Best Tandem Kayak For Fishing

Last Updated on September 22, 2023

Imagine gliding through the serene waters, side by side with your fishing partner, as you cast your lines and reel in the big ones. Tandem kayaks offer a whole new level of excitement and camaraderie for fishing enthusiasts. They provide the perfect platform for you and your fishing buddy to share the joy of angling together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

But what sets tandem kayaks apart? Let’s dive in and discover their unique features and benefits. These kayaks are designed with fishing in mind, offering enhanced stability and a higher weight capacity compared to solo kayaks. This means you can bring along all your fishing gear and even have room for an extra angler—no need to worry about space constraints or leaving essential equipment behind.

Advantages of Tandem Kayaks for Fishing

Let’s dive into the advantages of tandem kayaks for fishing, my fellow anglers!

Enhanced stability and weight capacity:

One of the key advantages of tandem kayaks is their exceptional stability. With a wider hull design and increased length, tandem kayaks offer superior stability on the water. This means you can fish with confidence, even in choppy conditions or when casting from different angles. Additionally, tandem kayaks have a higher weight capacity than solo kayaks, allowing you to bring all your fishing gear and supplies without worrying about overloading the kayak.

Collaboration and shared experience:

Fishing with a partner or family member on a tandem kayak opens up a world of possibilities. Not only do you get to share the excitement of every catch and the thrill of reeling in a prized fish, but you also have the opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. Tandem kayak fishing promotes collaboration, communication, and teamwork as you work together to navigate the waters, strategize your fishing techniques, and maximize your angling success.

Top Tandem Kayaks for Fishing

Sevylor Coleman Colorado Tandem Fishing Kayak

Specs

• Measures 10.75 x 3.25 feet
• Weighs 32.9 pounds
• 470-pound weight capacity

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is our first stop, a two-person inflatable fishing kayak made of 18-gauge PVC with an 840-denier nylon cover and a 1000-denier tarp bottom.

Yes, it is as resistant to punctures as it sounds. The multi-chamber construction will keep you afloat even if there is a tear.

Despite being inflatable, the Coleman Colorado has a 470-pound weight limit and plenty of storage. Mesh pockets and D-ring tie-downs are featured, as are paddle holders (though paddles are not included) and adjustable Berkley Quick-Set rod holders.

The Sevylor trolling motor attachment place, most crucially, transforms it into a fully motorized inflatable tandem kayak!

Pros:

• A Sevylor trolling motor mounting point
• Pockets and D-rings are included for organizing equipment.
  It is adjustable. Quick-Set rod holders by Berkley
• Puncture-resistant design with many chambers

Cons:

• Paddling is hampered by rod mounting.
• Easily catches wind
• Not firm enough to allow you to stand.

Elkton Outdoors Steelhead 150 Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Specs:

• Dimensions 12.5 x 3.3 feet
• It weighs 44 pounds and has a capacity of 600 pounds.

The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead 150 tandem kayak may be the best in its class.

Aside from remarkable build quality (1000-denier, multilayer reinforced PVC, and plastic cone tips), this vessel is clearly aimed for anglers.

For starters, it boasts a super-rigid, drop-stitch floor that enables for stand-up casting, which not many inflatables have. It also has many hard mounting places for your fishing gear, rod holders, fish finders, and other accessories.

It also offers plenty of storage, including bungee cargo space, bow and stern storage compartments, and a 600-pound weight limit.

Pros:

• Floor drop-stitching for stand-up casting
• The bungee cargo area, as well as the bow and stern storage compartments
• Multiple gear hard-mounting points
• It tracks well and is stable and nimble.

Cons:

• The first setup may be perplexing for inexperienced kayakers.
• It’s a pricey option for an inflatable kayak.
• The provided paddles may be improved.

Hobie Mirage Compass Duo Sit-On-Top Tandem Kayak

Specs:

• Weighs 92 pounds 
• Measures 13.5 x 2.9 feet
• 475-pound weight capacity 

Hobie makes some excellent kayaks, as I’m sure other paddlers can attest. However, Hobie is not the cheapest brand; keep this in mind as you read on.

The Mirage Compass Duo has a dual pedal propulsion system, kick-up fins, and a sail mount, all of which distinguish it as a kayak designed for speed and responsiveness.

The 475-pound capacity is supplemented by a mesh-covered bow storage section, a rear bungee tie-down area, and two 8-inch hatches. Four accessory-mounting tracks, four molded-in rod holders, and a specialized transducer mount are also featured.

This 13.5-foot sit-on-top beast, though, weighs a whopping 127 pounds when completely rigged!

Pros:

• There is plenty of storage, including two 8-inch hatches.
• Dual pedal systems, kick-up fins, and a sail mount are all available.
  Four accessory tracks, molded-in rod holders, and a transducer mount round out the package.
• The seat is designed to be as comfortable as a lawn chair.

Cons:

• It is the priciest kayak on the list.
• The kayak weighs 127 pounds when fully outfitted.
• Surprisingly, the kayak only comes with one paddle.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tandem Kayak for Fishing

Now, let’s delve into the key factors to consider when choosing a tandem kayak for your fishing adventures, my fellow anglers!

Size and weight

When it comes to selecting the perfect tandem kayak for fishing, size matters. You’ll want to consider the optimal dimensions that suit your needs. A kayak that is too large might be difficult to maneuver, while one that is too small may lack the necessary stability. Additionally, don’t forget to think about the weight of the kayak. It’s important to consider the weight for transportation and storage purposes, ensuring that it fits comfortably in your vehicle and is easy to handle.

Storage options and compartments

Ample storage space is essential when it comes to tandem kayak fishing. You’ll want a kayak that provides enough room to store all your fishing gear and supplies. Look for kayaks that offer built-in compartments or secure storage solutions, such as hatches or bungee cords, to keep your equipment organized and easily accessible. This ensures that you have everything you need within reach while you’re out on the water, maximizing your fishing efficiency and enjoyment.

Stability and maneuverability

Stability is a crucial factor to consider for tandem kayak fishing. Look for features that enhance stability, such as a wider hull design or a flat bottom. These elements will help you maintain balance and stability while you cast your lines and reel in those big catches. Additionally, consider the maneuverability of the kayak. You’ll want a kayak that allows you to easily navigate tight fishing spots, giving you access to those hidden gems where the fish are abundant. Look for kayaks with responsive maneuverability to ensure that you can move around effortlessly and position yourself for the perfect cast.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have explored the ins and outs of tandem kayak fishing and discovered its numerous advantages. We discussed the benefits of tandem kayaks over solo kayaks, highlighting their convenience, versatility, and enhanced stability. We also emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared experiences, as fishing with a partner or loved one on a tandem kayak can create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, my fellow anglers, tighten those lines, prepare your gear, and get ready to embark on an exciting and rewarding tandem kayak fishing experience.