Fishing in rivers can be tricky. The water moves fast, and the fish are always on the alert. You need the right gear to keep up. That’s where a good kayak comes in.
River fishing from a kayak opens up new spots. You can reach places that are hard to get to from the shore. But not all kayaks work well in rivers.
Some are too big and slow. Others tip over too easily. The wrong kayak can turn a fun day into a frustrating one.
We’ve tested many kayaks in fast currents and calm pools. We know what works and what doesn’t. Our team has spent countless hours on rivers, catching fish and learning the ins and outs of different kayaks.
Top River Fishing Kayak Recommendations
River fishing presents unique challenges that require specialized kayaks. After extensive testing, we’ve identified the best kayaks for navigating rivers and catching fish in moving water.
Sit-on-Top Kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks offer excellent stability and ease of use for river fishing. Here are our top picks:
Old Town Sportsman 119
The Old Town Sportsman 119 is a versatile kayak that excels in river environments. We found it to be incredibly stable and easy to maneuver in currents.
- Length: 11’9″
- Width: 32.5″
- Weight: 76 lbs
- Capacity: 354 lbs
Key features:
- Three-layer polyethylene construction for durability
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Large rear tank well for gear storage
- Built-in rod holders
Our testing revealed that the Sportsman 119 tracks well in moving water and provides a dry ride even in choppy conditions. The ample storage space allows for extended fishing trips.
Bonafide RS117
The Bonafide RS117 is purpose-built for river fishing, offering exceptional stability and a feature-rich design.
- Length: 11’7″
- Width: 33.5″
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Capacity: 425 lbs
During our river tests, we were impressed by:
- The hybrid catamaran hull design for superior stability
- Comfortable high/low seating system
- Ample deck space for standing and casting
- Multiple gear tracks for accessory mounting
The RS117’s stability allowed for easy standing and sight fishing, even in moderate currents. Its maneuverability in tight spots was noteworthy.
Perception Outlaw 11.5
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 offers a spacious deck and excellent stability at an affordable price point.
- Length: 11’6″
- Width: 35″
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Capacity: 425 lbs
Notable features:
- Extra-wide and stable design
- Elevated seat for better visibility
- Large rear tank well and front storage area
- Integrated accessory tracks
Our river fishing experiences with the Outlaw 11.5 were positive, particularly due to its stability and comfort for all-day fishing sessions. The kayak’s width did make it slightly slower in currents, but the trade-off in stability was worth it.
Crescent Shoalie
The Crescent Shoalie is designed specifically for river fishing and whitewater environments.
- Length: 10′
- Width: 33″
- Weight: 60 lbs
- Capacity: 300 lbs
Key attributes:
- Rockered hull design for excellent maneuverability
- Durable rotomolded construction
- Multiple footrest options for comfort
- Bow and stern handles for easy portaging
In our tests, the Shoalie proved to be incredibly agile in fast-moving water and tight turns. Its lighter weight made it easy to transport and maneuver around obstacles. While it has a lower weight capacity than some others, it’s an excellent choice for solo anglers tackling challenging rivers.
| Kayak | Pros | Cons |
| Old Town Sportsman 119 | Versatile, stable, good storage | Heavier than some options |
| Bonafide RS117 | Extremely stable, feature-rich | Higher price point |
| Perception Outlaw 11.5 | Spacious deck, affordable | Slower in strong currents |
| Crescent Shoalie | Highly maneuverable, lightweight | Lower weight capacity |
Each of these sit-on-top kayaks offers unique advantages for river fishing. Your choice will depend on the specific rivers you plan to fish and your personal preferences for features and handling characteristics.
Sit-in Kayaks
Sit-in kayaks offer better protection from the elements and can be more efficient to paddle in rivers. Here are two top choices we’ve thoroughly tested:
Dagger Axis 10.5
The Dagger Axis 10.5 is a versatile sit-in kayak that performs well in various water conditions, including rivers.
- Length: 10’6″
- Width: 28.5″
- Weight: 50 lbs
- Capacity: 300 lbs
Our river fishing experiences with the Axis 10.5 revealed:
- Excellent maneuverability in tight spots
- Good stability for a sit-in design
- Comfortable ConTour CFS-R seating system
- Ample storage with a stern hatch and bungee deck rigging
The kayak’s drop-skeg system allowed for improved tracking in flat water sections, while its agility shone in faster currents. We found it easy to control and surprisingly stable when casting.
Pungo 120
The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is a popular sit-in kayak that excels in river environments.
- Length: 12′
- Width: 29″
- Weight: 49 lbs
- Capacity: 325 lbs
Key features we appreciated during testing:
- Spacious cockpit for easy entry and exit
- Phase 3 AirPro seating system for all-day comfort
- Stern bulkhead for dry storage
- Dashboard with cup holder and gear storage
The Pungo 120’s longer length provided excellent speed and tracking on straightaways, while still maintaining good maneuverability in river bends. Its stability and comfort made it ideal for extended fishing trips.
Hybrid Kayaks
Hybrid kayaks combine features of both sit-on-top and sit-in designs, offering unique advantages for river fishing. Here are two standout models:
NuCanoe Unlimited
The NuCanoe Unlimited is a highly versatile hybrid kayak that we found exceptionally suitable for river fishing.
- Length: 12’6″
- Width: 41″
- Weight: 84 lbs
- Capacity: 650 lbs
Standout features from our tests:
- Unmatched stability for standing and casting
- Open deck design with customizable seating options
- Excellent weight capacity for gear and accessories
- Compatible with trolling motors and pedal drives
The Unlimited’s width provided incredible stability, even in choppy river conditions. Its open layout allowed for easy movement and gear access. While heavier than some options, its versatility and stability made it a top choice for serious river anglers.
Jackson TakeTwo
The Jackson TakeTwo is a tandem hybrid kayak that can be easily converted for solo use, making it a flexible option for river fishing.
- Length: 13’6″
- Width: 36″
- Weight: 95 lbs
- Capacity: 500 lbs
Our river fishing experiences highlighted:
- Stable platform for solo or tandem fishing
- Versatile seating arrangements
- Ample storage space with hatch and deck bungees
- Compatibility with various accessories and motor mounts
We found the TakeTwo to be remarkably stable and easy to maneuver, even when fully loaded. Its ability to switch between solo and tandem configurations made it a versatile choice for different fishing scenarios.
| Kayak | Pros | Cons |
| Dagger Axis 10.5 | Maneuverable, versatile | Limited storage compared to sit-on-tops |
| Pungo 120 | Comfortable, good speed | Narrower cockpit may limit casting space |
| NuCanoe Unlimited | Extremely stable, customizable | Heavy, may be challenging to transport |
| Jackson TakeTwo | Versatile solo/tandem use | Large size may be difficult in very tight spots |
These sit-in and hybrid kayaks offer unique advantages for river fishing. The sit-ins provide better protection and efficiency, while the hybrids offer unmatched stability and versatility. Your choice will depend on the specific rivers you fish and your personal preferences for comfort and features.
Key Features for River Fishing Kayaks
When selecting a kayak for river fishing, certain features can make or break your experience. Here’s what we’ve found to be crucial:
Stability for standing and casting
A stable kayak is essential for river fishing. We’ve tested numerous models and found that a wider beam generally offers better stability. Kayaks with a width of 32 inches or more typically allow for comfortable standing and casting, even in moving water. Fishing paddle boards can also offer excellent stability for anglers who prefer a stand-up position.
Maneuverability in currents
Rivers often present obstacles and varying current speeds. Our experience shows that shorter kayaks (10-12 feet) with a slight rocker in the hull design offer the best maneuverability. These features allow for quick turns and easier navigation around rocks or fallen trees. Sit-in kayaks often excel in this area due to their lower profile.
Weight capacity
A higher weight capacity ensures you can bring all necessary gear without compromising performance. We recommend looking for kayaks with at least a 350-pound capacity for most river fishing situations.
Portability (weight and size)
Rivers often require portaging around obstacles or accessing remote put-in spots. We’ve found that kayaks weighing under 80 pounds are manageable for most anglers to transport solo. Consider factors like carry handles and balanced weight distribution. For those who prioritize portability, inflatable fishing kayaks can be an excellent option.
Storage options for gear
Ample storage is crucial for long fishing trips. Look for kayaks with:
- Sealed hatches for dry storage
- Open tank wells for easy access to gear
- Built-in rod holders
- Gear tracks for customizing accessory placement
For those who need extensive customization options, consider aftermarket upgrades and add-ons to enhance your kayak’s storage capabilities.
Specialized River Kayak Models
These models are specifically designed for river fishing, offering unique features that set them apart:
Old Town Sportsman PDL
The Sportsman PDL combines pedal drive efficiency with river-ready design. Key features:
- Instant forward/reverse pedal drive
- Exceptionally stable 36-inch beam
- Ample storage including a sealed bow hatch
- Comfortable element seating system
We found the PDL system particularly useful in maintaining position in current, allowing for hands-free fishing.
Jackson Coosa FD
The Coosa FD is purpose-built for river fishing with a pedal drive. Standout features:
- Flex Drive system for shallow water performance
- Hi-Lo seating for improved casting and visibility
- Innovative hull design for stability and tracking
- Multiple gear tracks and storage options
Our tests revealed excellent maneuverability in tight spots, even with the pedal drive installed.
Bonafide RVR 119
The RVR 119 is designed specifically for river fishing. Notable attributes:
- Hybrid cat hull for stability and speed
- Dry storage options including a center console
- Multiple seating positions
- Excellent tracking in moving water
We appreciated the RVR 119’s balance of stability and performance in various river conditions.
Crescent Lite Tackle
The Lite Tackle offers a lightweight option for river anglers. Key features:
- Weighs only 75 pounds for easy transport
- Stable 34-inch beam
- Ample deck space for standing
- Excellent primary and secondary stability
Our experience showed this kayak to be highly capable in both calm and choppy river sections.
Pedal vs. Paddle Kayaks for Rivers
The choice between pedal and paddle kayaks for river fishing depends on several factors:
Advantages of paddle kayaks in shallow waters
Paddle kayaks offer several benefits for river fishing:
- Better maneuverability in very shallow water
- Lighter weight for easier portaging
- Simpler maintenance with fewer moving parts
- Often more affordable than pedal models
We’ve found paddle kayaks to be superior in rivers with frequent obstacles or very shallow sections.
When to consider pedal drives
Pedal kayaks can be advantageous in certain river conditions:
- Wider, deeper rivers with fewer obstacles
- When covering long distances
- For hands-free fishing in current
Our tests show that pedal drives excel in maintaining position against current and allow for easier trolling in rivers. However, they may require more clearance and can be challenging in very shallow or obstacle-rich environments.
When choosing between pedal and paddle, consider the specific rivers you’ll be fishing most often. Pedal drives offer efficiency and hands-free operation but may limit access to some areas. Paddle kayaks provide versatility and simplicity, often at a lower cost.
Choosing the Right Size for River Fishing
Selecting the appropriate kayak length is crucial for optimal performance in river environments. Our extensive testing has revealed the strengths of different kayak sizes:
10-foot kayaks for tight spaces
Ten-foot kayaks excel in narrow, winding rivers with frequent obstacles. We’ve found they offer:
- Superior maneuverability for navigating tight turns
- Easier transport and storage
- Quicker response in fast-moving water
However, they may sacrifice some speed and tracking on longer stretches of open water.
12-foot kayaks for versatility
Twelve-foot kayaks strike an excellent balance for most river fishing scenarios. In our experience, they provide:
- Good maneuverability in moderate currents
- Improved tracking and speed compared to shorter models
- Ample storage space for day-long fishing trips
- Stability for standing and casting
These kayaks perform well in a variety of river conditions, from narrow streams to wider, slower-moving waters.
14-foot kayaks for longer trips
For extended river fishing expeditions or larger bodies of water, 14-foot kayaks offer distinct advantages:
- Superior tracking and speed on long stretches
- Increased storage capacity for multi-day trips
- Better performance in windy conditions
- Improved stability in choppy water
While less maneuverable in tight spots, these longer kayaks excel on bigger rivers and for covering greater distances.
Budget-Friendly Options for River Kayak Fishing
Quality river fishing kayaks don’t always have to break the bank. We’ve tested several budget-friendly options that offer good performance:
Lifetime Tamarack Angler
This affordable sit-on-top kayak provides solid performance for river fishing:
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 31 inches
- Weight: 52 pounds
- Capacity: 275 pounds
Key features:
- Multiple footrest positions for comfort
- Two flush-mounted rod holders
- Stable flat bottom design
- Front and rear shock cord straps for storage
We found the Tamarack Angler to be surprisingly stable and maneuverable for its price point, making it an excellent entry-level option for river fishing.
Ascend 10T
The Ascend 10T offers a step up in features while remaining budget-friendly:
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 30 inches
- Weight: 67 pounds
- Capacity: 325 pounds
Notable attributes:
- Comfortable, adjustable seating system
- Large, open cockpit design
- Ample storage options including a large stern well
- Stable enough for standing in calm conditions
Our tests revealed the 10T to be a versatile performer in various river conditions, offering good value for its price.
Perception Pescador 12
For those seeking a longer budget option, the Pescador 12 delivers:
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 32.5 inches
- Weight: 64 pounds
- Capacity: 375 pounds
Standout features:
- Excellent tracking and speed for its class
- Comfortable seat with two height positions
- Large rear tank well and bow hatch for storage
- Built-in rod holders and accessory tracks
We found the Pescador 12 to offer performance comparable to more expensive models, making it a great choice for budget-conscious anglers looking for a versatile river kayak.
Advanced River Fishing Kayak Features
For anglers seeking to maximize their river fishing potential, these advanced features can make a significant difference:
Pedal drive systems
Pedal drives offer hands-free propulsion, which we’ve found particularly useful in rivers:
- Allows for easier positioning and holding against current
- Enables trolling at consistent speeds
- Frees up hands for casting and fish handling
However, pedal drives may limit access to very shallow areas and require more maintenance than traditional paddle kayaks.
Motorization options
Some river fishing kayaks are compatible with electric motors, offering:
- Effortless navigation against strong currents
- Ability to cover long distances with less fatigue
- Precise control for trolling and positioning
We’ve found that motorized kayaks excel on larger rivers but may be impractical on smaller, obstacle-rich waterways.
Anchor trolley systems
An anchor trolley is a simple yet effective addition to any river fishing kayak:
- Allows for easy adjustment of anchor position
- Helps maintain position in current without constant paddling
- Useful for both anchoring and drift control
Our experience shows that an anchor trolley significantly enhances fishing efficiency, especially when targeting specific spots in moving water.
These advanced features can greatly enhance your river fishing experience, but they also come with added cost and complexity. Consider your specific needs and fishing style when deciding which features are worth the investment.