The best sit on top kayaks are made for both casual family use and specialized fishing. With an excellent balance between stability and handling, recreational sit on top kayaks are ideal for both purposes. Depending on your budget and your personal preference, there is a wide range of options in both price ranges and construction quality. To make your search a little easier, keep reading for some tips that will help you choose the right kayak for you.

The Perception Zip 9.5 sit-on-top kayak is a good entry-level option. It has an adjustable seat and features a removable cooler. The cockpit is only 18 inches wide, which makes it unsuitable for paddlers with larger bodies. This sit-on-top kayak is lightweight and easily fits in the trunk of most pickup trucks. However, it doesn’t have any dry storage hatches or tanks but does feature two tank wells.

Among the best sit-on-top kayaks for fishing, the Perception Hi Life 11 is a hybrid. It combines the best features of a stand-up paddle board with a traditional sit-on-top kayak. It is great for recreational kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and more. It is a great choice for flatwater paddling, as it offers excellent primary stability. The kayak has a relatively compact hull length and decent tracking.

Old Town Tarpon 120 – Kayak Angler reviewed this kayak. Pelican makes sit-on-top kayaks for fishing and has improved upon the original. The Tarpon combines comfort, stability, and speed to improve its design and performance. This sit-on-top kayak has a comfortable seat and a paddler interface. It’s ideal for any type of environment, including flat water. You’ll love it!

Tarpon 120 – This 12-foot sit-on-top is a great option for fishing. This sit-on-top kayak is made of durable high-density polyethylene, and has a skid plate for extra stability. It is not a seat, but it offers plenty of storage for your gear and is great for larger paddlers. It also is an excellent option for ice rescue squads and duck hunters.

The Best Sit-On-Top Kayaks