Fishing from a kayak is fun. Now, motorized fishing kayaks make it even better. These kayaks have a motor added to them. This means you can go further and fish in new spots.
More people are using motorized fishing kayaks. They’re great for anyone who likes to fish but doesn’t want to paddle all day. With a motor, you can spend more time catching fish and less time moving around.
Companies are making new motorized fishing kayaks all the time. They come with cool features like fish finders and special steering. These extras help you catch more fish and have a better time on the water.
For 2024, there are lots of good motorized fishing kayaks to pick from. If you want to try one or get a new one, you have many choices. We’ll look at some of the best rated fishing kayak models you can buy this year.
Top Motorized Fishing Kayaks
What Is a Motorized Fishing Kayak?
A motorized fishing kayak is a special type of kayak designed for anglers. It has a built-in motor that helps you move through the water. This motor can be electric or gas-powered, but most modern ones use electric trolling motors.
These kayaks look like regular fishing kayaks, but they have some key differences. They often have a spot for a battery and controls for the motor. Many also have a mount for the motor, usually at the back of the kayak.
The motor in these kayaks does the hard work for you. It pushes the kayak forward, so you don’t have to paddle. This leaves your hands free for fishing. You can control the speed and direction with a remote or foot pedals.
Motorized fishing kayaks come in different sizes and styles. Some are made for one person, while others can fit two or more. They often have extra features for fishing, like rod holders and fish finders.
Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 ($5,999–$6,000)
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 is a motorized fishing kayak that stands out in the crowd. We took this kayak for a spin and found it to be a solid choice for anglers who want to cover more water with less effort.
This kayak measures 13’2″ long and 36″ wide, making it stable enough for rough waters. It weighs 95 lbs without the drive, which is on the heavier side, but that’s expected with a large fishing kayak.
The ePDL+ drive system is the star of the show. It offers five levels of pedal assist, plus a cruise control mode. We found the pedal assist to be smooth and quiet, helping us cover more ground without tiring out. The cruise control is great for trolling or when you want to focus on fishing.
One thing we really liked was the comfortable seat. It’s easy to adjust, even while you’re sitting in it. The kayak also has plenty of storage space and tracks for adding accessories.
Bonafide PWR 129 ($1,899)
The Bonafide PWR 129 impressed us during our testing with its exceptional stability and performance. We found the modified catamaran hull provided a secure platform for standing and casting, while still allowing for smooth paddling and motorized operation. The high-rise seat offered great comfort and lumbar support, though it took a little getting used to at first.
We appreciated the thoughtful design elements focused on rigging and customization. The numerous gear tracks, power link ports, and mounting points made it easy to install electronics, rod holders, and other accessories without drilling. The integrated rudder system was a nice touch, especially for those planning to add a motor.
Storage options were plentiful on the PWR 129. The large rear tankwell, underseat “junk drawer”, and front hatch provided ample space for gear. We found the blackpack accessory particularly useful for expanding storage capabilities even further.
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 ($4,250–$4,500)
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 features a 12V Minn Kota motor that allows for hands-free operation via a remote control. The motor provides excellent maneuverability, with the ability to turn quickly thanks to its responsiveness and large rudder.
The Spot-Lock anchoring feature on the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is highly effective, keeping the kayak within a 5-yard radius even in choppy conditions. This allows anglers to focus on fishing rather than positioning, especially useful when landing fish or fishing around structure.
Comfort is a strong point of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120, with the mesh seat suitable for all-day fishing trips. The elevated seat position provides good visibility and a comfortable angle for fishing. The stability of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 also allows for stand-up fishing.
Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 ($1,649.00)
A.T.A.K. 140 features a low-profile deck design that provides excellent wind resistance, making it ideal for fishing in open waters. The wide, stable platform allows for comfortable standing and casting all day long.
The A.T.A.K. 140 offers impressive customization options. The FlexPod OS console provides a convenient mounting location for electronics like fish finders. The kayak is also compatible with Wilderness Systems’ Helix MD Motor Drive, which can propel the boat up to 6 mph.
At 14’1″ long and 86 lbs unloaded, the A.T.A.K. 140 is a large, heavy kayak. While this provides excellent stability, it can make transportation challenging without a trailer or kayak cart.
Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Drive ($1,584–$2,033)
The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Drive features a pedal drive system that allows for hands-free operation, making it easy to fish while moving. The pedal drive provides good speed and maneuverability, allowing anglers to cover water efficiently.
The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Drive offers excellent stability, allowing for comfortable standing and casting. The wide hull design provides a secure platform, even in choppy conditions. Many users report feeling confident moving around and fishing from a standing position in this kayak.
Comfort is a strong point of the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Drive, with an adjustable seat that provides good support for long days on the water. The kayak features multiple gear tracks for customizing accessory placement, as well as built-in rod holders and storage areas near the seat for tackle boxes.
Choosing the Right Motorized Fishing Kayak
When selecting a motorized fishing kayak, there are several key factors to consider:
Stability: Look for a wide hull design that provides a stable platform for standing and casting, especially in choppy conditions. Catamaran-style hulls often offer excellent stability.
Motor Type: Consider whether you prefer a pedal drive system, electric trolling motor, or outboard motor. Each has pros and cons in terms of power, efficiency, and ease of use.
Battery Life: For electric motors, evaluate the battery capacity and runtime. Lithium-ion batteries typically offer longer life and lighter weight compared to lead-acid.
Comfort: An adjustable, supportive seat is crucial for long days on the water. Look for options with multiple seating positions and good lumbar support.
Storage and Rigging: Ample storage space and customization options are important for fishing gear and accessories. Check for features like gear tracks, rod holders, and tackle storage areas.
Weight and Transportability: Motorized kayaks tend to be heavier than traditional kayaks. Consider how you’ll transport and launch the kayak, and whether you’ll need a trailer or cart.
Maneuverability: A good rudder system can greatly improve steering and tracking, especially in windy conditions or when using a motor.
Fishing-Specific Features: Look for angler-friendly additions like transducer mounting options, fish finder compatibility, and anchor systems.
Price and Value: Motorized fishing kayaks represent a significant investment. Consider the features you’re getting for the price and how they align with your fishing needs. There are options for cheap fishing kayaks as well.
Versatility: Some kayaks offer the flexibility to be used with or without a motor. This can be valuable if you fish in different environments or want a backup paddling option.
By carefully evaluating these factors and matching them to your specific fishing style and needs, you can choose a motorized fishing kayak that will enhance your time on the water and potentially improve your fishing success. Whether you’re looking for a small fishing kayak or a larger model, there’s a motorized option out there for you.