angler Classic includes the same useful measuring tape along the shaft as its premium counterpart, allowing you to quickly measure your catch. The blade design provides good stability and power for navigating to fishing spots efficiently.
According to Bending Branches’ own materials, this paddle has become a favorite among mid-range anglers who appreciate the brand’s quality but don’t need the ultra-lightweight properties of the carbon models. The Classic performs well in various water conditions and provides reliable service for years.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good mid-range option ($150-180) | Heavier than carbon models (28-31 oz) |
| Built-in measuring tape | Less efficient for long distances |
| Durable construction | Limited color options |
| Made by trusted fishing paddle brand | Not as stiff as full carbon paddles |
6. YakAttack Leverage Landing Net and Paddle
For the ultimate in fishing utility, the YakAttack Leverage offers an innovative 2-in-1 design that functions as both a paddle and a landing net. This unique hybrid tool allows anglers to quickly transition from paddling to landing fish without having to switch between different pieces of equipment.
The paddle portion features an aluminum shaft with durable plastic blades that provide adequate performance for short distances and positioning. When a fish is hooked, the paddle converts to a landing net by removing one blade and attaching the collapsible net.
While the YakAttack Leverage doesn’t offer the paddling efficiency of dedicated paddles, its convenience factor makes it worth considering as a secondary paddle for those final approach moments when you’re actively fishing and need to land catches quickly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique 2-in-1 functionality | Heavy compared to standard paddles (35+ oz) |
| Eliminates need for separate net | Not ideal as primary paddle for long distances |
| Convenient for landing fish | Higher price for the functionality ($150-200) |
| Saves space in kayak | Less efficient paddling performance |
7. Aqua-Bound Manta Ray Carbon
The Aqua-Bound Manta Ray Carbon has gained popularity among fishing enthusiasts who paddle in varied conditions. This paddle features a carbon shaft paired with abXII resin blades, creating an excellent balance between lightweight performance and durability.
The Manta Ray’s wider blade design provides powerful strokes with less effort, allowing anglers to cover distance quickly when moving between fishing spots. The paddle weighs approximately 27 ounces, making it light enough for all-day use without causing excessive fatigue.
While not specifically designed as a fishing paddle, many anglers on forums like r/kayakfishing praise its reliability and performance, especially in windy conditions or when navigating against currents. The paddle’s durability makes it a solid investment for serious anglers who fish in challenging environments.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight carbon shaft | Lacks fishing-specific features |
| Powerful blade design | Premium pricing ($200-250) |
| Excellent for varied water conditions | No built-in measuring system |
| Durable resin blades | May be too powerful for relaxed paddling |
Comparison Table: Best Kayak Fishing Paddles
| Paddle Model | Shaft Material | Weight | Price Range | Special Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bending Branches Angler Pro Carbon | Carbon Fiber | Light (23-26 oz) | $250-300 | Hook retrieval, measuring tape, excellent for open water | Serious anglers, long fishing trips |
| Werner Camano Hooked | Fiberglass | Medium (27-30 oz) | $180-230 | Hook retrieval notch, ruler markings, versatile performance | All-around fishing in varied waters |
| Cannon Wave FX | Aluminum | Medium-Heavy (32-35 oz) | $80-120 | Adjustable length (240-260cm), durable construction | Budget-conscious anglers, occasional use |
| Ascend Tournament | Fiberglass | Medium (29-32 oz) | $70-90 | Value-priced, fiberglass shaft, sturdy blades | Beginners, budget-focused anglers |
| Bending Branches Angler Classic | Fiberglass | Medium (28-31 oz) | $150-180 | Measuring tape, durable construction | Regular anglers seeking value |
| YakAttack Leverage | Aluminum | Heavy (35+ oz) | $150-200 | Converts to landing net, unique 2-in-1 design | Specialized fishing, secondary paddle |
| Aqua-Bound Manta Ray Carbon | Carbon Fiber | Medium-Light (27 oz) | $200-250 | Powerful blade design, excellent in varied conditions | Performance-focused anglers |
Choosing the Right Fishing Kayak Paddle
When selecting a fishing kayak paddle, consider these key factors:
Kayak Width and Paddle Length
Wider kayaks (like many fishing models) require longer paddles. For kayaks 30-34 inches wide, look for paddles around 240-250cm. For kayaks wider than 34 inches, consider paddles 250-260cm or longer.
As one r/kayakfishing user noted about their 34-inch wide sit-on-top kayak, “I started with a 250cm paddle but found myself constantly hitting the sides of my kayak. Switching to a 270cm made a world of difference in my paddling efficiency.”
The correct paddle length prevents fatigue and improves your overall paddling technique. Many fishing kayaks are wider than recreational models, so don’t underestimate the importance of proper length.
Material Considerations
Your choice of paddle material significantly impacts performance, weight, and price:
– Carbon fiber: The lightest and strongest option but most expensive ($200-300+). Carbon paddles reduce fatigue dramatically during long days on the water. According to Wired2Fish, “If you want the very best paddling performance then a carbon-fiber paddle would be your choice.”
– Fiberglass: A good middle ground in weight and cost ($120-200). Fiberglass offers significant weight savings over aluminum without the premium price of carbon. These paddles may chip but usually won’t crack completely.
– Aluminum: Heavier but durable and affordable ($70-120). Aluminum shafts paired with plastic or nylon blades offer good value for occasional anglers. They’re virtually indestructible but