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    The Best Sea Fishing Kayaks UK

    Whenever you are out on the water for extended periods of time trying to bring home a big catch, stability and comfort are key. We have done the research to identify the best sea fishing kayaks so you don't have to. Find the best below and forget the rest.

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    There is nothing better than paddling your sea fishing kayak out on a sunny Sunday morning, sitting back and waiting for your first catch.

    In calm conditions just about any kayak with decent storage space will do, but these aren’t the conditions that you need to prepare for.

    Any kayak fisherman worth their salt will tell you that stability and comfort are the biggest requirements of any quality fishing kayak, especially one which will be used at sea.

    So, below we have put together a useful buying guide to help you find and buy the best sea fishing kayak for you, and we have also reviewed the top 4 best sea fishing kayaks.

    Quick List

    Should I Buy a Plastic Kayak or an Inflatable One For Sea Kayak Fishing?

    You will find many good options when it comes to sea kayaks, made of both plastic and other inflatable materials.

    However, picking the right one will be important in making sure that you get the most out of whichever boat you end up buying.

    You see, plastic kayaks are the most durable and tend to offer the most stability (especially secondary stability). Although some inflatable options do have flatter hulls which makes for more primary stability and may be favoured by beginner paddlers.

    However, the main thing to keep in mind is that most inflatable options will not be suitable for rougher wind and sea conditions.

    Whilst inflatable kayaks may well be lighter and more portable, cheaper and more affordable, they also put you at greater risk of capsizing should you find yourself up against some stronger waves.

    UK weather is unpredictable, and if you want to maximise the number of sea fishing trips that you can go on, a hardshell option will be best for you. If you are open to using your boat for fishing on lakes and rivers also though, then an inflatable one will let you spend potentially more time out on that water since you don’t need to worry as much about that consistent rocking in flatter conditions.

    Still, getting used to the increased tipping on a hardshell boat will take some time, and if you are brand new to kayaking then I recommend starting out with an inflatable option in calmer sea conditions (and stay close to the shore!). You can always upgrade later on.

    The 4 Best Sea Fishing Kayaks

    Best For Beginners

    1. AQUATEC Hudson Inflatable Sea Fishing Kayak

    Aquatec inflatable sea fishing kayak.

    AQUATEC Hudson Inflatable Sea Fishing Kayak Specifications

    Number of Paddlers:12
    Size:300cm x 90cm x 25cm420cm x 60cm x 25cm
    Weight:12kg17kg
    Maximum Load:130kg170kg

    The AQUATEC Hudson is the best sea fishing kayak for beginners because it is very stable on the water, even in choppier sea conditions.

    It is lightweight and easy to transport, comes well outfitted (including a double action pump, inflatable seats and a paddle), and is very durable thanks to the drop stitch material used to manufacture it.

    What do the paddling experts think?

    We have found the Ottawa to be very stable on the water, even when it has got rough and choppy on the sea. The Ottawa is the most stable solo kayak we have used.

    Kayak Crew, Kayak Reviewer
    Portability
    Outfitting
    Out on the Water
    Maintenance

    AQUATEC Inflatable Sea Fishing Kayak Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Good primary and secondary stability (for an inflatable option), making it more suitable for sea fishing.
    • 8 inch skeg makes tracking and turning a breeze.
    • Detachable seats maximise comfort and lets you position your fishing rods, bait and gear exactly as you like.
    • A carry bag with wheels on the bottom is great for transporting your kayak.
    • Affordable option for keen sea fishers and beginner kayakers.
    Cons
    • You will not be able to stand up in this raft.
    • Beginners may struggle to use the tandem option solo, but if you have a decent amount of gear you may need the tandem to store it all.
    • As an inflatable boat, the risk of not being able to turn and even capsizing in rougher sea conditions is higher.
    • Some critiques of the carry case not being the best quality.
    Best Overall

    2. Sevylor Colorado Inflatable Kayak

    Sevylor Colorado sea fishing kayak.

    Sevylor Colorado Inflatable Kayak Specifications

    Length:331cm
    Width:88cm
    Weight:14.7kg
    More Information:https://www.sevylor-europe.com/

    The Sevylor Colorado is the best sea fishing kayak that we could find because it keeps stable and in control even when out at sea, and works great as a solo or a tandem boat.

    The Colorado is well outfitted as it comes with a paddle and very comfortable seats, and one of the most portable options we have found to as it can be inflated with 5 minutes with the included foot pump.

    What do the paddling experts think?

    The Sevylor Colorado is an amazing 2 person inflatable kayak that performs tremendously out on the water, even out at sea

    Canoe Kayak, Kayaker Reviewers
    Portability
    Outfitting
    Out on the Water
    Maintenance

    Sevylor Colorado Inflatable Kayak Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Quick to inflate, quicker than many other inflatable boats.
    • Light weight and portable.
    • Well outfitted with a paddle, pump, skeg and carry bag included.
    • Versatile for solo and tandem paddling trips.
    Cons
    • This kayak (like other inflatable ones) is potentially prone to mould and mildew.
    • Certainly not the cheapest inflatable option (the AQUATEC mentioned above is the more affordable of the two).

    Read the full review →

    Best Budget & Tandem Sea Fishing Kayak

    3. Intex Explorer K2 Sea Kayak

    Intex Explorer K2 sea fishing kayak.

    Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Specifications

    Height:91cm
    Width:351cm
    Depth:38cm
    Weight:14.85kg
    Maximum Paddler Weight:160kg

    The Intex Explorer is the best sea fishing kayak for those on a budget and for those looking for a tandem sea fishing kayak because it performs very well as both a solo and a tandem raft and comes at an affordable price.

    Whilst it isn’t the most portable (as it can take as much as 15 minutes to inflate), it does offer amazing stability and outfitting.

    What do the paddling experts think?

    If you’re thinking about getting one of these, and you’re not entirely sure, I’d say just to it.

    Camp Life Bushcraft, Kayak Reviewer
    Portability
    Outfitting
    Out on the Water
    Maintenance

    Intex Explorer K2 Kayak Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Convenient grab handles at the front and back.
    • Very comfortable thanks to the ample leg room and high rest back support chairs.
    • Suitable for solo and/or tandem/family paddling.
    • Great in a wide range of sea conditions.
    • Amazing stability.
    • Good tracking and turning.
    Cons
    • Not the quickest to inflate (taking approximately 15 minutes).
    • Single skin which makes the boat more susceptible to punctures and tears.
    • The carry bag is not the best for over the shoulder carrying.
    Best for Sea Fishing

    4. Cambridge Kayaks Zander Kayak for Leisure & Fishing

    Zander hardshell sea fishing kayak.

    Cambridge Kayaks Zander Kayak for Leisure & Fishing Specifications

    Height:272cm
    Width:80cm
    Depth:34cm
    Weight:22kg
    Maximum Paddler Weight:130kg

    The Zander Kayak by Cambridge Kayaks is the best hardshell sea fishing kayak because it is suitable for a wide range of paddlers, capable of tracking with precision and designed specifically for those looking to use it for kayak fishing.

    A multi channel hull makes it high performance and incredibly stable, and the strategically designed raft has plenty of storage space for all of your fishing gear (including 5 rod holders and 2 storage hatches).

    For those looking to customise their sea fishing kayak and take their fishing excursions to the next level, outriggers and/or a trolling motor can be added.

    What do the paddling experts think?

    The Zander is perfect for those looking to get the most out of their sea fishing kayak. As a hardshell option, it is best suited for the infamously unpredictable waves and currents that you will across in the UK oceans

    Dave Jenkins, Kayak Reviewer
    Portability
    Outfitting
    Out on the Water
    Maintenance

    Cambridge Kayaks Zander Kayak for Leisure & Fishing Pros & Cons

    Pros
    • Impact and UV resistant LLDPE material.
    • Incredible tracking and turning.
    • Perfect outfitting for sea kayak fishing.
    • 5 rod holders, 2 storage hatches.
    • Option to add outriggers or a trolling motor.
    • Extremely portable for a hardshell kayak.
    Cons
    • More expensive than some inflatable alternatives.
    • Less portable than inflatable kayaks.

    The Sea Fishing Kayak Buying Guide

    Sea fishing kayak buyers guide.

    How Much Does a Sea Fishing Kayak Cost?

    How much does a sea fishing kayak cost?

    There is no single price for all sea fishing kayaks. The price will vary depending on several factors including:

    • Brand/Manufacturer
    • Material
    • Outfitting
    • Shape
    • Style
    • New or Used

    You should shop around a variety of retailers, keeping in mind your desired features and functionality, to find the best sea fishing kayak for you at the best price.

    In general, most sea fishing kayaks vary in price between £200 and £2,000 or more.

    If you want to get a sea fishing kayak with many features, like fishing rod holders and paddles, you should expect to pay more.

    The price will also be dictated by the material the boat is made out of.

    Hardshell sea fishing kayaks are the most expensive, but they also offer some of the best secondary stability.

    Inflatable sea fishing kayaks are more affordable, although you will often be sacrificing some speed, control and durability for that lower price tag.

    I would caution against looking for the cheapest kayak. Remember, when you buy cheap you buy twice.

    If budget is an issue, you should consider purchasing a second hand/used sea fishing kayak from a well reviewed and respected seller or retailer.

    Things to Consider When Buying a Sea Fishing Kayak

    There are a number of things that you should consider when purchasing a sea fishing kayak, and I have listed out some of the key things to consider below.

    Material

    Kayak materials.

    When designing and manufacturing a sea fishing kayak, the best kayak brands are looking for some key things out of the materials that they use:

    • Durability
    • Water Proof/Resistant
    • UX Resistant
    • Light
    • Flexible
    • Affordable
    • Easy to Fix/Repair

    The best sea fishing kayaks will be made out of something which can withstand even rougher sea and wind conditions. Flexibility ties in with this, since an inflexible material is at higher risk of tearing/being damaged.

    Sea fishing kayak materials will of course also have to not be damaged by salt water and UV light (since you hope to spend hours at on the water with the British sun beating down on your boat). Generally speaking, thicker and tougher materials will be best.

    Having said that, no paddler wants to be exhausted before they even get out on the water so a lightweight material which can be carried to and from the water is vital.

    Finally the best sea fishing kayak materials will be cheap and easy to repair. This allows manufactures to offer more generous warranties and repair schemes, with many options even coming with a free repair kit.

    Popular Sea Fishing Kayak Materials

    Below I have noted some of the most popular sea fishing kayak materials, alongside an overview on why each one may be suitable for sea fishing.

    Polyethylene

    Polyethylene is often used to make sea kayaks because it is affordable, tough, salt water and UV resistant, and durable. However it is typically heavier than other materials, and less rigid which can make polyethylene plastic sea kayaks less comfortable.

    Fibreglass

    Combining glass fibres and resin creates fibreglass, which is another popular material used in sea fishing kayaks. Fibreglass is strong and lightweight, also flexible and rigid, which makes it a great material for a hardshell fishing kayak. The downside is that fibreglass tends to be more expensive than plastic/inflatable options.

    Carbon Fiber

    Combining carbon fibres with resin creates carbon fibre, a strong yet lightweight material perfect for sea kayaks. It is much more expensive and typically used for the highest performance sea fishing kayaks and racing boats. Carbon fibre kayaks are regarded as some of the strongest, fastest and most manoeuvrable around. The drawback of carbon fibre kayaks is that they can be fragile and more easily damaged (particularly in transport).

    Price

    How much does a sea fishing kayak cost?

    As discussed above, you will find that the best sea fishing kayaks range on price greatly.

    Top inflatable options will start at around £200, with most sitting around £300 – £400. Hardshell boats on the other hand tend to start around the £600 range and, for the higher performance kayaks, can reach upwards of £2,000.

    Keep an open mind and research a number of kayaks within each price bracket to get a better idea on what kind of sea fishing kayak will be best for your wants, needs and paddle experience.

    Stability

    Sea fishing kayak stability.

    You will want to think about the stability of the sea fishing kayak that you ultimately buy, since this will directly effect both the amount you can catch on any given trip and how often, where and when you can use your chosen boat.

    A more stable kayak can be more easily paddled and manoeuvred, allowing you to get to where you need to go and stay where the most fish are to be found.

    You are also a lot less likely to capsize, tip or flip in a more stable kayak, which will necessary to keep all of your fishing gear and supplies safe and dry.

    The best sea fishing kayaks tend to have wide and flat hull designs with a low centre of gravity. These features mean that the raft will have excellent primary stability, which keeps the kayak flat and controlled out on the water. You will have to compromise on the secondary stability though, which makes the kayak more stable in waves and choppier conditions. This is a fair compromise though, since for fishing you won’t want to go out in too turbulent sea conditions.

    Weight/Portability

    If your sea fishing kayak is too heavy, it will be difficult to transport and launch. It may even be impossible to lift and load the kayak on to your car/boat launch, severely limiting how easy and often you can use it. Keep in mind also that you will need to fill your kayak with all your fishing gear, as well as your total body weight. So you will want to find and buy a sea fishing kayak with a good maximum weight capacity.

    Durability & Lifespan

    The ocean can be a cruel mistress, and sea fishing kayaks will take a real beating out on the water. They will have to withstand large waves, strong winds and potentially obstacles like reefs and/or other gear floating about that belongs to paddle sport enthusiasts (e.g. surfers and bodyboarders).

    A strong and durable fishing kayak is less likely to break or tear, which will save you money in the long run as you enjoy your chosen boat for many years and over countless fishing trips.

    The most durable kayaks also hold their value more than cheaper and weaker alternatives. Should you decide to sell your kayak in the future, you’ll get a much better offer if your boat is still in a good condition.

    For maximum longevity you should consider investing in a fibreglass or carbon fibre sea fishing kayak. If budget is an issue, at least opt for a double skin inflatable option from a respected brand.

    Control & Tracking

    A successful kayak fishing trip requires good control and tracking from your boat. After all, if you can’t get yourself in the best spot how do you expect to make the best catch?

    Control and tracking will determine how easy it is to paddle and turn your raft. The ability to paddle in a straight line, turn and stop your boat isn’t just important for your fishing results, it is necessary to keep you and others safe out on the water.

    When you are shopping for your next sea fishing kayak, look for one with a skeg or rudder as well as a flared bow or stern to maximise the amount of control you have out on the water.

    Size & Comfort

    The size and comfort of your sea fishing kayak will directly determine how long and often you are able to enjoy using it.

    Your kayak needs to be the right size and style for your height and body type, not to mention your individual paddling style.

    Kayak fishing is a sport like any other, and being comfortable will reduce the risk of injury and yield better performance. In fact, a more comfortable boat will reduce fatigue and keep you in a good ergonomic posture whilst allowing you to pick up more speed and turn with more precision.

    Whilst taller paddlers will of course need a longer boat, I wouldn’t suggest shorter paddlers seek out a short sea fishing kayak. Shorter boats are notoriously harder to pick up speed in and you will have less room to store your fishing gear.

    Outfitting

    Whichever sea fishing kayak you go with, you need to make sure that it is equipped with all that you could need whilst out on the water.

    The last thing you want is to spend 20 minutes paddling out to the perfect fishing position, only to realise that you forgot your rods or bait because you couldn’t seem to squeeze them in the night before.

    The best sea fishing kayaks will include seat(s), foot pegs or rests, generous storage compartments or space, rod holders and dedicated tackle storage, and an anchor system. You should also order a personal floatation device to wear whenever you go out on the water. If your fishing kayak can accommodate it, a spray skirt is a good idea to keep you dry in the often predictable UK ocean and weather.

    Sea Fishing Kayak Things You May Want to Avoid

    These days UK paddlers are lucky enough to enjoy a huge selection of top sea fishing kayaks. However you should also take note of some things that you should avoid when shopping for your next fishing kayak.

    Short Sea Fishing Kayaks

    Shorter kayaks are usually more manoeuvrable and easier to handle than longer options, which is why you often see them used for white water kayaking. However, they are also often less stable and more likely to capsized by strong waves, winds and/or currents.

    If you are a beginner sea fishing kayker, I would recommend you stay well away from short boats. Look for a longer one which will be more stable and provide you more space to store your fishing gear and anything else you may wish to bring out with you (e.g. food and water).

    For intermediate or even advanced paddlers, try out a shorter sea fishing kayak before investing in one and, if possible, speak about some of the pros and cons of this style of boat with a kayak coach.

    Sit-in Sea Fishing Kayaks

    Sit-on-top sea fishing kayaks are widely regarded as the best option for UK paddlers.

    First, sit-in sea kayaks are incredibly difficult to get in and out of, which means they aren’t suitable at all for beginners who may already be nervous when launching and landing their boat.

    Second, they are more likely to capsize given their lower centre of gravity. This is a major drawback considering it is in the sea that you are most likely to come up against unexpected water and wind conditions.

    Thirdly and finally, sit-in sea fishing kayaks are simply less customisable and adaptable. Many sit-on-top sea fishing kayaks feature adjustable seats that let you find your ideal seating position and maximise your storage space. Sit-in seating positions are, more often than not, better suited to experienced paddlers that know how to dig in and adapt their paddle strokes to the currents and water conditions that they find themselves in. Still, even more experienced paddlers say that they prefer sit-on-top sea fishing kayaks.

    Inflatable Sea Fishing Kayaks

    Now, inflatable sea fishing kayaks are usually more affordable and the go-to choice for beginners. Some of the higher end ones will even be capable of staying stable in calmer sea conditions and carrying a good amount of gear. However they are never going to be as durable as hardshell alternatives. They also happen to be a lot less stable, increasing the risk that they will flip in choppier conditions. Finally, they are also not able to carry as much gear as hardshell sea fishing kayaks. I wouldn’t go as far as to say that inflatable sea kayaks aren’t a good option for anyone, only that you are likely to outgrow your inflatable raft fairly quickly if you go out on the water regularly.

    Dave Jenkins
    Dave Jenkinshttps://www.canoekayak.co.uk
    A keen swimmer, kayaker and surfer. Since I was a teenager all of my favourite hobbies and past times have involved spending time out on the water.

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