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Bonafide SS127 Review: A Sit-On-Top Kayak Made For Anglers

A sit-on-top kayak made for stand-up fishing

By Ric Burnley | Updated Oct 18, 2021 10:12 AM EDT

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What happens when a renowned kayak accessory designer builds his ultimate sit-on-top kayak for fishing ? The result is the Bonafide SS127. In addition to having unique features and accessories, the Bonafide kayak’s layout and hull are the perfect design for stand-up kayak fishing. That’s because the Bonafide SS127 is the brainchild of a kayak fisherman. Luther Cifers is the owner and lead designer at YakAttack kayak accessories. But before he started the company that has brought so many iconic gadgets and doohickeys to paddle and pedal anglers, Cifers was a kayak fisherman. His experiences on the water helped inform each rod holder, camera mount, cup holder, and hundreds of other accessories. All that was left was a need for the perfect paddle fishing kayak to carry his gadgets. So, Cifers worked with long-time kayak designer Hanz Nutz to build the Bonafide SS127, and the rest is history.

Bonafide SS127 Specs:

• Weight: 85 pounds w/o seat
• Capacity: 475 pounds
• Length: 12’7”
• Width: 33.75”
• Hull: Rotomolded polyethylene
• Price: $1699

What Kind of Fishing Kayak is the Bonafide SS127

The Bonafide SS127 falls into the class of stand-up, sit-on-top paddle kayaks for fishing. These boats are utilitarian fishing machines focused on stability and functionality over speed and open-water performance. To excel in these categories, the SS127 combines a super-stable and sporty hull with an uber functional cockpit. From the bow hatch to the seat and stern well, every detail is designed to meet a serious angler’s needs while remaining user-friendly. Fishermen looking for a comfortable and functional sit-on-top fishing kayak will be happy with the Bonafide SS127.

Key Features of the Bonafide SS127

As expected, the Bonafide kayak has some of the most unique and functional fishing features on the water. Almost two decades ago, Luther Cifers started out as a dedicated kayak angler. When he couldn’t find the accessories he needed, the engineer decided to make them himself. While the sport exploded, Cifers had the inside track on the gear kayak anglers need. His experiences helped inspire his designs, and YakAttack’s full line of smart accessories became an essential part of the sport.

After working with the major kayak manufacturers to outfit their boats with his accessories, Cifers decided to design the ultimate sit-on-top kayak to complement his gadgets. To compete in the growing stand-up kayak market, Cifers developed a hull design, cockpit layout, and fishing features that are unique to the Bonafide SS127 .

Cifers attention to detail is evident in the huge bow hatch with reversible hinges. The hatch can open from the bow end or the cockpit end, and the angler can remove the hatch in seconds.

Another favorite feature is the removable electronics pod in the center of the wide, flat cockpit. The small, sealed box allows me to install the fishfinder display on the lid and the transducer on the bottom and store the battery inside. Or, I can use the pod for extra dry storage for stuff I need to keep close at hand.

The icing on the cake is the HighRise seat. Arguably the most comfortable seat on the water, the HighRise is just as good on land. The seat is designed for all-day comfort with quick-dry and breathable mesh padding, a high back and lumbar support. In the low position, the seat offers a better paddling experience. Lifting the seat into the high position makes it easier to stand and fish. The unique seat base makes it easy to go from the low position to the high position, even when I’m on the water.

Cifers was most proud of the Junk Drawer tackle storage under the seat. He installed a sliding tray below the angler to hold tackle trays and tools. Not only is this a convenient place to stash the stuff I use most, but it keeps my gear out of the elements and closer to the center of gravity.

How We Tested the Bonafide SS127

Six months before the Bonafide SS127 was released to the public, Luther Cifers invited me to the factory in Greenville, North Carolina, to test the fishing kayak and give him my thoughts. After we paddled around a local lake chasing bass and putting the boat through its courses, Cifers gave me a ride back to town in his sports car. As we zoomed and zipped through mountain roads, Cifers grilled me on my opinions of the boat. It didn’t matter whether I complimented a feature or criticized it—Cifers wanted to know why.

I’m sure everyone who paddled the early versions of the Bonafide SS127 received the same interrogation. Cifers showed me a half dozen prototypes that had been tested and trashed. The sticking point was the boat’s catamaran hull. Trying to balance speed and stability is a constant give and take. Cifers wanted to make sure he got it right.

The result is a paddle kayak for fishing that is fine-tuned for lakes, ponds, and inshore saltwater fishing. Since the Bonafide SS127 is a paddle kayak, it is especially deadly in shallow, weed-choked, and rock-strewn water. While the paddle kayak doesn’t have the legs of a pedal kayak, it can take an angler to the skinniest backwaters that fish love and pedal kayakers hate.

The Bonafide SS127 Kayak is a favorite for professional fishing guides. The boat’s stability and reliable components are a comfort to new anglers and pros alike.

Speed, Tracking, Maneuverability

While Luther Cifers unique designs and demand for quality are evident on the topside of the Bonafide SS127, his real achievement is below the water line. Working with long-time kayak designer Hanz Nutz, the Bonafide SS127 takes the tunnel hull to a new level.

The hardest thing about designing a stand-up-friendly paddle kayak is combining performance with stability. A wide sit-on-top kayak is stable, but it paddles like crap. Also, the wide boat will have a shallow draft and be at the mercy of wind and currents.

On the other hand, a great paddling boat with a keel, rocker, and narrow beam, turns stand-up fishing into a circus act. Of course, adding a pedal system into the equation negates the negatives of a wide, stable kayak. But, the disadvantage of a pedal kayak shows in shallow water, where stand-up fishing is most effective. And this is the conundrum of kayak design.

To solve the dilemma, Cifers and Nutz developed a hybrid catamaran hull. Like any catamaran, the pontoons push the boat’s volume to the outside for improved stability. In addition, the tunnel between the pontoons improves tracking and reduces the effects of wind and current on the kayak. At the bow, the pontoons come together in a hybrid pointed bow to cut through the waves and reduce hull noise.

The hybrid catamaran concept is popular with stand-up kayaks, but it can be hard to pull off. Get it wrong, and water bubbles through the scuppers and boils off the stern, causing drag and slowing the kayak. The Bonafide SS127 gets the tunnel hull right, and the boat travels straight, paddles easily, and stays stable.

This design allows the Bonafide SS127 Kayak to perform at the best end of the stand-up kayak line. While the boat paddles fast and straight, turning a tunnel hull isn’t as easy as a kayak with a keel, but the Bonafide SS127 maintains softer secondary stability to make maneuvering easier.

A Paddle Kayak for Stand-up Fishing in Shallow Water

To complement the hull, the topside of the Bonafide SS127 is designed for stand-up fishing. In addition to the wide, flat, padded deck, the boat has two “Perch Pads” on the gunnels to allow the angler to stand higher for a better view into the water.

For a convenient place to store the paddle when I’m standing and fishing, the Bonafide Kayak has a plastic strap and padded area in the bow to hold one blade. The top of the strap has ridges corresponding to the ridges on the bow to serve as a horizontal rod holder. Another paddle holder is integrated into the side handle to strap the paddle to the kayak.

Bonafide designed unique foot pegs on aluminum tracks to last a lifetime. Other aluminum gear tracks on the stern well, cockpit, and bow allow me to add rod holders, electronics, or other accessories. Pad eyes on the gunwales, by the bow hatch, and along the stern well offer more areas to secure gear. The gear tracks and pad eyes are recessed to avoid snagging my fishing line.

The large bow hatch has plenty of room for dry gear and tackle. I like to keep my kayak life vest in the hatch, so I don’t have to remember to grab it before each trip. I also store dry clothes and tackle boxes in the hatch. The hatch is easy to open and remove, even while I’m standing in the cockpit.

The Bonafide SS127 is focused on stability and fishing ability, with paddling performance to get you to the fishing grounds.

What the Bonafide SS127 Does Best: Backwater and Flats Fishing

The Bonafide SS127 is one of the best sit-on-top fishing kayaks on the water. The modified catamaran hull allows rock-solid stability and manageable paddling performance. The open cockpit and deck with a high-low seat make stand-up fishing easier. The seat can be adjusted from the cockpit, and the paddle holder in the bow and the horizontal rod holders keep these items in easy reach when I’m stand-up fishing. Even the Perch Pads, flat areas on the gunwales, add a few inches of improved visibility. The Bonafide SS127 is a great all-around kayak with all the features and design cues to satisfy the serious angler. The boat’s open cockpit, free of obstructions, makes it popular with fly fishermen. And smart fishing accessories and tons of gear storage are perfect for targeting finicky largemouth bass. When Luther Cifers, owner of YakAttack fishing accessories, set out to create the ultimate fishing kayak, he had long days of casting topwater lures or working jigs in his mind.

What the Bonafide SS127 Does Worst: Long Distance and Open Water

Stand-up fishing kayaks are stable and functional for hours of comfortable backwater fishing. Even with the best design, these boats fall short on long paddles through rough seas. The stability that keeps an angler upright turns into a battering ram when facing wind and waves. Even though the tunnel hull improves tracking, the Bonafide SS127 takes some work to keep on course. And turning the boat’s stable hull can become a chore. These obstacles are common with all stand-up fishing boats, and the Bonafide kayak does its best to overcome them. It is easy to add an electric outboard or trolling motor to increase the kayak’s range and improve performance.

Does the Bonafide 127 Deliver On Its Mission?

Two of the best minds in fishing kayak design worked for a year to create the best stand-up fishing kayak. As expected, they succeeded. The HybridCat hull is fast and stable with better than expected maneuverability. The topside is open and flat, with plenty of room for fishing and paddling. Details like the bow hatch, paddle holder, HighRise seat, and foot pegs are not found on any other kayak. After releasing three boats, Cifers sold Bonafide to another manufacturer. This leaves the Bonafide Kayak alone in the Bonafide lineup as one of the best stand-up fishing kayaks that will probably never be repeated or redesigned. I guess you can’t improve on perfection.

Following in his father's footsteps as an outdoor writer, Ric Burnley had big shoes to fill. After his dad, Eric, gave Ric his first job contributing a weekly fishing report to The Fisherman Magazine, the younger Burnley took to the profession of story-making and storytelling. Over the past two decades, Ric Burnley has entertained and educated the readers of Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, Salt Water Sportsman, Sport Fishing, and other major outdoor magazines.

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133X Tournament Yak-Power Sit-On

The Ascend® 133X Tournament is crafted for maximum fishability with edge-to-edge stability for effortless stand-up fishing, rod-and tackle-specific storage solutions, and a bow plate for trolling motor mounting. The deluxe seat delivers cool comfort through mesh construction and sits high enough to make sidearm casting a breeze. A gunnel-mounted track system permits addition of fishfinders, rod holders, and other accessories while a perfectly executed keel and hull bottom keep you tracking straight in all conditions.

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The deluxe, adjustable high-back seating system delivers all-day comfort. Open bow and stern storage areas let you bring all the gear you could want, while a dry-storage hatch with roomy 10.9"L x 14.8"W space lets you protect essentials. Four 16" accessory rails allow endless customizing. 2 flush-mount rod holders hold your favorite rods so you can prepare other gear, swap electronics, or simply kick back. Adjustable foot braces accommodate kayakers of different height and enhance stability. Nonskid cushioned flooring and an extra-stable Catamaran-style hull allow the easiest fishing-kayak platform you've ever experienced. This Ascend kayak adds 9 scupper drains with plugs; a threaded, sealed drain plug; and carrying handles for easy transport to and from adventure.

• NMMA® certified
• Color: Titanium
• Engineered catamaran hull design for performance, stability & solid tracking
• 1-piece rotomolded hull construction
• 2 flush-mounted rod holders w/rod leash eyelets
• Die-cut EPDM foam gaskets for flush-mounted rod holders to virtually eliminate water intrusion
• Fore & aft molded grip handles (4 total)
• Thru-hull transducer scupper
• Threaded & sealed drain plug
• Yak-Power system w/wiring harness, master controller & 3 power plugs
• Integrated trolling motor wire harness w/50A circuit protection
• Bow mount trolling motor ready
• Stern motor & Power-Pole® micro anchor ready
• Adjustable foot braces
• Non-skid cushioned flooring
• Black powder-coated interior side carrying handles
• Enhanced seating system
• Deluxe enhanced & adjustable seating system w/high-back seat & underseat storage tray
• 2 molded-in drink holders
• Gunnel flats w/four 16" (40.64 cm) accessory rails
• Recessed bow storage area
• 10.91" x 14.84" (27.71 cm x 37.69 cm) midship hatch w/storage tub
• Open cockpit design for flexibility in cargo management
• Fishing rod staging & tackle storage molded into each side
• Recessed stern storage area w/bungee
• 1.5" (3.81 cm) fore, midship & aft self-draining, molded scupper drains (9 total) w/9 plugs

* Prices, specifications, and features are subject to change without notice. Photos may show optional equipment. All prices are stated in US Dollars. See your dealer for details.

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Ultimate Fishability

The Bonafide RS117

Value Redefined

MSRP: $1,049

Whether lake fishing, river fishing, inshore or offshore fishing, the Bonafide RS117 “RISE Series” is truly an incredible fishing kayak, ready for all water environments.

The RS117 offers a new standard for budget-conscious kayak anglers, providing them an affordable opportunity to RISE up into a premium, authentically-designed fishing kayak that’s made in the USA! With a Hybrid Catamaran hull (similar to our SS series), the RS117 is a very standable platform that offers an excellent balance of stability and paddling performance. Add in the top-notch deck layout with all day comfort and an “it just makes sense” array of features, and the RS117 is the perfect boat to get you out on the water, paddling and fishing, with friends and family!

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Rs117 kayak.

The RS117 maintains a modest width of just 33.5 inches, but the stability and tracking out performs many wider (and heavier) kayaks. The RS117 weighs in at just 77 (honest) lbs.

Comfort and organization are key components of the RS117. The new Stadium Seat is light weight, easy to adjust, and has two seating positions, allowing all day comfort to make those long days on the water possible. From bow to stern, a wide array of features such as YakAttack MightyMount XL track, centralized storage pod, Shield Frontwell Cover with integrated Paddle Pouch, and forward transducer friendly scupper, make the RS117 one of the most fully featured values in kayak fishing.

Getting on the water is easier with the RS117. The oversized FatGrip Handles (bow and stern) are integrated to the hull in ergonomically friendly locations, making carrying comfortable and easy. Side handles assist in car topping, and are designed to retain your paddle or fishing rod.

To top it off, the Bonafide Limited Lifetime Hull Warranty gives you peace of mind. It’s our promise to you that we stand behind each and every one of our products.

Whether you’re an experienced kayak angler looking for the next sit-on-top fishing kayak, or are just starting out, we want to be part of your next adventure. You only get one life. Live the Story You Want to Tell™ in your Bonafide kayak!

Don’t take our word for it. Visit your local Bonafide dealer, schedule a demo, and try it for yourself. We think you’ll agree.

Ratings by Category

• Flat Water 9.0
• Slow Current 8.0
• Fast Current 6.0
• Choppy Water 7.0
• Stability 7.0
• Tracking 6.0
• Agility 6.0
• Comfort 8.0

Honest Weight

65 lbs hull weight; 72 lbs w/o seat, 77 lbs w/ seat

Deck Height

Hull material.

Rotomolded Polyethylene

Note: Capacity is determined by taking kayak weight + paddler weight + gear weight. Bonafide determines capacity by where the performance of the kayak becomes very diminished.

• Hybrid Cat Hull design
• Multi rod and paddle management points
• Fat Grip™ Bow and Stern Handles
• Forward StorageWell with transducer scupper
• Shield StorageWell™ Cover with integrated Paddle Pouch
• Integrated DryPod™
• YakAttack MightyMount XL track- 2 x 12” 1 x 6”
• Excellent standing stability and foot room
• Cockpit Deck traction
• Dual height Stadium Seat™ with double layer breathable mesh and extra width for comfort
• Quick Connect™ seat positioning system with low and high positions
• Gear storage around the seat for tackle organizers, integrated cup holder, under seat tackle storage, and integrated lure trays on the gunwales
• Side carry handle with paddle storage
• Dual flush mount rod holders
• Crate friendly tankwell with adjustable bungee and extra tackle storage
• Stern Access Plate for hull access
• Replaceable dual stern skid plates
• TopRun Rudder System™ ready, enabling quick and easy no-drill rudder install

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Description

The 360° Angler is tailored for anglers who demand a fishing kayak that excels in every aspect. It prioritizes ample space, comfort, accessories, and storage without sacrificing the stealth and maneuverability needed for accessing shallow waters that larger boats can't reach. Combining the stability of a bass boat with the convenience of a kayak, the 360° Angler offers a comprehensive fishing experience and features our Flex Drive Mark IV.

• Unique Captain’s chair provides 360º fishability from an elevated, comfortable seating platform and keeps rudder controls right at hand
• Gear tracks for rod mounts (comes with rod holders)
• In-hull storage for rods, tackle boxes and much more
• Integrated wheel system to make wheeling your boat from your truck or trailer to the water a snap 
• Ability to easily add a trolling or small outboard motor
• Our new Flex Drive Mark IV (Patented) is the product of four years of constant evolution. The latest version of our amazing Flex Drive is faster, quieter and more durable than ever before. Learn more about the Flex Drive Mark IV here:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCX2_7Pbfek   User Manual for Flex Drive Mark IV:   https://jacksonadventures.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/334_Belt-Drive-Manual-BV8.pdf.   Explore the new Mark IV Drive, here:   https://hub.jacksonkayak.com/flex-drive-mark-iv/
• A four-hole bolt pattern on the stern of both pontoons to support accessories such as the PowerPole and Torqeedo trolling motor mount adaptor

Want to see a side by side comparison of the Blue Sky series of boats (Angler & 360 Pro)? Check this handy chart: Blue Sky Comparison Chart

Length: 13'4" • Weight: 140 w/o seat & drive, 170 w/seat & drive • Width: 48" • Capacity: 500 lbs

Suggested Application

Ideal for fishing on large lakes, ponds, and inshore saltwater, the 360 Angler features integrated wheels and is easy to transport from your truck to the boat launch. Its dual hull design ensures remarkable stability even in rough waters.

1 - Click on Artifical Reality button above to get 3D view, 2 - Click View in Real Life to load up QR code, 3 - Scan QR code using your smart phone camera, 4 - Open in your browser (prompt will appear), 5 - Find a spot in your room, follow instructions till boat appears.

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Posted by Mitch LeCoupe on Jan 21st 2024

Bluesky Boatworks 360 Angler Mark IV: An Upgrade Worth Considering I recently upgraded from the first-year Bluesky Boatworks 360 Angler with the old flex drive to the latest model featuring the Mark IV drive. While the transition came with a few changes, overall, the improvements have made my fishing experience even more enjoyable. The initial purchase of my old Bluesky Boatworks 360 Angler left me impressed with the inclusion of the Orion cup, tackle boxes, and two rod holders. However, the Mark IV edition no longer includes Orion cup, tackle boxes but dose come with the rod holders, which was a bit disappointing. Nonetheless, the upgraded features make up for it. One of the standout improvements is the rudder system. The shift from the old plastic rudder to a sturdy aluminum one has proven to be a game-changer. The old rudder had a tendency to bend over time, affecting performance, while the new aluminum rudder provides enhanced durability and responsiveness. The Mark IV drive itself offers a smoother and faster kayaking experience compared to its predecessor. The technological advancements are evident, and I appreciate the increased efficiency during my outings. However, it's worth noting that my old e-drive, which was compatible with the old flex drive, is not compatible with the new Mark IV drive. This led me to sell my old Bluesky along with the e-drive. One unexpected hurdle was the change in the wheel bracket design. The new bracket lacked the angled cut that allowed for easy wheel placement on the old model. The result was wheels that dangled when lifted, posing a challenge during boat launches. Fortunately, I was able to find a workaround by swapping the front and rear brackets between my old and new Bluesky. This modification restored the convenient wheel functionality I had grown accustomed to. In conclusion, the Bluesky Boatworks 360 Angler Mark IV is a worthy upgrade for those seeking enhanced performance and durability. While some accessories may no longer be included, the overall improvements in the rudder system, drive efficiency, and build quality make it a solid investment for avid kayak anglers. Just be prepared for potential adjustments, such as bracket swaps, to maintain the same level of convenience for your wheel system.

Rejuvenated!!!

Posted by Kevin Nation on Jun 27th 2023

As a disabled veteran who has been kayaking for several years, I had to face the reality as I got older of giving up my joy of being out on the water. I was no longer able to get into my kayak (Bonafide SS127) because of sitting too low and dealing with back issues. Then I discovered the Angler 360 and I am back on the water for 6-8 hours at a time, with no back issues and loving every minute of it. I can't say "thank you" enough for giving back my love of being on the water and the ability to fish. This is truly my therapy - physically and mentally.

Posted by David Fry on Jun 10th 2022

I have had this platform for a few years and it has performed beyond expectations. Receives a lot of compliments and envied by many. I have the flexdrive as well as a garmin fish finder and micro anchor system. I also have proper running lights fitted for night fishing activities. I also use a standup paddle. Comes in handy. Speed will be 3+ mph dependingon conditions and load. Large stable deck and works in shallow as well as deeper waters. Rides well with boat wakes and higher breaking waves. Transports well in the truck bed and I do use a bed extender. Easy on and off. Easy entry and exit for the water especially at boat ramps. Great fishing kayak. Very convenient for one person to handle and transport. I do recommend it. If you want fast this will not be a good fit.

Buy the 360 Pro

Posted by Barry R Jark on Dec 28th 2021

I own 2 Blue Sky's. The Angler 360 was my first one. I loved the boat so much but I am 67 years old and I got tired of peddling so I bought the 360 Pro. I added a MinnKota trolling motor and lithium troling battery to the Pro and I use it about 2 to 3 times a week. I never use the 360 Angler. Every time out I get many positive comments on the Pro. Also, the Flex Drive wears out quickly. The cable that runs from the lower unit to the prop grinds and squeeks. Grinding and squeeking when you are fishing does not work. It is a fantastic boat but the Flex Drive is the weak link. Go Pro!

360 blue sky

Posted by Tim on Jul 10th 2021

Damn(can i say that here?) I love my boat! It’s the best fishing kayak I’ve ever owned. I’ve had a couple nice ones and they were great. But this thing is on another level for fishing and customizing. Blue sky boat works customer service is better than any I’ve encountered! I’m not a robot( most of the time)

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Jackson Kayak Takes On Fishing Market With New Brand

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Jackson Kayak owners launched the new brand Blue Sky Boatworks this month. Its twin-hull design grabbed the attention of the kayak fishing and recreation market, and it’s taking the Kickstarter world by storm.

Blue Sky Boatworks’ first molded prototype hit the floor in April 2017. Today, it’s a production reality. Industry veteran Jackson Kayak launched Blue Sky Boatworks from its manufacturing facility in Sparta, Tennessee.

With 21 days still to go, the Kickstarter campaign has already vastly surpassed its funding goal. Blue Sky Boatworks joins the ranks of founder Eric Jackson’s other companies, Jackson Kayak and Orion Coolers, with its new dual-hull design personal watercraft.

Jackson Kayak has a rich history of whitewater kayaking. Founded on whitewater kayaks, the brand expanded to fishing kayaks in recent years. There are currently 19 different sit-on-top, single-hull watercraft in the line.

Blue Sky Boatworks takes it a step further. Eric Jackson launched the new brand to bring double-hull kayaks to the fishing world. The concept was first conceived in 2015, with initial construction finishing up in summer 2017.

The brand claims it makes “a new kind of quiet watercraft” that is “nimble as a kayak, stable as a catamaran, comfortable and customizable as a bass boat.” The results of product development are the 360 Escape and 360 Angler. A 360-degree swiveling seat and catamaran design are the signature components of both crafts.

Jackson Invests in Design Team

Jackson Kayak hired longtime paddlesports expert Andy Zimmerman and his design crew, including multihull specialist Jim Brown, to assist in the project. Conversations about creating this new design began in 2015, and the initial drawing was submitted in late 2016.

In summer 2017, the first prototypes hit the water at Paddlesports Retailer and Outdoor Retailer shows. The boats turned heads.

“A new category of personal watercraft … what could be more exciting! Jackson Kayak loves to innovate, and we come up with a big thing every few years,” Eric Jackson enthusiastically shared about his company’s innovation. “The Angler 360 is one of those big deals.”

Since Jackson’s previous statement, the project has expanded. Enter the 360 Escape and 360 Angler. Both offer a 360-degree swivel seat and Jackson Kayak’s FlexDrive pedal system.

Jackson intends the 360 Escape for recreational pursuits – touring ponds, lakes, and other flat-water venues to watch wildlife and enjoy the exercise. The Escape outfit includes two hatches, 25 square feet of deck space, captain’s chair with trimmable fore and aft steering controls attached, and integrated FlexDrive pedal propulsion system.

Kickstarter pricing for the 360 Escape is $2,499, with retail pricing increasing to $2,999 after the campaign ends.

Blue Sky Boatworks includes the full kit for the 360 Angler model. Upgrades from the Escape are four hatches, 30 square feet of deck space, YakAttack track systems for mounting gear, height adjustment added to the captain’s chair, and two rod holders.

The 360 Angler costs $2,899 on Kickstarter. The price will increase to $3,499 when the campaign is over.

Blue Sky Boatworks Kickstarter Success

Jackson Kayak decided on Kickstarter to fund Blue Sky Boatworks. Donors have poured in, thanks in part to the positive reputation of predecessors Jackson Kayak and Orion Coolers.

And, by participating in trade shows, Blue Sky sparked interest in the campaign into a figurative firestorm.

“We set our goal a little low, WAY below actual R&D costs, because we wanted to be 100% sure we would be able to reach it,” said founder Eric Jackson. “We were so excited that we did reach our Kickstarter goal in 45 minutes, and we doubled the goal in the next 3 days, with 26 days to go.”

Today, the funding continues to grow and is on track to exceed three times the initial financial goal. Blue Sky Boatworks’ 360 Escape and 360 Angler will ship in June to pre-sales and dealers.

More information on the products is available on the Blue Sky Boatworks Kickstarter campaign page.

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Most Stable Kayak for 2023: 12 Best Stand-Up Fishing Kayaks

In a hurry? We recommend Perception Outlaw 11.5 as a stable platform for stand-up fishing.

One of the most important characteristics anglers look for in a fishing kayak is stability. Being able to comfortably stand up while you’re fishing opens up lots of possibilities.

After hours of research and testing, we bring you 12 most stable kayaks that we consider the best as a stand-up fishing platform.

At a Glance: Best Stand-up Fishing Kayaks

• Best Overall: Perception Outlaw 11.5
• Best Premium: NuCanoe Unlimited
• Best Budget: Jackson Bite Angler
• Bonafide SS127
• Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12
• Feelfree Lure 13.5
• Vibe Cubera 120
• Pelican Catch PWR 100
• Sea Eagle FishSUP 126
• Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
• Native Watercraft Ultimate FX 12
• Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120

As an affiliate of Amazon and other retailers, we may earn a small commission when you buy via our links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Comparison table: Most Stable Fishing Kayaks

Kayaks have traditionally been designed to provide stability for the user while they are in the sitting position.

But since kayak fishing has exploded in popularity, leading kayak brands have been working to produce models that let users stand up and move around as much as they want. 

There are two types of kayaks: sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks. Both of these are designed to provide adequate stability for users while they are seated, but what if you like to stand and fish? 

Sit-on-top kayaks are usually the better option as they provide greater primary stability than the sit-inside models. That said, there are sit-inside kayaks in our list below that can let you stand easily.

Tested and Rated: Best Kayaks for Stand-Up Fishing

1. perception outlaw 11.5.

Length: 11’6” (353 cm) Width: 35” (89 cm) Weight: 77 lbs. (35 kg) Capacity : 425 lbs. (193 kg)

Of all the kayaks we tested, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is arguably the best stand-up fishing kayak you’ll find in today’s industry. It offers useful features and is designed with all the elements for anglers who prefer to stand while fishing. We love its spacious 35-inch deck that includes traction pads. 

The Outlaw 11.5 comes with an elevated, comfortable seat that makes it easy to stand and sit down. At 11.5 feet long and 77 lbs , it’s a compact kayak that handles quite well on the water in terms of maneuverability and tracking.

Being that wide, the Outlaw is not the fastest kayak around, so if you need to cover a lot of ground, it is not the best choice for you.

One thing we did not like about the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is that it doesn’t offer dry storage compartments. Another potential downside is that this kayak comes with short gear tracks, so if you have a lot of track-mounted gear, it may be a deal breaker for you.

However, this one is a great value that is often priced at under $1,000 in most retail stores. 

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 fishing kayak was designed to be disruptive in every way. With its great stability, very high seat, and a walkable open deck, it is a very interesting fishing platform at a great price point.

• Very stable
• High seat is great for sight fishing
• Walkable deck
• Nothing to snag lines on
• Not very fast
• Seat lacks a low position
• No footrests

2. NuCanoe Unlimited

Length: 12’6” (384 cm) Width: 41” (104 cm) Weight: 84 lbs. (38 kg) Capacity : 650 lbs. (294.8 kg)

The NuCanoe Unlimited is packed with useful features and is one of the better-performing kayaks that’s made for stand up fishing. We love its unique hull design that combines the canoe-like ability to glide through the water with the rock-solid stability you get from the wide hull.

The Unlimited is ideal if you plan to install a motor on your kayak. It comes with a transom that can take electric trolling motors and even small gas motors. The bow is compatible with bow-mounted motors, including those with Spot-Lock technologies such us the Motorguide and Minn Kota models.

With flush-mounted rod holders and gear tracks that run the length of the entire kayak, there’s almost no limit to the gear you can install on this kayak (it’s not called the Unlimited for nothing).

In our testing, we found the 360 Fusion seat to be exceptionally comfortable. It allows anglers to rotate and face any direction they wish while fishing. 

The Unlimited model in NuCanoe’s line is one of the most customizable kayaks on the market that has an incredible 41-inch wide deck that allows you to easily stand up while the boat maintains rock-solid stability. 

The Unlimited features NuCanoe’s signature open deck that is perfect for fly fishing or giving you plenty of legroom while you fish. As the name indicates, there are virtually no limits as to where you can take this kayak and feel comfortable on the water. It is capable of being used with a pedal drive system, as well as almost any kind of trolling motor or even small gas outboards.

• Ample space
• Solo or tandem
• Comfortable, 360-degree seating
• Customizable
• Great stability
• Unable to raise or lower seat
• Limited stern space

3. Jackson Bite Angler

Length: 11’5” (350.5 cm) Width: 36” (91.4 cm) Weight: 69 lbs. (31.3 kg) Capacity : 400 lbs. (181.4 kg)

The Jackson Bite Angler is the perfect throw-and-go kayak that packs all the right features you need for a day on the water.

It’s 11.5 feet in length and offers a 36-inch-wide deck that has ample space without any console or center gear hatches getting in the way, making it an awesome fly fishing platform . It is also super-stable and perfect for stand-up fishing.

The Bite Angler comes with a breathable, padded seat that is just a bit lower than some anglers may want. 

This kayak offers plenty of tackle storage space, as well as large open tank wells on the bow and stern that are equipped with bungee cords to secure your gear.

The Jackson Bite Angler’s hull design provides outstanding stability, making this one a great choice of stand up fishing kayak that’s priced in the sub-$1,000 range. 

RELATED: Jackson Kayaks: Model Lineup and Reviews

4. Bonafide SS127

Length: 12’7” (383.5 cm) Width: 33.75” (85.7 cm) Weight: 94 lbs. (42.6 kg) Capacity : 475 lbs. (215.4 kg)

We’ve tested the Bonafide SS127, so we’re speaking from experience here. The Bonafide SS127 is an extremely stable fishing kayak thanks to its hybrid catamaran hull.

The SS127 is only 33.5 inches wide but feels more stable than most kayaks that have a width of 36 inches or more. It offers a sleek, ergonomic design that includes nearly anything you need for fishing.

Bonafide ’s design experts set out to make this kayak with more ‘fishability’ than any other and definitely hit their mark. The HiRise seating system is very comfortable and can be adjusted into a reclining, low, high or ultra-high position for a truly unique experience.

The Bonafide SS127 is reasonably priced and makes a strong case for being the best stand-up fishing kayak in the industry today. 

Whether you’re sitting, standing, paddling or just relaxing in your boat, the SS127 provides you with an exceptional amount of advantages for fishing in just about any scenario. The Bonafide SS127 is all about performance and stability and it offers plenty of both for anglers of all sizes. This kayak has decent tracking and is quite fast compared to kayaks of similar size and structure. 

• Tracks well
• Super comfortable
• Lots of gear storage
• Rudder is not included

5. Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12

Length: 12’ (366 cm) Width: 36” (91 cm) Weight: 128.5 lbs. (58.2 kg) Capacity : 500 lbs. (227 kg)

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 is easily one of the top kayak models for anglers who require outstanding stability. It’s one that we could place higher on our list, but the price tag far exceeds what most kayak anglers can afford. For those who are willing to invest a sizable amount into an exceptional boat, the Mirage Pro Angler 12 is everything you should expect in a premium fishing kayak. 

It features an elevated ST seat that’s both comfortable and well-positioned. This kayak has more dry storage compartments than any other and offers a whopping 500 pounds of overall capacity.

The Mirage Pro Angler 12 is made to handle any kind of water and is right at home on calm lakes or choppy coastal waters. 

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 is packed with many features that will appeal to serious anglers who need the best performance and stability out of their kayak. It is the ideal combination of on-the-water performance and premium features that give this kayak a strong case for being among the top fishing kayaks in the world.

• Excellent stability
• Easily propelled with pedal system
• Plenty of storage
• Transducer ready
• Kick-up fins and rudder
• Extremely comfortable
• Somewhat heavier than other fishing kayaks

6. Feelfree Lure 13.5

Length: 13’6” (411.48 cm) Width: 34” (86.36 cm) Weight: 107 lbs. (48.53 kg) Capacity : 500 lbs. (227 kg)

The Feelfree Lure 13.5 is an incredibly stable kayak that doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of speed and tracking. The Lure’s 13.5-foot frame offers a 34-inch wide deck that comes with a spacious, padded standing platform. This kayak is nearly everything one could want when it comes to a stable vessel and offers just the right features for serious anglers. 

One of our favorite features is the multi-use console that comes with a removable sonar pod.

We also love the Gravity seat, which is exceptionally comfortable. The seat can be adjusted to sit flush with the deck, or 10 inches above it for optimal leg position to stand and sit without any trouble.

The Lure 13.5 is loaded with gear tracks, dry storage, and can even be purchased with an Overdrive Pedal & Motor System. 

FeelFree Lure 13.5 V2 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that’s incredibly stable, versatile, comfortable, and capable on open waters. It is perfect for long fishing trips with its maximum capacity of 500 lbs, and it comes with a wide variety of features, making it a worthwhile investment.

• Comfortable
• Pedal and motor drive ready
• Rudder ready
• Large storage capacity
• Hard to transport alone
• Limited leg room for taller paddlers

7. Vibe Cubera 120

Length: 12’ (365.76 cm) Width: 33.5” (85 cm) Weight: 72 lbs. (32.65 kg) Capacity : 475 lbs. (215.45 kg)

The Vibe Cubera 120 is a truly distinct hybrid SUP and stand-up fishing kayak. The flat hull lets it traverse very shallow waters that other boats simply can’t reach. The flat 33.5-inch deck offers plenty of space that can also be customized thanks to 6 top-loading gear tracks. Its flat hull design means this kayak is right at home in calm, flat water such as lakes and slow-moving rivers. 

The Vibe Summit Seat is a comfortable height. There’s even a dry hatch for your important gear items on board.

The Cubera also comes with a pre-installed Gravity rudder kit that greatly increases the tracking of this 12-foot stand up fishing kayak. 

8. Pelican Catch PWR 100

Length: 9’9” (301.7 cm) Width: 39.8” (101 cm) Weight: 75 lbs. (34 kg) Capacity : 450 lbs. (204 kg)

If you’re looking for a super-compact and highly-stable fishing kayak, the Pelican Catch PWR 100 is hard to overlook. This 9’9” kayak is built on a shallow arch hull that’s designed to provide outstanding stability in various kinds of waters. What it lacks in speed, the Catch PWR 100 makes up for in terms of fishing features and a rock-solid stability that lets you comfortably stand and launch cast after cast. 

The Pelican Catch PWR 100 is 39.75-inch wide. The kayak offers plenty of space, as well as a padded deck and a large dry storage hatch on the bow section. It weighs just 78 lbs and is highly portable while providing up to 450 pounds of capacity that can easily accommodate all your fishing gear. 

The major selling point of the Pelican is the transom. It lets you install an electric trolling motor or even a small gas outboard.

We also love the Ergo360 seat that allows you to swivel and face any direction while fishing.

The Pelican Catch PWR 100 is an unorthodox kayak that is ideal for those who want a compact stand up fishing kayak that’s nearly unbeatable in terms of stability. 

See other great Pelican kayaks in our review here .

9. Sea Eagle FishSUP 126

Length: 12’6” (381 cm) Width: 40” (102 cm) Weight: 44 lbs. (20 kg) Capacity : 500 lbs. (227 kg)

The Sea Eagle FishSUP 126 is another highly unique design that offers incredible stability for anglers. It’s the only inflatable kayak we have on our list. The vessel is built with a tapered, swallow-tail shape that’s intended to increase the boat’s maneuverability on the water. It’s extremely portable and lightweight and can be fully inflated in just 7 minutes.

The Sea Eagle FishSUP 126 has a 40-inch hull and offers an astounding 500 pound capacity that can fit a load of fishing gear, or even two anglers at a time.

Just like the Pelican above, the FishSUP comes with a transom bar that allows you to install a trolling motor. And at only 44 lbs, it is the lightest option on our list.

Stand, sit, paddle or troll, there’s no end to the options on the Sea Eagle FS126. This paddleboard/kayak hybrid is a versatile angling platform which allows you to glide over the water and get to the best fishing spots faster.

• Stable and versatile angling board
• Seating options can be added
• High pressure board
• D-rings for accessories and equipment
• Single chamber design

10. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120

Length: 12’2” (371 cm) Width: 35” (88 cm) Weight: 86 lbs. (39 kg) Capacity : 400 lbs. (181 kg)

The Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 is a shorter, more compact version of the popular ATAK 140. This kayak is one of the more feature-rich models that you’ll find for under $2,000 and is an exceptional value considering its on-the-water performance. It’s built on a large, 35-inch frame that includes a wide deck with traction pads. 

The AirPro Max seat is arguably the most talked-about feature and it also comes with a stand-up assist strap to help maintain balance when standing and sitting.

The ATAK 120 is compatible with Wilderness Systems’ Helix MD Motor Drive electric trolling motor for easy mobility. It’s loaded with features like a removable console, ample dry storage and SlideTrax accessory systems that make it one of the most sought-after stand up fishing kayaks in today’s fishing industry.

The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 carries the legacy of A.T.A.K. 140 model quite well. This boat is designed for anglers who want a shorter kayak that retains the features and stability of the previous model. Its shorter size helps it to be more responsive and easier to transport.

• Very comfortable
• Ample dry storage
• Handles well
• Decent speed
• Molded side carry handles

11. Native Watercraft Ultimate FX 12

Length: 12’2” (371 cm) Width: 30.5” (77 cm) Weight: 65 lbs. (29.5 kg) Capacity : 350 lbs. (159 kg)

The Native Watercraft Ultimate FX 12 is a unique kayak that blends the stability of a kayak with the agility and speed of a canoe . This 12-foot sit-inside kayak is made with a narrower 30.5-inch width but still manages to provide a level of stability that’s comparable to most of the other models on our list. 

At just 65 pounds, the Native Watercraft Ultimate FX 12 is a true throw-and-go model that can easily be car-topped or secured in the back of a pickup truck to go virtually anywhere you can launch it. It offers a limited amount of features compared to most other kayaks, but what the Ultimate FX 12 lacks in features, it makes up for in performance.

The Native Ultimate FX 12 is the perfect combination of the positive aspects of a kayak and canoe that’s designed to function as the ultimate outdoor vessel for both hunting and fishing. Thanks to its speed, stability, solid hull design and plenty of room for gear this fishing kayak is right at home in the backwaters of freshwater lakes and rivers.

• Good speed and tracking
• Comfortable/adjustable seating
• Canoe-like design
• Good stability
• Not transducer ready
• Sit-inside design

12. Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120

Length: 12’ (365.76 cm) Width: 37” (94 cm) Weight: 119 lbs. (53.97 kg) Capacity : 558 lbs. (253.1 kg)

The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is a premium-quality boat that has virtually everything you need for comfortable fishing. It’s equipped with a Minn Kota Spot-Lock motor system that makes it possible to travel many miles without having to exert any physical effort in the process. You can even control the motor system using the Bluetooth-connected i-Pilot remote, which lets you sit back and take in the scenery or position your fishing rods to troll for fish while you move.

The Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is exceptionally stable. It also offers a whopping 550 pounds of overall capacity, which means you’ll be able to bring along any gear items you want.

It features a very comfortable seating system that can easily be adjusted into a high or low position, as well as a spacious deck that’s fitted with non-slip EVA foam padding for plenty of traction and comfort. 

RELATED: Best Trolling Motor Battery: Charge Up Your Kayaking Adventures

The only potential downsides to the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 are its overall weight of 150 pounds and the high price tag. It’s obviously going to be out of the price range for most novice anglers , but is a worthy investment for serious kayak fishing enthusiasts who want the absolute best quality. 

Old Town might have created the best hands-free powered fishing kayak with its Sportsman AutoPilot 120 model. This exceptionally stable kayak is controlled with a Bluetooth-compatible I-Pilot remote that allows the user to have full control over the Sportsman 120 in the palm of their hand. It is a worthy investment for serious kayak anglers.

• Hands-free operation
• Spot Lock technology
• Excellent user control
• Limited dry storage

Why Stand in a Kayak? Advantages of Stand-Up Kayaks for Anglers

Standing up in your kayak gives you some serious advantages as opposed to being seated the whole time. If you’re using a sit-inside kayak or a sit-on-top that isn’t very stable, it can be very difficult to stand up. 

Having a kayak that allows you to stand up is crucial if you want to maximize your efforts and be a more successful angler. Here are some of the ways that standing up while fishing gives you a significant edge on the water. 

Greater Range of Motion

Casting a fishing rod requires you to have a wide, sweeping range of motion. Depending on the type of lure you’re fishing with and its weight and size, the lure can hang down about 2 or 3 feet from the tip of the rod. 

If you’re in a seated position, your lure will often touch the water as you’re making your cast. This will severely limit the distance and accuracy you’ll get out of each cast and also presents the risk of snagging your hook on something behind you. 

Standing up as you cast will eliminate these issues and give you much more room to cast your rod with proper technique. 

Longer, More Accurate Casts

Since you’ll be able to stand up and cast your rod with the right range and motions, you’ll be able to cast much farther while also having greater accuracy as well. 

Making a long cast requires you to get as much leverage as possible on the rod, which means you’ll have to bring the rod tip back farther over your shoulder. 

Having an extra 3 to 4 feet between your rod and the water’s surface allows you to bring it down more and ‘load up’ more kinetic energy in the rod tip to make a longer cast. 

As you put more power into these long casts, it’s also important to have good stability since your weight shifts from backward to forward during the cast. 

Being able to stand up also gives you better depth perception. This, combined with the ability to load up more energy in each cast, results in better overall casting accuracy compared to sitting down. 

If you’re fishing around structures like trees or docks, accuracy is crucial. Experienced anglers know that more accurate casts equal less potential for snagging your hook on cover and a better chance of catching fish.

Some types of fishing, such as fly fishing, almost always require that you stand while making casts.

Better Visibility

The main reason why most anglers want to stand up as they are fishing is so they can have better visibility on the water. 

Sitting down puts your field of view much closer to the water level, but being able to stand up means that there will be less visual distortion caused by the water surface. 

Anglers who commonly sight fish for various species know that being at a higher elevation is a major advantage when it comes to being able to see more clearly into the water. 

For kayak anglers, standing up gives you the ability to spot fish swimming near your boat. 

Having a greater field of view also means that you’ll be able to see any obstacles in the water that you could get your line snagged on. It can also be more favorable than sitting as you’ll be able to see anything that your kayak might run into. 

This is very important if you’re using a pedal kayak or motorized propulsion as your propeller or fins can be easily damaged if you were to run into solid objects just below the water’s surface. 

Ability to Stretch

If you’ve ever spent much time in a kayak, you know that it doesn’t take long to start feeling a bit cramped if you’re sitting for a few hours. Having the ability to stand up and stretch your legs and back is extremely beneficial if you plan on spending a day or more on the water. 

The ability to stand up helps to increase your body’s circulation and also works to reduce the amount of fatigue you might experience from remaining in the seated position for many hours at a time. Just make sure you don’t feel dizzy as you stand up. That’s the last thing you want on a kayak.

What Makes a Good Stand-Up Kayak? Features to Look For

Since there are so many advantages to being able to stand up while fishing, it’s obvious that any serious angler should select a kayak that makes it easy to stand. If you’re searching for a quality kayak that will allow you to confidently stand up, the following design characteristics are the most important things to pay attention to. 

Primary Stability 

Primary stability is a keyword that you should look for in any kayak’s description. The hull design of any kayak prioritizes either primary or secondary stability. Primary stability refers to the kayak’s ability to remain steady in calm waters while secondary stability is related to the outer portions of the hull near the edge of the kayak and how much weight it will tolerate before tipping over. 

Secondary stability is great for kayaks that are going to be used in rough water such as turbulent rivers or on the open ocean where the waves can get choppy. Primary stability is what’s most important in terms of having the ability to stand up in a kayak because it’s what limits the boat from tipping to one side or the other. 

Most kayaks are designed to prioritize either good primary or secondary stability, not both at the same time. This means you’ll have to choose a kayak that has one or the other. 

Most anglers will be fishing on calm, flat water, which means primary stability is the better choice. 

However, if you’re going to travel or fish in areas where the water is more unstable, you might want to select a kayak with greater secondary stability. 

RELATED: 10 Best Sea Kayaks for 2023 (Rated and Reviewed)

The width of your kayak is often a good indicator of how much primary stability it’s capable of having. A kayak’s length, width and overall weight are three main factors that affect stability. 

A kayak that has more width, or beam, will usually be more stable than a narrow one. While a wide kayak might be much slower than a narrow boat, it will be capable of having better stability. 

When searching for a good stand up kayak, it’s recommended to select one that’s at least 31 inches wide or more. Most avid kayak anglers usually opt for a width of 32 to 36 inches or more, regardless of how long the kayak is. 

There are a few different hull shapes and designs you can choose from in a kayak. These include flat, V-shaped, rounded, and pontoon hull designs with each one having its own strengths and weaknesses depending on the type of water you’ll be paddling through. 

For stand up kayak fishing, a flat hull is often the best choice, especially if you’re going to be using it on calm water such as ponds, lakes or slow-moving rivers . If there’s a chance that you’ll end up in rough water, it might be better to have a pontoon, V-shaped or rounded hull instead. 

A pontoon hull is also a solid choice for the best possible stability. Kayaks with pontoon hulls often have the best combination of primary and secondary stability and are often well-rounded boats that can be used in a variety of environments. 

Wide, Open Deck

Being able to comfortably stand up while fishing also requires having ample room to position your feet however you need to. 

It’s usually best to go with a kayak that has a spacious deck instead of one that has a center console in the middle or very limited room for your feet. 

Having a wide, open deck that’s perfectly flat or one that has padding is great for standing up as it means you’ll have more room to move your feet and balance yourself as needed while fishing. 

A spacious deck is always a major asset if you’re fighting a large fish because you’ll have the ability to move around as you struggle to maintain control over your catch. 

Having a kayak that allows the seat to flip up and out of the way is an additional bonus as it gives you a bit more room if you require it. 

Elevated Seat

Kayaks that have a high or elevated seat are generally considered best for standing up for two main reasons. First, a high seat is much more comfortable since your legs won’t have to bend as much and there also isn’t much pressure on your lower back. Second, it’s much easier to stand up out of a high seat than it will be if you’re sitting down close to the deck. 

Any seasoned kayak angler is aware of the fact that an elevated seat is much easier to sit in for hours at a time as opposed to a lower seat. Premium quality kayaks often have seats that can adjust from a comfortable high position to a low setting which allows you to get more leverage when paddling the boat. 

Weight Capacity

The overall weight you put inside a kayak will affect its stability as well. If you’re a larger-sized person or you plan to bring along a hefty load of gear , it’s important that you select a kayak that has a higher weight capacity. It’s recommended that you never load a kayak to its full capacity as this will expose you to a higher risk of tipping over. 

Instead, try to stay under 75 percent of a kayak’s total weight capacity. This will result in better stability and ensure that you don’t unknowingly overload your boat with extra gear. 

Fishing-Specific Features

Rod holders 

The best fishing kayaks offer both flush-mount rod holders that hold your poles in the upright position and more sophisticated, horizontal rod staging systems with rod tip protectors. If you’re a serious angler, you’re likely to need more than two rods at a time on your kayak for different types of lures and various rigs. 

Look for a kayak that will allow you to have customized rod holders as this will let you store and position your rods as you see fit. 

Gear Tracks  

Gear tracks are the most important feature on a kayak in terms of accessories. These will allow you to mount and position things like fish finders, cameras, GPS units, and other accessories that are needed on a fishing trip. 

Premium fishing kayaks often have gear tracks that run the length of the kayak on either side, both in front of and behind the seat, as well as in the middle of the boat. If you have an excess of gear tracks, you’ll be able to maximize the space in your kayak and organize your gear in the best possible way. 

Gear Storage

Storage options for your fishing gear can include tank wells, hatches, tackle box compartments, and more. It is important that your gear does not get in the way, but that you’re also able to access certain gear items quickly and easily whenever you need to. 

If you have certain gear items that need to be kept dry, make sure the kayak you’re looking at offers plenty of dry storage where those items will fit. It’s important that anglers who typically load their kayaks down with a lot of gear have everything well-balanced so that the stability on their boat isn’t compromised with too much weight in the front or back. 

Stand-up Kayak Fishing: Useful Tips

No matter how stable your kayak is, you’ll always be exposing yourself to greater risk by standing up in it. There are specific things you need to do in order to protect yourself from risk and to also preserve your gear in the event that you do tip over. 

Many kayak anglers have to learn these lessons the hard way after losing a lot of expensive gear when their kayak happens to tip over, so it’s important that you take the following points into consideration before hitting the water. 

Wear Your PFD

Regardless of your experience level, ability to swim, or the stability of your kayak, you should always wear a personal floatation device (PFD) or lifejacket. While most fishing kayaks are made to resist being tipped over, it does happen occasionally and it’s extremely important that you take precautions for such an event. 

Never remove your PFD while you’re on the water as you’ll be exposing yourself to a much greater risk of drowning in doing so. Many older lifejackets were large and bulky, which made anglers want to remove them in order to feel less restricted in their movements while fishing. Thankfully, modern PFDs are made to be much less constricting around your body so that you can comfortably wear them while fishing. 

Lash Your Gear

Experienced kayak anglers will usually admonish beginners to tie down any loose items on their boat. This is another lesson you don’t want to learn the hard way as failing to do so might result in losing large amounts of expensive gear in an instant if you happen to tip over. 

Most stand up fishing kayaks offer bungee cords and other means for you to lash your gear down to the deck. If you have everything on your kayak tightly-secured, you will have better overall stability than if it were loosely placed on the boat. 

Keep Your Deck Clutter-Free

Keeping your deck clean and clutter-free is important to kayak anglers for a few reasons. Having less tools, lures, and other items sitting on your deck means you’ll be able to move around more freely if you need to. This is crucial for fighting a hard-pulling fish or if you enter rough, unstable waters because you’ll need as much room as possible to position your feet to maintain balance when standing. 

By keeping your deck free of clutter, you’ll also lessen the risk of knocking any loose items off the deck and into the water, never to be seen again. 

Improve Your Balance

It’s wise to make any efforts you can to improve your balance while you’re on the water. There are multiple ways you can do this and anglers who like to spend a majority of their time standing up should certainly consider using them. 

Some kayaks offer or are compatible with a stand assist strap, which is useful in helping anglers maintain their balance when standing up or sitting down. These can also be useful in helping anglers position themselves in the center of the kayak’s deck if the water is slightly unstable. 

Many premium kayaks are made with standing or traction pads on the deck. These pads are made of material that are more comfortable to stand on, but their true purpose is to allow the user’s feet to better grip the deck. Some anglers prefer to be barefoot on their kayak and a standing pad will help them gain traction and lessen the potential that they might slip and lose their balance.

ALSO SEE: 10 Best Kayaking Shoes in 2023: Top Rated Water Shoes, Sandals and Booties  

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To fish in fast moving rivers and streams, you need special skills and a specialized kayak. But how do you choose one? We're here to help!

Pedal kayak models have exploded in the recent years. The ability to go faster with less fatigue and have your hands free for fishing is hard to pass on. In this article, we review pedal kayak models that we think will dominate the market in 2021.

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Getting into kayak fishing doesn’t mean you should spend a fortune on a boat. We'll show you some impressive models you can buy for less than $500.

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Whether you want to go fishing with a friend, teach your kid fishing, or just have a great time on the water with your partner, a tandem fishing kayak is often better than two separate kayaks.

Donny Karr is an outdoor writer from the southeastern United States. He's worked as a professional writer for many years, but his true passion is the outdoors. He enjoys kayak fishing along the many lakes and rivers throughout the southeast and hiking in the Appalachian mountains.

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MICRONAUTICAL BOAT DESIGN

BOAT DESIGN, MICROSKIFF, CATAMARAN, PORTABLE BOAT, KAYAK

The story of the W500, the best fishing kayak for its time

When Wavewalk launched the 500 series (W500), in 2009, it became a big success overnight, and people stopped ordering the previous W300, which got canceled soon after, in 2010. Simply, the W500 design was a bigger and much better version of the W300, which didn’t have a chance to survive.

The W500 offered what no kayak could until then – Super stability coupled with zero back pain. On top of this, its onboard storage space was several times bigger than the storage space that any fishing kayak offered, and it could take a second passenger on board, providing this person wasn’t very heavy.

For a kayak that offered a load capacity of 360 lbs, the 60 lbs W500 was very lightweight. This 6:1 Load to Weight (L/W) Ratio was improved only in 2017, with the 6.5:1 L/W ratio of the S4.

In 2010, Sungjjn Kim from South Korea successfully outfitted his W500 with a 2 HP air-cooled outboard gas motor from Honda. This was a huge breakthrough in motorized kayaking, and a most significant event for Wavewalk. Before that, anglers dared outfitting their kayaks only with feeble and sluggish electric trolling motors that offered poor performance and a limited range of travel.

Soon after, Wavewalk started experimenting with Sungjin’s motorized kayak concept, and presented it to the public in articles and videos, including videos that showed it successfully driven in the ocean chop. Clients reacted positively to these ideas, and a new class of vessels was created – the cartop kayak-microskiff, an ultralight, fun, versatile and inexpensive boat that worked well as a paddle craft too.

In 2013, Kenny Tracy from Maryland outfitted his W500 with a powerful, water cooled, 6 HP outboard motor from Tohatsu. He squeezed 13 mph from that rig – faster than any motorized kayak prior to that. This was the first step in the creation of a high-performance W500.

Following Kenny’s success, and in view of the safety limitations associated with the use of such a tiny kayak with a heavy and powerful motor, Wavewalk started offering  a version of the W500 called the W570, which was essentially the same model outfitted with large-size, detachable, inflatable side flotation modules. With the W570, Wavewalk also offered a lightweight, detachable spray shield.

But it became clear that adding power and accessories to the small W500 would not satisfy the market’s demand for high performance cartop microskiffs, and in 2015, Wavewalk came up with its W700 series. The W500 cost 20% less than the W700, and weighed 20 lbs less, but in the long run, these two advantages weren’t enough to compete with the bigger and better W700. In 2017 , the  little W500 got further squeezed by the advent of the high performance S4, and eventually, this year, 2020, Wavewalk suspended its offering of the W500.

During the decade in which the iconic W500 was available for sale, it sold in 30 countries worldwide. People have used it for touring, diving, crabbing, fishing, shrimping, hunting, camping, bird watching, photography, positioning rowing shells before races, searching for sunken artifacts, sailing, tendering big boats and yachts, scientific research and engineering, as well as maintenance of bridges, harbors, and waterways.

The W500 offered people with severe back problems to enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing, without suffering from any back pain or other ergonomic issues. Even people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) benefited from its remarkable stability and comfort.

Wavewalk did not fully discontinue the W500, and the company will consider taking the W500 tooling (rotational mold) out of mothballs if an opportunity for large size orders presents itself.

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Blue Sky Boatworks 360 Pro Fishing Kayak

✓ Authorized Blue Sky Boatworks Dealer ✓ Lowest Price Guaranteed ✓ Exclusive Pre-Order Due to High Demand ✓ Questions? Call a Blue Sky Boatworks Expert: 1-844-987-5777

Eco Fishing Shop is offering FREE SHIPPING on most kayaks delivered within the contiguous United States (except Hawaii).

In Stock & Ready to Ship:  In Stock & Ready to Ship Kayaks can expect to ship on the Thursdat following your order date. We typically have truckload pickups every Thursday (or every other Thursday during non-shipment weeks) so please reach out to a live rep to find your exact ship date. *During off season, kayak truckload days may vary*

Expedited Shipping: We also offer  Expedited Shipping  for next day shipping if you want to receive your kayak in 2-5 days

Exclusive Pre-Orders:  Pre-Orders indicated that the item is currently not in stock, but an allotted amount has been secured from the Vendor with an estimated shipping time frame.

The ETA listed on the product page indicates the estimated time frame that the item will start its shipping process from our warehouse. Once the shipping process has begun, typically orders take 7-10 business days to arrive at the customer. (Delivery time may vary based on location)

Here at Eco Fishing Shop we partner with the top of the line freight carriers in the country to ensure that your kayaks arrive fast and safely. 

We have secured a new partnership with a white glove delivery service that will ensure ZERO Damaged Kayaks. You will no longer be required to sign and inspect your kayak. But do not worry, this carrier has a 99.97% damage-free rate and they have assured us of this. In the rare occasion damage has been detected, Eco Fishing Shop will take care of the replacement as long as the damage is  reported within 2 hours of delivery and pictures of the damage are submitted via email . If the damage is cosmetic and/or able to be repaired, such as dents or scratches, EFS will provide a repair kit. If you choose to replace a kayak with minor cosmetic damage instead, then you will be charged a 20% restocking fee.  

The Eco Fishing Shop definition of damage is when the kayak is delivered in a condition that compromises the hull and is confirmed with the vendor that would void the warranty.

Eco Fishing Shop will not be undersold!

We will match ANY advertised price for the same kayak + shipping! In the event that you find a lower price from another online store on a currently in-stock new kayak, we will match it.

To be eligible for a price match, your request must meet the following conditions:

• The online store must have the identical kayak (plus sales tax and shipping) priced accurately at the time you submit your request.
• Our Best Price Guarantee does not apply to previously owned/used, special order, or e-Bay items. No close-outs, misprints, special buys, special promotions, auctions, trade show pricing, or liquidations.
• Applicable to US-based price offers, continental US shipments, and in US Dollars only. If you live in a state where we have a store, sales tax will still be added on to the matched price.
• All price matches must be submitted prior to ordering.
• Our Best Price Guarantee takes into account the price of the competitor's kayak AND their shipping & handling costs, if any, as well as our own shipping costs.

All you need to do is request a price match using one of the 3 easy ways below.

• Call us at: 844-987-5777
• Click on the chat icon and message us
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2024 Blue Sky Boatworks 360 Pro

Ready to take your Blue Sky Boatworks experience to the next level? Introducing the 2024 Blue Sky 360 Pro! This boat comes rigged and ready to fish with features like a DC battery box, mounting options for either foot-controlled or transom-mounted trolling motors, a wide, open deck layout, and a steering skeg.

Not all traditional fishermen could envision themselves pedaling to their honey hole and opted to stay on their power boats. The 360 Pro blends the functionality and features of a power boat with the sleek performance of the Blue Sky Boatworks line.

360 Pro Specs

• Length: 13' 4"
• Height: 20"
• Weight w/o Seat: 120 lbs
• Total Weight: 140 lbs
• Capacity: 500 lbs
• Construction: Rotomolded Polyethylene & Anodized Marine Grade Aluminium

360 Pro Features

• A universal foot-controlled motor mounting plate on the bow of the kayak allows easy motor mount base installation. With the addition of a foot-controlled trolling motor, spot lock can be yours!
• Spacious, open deck with large standing pad for comfort and sound-dampening.
• A retractable wheel system means less strain getting your kayak onto the water.
• DC Battery Box included for easy installation of deep cycle battery of choice. The battery box features built-in 12V plug-ins as well as an integrated battery meter.
• Two sets of rod stagers on both port and starboard hulls. Can be used on water or for transport.
• The transom motor bracket lets you easily add a trolling motor to the bow or stern of the 360 Pro.
• Retractable skeg maintains your course while using your motor.
• Four hatches keep all of your gear organized and protected. Includes two storage bins.

Your Satisfaction with Blue Sky Boatworks is Guaranteed:

• 3-Year Limited Warranty
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Customer Reviews

This boat is everything I’ve been looking for in a kayak hybrid. She’s beyond stable and with the exceptionally spacious deck layout, it’s like having a small bass boat without the hassle of maintenance and fuel costs. I can easily throw this girl in the back of my Sierra truck and with a bed extender, I have no need to trailer it. It arrived in immaculate condition and I had it setup for my needs in under an hour. It took another full day to have all my electronics and motor rigged up. Unfortunately because it’s so late in the season I’ll be having to wait until spring to test her out on the water but I’m very excited about it. The Folks at eco made this exchange super easy and a blast. I highly recommend them for anyone wanting a solid fishing platform at a good to reasonable cost. I was able to take advantage of the end of summer discount and secured free shipping. Normal shipping costs for something of this size would have been ridiculous but Echos deal made it a no brainer. If anyone has a truck bed that is over 48” in width, you’ll be able to toss this big lady in the back without having to break it down. Thanks again to Echo for this deal!

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Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks For 2024

Buyer’s Guide | Kayak Angler

W ith the right tandem kayak, fishing is twice the fun. A tandem kayak allows two people to fish from one boat, expanding your angling circle to include friends and family. The best tandem kayaks for fishing feature stable hulls, comfortable seats and plenty of room for casting and landing fish. Rig a tandem for one angler and use the extra space for more fishing and camping gear. Or, choose a tandem kayak with a pedal system for a serious two-person fishing machine.

Top picks: Best 2-person fishing kayaks for 2024

The following two-person fishing kayaks have received the highest star ratings by reviewers in our Kayak Angler Buyer’s Guide . See and review all tandem fishing kayaks here .

Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks

Lure II Tandem Overdrive V2

Lure II Tandem

Lure II Tandem V2

Malibu Two XL Angler

Mirage Compass Duo

Shop for tandem fishing kayaks.

Follow the links below to the Kayak Angler Buyer’s Guide where you’ll find every tandem kayak for fishing along with specs, prices, reviews and places to buy.

Shop by type

Shop by propulsion, shop by brand, shop by store, shopping for a used tandem fishing kayak.

Tandem fishing kayaks aren’t as popular as single-seat fishing sit-on-tops so used boats are more difficult to find. But, a two-person kayak usually isn’t used as often as a solo kayak, so a second-hand tandem should be in better condition than a used solo boat. Since two people paddle a tandem, there is usually someone to help carry the boat to the launch instead of one person dragging a solo boat across the ground. If you can find a tandem kayak on the used market, chances are it will be in pretty good condition.

First, check if both seats work properly and are undamaged. Install and remove the seats and take a test drive to make sure the seat’s position adjusts properly. Look for fading, sagging or ripped seat fabric. In most cases the seat is replaceable, but a low-profile seat costs over $100 and a frame seat could set you back many times that price. A bad seat isn’t a deal breaker, but take replacement cost into consideration when negotiating the price.

Tandems carry more weight so there is greater risk of damage to the plastic. Search for cracks around the seat bases, scupper holes and seams in the plastic. Minor plastic damage, like a small hole or crack above the waterline, is easy to fix with a plastic patch and a heat gun. Larger holes or damage to the plastic below the waterline require a more involved repair with a plastic welder and steel mesh.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used fishing kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Fishing Kayak .

Tandem fishing kayak buying guide

Tandem fishing kayaks offer the opportunity to fish with friends and family in a small boat. In a tandem kayak, one person sits toward the bow and another person the stern. Most tandem kayaks are propelled by double-bladed kayak paddles, but some models use a pedal propulsion system and there are a few motorized two-person kayaks for fishing.

The most popular tandem kayaks for fishing are sit-on-top models made of rotomolded plastic with scuppers to drain water. The boats have space for two seats and room for fishing gear and accessories.

Consider the size

Remember, tandem kayaks for fishing are longer, wider and heavier than a tandem recreational kayak or a single seat boat. For example, an average rec tandem kayak is 12 feet long and 30 inches wide. For greater stability to cast and fight fish and more capacity for fishing gear, the best tandem for fishing is 40 inches wide and over 13 feet long.

A large fishing tandem is more difficult to transport and requires more space to store. With some effort, and help from a buddy, you can wrestle a fishing tandem onto a sturdy roof rack. We recommend carrying the two-seater in a pickup truck with a bed extender or a small trailer.

For folks with limited storage and transportation options, we recommend an inflatable tandem kayak or a recreational sit-inside tandem. These boats are lighter and easier to move, but they don’t have as much space as a full-size fishing tandem.

Consider how you will use it

Before searching for the best two-person kayak, consider how you will use the boat. If you plan to take another adult kayak fishing, look for a full-size tandem kayak with elevated frame seats and plenty of space to fish.

To accommodate a child or pet, check out a smaller, lighter tandem that is easier to paddle solo and still has plenty of space for smaller guests. A narrower and shorter tandem is lighter and easier for a single paddler to paddle.

The best two-person fishing kayak is a fully featured machine with plenty of space for casting and retrieving lures. At over 14-feet long, 40-inches wide with more than 400 pounds of capacity, a full-size tandem fishing kayak is a powerful platform for serious fishing.

This may seem like a lot of boat, but the extra space and capacity will be appreciated on the water. With two people paddling or pedaling, the effort is shared.

Look for a tandem kayak with elevated, adjustable frame seats. Frame seats resemble a folding lawn chair elevated off the kayak deck on four short legs. A higher seat makes it easier to cast a fishing rod and work a lure. These seats are also wider and more adjustable than a low-profile seat, so they are more comfortable for long days on the water.

A full-size, two-person kayak has plenty of space for fishing. Look for a large tankwell in the stern and a bow well or hatch in the front of the boat. The tankwell is a molded space behind the seat to hold a gear crate and vertical rod holders. A bow well is a molded space in the bow with room for a couple of tackle boxes and a dry bag, usually secured by a mesh cover or bungees.

A bow hatch, on the other hand, provides access to the inside of the hull to carry more gear or rig the boat with electronics and battery. It boils down to this: a bow well is great for quick access to gear you need most often while a bow hatch carries more stuff and protects it from the elements.

The seats should be spaced far enough apart to allow for casting, rigging, working a lure and fighting a fish. With two anglers swinging fishing rods and sharp hooks, space is at a premium to avoid tangles and injury. Each boat has different dimensions, so there’s no equation for seat spacing. The best bet is going with the longest, widest kayak for fishing.

Pedal or paddle?

Large kayaks are more difficult to paddle and maneuver than a solo kayak or smaller recreational tandem. Luckily, two paddlers are better than one. Working together, a pair of anglers can efficiently paddle a full-size fishing tandem. Another option is to choose a pedal or motor-powered tandem . These boats are more expensive and require some basic maintenance and care to own.

A pedal system or motor can add thousands to the cost of the kayak. Taking care of the pedal system requires regular washing and upkeep of prop pins, gears, pedals and the rudder. But the power of the pedal or motor to move a tandem kayak for fishing can make the complications worthwhile.

Sit-on-top or sit-inside?

Some anglers prefer a sit-inside tandem kayak . Unlike a sit-on-top kayak , sit-inside anglers sit inside the cockpit, just inches off the bottom of the boat. Sit-inside tandem kayaks are lighter than a similar-sized sit-on-top, so they are easier to carry and paddle. The lower seat places the paddler closer to the water.

This allows him to use a shorter paddle shaft, around 210 cm, which transfers more power with less energy to move the boat forward. On the other hand, the long paddle shaft, up to 255 cm, required for a sit-on-top with elevated seats is less efficient.

Inflatable or hard-shell?

Another option is an inflatable tandem kayak . Inflatables are lighter and more compact than a sit-on-top kayak. Uninflated, the boat fits into a suitcase. Inflated, the tandem kayak is a tough and versatile platform for fishing. Inflatable kayaks allow anglers with limited storage and transportation more options to get on the water. They are great for bouncing down a rocky river or traveling to distant fishing destinations.

The downside: inflatables do not perform as well as a traditional kayak. The shallow draft and large profile make the air-filled boats vulnerable to wind and current so they are more difficult to paddle straight or fast than a similar-sized rotomolded plastic kayak.

There are a lot of options for tandem fishing kayaks, and one is bound to meet your needs. Whether you go with a full-feature, full-size two-man fishing machine or a simple, streamlined grab and go recreational kayak, there’s a tandem fishing kayak for every angler, plus a friend.

Can you fish from a tandem kayak?

When you want to take a family member, friend or pet fishing, nothing beats the intimacy and excitement of a tandem fishing kayak. The best two-person fishing kayak has plenty of space for fishing and capacity to carry a lot of gear. Smaller, lighter and more maneuverable sit-on-top kayaks make paddling easier but offer less space for fishing. Inflatable and sit-inside tandems are too compact and unstable to make a serious fishing practical, but inflatables are great for grab and go trips with limited gear.

Best tandem fishing kayak reviews

There’s no better way to choose a tandem fishing kayak than kicking the tires and taking a test drive. The staff at Kayak Angler have run the best two-person fishing kayaks through the gauntlet. We’ve rigged the boats for fishing, loaded them with gear and hit the water.

Our testing includes miles of pedaling and hours of fishing in a variety of conditions and locations. This allows us to evaluate how the boat handles and how it performs for the intended angler and conditions. If you can’t make it to the paddle shop or a demo day, take a test drive with our review of the best tandem fishing kayaks.

• Tandem Fishing Kayak Review: Hobie Mirage iTrek 14 Duo
• Tandem Fishing Kayak Review: Brooklyn Kayak Company TK122
• Sea Eagle FastTrack Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak
• Feelfree Lure II Tandem Fishing Kayak Review
• Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 17T Tandem Kayak Review
• First Look: Hobie T17 MotorGuide; Limited Edition Mirage Outback
• NuCanoe Frontier 12 Hybrid Fishing Kayak Review
• First Look: Native Watercraft Ultimate FX
• Academy Sports
• Bass Pro Shop
• Elkton Outdoors
• Jackson Kayak
• Sun Dolphin

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About John P.

One Man's Blog

Specialization is for Insects.

CatamaYak: How to Build a Kayak Catamaran

August 14, 2013 By John P.

We happen to own four identical kayaks, we bought the Equinox 10.4 kayaks at Costco, and we started working on ways to hack them to make them even better! First, I hacked a motor onto my kayak , and then I thought I’d give it a shot and see if we could build a catamaran out of a couple of em.

The CatamaYak Concept

When we go out on the water there is usually a group of us. Some are faster than others, and some just enjoy a leisurely time on the lake. We wanted to be able to turn a couple of kayaks into a floating relaxation station and give it a motor so that a couple of people could simply sit back and relax while still being able to tag along.

The CatamaYak needed to have a few important characteristics:

• be light and easy to assemble at the lake
• be extremely waterproof and not get slippery
• be durable enough to take a pounding from the waves
• be rigid enough to deal with the forces encountered

Given the design considerations I took a few measurements and drew up a quick sketch of the components and how I imagined they would fit together.

If you are going to design your own there are a few important things to keep in mind.

• The bow (nose) of the kayak is generally narrower than the stern (rear). So don’t just make the front and rear crossbeams the same length or it will look funny and not perform as well.
• You could substitute wood 2x4s for PVC in my design, but its not going to last as long and its going to flex and expand as it takes on water. Its also going to be a LOT heavier.
• If you intend to add a motor like I did you must make sure that the distance between the two kayaks in the center is sufficient for the motor to turn 360 degrees without the blades hitting the side of the watercraft.

The Kayak Catamaran Parts List

Everything I used for this experiment came from Lowe’s. I’m sure you could also find it at Home Depot or other home improvement stores.

• 3 – 10′ sections of 2″ PVC pipe
• 4 – 2″ PVC T sections
• 4 – 2″ PVC end caps
• PVC cleaner and cement
• 1 – 18″ x 72″ wood board
• 4 – 2″ stainless steel U bolts with lock nuts and washers
• 4 – 5″ stainless steel eye bolts with lock nuts and washers
• 1 – 8′ 2×4 (or a couple of 8″ scraps)
• 2 – 8″ 5/8×16 bolts with lock nuts and washers
• 4 – Ratcheting straps

I also needed a rubber mallet, wrenches, a drill, a set of drill bits, and a table saw. You could do without the table saw by having the store cut the wood for you.

Building the Kayak Catamaran

The first thing I did was set the two kayaks beside one another and lay the crossbeam PVC pipes on top of it. This allowed me to take measurements and make sure my design was roughly accurate.

It turns out that the exact finished dimensions worked perfectly for my kayaks and particular brand of trolling motor (Minn Kota 30 pound unit). See the design sketch above if you have Equinox 10.4 kayaks and want to exactly duplicate this build.

I then cut all the PVC pipes and dry fit the pieces. I used my table saw to cut the PVC, but you could use a hacksaw and do it by hand, or you could use a reciprocating saw or basically anthing with a blade long enough to go through 2″ of PVC. Its a very soft material so its easy to cut – but keep your cut very straight as you go. The pieces won’t fit properly if the cuts are all crooked.

Then it was time to attach the pieces. First, you must start with the rectangular center frame, and you have to be VERY careful when assembling this piece to make sure you get it extremely straight!

I carefully cleaned and cemented each fitting and lightly attached a T union to one end of the support frame. I then VERY QUICKLY laid it on the flat piece of wood to make sure the T’s were pointing straight. After a little adjusting I took a rubber mallet and pounded the T’s on as far as they would go.

You’ll know when the pieces are fully inserted because there is a little ridge in each connector or end cap that won’t let the pipe go any farther. So you don’t need to worry that you put it in too far. In fact, if you follow my design its extremely important that all PVC is assembled as tightly as possible for proper fit and structural integrity.

If done right you can look inside the T fitting and see there are no gaps and some of the cement is pretty much sealing all the way around the tube where they meet.

First glue up both end pieces, then attach the two long PVC supports to one end, and follow up by attaching the other end piece – which will require you to glue up two pipes at the same time. Work quickly as the PVC cement drys fast! And remember – HAMMER EVERYTHING TOGETHER WITH A RUBBER MALLET!

After that you’re in the home stretch. Time to glue on the cross beam pieces. These are the most critical joints so make sure they are very clean and you have plenty of cement. You don’t want these to break on the water! Also, notice again that in my design the front and rear are different lengths. Here is a photo showing just one side glued up.

Once you’ve finished connecting all the PVC joints and adding end caps, you can lay the frame back down on your kayaks and begin attaching the connecting hardware. First up, the wooden platform needs to be connected on top. This serves two purposes. First, it provides a lot of torsional rigidity. And secondly, it gives you a spot where you can put stuff!

I used 4 long eye bolts pointing upwards to connect the wood to my PVC frame by drilling down through the wood and directly through the center of each of the 4 T-connectors in the corners. By using the eye bolts it gives connection points in each of the 4 corners that can be used for lashing things to the top, or could even be used for lifting / hanging the platform.

You’re going to attach 4 eye bolts pointing downward from the end of each crossbeam. These are going to be used for connecting the ratcheting strap to hold the kayaks in place.

The other end of the strap mounting is a U bolt mounted directly on the platform. Make sure and leave enough room that the ratchet can be entirely on top when its mounted securely. This does a couple of things, but most importantly it allows you to ratchet it up a little while on the water if it loosens up, which it will do a bit when it gets wet. I’ve already proven out this point on the Lake, so don’t skip it.

You’re about done at this point! Now if you intend to mount a motor on it you need to add a wood block that will fit it. I accomplished this by cutting two 2×4″s down to 8″ wide. These were attached with several stainless steel screws and an L bracket (found near the fencing stuff in the lumber department) for some added rigidity. I wanted to make sure there was NO flex with the motor so all of the power translated to forward momentum instead of any wiggle in the mount.

At this point you should be done and ready to simply slip a ratcheting strap under each mounting point, front and rear, on both Kayaks and secure them tightly.

We took the double Kayak Catamaran out on the lake for the day and it performed FAR better than I ever expected! The little 30 pound Minn Kota trolling motor was able to EASILY push the watercraft! By the way, you need to really watch the video I did about the single Kayak motor mount in order to see how to wire it up and which battery to use, etc. But even with the little trolling motor battery I used we were out on the lake messing around with the motor in use for over an hour and only used 20% of the battery life.

Not only was this rig able to easily push and steer the CatamaYak, but we were able to even TOW both of the other Kayaks without any issue! Amazing.

A couple of last little things. You’ll see in all of the photos that the wood panel in the middle is exposed untreated wood. That’s because we bought some special textured extremely waterproof paint to cover it with, but I didn’t do it before the first trip out to the lake. We’ll be painting it for long term durability soon.

Finally, if you do this, you’re technically changing your kayak into a home built motor boat. And in Texas, and probably most states, you’re going to have to register it as a watercraft. It costs like $30 in Texas to do it, but be warned that if the lake police come by you could be ticketed for taking this on the water without registration. So make sure you’re covered so you don’t worry about it.

Oh, and be prepared for a LOT of attention on the water! Because no one has ever seen anything like this before so they’ll all want to be checking it out!

So, that’s it! I hope you guys enjoy the hack / build. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below and I’ll help as best I can. This is a project that you can build in just a couple of hours if you have the right tools, and the entire cost was around $100 including PVC, wood, bolts, paint, etc. So that’s a pretty good value!

John P. is a former CEO, former TV Show Host, and the Founder and Wizard behind Texas Metal Works . You can find him on Twitter , Facebook and LinkedIn . Feel free to send shoutouts, insults, and praise. Or Money. Money is good.

May 11, 2016 at 9:30 pm

This is awesome! I am with Robert on the straps..confused about the role of the U bolts. I thought the ratchet strap hooked back to the platform eye bolt. Please clarify. By the way John, why did you take yours apart?

May 12, 2016 at 10:32 am

I used the u-bolts on the platform so that the base of the ratchets could lay flat against the wood once everything was tightened up. This way when you’re on the water you can use one hand to ratchet it tighter if need be.

You may be able to use the same I look somewhere and put both ends of the ratchet on it. You just want to make sure that you have enough room for the straps to Route Around everything and still be accessible when you’re on the water. It could be fairly disastrous to have anything separate with your stuff on that Central platform. It would pretty much just think…

I disassembled mine because I wasn’t going to register it as a watercraft, and it takes up too much room in the garage for something I’m not using constantly. If we had a lake house I would have definitely left it hooked up. It was great! :-)

December 14, 2015 at 5:37 pm

This is something I have been wanting to do for a long time. Great instructions. One thing that isn’t clear to me is how the ratchet straps attach to the u-bolts. Could yo show a top view picture to make it easy to see? Thanks.

January 5, 2016 at 10:59 pm

Sorry Robert, I took it apart a while back so I can’t take a photo any more. But since the ratcheting straps have hooks on them, as long as you get them hooked into the eye bolt and just tighten them up, they’ll stay! :-)

April 10, 2015 at 10:53 am

Great modification! I have 2 identical Perception Sport Pescador 120 kayaks and this has definitely inspired me to build a similar setup. I also own a Hobie Adventure island and love the extra space gained from the trapoline sides between the kayak and the amas (just like your wooden platform has done). You could also add additional cargo space to the void formed between the wooden platform and the front of the two kayaks from a lightweight water repellent material. Great work, thanks for sharing!

July 14, 2014 at 9:27 am

I wanted to say thank you for posting this project. My son is handicapped and i had wanted to take him our on my kayaks and could not imagine how to make it safe for him to enjoy. This is perfect. We even got a thumbs up from the Vessel Assist Boat Crew on our Maiden Voyage. The stability is amazing even in Lake Washington with the chop and larger motorized vessels. Your measurements were spot on for our boats. High Five! Would love to share a pic. This has opened up a whole new world to a boy and his dog. Thank you!

July 23, 2014 at 11:30 pm

Yeah! I’m so happy to hear that this was helpful! :-)

August 15, 2013 at 8:33 am

That definitely seems easier than I thought.

August 14, 2013 at 2:40 pm

I was going to say if John built it a Catastrophe but it looks pretty good. Cali has large feet or John has small ones. :)

August 14, 2013 at 1:10 pm

STABLE KAYAKS AND MICROSKIFFS MADE BY WAVEWALK

microskiff, stable kayak, portable boat

Personal Catamaran

What is a Catamaran?

Definition: A Catamaran, a.k.a. ‘Cat’ is a twin hulled watercraft that features two slender, parallel hulls of equal size, and an upper structure that holds them together at a distance from each other. This structure makes the typical catamaran a geometry-stabilized craft, that derives its lateral stability from its wide beam and the distribution of its buoyancy along its sides. The catamaran’s two hulls combined often have a smaller hydrodynamic resistance than monohulls of comparable size, and therefore require less propulsive power. Catamarans range in size from small sailing boats and motorboats to large ships and ferries. The structure connecting a catamaran’s twin hulls can vary from a simple, lightweight frame to a bridging superstructure, namely deck from which the catamaran is operated, and can be used for carrying freight and passengers.

Are the Wavewalk 700 and S4 Catamarans?

Both these Wavewalks are catamarans since they feature two distinctive hulls, but they are not catamarans in the traditional sense: The Wavewalk design is based on a proprietary (patented) invention – a new type of small watercraft. This patent is entitled “Twin Hull Personal Watercraft”, which is revealing of the fact that a Wavewalk is meant to serve one person, or a small number of persons, and closely interact with them. A Wavewalk is designed around the person and for that person, and it offers them the optimal means to balance themselves. Wavewalk and user are an integrated system that can achieve the most stability in a watercraft of similar size and even bigger ones. Unlike a typical catamaran, a Wavewalk is narrow – It is slightly wider than its operator, similarly to typical monohull paddle craft such as kayaks and canoes. The user of a Wavewalk operates the boat neither from one of its hulls nor from the top of a deck-like structure that bridges the hulls of a classic catamaran. Instead, the Wavewalk user operates it from within, with a leg in each of the boat’s two hulls. The user’s feet rest firmly on the bottom of the hulls, below waterline, namely as low as possible. And this is the main difference between a Wavewalk and a typical, wide catamaran – The Wavewalk is a smaller and narrower watercraft whose design offers a hull for each of its user’s legs, combined with a longitudinal saddle seat, as means for them to balance themselves effortlessly, intuitively, and with the maximum effect. In sum, the Wavewalk is different from a typical catamaran in that it is not a pure form-stabilized boat, but one that combines more than one feature and approach in order to maximize stability*

Another difference between the Wavewalk and a typical catamaran is the form of the structure that connects its twin hulls. This structure is called the Saddle, because it resembles the type of seat found in personal watercraft (PWC) a.k.a. ‘Jet-Ski’, snowmobiles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATV), all of which are high-performance personal vehicles.

If it’s a catamaran, can the Wavewalk be a kayak, a boat, or a PWC?

Thanks to the fact that the S4 features two totally distinct catamaran hulls, the authorities, namely the US Coast Guard, officially classify the Wavewalk S4 as a Multihull Boat. The reason the S4 is classified as a boat and not a kayak is the fact that Wavewalk, its manufacturer, set the max recommended power for it to 6 HP, which is beyond the power range allowed for motorized kayaks its size. However, the W700 is classified as a kayak because Wavewalk set the maximum recommended power for it to 3 HP, which is within the range allowed for kayaks its size.

The Wavewalk design is considerably more stable than kayaks are, including the wide fishing kayaks. It tracks better than kayaks, and paddles infinitely better in strong wind, which is why it does not require a rudder. The Wavewalk also offers much more storage space. But most importantly, unlike monohull kayaks that force their users to paddle seated in the notoriously uncomfortable L posture, the Wavewalk is back pain free , since it offers it users to comfortably ride its ergonomic saddle, with a leg on each side of their body.

The unique combination of maximal stability and better ergonomics makes the Wavewalk such a perfect match for a motor.

A personal watercraft (PWC)?

Riding the saddle of a motorized Wavewalk® S4 at a speed of 17 mph is an exhilarating sensation that may remind the driver of a PWC, but the latter type of watercraft features much more powerful engines, and can go much faster than the S4. Additionally, PWC are designed for instant full recovery in case they capsize and their user survives… which is not the case with a motorized Wavewalk.

Even a small boat is still much wider than a kayak, or canoe, which is why it’s practically impossible to paddle a boat to any meaningful distance. This extra width gives a boat a significant stability advantage over kayaks and canoes, and typically, a normal size person can stand on one side of a boat without tipping over. But a normal size person can do this in a Wavewalk® 700 too, and this unique fact places the Wavewalk® 700 in a class of its own – a kayak that offers the stability of a small boat. Motorized, a Wavewalk® 700 offers the stability performance of a small boat, on top of its unique and unrivaled performance in terms of mobility, comfort, storage space, etc. As for the S4, it is considerably more stable and seaworthy than other boats of similar size.

What about A canoe?

Canoes can be very big, and transport up to dozens of passengers. The popular North American recreational canoes that measure up to 17 ft in length can take 3 to 4 adult passengers on board. While Wavewalks work perfectly with single-blade (canoe) paddles, both solo and in tandem, they can carry less payload than large size canoes do. However, a Wavewalk tracks better than a canoe does, and unlike canoes, it is easy to paddle in strong wind .

… and a motorized canoe?

A motorized square-stern canoe performs much like a lightweight dinghy, and as such it doesn’t work very well as a dedicated paddle craft, namely a canoe…. In addition, it is usually less stable than a typical dinghy, which is wider. Thanks to its slender, parallel twin hulls, the Wavewalk® 700 tracks better than a motorized canoe, it’s more stable, and being narrower it paddles better as well. Driving a Wavewalk® 700 is easier too, thanks to the ergonomics of its saddle, and the fact that the motor is located closer to the middle of the boat, away from its stern, which improves balance.

In the sense that it works well as a micro skiff, namely a small, flat bottomed boat used for fishing in flats, estuaries and protected bays, yes, a motorized Wavewalk® 700 is an ultra lightweight, trailer-free micro skiff, and it can even be outfitted with a bow mounted electric trolling motor powered by a battery fed by the alternator in a small stern mounted outboard motor. This said, its form is very different.

The Wavewalk S4 is more seaworthy than other micro skiffs, as well as more versatile since it works well as a paddle craft, so unlike other microskiffs, it cannot get stranded in shallow water and ebbing tides.

* Interestingly, the crew of competition sailing catamarans has to relocate from one side of their boat to the other in order to help stabilize it.

3 thoughts on “Personal Catamaran”

An Observation:

The USCG designation of kayak is beneficial to Wavewalk purchasers but the unique multi-hull configuration does present some identity issues with conventional yak owners.

IMHO, most kayaks are uncomfortable for extended use, relatively unstable, and soak your butt. When a newer design solves those issues, there may be some envy issues… Like, misery loves company.

It appears the best market of the W500 & W700 boats is for people who prefer to be happy on the water regardless of what they enjoy doing. Whether you fish, photograph, snorkel, paddle, motor, or hot dog standing up planing on a choppy lake with your joystick in hand, it is pretty hard to be unhappy in a Wavewalk vessel. Simply replace your aching back, wet butt, aggravating expense and maintenance with simple joy.

Is there a better reason to own a magic boat?

The Wavewalk is a magic boat, but the kayak market is crowded with manufacturers, importers, and vendors, and the average retail price of a kayak is around $550… Also, when someone thinks “I want to paddle a kayak” or “I want to fish from a kayak” the image they have in their mind is that of a conventional, monohull kayak.

Thus, it becomes our challenge to show that the twin hull W-design is a better alternative. I know you’ve been doing this for quite some time while making design improvements and expanding the product line.

Recently, I listed two fiberglass boats on Craigslist:

The 20′ Shamrock and trailer fixer upper generated a lot of calls at $1,500 but the sale came from putting it on the street. It was the perfect affordable father/son challenge for a neighbor of mine.

The deckless 35′ open catamaran hull listed for six grand at our local boatyard sold very quickly based upon a great open ocean design that could be completed for whatever need someone might have. I got wonderful calls from people with both vision and cash.

It is now destined to be a mother ship for a jet ski business in Miami.

Finding happy people with vision and cash to purchase a better kayak design that suits their needs is not impossible. But, it may be a greater challenge in this particular election year.

The only endorsement here is for choosing a Wavewalk.

Time to spread more joy…

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