Today we’ll be discussing the nine best stand-up fishing kayaks for fishers who like to take things to the next step. The main question is why would you want to stand on a kayak and fish while standing up rather than sitting down?
The simple answer is that when you try to put up a fight with an enormous fish, you’d find yourself exerting way more power and control over it when you’re standing up, in comparison with sitting down.
That’s why anglers search high and low for the perfect stand-up fishing kayak in order to enhance their opportunities exponentially.
Contents
At a Glance:
- Perception Outlaw 11.5 Kayak
- Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
- Lifetime 10 Foot Kayak
- BKC TK181 Kayak
- Lifetime Triton Angler 100
- Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130
- Riot Kayaks Escape 12
- Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- Elkton Outdoors
Comparison Table:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Editor’s Choice
|
Perception Outlaw 11.5 Kayak
Dimensions (in): 138 x 35 x 16 |
9
|
Check Price |
|
Budget-Friendly
|
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
Dimensions (in): 120 x 31 x 14.1 |
8.8
|
Check Price |
|
Best Overall
|
Lifetime 10 Foot Kayak
Dimensions (in): 120 x 36 x 19 |
7.8
|
Check Price |
 |
Lifetime Triton Angler 100 Kayak
Dimensions (in): 120 x 31 x 12.9 |
9
|
Check Price |
 |
Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Kayak
Dimensions (in): L13 W33 D15 |
9
|
Check Price |
 |
Elkton Outdoors
Dimensions (in): 10ft. x 35” x 16” |
9
|
Check Price |
 |
Wilderness Systems Atak 120
Dimensions (in): 147 x 35 x 16 |
8.6
|
Check Price |
 |
BKC TK181 Kayak
Dimensions (in): 155 x 11 x 30 |
8.8
|
Check Price |
 |
Riot Kayaks Escape 12 Kayak
Dimensions (in): 144 x 30 x 12 |
8
|
Check Price |
The 9 Best Stand Up Fishing Kayaks in 2022:
Now, let’s get straight to the point, and dissect the products present in front of us.
1. Perception Outlaw 11.5
Next, we’ve got the Perception Outlaw 11.5 which covers a lot of crucial points when it comes to choosing the right stand up fishing kayak. Most importantly, the fact that it’s designed with a walkable deck, with two deck traction pads, provides a lot of stability for the paddler.
Moreover, this kayak is made out of high-density polyethylene, which gives it its strength, durability, and allows it to be leak-proof and abrasion-proof, as it’s a one-piece construction project.
Furthermore, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is lightweight, while having a maximum capacity of 425 lbs, and it’s designed with oversized handles to make moving the fishing kayak from one place to another as easy as possible.
Now, let’s talk a little bit about the seat provided in this kayak, as kayaking trips normally take a lot of time, and if you’re not comfortable in your seat, that can be a curse.
Nevertheless, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 comes with a high seat that affords you a much better vision and a higher level of tranquility and control over your paddles. Plus, if, for any reason, you’re unhappy with the seat or you wish to replace it with something else, then you can totally do that as the seat is completely removable.
On the other side, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 comes with a lot of mounts and holders in order to keep your hands free for the act of kayaking itself. You’ll find two bottle holders, two double barrel rod holders, which can hold up to four paddles, in addition to three solo mount recesses.
Additionally, it comes with a mesh cover for protection, and a rectangular mount for your fishfinder, so that you can keep it in sight at all times.
As for storage, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is fitted with a ton of strapping points all around its body to give you the freedom of storing your gear however you want, and prioritizing it by nearness.
Unfortunately, all of that doesn’t come for a small price, as the fishing kayak is expensive, and can cause a considerable dent in your wallet. Also, it doesn’t come with foot rests.
Pros:
- Smooth
- Lightweight
- Oversized handles
- 425-lb capacity
- A lot of strapping points
- Mesh cover
- Rectangular mount for a fish finder
- One-piece construction
Cons:
- No footrests
- Expensive
Final Verdict
If your wallet can take such a hit, then the Perception Outlaw 11.5 would be a great option for you. With 425 lbs in maximum capacity, easiness of transportation, and mounts for all of your devices, you can’t really go wrong with this kayak.
2. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
We’ll start our list with the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100, as it brings a wholesome package to the competition. This type of fishing, efficient, comfortable, and maneuverable; hence, making the kayaking trip much easier and more enjoyable.
Firstly, the whole kayak is compact, while still maintaining enough room for the kayaker to move freely. Furthermore, this successful equation allows the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 small boat to be easily transferable from your garage to your truck, from the truck to the shore, and vice versa.
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is also aided by the abundance of handles fitted to itself on its rear and sides as well. Now let’s speak about the storage as it’s truly an essential feature for any kayak, and the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 truly doesn’t disappoint as he enjoys a short-haul with the chambers that keep the water away from your precious belongings.
That is in addition to a pair of 6-inch storage hatches that can hold onto smaller items and still keep them within reach for whenever you need them. This kayak has been known for its fantastic stability on the water, and its ability to cut through the tides with relative ease. That is all thanks to its skeg, which is hard at work at all times.
This kayak has rod holders, a swivel holder, plus a bow and stern holder. As for the build of the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100, it’s made completely out of UV-protected high-density polyethylene, and it’s fitted with an adjustable padded seat for maximum comfort.
Last, but certainly not least, although the carrying capacity of the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is 275 pounds, it’s not the most suitable kayak for whitewater tides, and their strength. Also, the standing area provided on this kayak is nothing to write home about, which can be a bit uncomfortable.
Pros:
- Compact
- Spacious
- Two 6-inch storage hatches
- Adjustable padded seat
- Molded footrests
- 275-lb carrying capacity
Cons:
- Not suitable for strong tides
- Small standing area
Final Verdict
In the end, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is an amazing Coke this has taken care of all its aspects to please the client it offers a ton of storage space holders for all your devices in addition to a Scag that will help with the tracking and direction of the boat
3. Lifetime 10 Foot
Next, we’ll move on to the Lifetime 10 Foot, which brings an impressive level of versatility and flexibility to the game. Primarily, this kayak has an incredible weight capacity of 500 lbs, and it can be used either as a solo kayak, so you go by yourself, or as a tandem kayak when you require the company of a friend.
Moreover, the build of this kayak is just the same as its colleague, with UV-resistant high-density polyethylene. Thankfully, this specific construction allows the whole kayak to be abrasion-proof, leak-proof while remaining in the compact category.
Let’s move onto the path of the kayak. The Lifetime 10 Foot is designed with a front that gets narrower and narrower. What does this do? You might ask! It allows the kayak to go through waters easily and allows the paddler to change their destinations just as easily. Hence, improving navigation.
Furthermore, the Lifetime 10 Foot is ergonomically designed to provide as much comfort as possible to its user. Subsequently, it comes with highly comfortable seats that are adjustable in every way in order to suit everyone.
As for storage, don’t let the word compact fool you, as the Lifetime 10 Foot comes with a 6-inch rear hatch for the main storage, in addition to bungee lines that can be used for all of the extras, and you’ll find that all of your gear is stored systemically.
Additionally, the Lifetime 10 Foot comes with adjustable footrests so you don’t experience any pain, fatigue, or pressure points from staying in the same position for too long, and it comes with three flash rod holders.
One more thing is that the Lifetime 10 Foot comes in a greenish color, which blends extremely well with its surroundings and can be easily camouflaged.
The last thing that we’re going to say is that this guy comes with the two paddles included so you don’t have to mess and match. Unfortunately, though, it doesn’t come with a skeg, which could’ve been way too helpful with the tracking and direction.
Pros:
- Versatile (solo and/or tandem)
- 500-lb weight capacity
- Comfortable seats
- Three flash rod holders
- Six-inch rear hatch
- Two paddles included
Cons:
- No skeg
Final Verdict
The Lifetime 10 Foot is a great option to go with if you wish for the versatility of either going out but yourself or company. That is in addition to the maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs, which basically means two adults together.
4. BKC TK181
The BKC TK18 is one of those water vehicles that are good for everything and everyone. They’re designed to be as flexible as possible and satisfy all your needs.
The BKC TK181 offers its owner 450 lbs in terms of maximum capacity; hence, it can support up to two people. Or, you could use it to take your pet or a child along with you, and they’ll be safe as well.
The entire kayak is incredibly stable, and the scratch-resistant body is as durable as ever. In addition to the fact that it’s beginner-friendly, so it can be used as a teaching fishing kayak for your little people.
The design of the BKC TK181 is rather peculiar as it has an angular hull that slices through the water with unprecedented stability, balance, and smoothness. Add all of that up together, and you’ll realize why this kayak is that much faster than many of its colleagues.
Moreover, it has removable seats in order to accommodate you, but the backrests have been known to be quite uncomfortable. So, that might be the first thing that you would want to switch out.
Let’s talk about the storage options offered by the BKC TK181. This fishing kayak is fitted with two watertight compartments with twist-lock style, which means that it’s impossible for water to find its way inside.
That is in addition to the stern electric cord storage which is highly efficient and practical, and the front storage area which houses things that can get wet, and you’d need them frequently. Plus, the BKC TK181 is fitted with seven rod holders, two paddle holders, and it actually comes with a pair of aluminum paddles included in the package to save you a lot of trouble.
Pros:
- 450-lb capacity
- Stable
- Angular hull
- Stern electric-cord storage
- Front storage
- Two watertight compartments
- Two paddle holders
- Fast
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Uncomfortable backrests
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for something that you can drag out every weekend to teach your children how to kayak properly, then the BKC TK181 would be a great option to go with.
5. Lifetime Triton Angler 100
When you choose to go with the Lifetime Triton Angler 100, you’ll find yourself dealing with a kayak that covers all experience levels; hence, it’s beginner-friendly and expert friendly simultaneously.
The Lifetime Triton Angler 100 is designed with a bunch of great features that make maneuvering it a piece of cake. First of all, it’s made out of UV-protected high-density polyethylene, which guarantees strength and durability, in addition to the fishing kayak being leak-proof and scratch-proof.
Moreover, this kayak is fitted with self-bailing scupper holes in order to automatically drain out any excess water that might have accumulated inside of it. Plus, it comes with a built-in skeg, which makes tracking and directing the kayak so much easier than before.
Another great aspect about the Lifetime Triton Angler 100 is that almost everything is adjustable! So, you’ve got adjustable footrests, in order to find the most comfortable position for yourself, adjustable quick-release seatbacks which prevent the onset of fatigue, and an adjustable rod holder at the front for you to do all of the fishing that your heart desire.
Nevertheless, the Lifetime Triton Angler 100 doesn’t stop here, as it enjoys great storage facilities as well. Primarily, the tankwell storage and the bungee cord that is highly robust.
Furthermore, this water vehicle is fitted with front and back handles, which make moving the fishing kayak from one place to another a piece of cake. Finally, it comes in a magnificent dark green color that can easily blend in with most of the kayaking environments.
On the other side of the spectrum, the Lifetime Triton Angler 100 doesn’t deal very well with the sharp turns of the water, and that is partially because it prefers to go at a slower pace than other kayaks.
Pros:
- Inbuilt skeg
- Self-bailing scupper holes
- Padded seat
- Adjustable quick-release seatback
- Tankwell storage
- Flexible
- Dark green color
Cons:
- Not friendly with sharp turns
- A bit slow
Final Verdict
The Lifetime Triton Angler 100 is an excellent choice to go with if you’re looking for something that you can easily maneuver and deal with, with very little chance of water accumulation and the freedom of adjustments in all its courses.
6. Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130
With the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130, we’ll up the game of maximum capacity a few notches, as this specific kayak can take up to 550 lbs of weight. Nevertheless, it doesn’t stop here as it enjoys a ton of great attributes.
Firstly, it’s fitted with a toe-operated rudder for maximum efficiency, in addition to a skid plate, a central console, and a protected spot for your fish finder with a lid. All of that will make your navigation a much more enjoyable experience, as it’ll take it to the next level.
Furthermore, storage has been taken care of quite thoroughly with the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130, as we’ve got our normal rear storage in addition to a waterproof cargo bag insert that can hold all of your delicate stuff.
We’ve also got our holders: two flush mounting rod holders and a cup holder. If any water finds its way up to the surface of the kayak, you needn’t worry about that at all thanks to the action of not one, not two, not three, but ten scupper holes.
That is a great option for a stand-up fishing kayak, as it’s designed with four gear tracks, and adjustable foot braces for maximum stability and confidence. Last but certainly not least, the area of deck available for you to enjoy is incredibly spacious.
Pros:
- Excellent tracking
- Stable
- Included toe-operated rudder
- Adjustable foot braces
- Two flush mounting rod holders
- Four gear tracks
- Included skid plate
- 550-lb capacity
Cons:
- Heavy
Final Verdict
In the end, the Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 is definitely one of the best models present on the market today. It offers you a lot of storage, a lot of freedom for movement, and great navigation with a maximum capacity of 550 pounds.
7. Riot Kayaks Escape 12
Now, we’ll move on to the Riot Kayaks Escape 12, with its exceptional storage and multiple implemented technologies and features. This kayak comes with an anchor trolley system, a 15-inch bow hatch, and spacious rear storage, allowing kayakers a lot of freedom and the ability to do so much more with their water vehicles than before.
Furthermore, we’ve got a pilot rudder system which is always a welcomed plus as it facilitates navigation and grants kayakers much more control of their kayaks.
One of the greatest aspects of the Riot Kayaks Escape 12 is its price, as for all that we’ve said and will say, its price tag isn’t that scary. This alone has managed to make it a favorite amongst the crowds.
Another thing that induces the crowds to go for the Riot Kayaks Escape 12 will be the spacious cockpit and adjustable foot rests, which guarantee your comfort throughout the trip.
Nevertheless, one thing that you might have to switch out is the bottom of the seat, as it’s unpadded whatsoever. Still, that’s not a problem as the entire seat is customizable; let that be the backrest or the bottom part.
Moreover, just like the cockpit, the deck itself is roomy, open, and is fitted with a deck plate in addition to three scrubber plugs that immediately drain any water that might disturb your peace and quiet.
Additionally, just like all of our other models, the Riot Kayaks Escape 12 comes with four flush mount rod holders, and a single swivel rod holder, for all of our fishing enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Spacious cockpit
- Integrated deck plate
- Adjustable foot braces
- 15-inch bow hatch
- Pilot rudder system
Cons:
- Uncushioned seat
Final Verdict
At the end of the day, if you want to go for something that is affordable, but can still give you a ton of useful features such as customizable seats, scupper plugs, a pilot rudder, and a spacious cockpit, then the Riot Kayaks Escape 12would be a great ally.
8. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
Let’s talk about the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120, with its all-around design that targets every single aspect of your kayaking trip. In a nutshell, this specific kayak has the S.M.A.R.T Hull technology which stands for stability, maneuverability, acceleration, tracking, and responsiveness.
All of that is combined in the kayak in order to give you the best kayaking experience possible. As for the design of the kayak itself, it enables it to cut through the water with incredible smoothness.
That is thanks to the extra defined keel line, and the increased rocker profile. These two together prevent any sudden movements from hitting the kayak too hard, making it much more stable and safer on any waterfront.
Moreover, the entire kayak has a low profile design in order to ward off strong winds; hence, it works on more than one element and not just the water. Furthermore, this kayak has a maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs.
Those 400 lbs can be filled with a ton of things courtesy of the storage space that we have embedded in this kayak; so we’ve got a center day hatch, a large covered bow hatch, and rod storage all on its own.
Additionally, we’ve not forgotten about transporting this rather heavy kayak from and to its destination. Consequently, we’ve molded side handles that can never break. Add to that the adjustable AirPro Max seat, and the Flex Pod OS Removable Mounting System, and you’ll understand how revolutionary this kayak is.
Last but certainly not least, the deck of this kayak is covered with non-skid pads, making it the perfect choice for a stand up fishing kayak.
Pros:
- Compact
- S.M.A.R.T Hull
- Defined keel line
- Molded side handles
- 400-lb weight capacity
- Flex Pod OS Removable Mounting System
- Great for fishing
Cons:
- Heavy
Final Verdict
If you’re in for a more futuristic type of kayak that comes with a bunch of different technologies and design innovations, then the Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 would be a great choice for you.
9. Elkton Outdoors
Our last kayak today is the Elkton Outdoors, and it’s our only inflatable kayak. Subsequently, it bends the rules a little bit; however, the main aspect here is the floor, and with the Elkton Outdoors, you’ve got a solid floor affording your balance, stability, and freedom.
As for the construction of this kayak, it’s made out of 1000D reinforced PVC; subsequently, it’s incredibly robust and durable. You needn’t worry about it hitting rocks or anything else while you are on the water.
Furthermore, the kayak is completely self-bailing and has a pretty simple setup process that one can’t really confuse anyone. Storage hasn’t been forgotten when designing the Elkton Outdoors, as it comes with bungee Storage for all of your needs in addition to multiple attachment points all around the Coke for you to work out however you prefer.
Anyway, this kayak does have a few drawbacks; mainly, the fact that it’s expensive, and can only support one person at a time. But, one thing we would like you to keep in mind is that this is not the best choice for white water activities.
Pros:
- Inflatable
- 1000D Reinforced PVC construction
- Supportive seat
- Easy setup process
- Multiple attachment points
Cons:
- Solo only
- Not great for whitewater
- Expensive
Final Verdict
If you are an experienced coworker who knows what they’re doing and they wish to experiment with something you inflatable kayaks then this will be your best choice thanks to it’s solid floor and sturdy construction.
How to Pick the Best Stand Up Fishing Kayak
Now, let’s walk you through the main points and features that we had to take into consideration when designing this list.
Kayak Type
The very first thing that you’re going to think about whenever you’re in the process of purchasing a kayak is i’s type. We’ve got two major categories of kayaks, and each one of them is divided.
The first is related to your seating position; hence, sit-on-top, or sit-inside, while the other is divided according to whether the kayak can support one person or more; solo, or tandem kayaks.
If you want a kayak that you can stand on, then you must go with a sit-on-top kayak, there is no discussion there. Yet, when we jump to the next category; which is solo or tandem, you have to think about your own habits, and how you like to practice your hobby? Plus, if in the future you wish to take your child with you and train them, or even take your pet?
Then, you must take the future into consideration in order to make a wise decision that you won’t come to regret later on. Additionally, tandem kayaks offer more storage space. So, even if you’re going out alone right now, the space will be used by your gear, clothes, food, water, first aid kit, etc.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is undoubtedly crucial when it comes to deciding on a certain kayak. That too will relate to your own habits, and whether or not you go out by yourself on these trips. As you’ve seen throughout the article, kayaks come in all different weight capacities, so they can reach up to 500-550 lbs.
Storage
We’ve touched on the point of storage and how important it’s previously; but, what you must understand is that there are so many different types of storage compartments that can be fitted into your kayak.
The first difference that you must know is that you need to have watertight storage compartments. This way you can keep your cell phone and anything that you don’t want to get wet completely safe. That also includes food and drinking water.
On the other hand, you’ll find other storage places that will be exposed to the water, and these places can store things such as your gear. In general, these tools are designed for water exposure, and it won’t harm them at all.
Storage compartments can be placed at the front of the kayak, or at the back, some even have storage compartments in the cockpit itself, the list is endless.
Other types of storage that aren’t exactly compartments include bungee ropes that go around the kayak with multiple attachment spots for your gear. You can also attach watertight bags to this rope, and create your own watertight compartment if needed.
Deck Design
The design of the deck relates directly to the stability of the kayak. Balance is what we’re always looking for in a stand up fishing kayak. That is why the deck design is essential. The wider your deck is, the more stable your kayak will be.
Also, as you’ve seen throughout the article, there are some additions to the deck that make the kayak more balanced, and allow you to stand on it easily, such as Non-skid pads.
Width vs. Length of the Kayak
The width and the length of the kayak are inversely proportional when it comes to its stability. In other words, as the width of the kayak increases, the more stable it becomes. On the other side of the spectrum, as the length of the kayak decreases, the more stable it becomes.
Consequently, you need to figure out a relation between these two variables that will ensure your comfort and freedom of movement inside the kayak, while still maintaining the needed stability for you to be able to stand up and cast with all your strength without tipping over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s discuss the most popular questions related to the topic of the best stand up fishing kayak.
What Is the Best Kayak to Stand Up In?
All of the models that we’ve discussed today are incredible, to say the least, nevertheless, if we’ve to pick one winner, it must be the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100.
What Is the Most Stable Fishing Kayak?
The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 proudly takes the crown for this one thanks to its amazing design.
Who Makes the Most Stable Fishing Kayak?
Wilderness Systems
What Is the Best Fishing Kayak for the Money?
The Lifetime Triton Angler 100 definitely brings an incredible lot to the table, while maintaining a moderate price tag.
Final Thoughts
This will be a wrap on our list of the nine best stand up fishing kayaks present on the market today. Each one of them has a ton of great attributes, and its own drawbacks as well. It all depends on how you like to go about your favorite hobby, and what will work for you. Now, let’s end with a few recommendations.
Let’s start with the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100, as it’s our top pick. This kayak offers a carrying capacity of 275 lbs, holders for all your devices, and storage space for days.
Next, we’ve got our second pick which is the Lifetime 10 Foot, and this kayak is all about giving users the freedom of choice. If you wish to go out by yourself or with friends, without having to change it. Moreover, it has an impressive weight capacity of 500 lbs, and a lot of storage.
Last but certainly not least, we’ve got the Perception Outlaw 11.5 which is a one-piece construction made out of high-density polyethylene. This kayak offers you the freedom of storage however you prefer it through a multitude of strapping points all around the perimeter of the kayak. Moreover, it’s leak-proof, and scratch-proof, with a high seat that can afford you much better vision.