The Most Stable Fishing Kayak In 2020
If there’s one thing any angler would need in their kayak, it’s stability. Imagine falling in the water with a huge catch on your line, that would definitely ruin your entire trip. Would it not? In this article, we shall be talking about the most stable fishing kayak you can buy at a great price.
We’ve personally chosen the Old Town Predator 13 as one of the most stead fishing kayaks! Not only is it one of the most solid kayak’s in the market today, but it also costs less than high-end fishing kayaks that perform at almost the same level. Let’s learn more about this kayak before you start daydreaming of your first catch.
The Old Town Predator 13
The Old Town Predator 13 was designed to perform well on the water and ease your strain during transportation on land. The research and design team spent a lot of time and effort to study the very needs of any kayak angler. By that we mean everything is tested and calibrated for efficiency; from seating, paddle holder, rod holders, and your ability to move around comfortably while you’re on the water.
Key Features:
Length: 13 feet and 2 inches
Width: 33.5 inches
Weight Capacity: 192 kg
When we’re talking about stability, you’re pretty safe at 13 feet and 2 inches long with a width of 33.5 inches. At a more affordable price compared to the Hobie Mirage, the OTP 13 definitely a steal. It features an anti-slip deck that allows you to safely move around your boat even on water. If you catch a big fish, you don’t need to worry about loading it on your kayak.
This Old Town also has a comfortable seat that is easy to adjust to your preference. The seating system includes foot braces and a stand assist strap for your convenience as well. It also features a paddle keeper to safely secure your paddle while you are fishing.
If you’re worried about storage, don’t be. The Old Town has enough dry storage space for you to stow away important belongings. It also has storage space on both the bow and stern. You can easily place items and secure them with a bungee cord.
The kayak’s hull is also equipped with eight scuppers which are responsible for draining the water that gets into your boat and maintaining it’s stability. The major downside to having an extremely stable kayak is that you may need to compromise both speed and manoeuvrability, then again, you’re not in a race. Having a secure kayak is much more important in this case. But what do we mean exactly when we talk about stability? Let’s learn more.
What is Stability?
The term stability refers to two aspects in the kayaking world, we have your primary – which is how your kayak feels when on calm water, and the secondary stability which pertains to how steady or solid it is when on rougher water and up to the threshold of capsizing. Beginners would often assume that a kayak that is relatively steady initially, is a good one. But in reality, boats that are actually tippy at the start is the better option for rougher water.
If you’re looking to buy a new kayak, it’s best to figure out what kind of kayak fishing are you planning to do. If you’re opting to go out in open water, getting the safest fishing kayak would be a must. Take into consideration, the width of the hull, and its design as well. This determines how fast and how steady the kayak is.
Any pro angler with experience fishing from a kayak will be able to tell you the importance of overall stability especially when you’re out in open water. Some would even go as far as installing outriggers for their boats to ensure stable fishing. An outrigger is basically an additional structure you install to your kayak to keep it steady.
The only problem with having outriggers is the fact that it does compromise your speed. But then again, if you’re out for the good game – you wouldn’t need a fast boat, but a secure one. Stable fishing is safe fishing.
Other Stable Fishing Kayaks in the Market Today
If you feel that the OTP 13 is not the perfect fit for you, maybe you’d like to take a look at other names and brands in the kayak industry to pick out the best fishing kayak under 1000. Here are some of our other picks:
Hobie Mirage
Key Features:
Length: 12 feet and 9 inches
Width: 34 inches
Weight Capacity: 192 kg
One thing is for sure, Hobie kayaks do not disappoint. The manufacturer is well known for their top-of-the-line boats, in fact they are often referred to as the Rolls Royce of the kayak industry. This would definitely explain the $2,000.00 price tag on their fishing kayaks. It’s a great investment if you planning on long term kayak fishing.
The Mirage comes in a compact and full version, whichever model you do choose will definitely work efficiently for your need. It features their signature Mirage Drive, a pedal crank that is adjustable to various lengths to adapt to your height.
The Hobie Mirage is ready for customization, with multiple accessory mounting tracts. You can easily attach rod holders, camera mounts, and other trinkets you would need when you’re fishing from kayaks. After all, the most important thing is being prepared at all costs.
Stable fishing is definitely possible on the Mirage. It exceeds the expectations of most experts in terms of performance. Speed and manoeuvrability is not compromised despite the high stability of this fishing kayak, and it should be the top choice for those with a big budget.
Lifetime Sport Fisher
Key Features:
Length: 10 feet
Width: 36 inches
Weight Capacity: 226 kg
If you’re a beginner, this kayak is a great starter boat for you. It doesn’t cost as much and is quite stable despite the fact that it is only 10 ft in length. The secret lies in their hull design. Amazingly, this particular kayak can carry up to three people and still be stable enough for catching fish.
The durable hardshell body makes this fishing kayak ready for both calm and rough waters. The seating may not be as comfortable as our first three picks, but it is one of the most convenient kayaks for fishing – lots of space, very stable, and well designed.
If you’re excited to catch fish but need to work within a tight budget, this is a great choice from all the fishing kayaks we have talked about.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sit-in boats are the most stable, but they are not the most ideal if you are planning to go fishing. This is also why the most efficient fishing kayaks are the sit-on-top types. Since fishing using a sit-in model can be quite challenging, manufacturers have developed hull designs that can maintain stability without having to sacrifice other factors you need to consider when purchasing your first kayak.
How Can I Make My Fishing Kayak More Stable?
If you already have a kayak, and wouldn’t want to spend more to buy a new one. You can easily increase the stability of your kayak by installing an outrigger. As mentioned earlier, these beams or structure help increase the kayak’s stability but would affect your boat’s speed and manoeuvrability. It is important to know that the proper installation of this frame is vital to make sure it works best for your kayak.
Do Kayaks Flip Over Easily?
The short answer to this question is yes. If you have seen an ordinary kayak, one thing you would notice is the fact that the hull is quite narrow. Compared to rafts and small boats, balancing on a kayak is quite the challenge. You would need a lot of practice before you are ready to go out on the lake to fish.
Are Kayaks More Stable Than Canoes?
Sadly, kayaks are not more stable than canoes. However, a kayak would be faster and easier to control compared to a canoe. Kayaks are also easier to use when you plan on catching fish. You have more space to move about, you have lots of storage space, tracks to attach your gadgets, and other accessories you would need on a fishing trip. You can easily find one stable kayak by doing your research.
How to Choose and Buy The Most Stable Fishing Kayak?
The key is to know what you want. Before making your purchase, scout through different kayaks, watch resource videos, try to also ask experts and more importantly figure out what kind of kayak fisher you plan to be. One thing you need to avoid is being fooled by the fact that the most expensive kayak is the best one, that isn’t true for everybody. Understand your need and make your chose from there.
Conclusion
In our opinion, the OTP 13 is the best choice for any novice fisherman. Not only does it provide you with enough stability as the high-end models, but it also costs a fraction of the price. With the great features, excellent design, and thousands of satisfied customers, you can’t go wrong with an OTP 13 – friendly on the pocket, great quality, and also a favorite amongst users.