10 Best Stand up Fishing Kayaks of 2021

If you do not like sitting on your kayak and fishing, there is a solution for you. The stand-up fishing kayak is a revolution when it comes to fishing as it behaves as both a regular sit-on-top kayak as well as a stable fishing platform where you can stand and fish.

You have more maneuverability on a stand-up fishing kayak and you can perform complex and accurate casting maneuvers that are otherwise not possible in a regular fishing kayak. Moreover, it offers better visibility of the water surrounding you.

Not to mention that it comes with all the benefits of a traditional kayak. Which includes ease-of-use, speed, steering maneuverability, as well as big storage compartments for your various fishing accessories.

If you are looking for a top-rated stand-up fishing kayak for the money, we give you our recommendations below. Let's see how they perform!

10 Best Stand Up Kayaks - Review

1. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 300 lbs
• Weight: 46 lbs

The Vibe Kayaks Skipjack has one of the best weight to performance ratio in this review. Additionally, this is a very compact stand-up kayak with a flat base that provides a lot of stability on calm waters. Despite its small size, it offers decent standing space in its large open space cockpit.

Since it measures only 108 in, it is highly maneuverable and easy to control with the single paddle provided with this purchase. Moreover, it weighs only 46 lbs which makes it very easy to carry even by one person. In addition, its small weight means that it can move very fast when necessary.

When it comes to storage, this stand-up kayak delivers. Indeed, it has a front 20-in hatch and a middle hatch that both have waterproof lids. This means that you can safely store your various accessories without fearing that they will get wet.

For comfort, the seat is padded and the back has a mesh design so as to prevent sweat from accumulating and provide better airflow making it more comfortable to sit for an extended period. Additionally, the seat is also adjustable and provides good maneuverability for those who like to sit and not stand while fishing.

2. Lifetime Lotus Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 250 lbs
• Weight: 37.9 lbs

The Lifetime Lotus is a simple and the cheapest stand-up kayak solution in this review. It does not come with very advanced features but it still has an excellent build construction and offers decent performance for the money.

Additionally, at 37.9 lbs, this stand-up kayak is the lightest that you can buy in this review. This model is highly portable and you will have no difficulty transporting it anywhere, whether it is by hand or on a kayak trailer .

The seat is not padded and frankly not the most comfortable. However, the backrest is adjustable and heavy duty offering you with excellent maneuverability during fishing if you choose to sit and fish.

When it comes to standing, there is a lot of space in this stand-up kayak. You will have no problem having a clear visibility around you and it is also very stable. Of course, the bottom is flat but not reinforced so you will need to be extra careful.

3. Lifetime 10 Foot Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 500 lbs
• Weight: 60 lbs

This Lifetime stand-up kayak offers one of the best ratios when it comes to price and performance. Indeed, for a heavy-duty stand-up kayak that is built like a tank, this model is also fairly affordable.

Moreover, it has one of the best weight capacity in this stand-up kayak review at 500 lbs. With this value, you will have no difficulty carrying heavy accessories.

In addition, this stand-up kayak is ideal for people who are oversized and on the heavy side as there is a lot of wiggle room inside the large open space cockpit.

Furthermore, this stand-up kayak is made from heavy duty and high-density polyethylene that is extremely durable and will protect you against impacts. There are multiple rod holders to accommodate your fishing rods as well as a paddle rest.

For more comfort, this stand-up kayak comes with a double padded backrest which makes it very pleasant to fish for an extended period without feeling fatigue.

Moreover, there is a small 6-inch hatch to store your various accessories like smartphones. It is a little bit on the small side and we would have preferred a bigger one.

4. Hobie Mirage Outback Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 400 lbs
• Weight: 99 lbs

The Hobie Mirage may look like a simple kayak but it is an advanced stand-up kayak that has been engineered for comfort and stability.

The rotational pedal drive system in this kayak is very smooth and demands little foot movement to turn the rotors. Aside from its ease of use, the build construction of this stand-up kayak is simply superb. It is almost made from a solid piece of high-density polyethylene that is extremely durable and long-lasting.

Moreover, this model comes with a quality paddle as it does not have an inbuilt steering system that you commonly find in other more dedicated pedal kayaks.

One of the most compelling features of this model is its reverse drive system that allows you to quickly and easily move the kayak in reverse position by simply pedaling in the opposite direction.

But best, there is a heavy-duty sail mount on this model that allows you to quickly and easily attach a wind sail if you want. It is more technical and reserved only for experts, but it is good to know that there is such a feature especially considering the steep price of this stand-up kayak.

When it comes to storage, there are 2 large waterproof hatches. One is located in the middle and another at the rear to store your accessories.

5. Vibe Kayaks Angler Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 375 lbs
• Weight: 57 lbs

This model from Vibe is one of the best stand-up fishing kayaks in terms of ease of use. It has the right balance between feature set, performance, and ease of use.

Comfort is definitely at the heart of this stand-up kayak. If you do not want to stand, you can sit in all comfort as it has a very comfortable seat with a mesh backrest. Moreover, the seat is fully adjustable and offers good maneuverability.

When it comes to standing, the flat bottom of this stand-up kayak gives it a lot of stability which will allow you to make complex and precise maneuvers when fishing.

Best of all, this model has no less than 4-rod holders for you to maximize your chance of getting a catch with 4 fishing rods. Moreover, the rod holders are deep and offer a good grip to your fishing rods.

At 57 lbs, this stand-up kayak is definitely not the lightest in this review but still light enough to be handled by a single person. And when it comes to portability, it has no less than 4 grips that make it easy to carry.

6. Sun Dolphin Bali SS12 Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 395 lbs
• Weight: 48 lbs

The Sun Dolphin Bali SS12 remains one of the most cost-effective stand-up kayak solutions in this review. Indeed, this top-rated stand-up kayak is made from a very durable polyethylene material as well as remains quite lightweight at 48 lbs.

It can easily be carried or transported on a kayak trailer despite its long length of 144 in. But one of the most striking features of this stand-up kayak is its large rear hatch that can accommodate all your various fishing accessories.

Moreover, the hatch is protected by a deck rigging cord that will prevent it from opening in case your kayak rolls over.

What we like about this stand-up kayak is that it can be used as a regular sit-on-top kayak as well as a stand-up kayak. It has a large cockpit for maneuverability and a padded seat with backrest for comfort when sitting down.

If you prefer to stand, the cockpit is large and you can freely move around. In addition, the bottom is perfectly flat such that it offers excellent stability while standing.

All in all, if the price has been the main reason why you have been unable to purchase a stand-up kayak so far, the Sun Dolphin Bali SS12 is an easy solution for you.

7. Sun Dolphin Boss SS Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 500 lbs
• Weight: 78 lbs

The Sun Dolphin Boss SS is a more premium stand-up kayak solution compared to the model reviewed above. This model is more geared towards performance and comfort than anything else and adopts a catamaran design that makes it aesthetically pleasing.

The seat is elevated and offers you a good view of your surroundings. Furthermore, it is padded and very comfortable especially for those who are planning to sit on this kayak for an extended period.

One of the best things about this stand-up fishing kayaking is definitely its high weight capacity of 500 lbs. This is a lot for such a fairly small kayak. It can comfortably accommodate an oversized person without rolling over. This is mostly due to the smooth and flat bottom present in this unit.

However, even if the bottom is flat and this stand-up kayak is very stable on water, there is simply not enough room inside the cockpit to stand. It can feel a little bit cramped.

But if this is not an issue, this model has a lot of features that make it very performing especially for those who need a stable stand-up kayak that will not easily roll over.

8. BKC UH-FK184 Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 250 lbs
• Weight: 45 lbs

The UH-FK184 is a standard kayak that offers you an excellent solo experience while fishing. It can be used as both a sit-on-top kayak as well as a stand-up kayak depending on your choosing. It does both quite well.

This model comes with a quality paddle as well as 2 large storage hatches that are fully waterproof. For better ease-of-use, there is no less than 5-rod holders which makes this model one of the best stand-up fishing kayaks in terms of rod mount count.

When it comes to storage, there is a large middle and front hatch that is big enough to accommodate all your fishing accessories and keep them safe. Furthermore, at only 45 lbs, this stand-up fishing can is one of the lightest in this review. It can easily be carried or transported on a kayak trailer, no problem.

Moreover, it is available in no less than 6 different colors to suit different user preferences. The weight capacity of 250 lbs. is not the best we have seen, but still above average for such a small and compact stand-up fishing can.

9. Malibu Kayak Stealth Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: 450 lbs
• Weight: 60 lbs

If you need a stand-up kayak that has excellent tracking, then this Malibu model is the answer. Indeed, due to its long length of 148-in, it offers excellent tracking and its streamlined form factor makes it move fast and efficiently on the water.

Moreover, this is one of the rare stand-up fishing kayaks in this review that has a sail mount for even more speed using the wind.

If you require a lot of storage, you will also find it in this stand-up kayak as it has a very large storage compartment in the front. In fact, the storage compartment in this Malibu stand-up kayak is one of the largest we have seen.

Best, its weight capacity of 450 lbs is well above average and allows it to accommodate an oversized person without rolling over. This stand-up kayak is also very stable due to its flat hull which will allow you to make complex and accurate maneuvers when fishing.

10. Elkton Outdoors 12 Feet Stand Up Fishing Kayak

• Weight capacity: N/A
• Weight: 90 lbs

Elkton Outdoors is a popular and good stand-up fishing kayak that is used by many expert fishermen for stand-up fishing. This is a heavy-duty fishing that is made from a rotomold injected body to withstand shocks easily.

Moreover, this is one of the few models in this stand-up fishing review that can accommodate up to 2 people. It has 2 comfortable seats with adjustable backrests as well as 2 storage compartments for your various accessories.

Best, the storage compartment has a velvet lining which will protect your sensitive accessories like various pieces of electronics and smartphones.

Furthermore, this model comes with 2 high-quality paddles for navigation. At 90 lbs and 144-in in length, this stand-up kayak is not the lightest nor the most compact but it can still be easily transported.

What we like about this unit is its military camo skin that makes it easy to camouflage. There are multiple fishing rod holders for convenience

Benefits of Stand Up Fishing Kayak

Unlike a traditional fishing kayak , the stand-up kayak offers multiple benefits that make it a superior choice.

1. Cockpit Size:

The cockpit of the stand-up fishing kayaking generally larger than other types of kayaks, including sit on top kayaks that are known for their oversized cockpit. With such a large cockpit, you can move freely on your 2 legs as well as have a better sitting position if you ever choose to sit on the stand-up kayak.

Moreover, the larger cockpit size gives you a better footing position which is especially important when big-game fishing.

2. Better View Position:

Since you normally use the stand-up kayak in a standing position, you have a birds-eye view of everything around you. Indeed, this excellent vantage point gives you a clear view of your surrounding.

This can prove to be very helpful when fishing in clearwater where your top position allows you to see fishes below you.

3. Positioning and Maneuverability:

Because there is a lot of space to move around in the stand-up fishing, you have better positioning and maneuverability. Maneuverability is especially important when big-game fishing or when you require accurate maneuvers like baitcasting using a long fishing line.

4. Storage:

Since the stand-up fishing kayaking is normally a little bit bigger than your typical kayak, there is a lot of storage space inside. This will allow you to stack your various fishing accessories as well as other pieces of electronics in all safety.

5. Stability:

One of the signature features of the stand-up kayak is its flat bottom.

Indeed, this flat bottom gives it a lot of stability and allows the user to comfortably and safely stand on the stand-up kayak without the worry of falling over. In so doing, the stand-up kayak becomes a stable and firm platform for fishing any type of fish, whether it is small-game or big-game fishing.

How to Buy the Best Stand Up Kayaks

Before purchasing the stand-up kayak, there are important aspects to take into account. Following our guide below will prevent you from making an expensive mistake.

1. Flat Hull

The first thing to keep an eye out when purchasing the stand-up kayak is the shape of the hull. For maximum stability and safety, it is important that it has a flat bottom.

Most kayaks usually come in either a triangular or semi-rounded bottom hull that is streamlined for speed. You do not want this in a stand-up kayak as your aim is stability and not speed.

2. Storage space

While the stand-up kayak usually has a lot of space when compared to a conventional kayak, it also needs to have adequate storage space for your various accessories.

In most cases, a single hatch at the front which you will normally find in other types of kayaks is not enough for the stand-up kayak. It needs to have at least 2 hatches. One at the front and either one at the middle or at the rear for best storage capacity.

Having multiple storages offers the benefit of being able to store various accessories that cannot be mixed together. For example, you normally do not mix electronics like smartphones or GPS tracking systems with fishing accessories which are usually wet and can damage your electronics.

3. Rod holders

You do not want to hold your fishing rods at all times in your hands. It can be very impractical to do so. Therefore, rod holders are very important features in a fishing kayak.

As a general rule, the more rod holders your stand-up kayak has the better as you will be able to deploy more fishing rods which drastically increases your chance for getting a successful catch.

Moreover, ensure that the rod holders are deep enough and not shallow so as to provide a stable and firm base for your fishing rods. You do not want to lose your fishing rods on the first bite you get.

4. Weight capacity

If you are planning to take a lot of accessories with you, or you are a little bit on the heavy side, then the weight capacity is an extremely important factor. What the weight capacity means is the maximum weight that the stand-up kayak can carry before it becomes a security hazard.

5. Portability

Let's face it, you will need to carry or transport your stand-up kayak to the kayaking location. This is where factors like portability come into play. However, portability is directly linked to the weight of the kayak.

The lighter the kayak, the more portable it will eventually be. Moreover, the size is also an important aspect for portability.

A stand-up kayak that is long is more difficult to transport than a more compact model. Ensure that your kayak trailer can accommodate the size of your stand-up kayak.

6. Paddle

For better ease-of-use, you will need to paddle to your chosen location with your stand-up kayak before you can actually stand on it.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that the manufacturer ships your stand-up kayak along with a paddle. Moreover, your stand-up kayak must have paddle holders so as to easily store the paddles when not in use.

If you are not interested in paddles, then you can go with a stand-up kayak that comes with a pedal drive system. However, be warned that this will be a significantly more expensive purchase.

How to Stand in a Kayak

Standing up may seem like the most obvious thing. After all, it is easy and a natural thing to do. However, standing up on a kayak can quickly prove to be challenging. Especially for those who have never stood on a kayak before. Here is a brief overview of how to do it safely.

First of all, you cannot stand up in any type of kayak . It has to be a stand-up kayak with a flat bottom rather than a rounded or curved bottom. This is because a flat bottom will allow for better stability and provide a firmer standing position.

Moreover, always stand in a kayak when it is navigating calm waters. On rough waters, it can quickly become dangerous as the risk of you falling over is high.

Another rule when standing up in a stand-up kayak is to always use it for the first time on warm waters. That's because if you use it in icy cold water and you fall over it can be dangerous to your health or downright uncomfortable. Therefore, always practice in the summer and in a calm and shallow water.

In order to make it safer to stand in a kayak, always remember to remove the seat out of the way. Most kayaks come with an adjustable seat for sitting comfort. Since you are planning to stand up, you do not need this seat anymore.

Another important aspect when standing up is your kayak in your standing stance. This basically means the foot and leg position that you adopt when standing up. So as to create a balanced center of gravity that will prevent you from falling over, spread your legs and bend your knee a little bit.

This will give you better footing and prevent you from falling, especially if your kayak gets hits by waves.

Conclusion

The stand-up fishing kayak is a little bit different from a traditional fishing kayak. It requires a little bit of practice, especially during the first few minutes to get the kayak stable on the water. However, once you get the hang of it it becomes almost second nature and offers an excellent fishing experience.

If you have still not found a good model in our stand up fishing kayak review above, we recommend that you go through it one more time.