15 Best Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys [2023]

Are you looking for an excellent kayak to use when you’re out on the water but also want one that is stable enough to handle your size? We’ve got some of the Best Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys on our list for 2023!

Our best kayak list provides you with choices for all budgets. We include our Editor’s Choice so you know which one we loved and why it’s the best at the price you want to pay.

Check out below!

15 Best Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys 2023 Full Review

Since we are reviewing kayaks specifically for heavier people, all kayaks in the comparison have a high weight capacity of at least 500 pounds or more.

We have divided our comparison into three categories to help you choose the very best big boy fishing kayak at the price you want to pay.

Price Ranges By Kayak Class

Top 5 Low-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys

This is where we go into the lowest-priced options fishing kayaks. These are not the lowest-priced kayaks on the market, these have to be great options for a large person to make this list. All options have a max capacity weight of 500+ lbs.

TOP 5 Low-Price Fishing Kayaks

#1 VIBE SEA GHOST 130

Vibe Sea Ghost 130 Fishing Kayak

The Vibe Sea Ghost 130 is the Editor’s Choice for the Low-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Boys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,299 (2023 list price)
• Category: Paddle Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 13′
• Width: 33.5″
• Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
• Carry Weight: 92 lbs (without seat)
• Rudder: Included
• Material: Rotomolded single piece high density polyethylene

FEATURES

• Dual position Vibe Hero seat
• Built-in cup holder
• Comfortable, adjustable foot braces
• Pre-installed toe controlled rudder system
• 2 Flush mount fishing rod holders
• 4 Integrated, top-loading gear tracks
• Fish finder transducer port with mounting points and protective lid
• 2 Side bungee paddle parks
• Rear cargo storage area with bungee tie down
• 2 tackle tray holders: Fits PLANO™ 3600 tackle tray

PROS

• 13 foot long for faster speed
• 550 lbs maximum weight capacity
• Seat: Dual position Hero seat
• Tackle tray holders on each side of seat
• Fish finder transducer port
• Long gear tracks

CONS

• Center console makes standing awkward
• Middle weight class kayak at 92 lbs
• Bow and stern carry handles are in awkward position

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Stand up assist bar or strap
• Fiberglass paddle for lighter weight and insulated

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: At 13 feet, this is one of the fastest kayaks in its class. The length also makes it easier to go long distances.
• What Big Guys Like: One of the best features is a hero seat with a high/low position is wide for bigger folks. Big and tall fisherman like you love its wide cockpit with its 550 pound weight capacity. So feel confident about stand fishing in this kayak! The rudder makes it easy to turn.
• Why This Kayak Was Editor’s Choice: The Sea Ghost 130 has all the things an angler would want and priced at $1299, it is to hard to pass up. The great weight capacity with a reasonable carry weight seal the deal.

Purchase at: Vibe Online Store

#2 BROOKLYN KAYAK COMPANY BKC RA220 ANGLER

Brooklyn BKC RA220 11.5 Angler Fishing Kayak

The Brooklyn BKC RA220 Angler is the Runner Up for the Low-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Boys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $997 (2023 list price)
• Category: Paddle Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 11′ 6″
• Width: 34″
• Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
• Carry Weight: 68 lbs (without seat)
• Rudder: Included
• Material: Roto Molded single piece/High Density Polyethylene HDPE

FEATURES

• Patented Gravity Seat x2
• Foot powered rudder system
• 3 hatches
• 2 Flush-mount rod holders
• 1 telescopic rod holder
• 8 Scupper plugs
• 4 Handles

PROS

• Roomy platform for easy stand up fishing
• Easy lifting at 68 lbs carry weight
• Pontoon ready for better stability
• Large rear tankwell

CONS

• No cupholders
• Under 12′ length
• Doesn’t track as well as others on this list

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Gear tracks
• Cupholders

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: The weight capacity (550 lbs) to carry weight (68 lbs) ratio is the best on this list.
• What Big Guys Like: The stable platform was designed for a heavy person. The wide deck cockpit provides good stability as well.
• Why This Kayak Was Runner Up: The Brooklyn BKC RA220 11.5 has great features like the foot operated rudder, water-tight hatches with built-in dry bags, a pair of gear tracks and a transducer through hole mount for a fish finder setup. The lowest price on this list makes it the best value too.

#3 SEA EAGLE 385FTA FASTTRACK ANGLER

Sea Eagle 385 FTA FastTrack Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler is the top-ranked inflatable kayak that made our Low-Price Fishing Kayak Big Boys list at #3.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,199 (2023 list price)
• Category: Inflatable Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′ 6″
• Width: 36″
• Weight Capacity: 635 lbs
• Carry Weight: 45 lbs
• Rudder: Removeable Skeg Included
• Material: Made of more durable 29% thicker 1000 denier tough as crocodile hide hull material – double layered on tubes and bottom for extra protection. Outside state of the art inflatable NeedleKnife™ high-pressure drop stitch keel at bow for incredibly true tracking

FEATURES

• NMMA Certified
• Customized front & rear spray skirts with built-in rod, tools, hooks and lure holders plus storage below and bungee rope lacing on top for additional storage
• Built-in Fish Ruler
• 2 Open and close drain valves
• Separate inner High-Pressure Drop Stitch floor for greater rigidity
• Large removable skeg at rear to control yaw and improve speed
• 18 D-rings to secure seats and gear

PROS

• More seating positions with optional swivel chair 
• Open cockpit for more comfort
• Removeable center skeg for better tracking
• Great for flat or calmer lakes or inshore waters
• Inflatable pontoons included

CONS

• Unconventional rod holder placements
• Not suitable for choppy or fast water
• Inflatable pontoons take up some leg room
• Not enough room for a 48 quart cooler

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Swivel seat fish rig
• Two Universal Scotty Deck Mounts with Rod Holders
• Ice chest float behind your kayak

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: This inflatable kayak and still have the biggest max weight capacity on this list!
• What Big Guys Like: This is one of the wider kayaks and a real value for big people who want to stand and fish on a budget. This monster has a maximum capacity of 635 lbs! More than enough for you and all the gear you would want to take.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: The FastTrack Angler 385 FTA has a pressure drop-stitch design makes it firmer as a class II inflatable. The thick and double reinforced hull material makes it one of the safest on the market.

#4 BROOKLYN KAYAK COMPANY BKC FK13 ANGLER

Brooklyn BKC FK13 Angler Fishing Kayak

The Brooklyn BKC FK13 Angler is the first pedal drive in the Low-Price Fishing Kayak Big Boys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,167 (2023 list price)
• Category: Paddle Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′ 11.5″
• Width: 33.5″
• Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
• Carry Weight: 77 lbs (without seat)
• Rudder: Skeg Included
• Material: Roto Molded single piece/High Density Polyethylene HDPE

FEATURES

• 1 adjustable ergonomic seat
• 4 handles
• 3 watertight hatches
• 1 large tankwell with bungees
• 1 hand rudder
• 2 flush-mount rod holders
• 2 paddle parks

PROS

• More seating positions with optional swivel chair 
• Open cockpit for more comfort
• Removeable center skeg for better tracking
• Great for flat or calmer lakes or inshore waters
• Inflatable pontoons included

CONS

• Unconventional rod holder placements
• Not suitable for choppy or fast water
• Inflatable pontoons take up some leg room
• Not enough room for a 48 quart cooler

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Pontoons if you want to stand and fish comfortably
• Storage pockets for fish grips and tools
• Under seat tackle storage

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: The rear tankwell is large enough for a 48 quart cooler or you can use a 24 quart for an extra seat for small guests.
• What Big Guys Like: It’s sturdiness and stability is great for tall guys. A 6′ 6″ fisherman could comfortably fit and stand in this kayak. At a 550 lbs weight capacity, it is able to hold the larger kayaker and plenty of gear.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: BKC FK13 Angler is perfect for the fisherman who enjoys paddling and is made for all sizes. It is made for long trips along lakes, streams and inland and bays. With a price around $1,300, it’s a great value.

#5 SEA EAGLE 350FX FISHING EXPLORER

Sea Eagle 350ft Fishing Explorer Inflatable Kayak

The Sea Eagle 350ft Fishing Explorer is the other inflatable kayak that made our Low-Price Fishing Kayak Big Boys list at #5.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,099 (2023 list price) 
• Category: Inflatable Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 11′ 6″
• Width: 39″
• Weight Capacity: 575 lbs
• Carry Weight: 51 lbs
• Rudder: Removeable Skeg Included
• Material: 1000 Denier w/ 2000 Denier Reinforced Sections and a Removable, Double Layer, High Pressure Drop Stitch Floor w/ non-slip EVA foam padding

FEATURES

• Suitable up to Class IV whitewater rating
• NMMA Certified
• Customized front & rear spray skirts with built-in rod, tool, hook and lure holders plus storage below and bungee rope lacing on top for additional storage
• Separate, removable, high-pressure, reinforced, drop-stitch floor with non-slip EVA foam padding and extra top layer of tough as crocodile hide material for superior rigidity, durability and standup fishing
• 16 High Capacity Self-bailing Drain Valves
• Large, removable, rear skeg for increased tracking during flatwater touring
• 14 D-rings to secure seats and gear
• Sea Eagle motor mount receivers for optional motor mount attachmen
• MMA Certified
• Customized front & rear spray skirts with built-in rod, tools, hooks and lure holders plus storage below and bungee rope lacing on top for additional storage
• Built-in Fish Ruler
• 2 Open and close drain valves
• Separate inner High-Pressure Drop Stitch floor for greater rigidity
• Large removable skeg at rear to control yaw and improve speed
• 18 D-rings to secure seats and gear.

PROS

• Optional motor mount
• Rigid floor suitable for stand up fishing
• Excellent durability and stability
• Great for faster and choppier water

CONS

• Unconventional rod holder placements
• Not enough room for 48 quart cooler
• Inflatable pontoons take up some leg room

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Swivel seat fish rig
• Two Universal Scotty Deck Mounts with Rod Holders
• Ice chest float behind your kayak

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: Sea Eagle exclusive accessory belts to hold your tools, hooks, and lures, a fully adjustable foot brace called the FlexBrace™, 40″ FishRuler™, anchor trolley D-rings, a huge max load capacity of 575 lbs., and is completely self-bailing
• What Big Guys Like: At 39″ wide, this is also one of the wider kayaks. At 575 pounds maximum capacity its a popular choice for big and tall guys for good reason.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: The Fishing Explorer is rated as a Class IV whitewater rating because of its awesome workmanship. Featuring: double layered, nearly indestructible, tough as crocodile hide, 2000 Denier reinforced protective layers, 6 built-in rod holders, forward and aft spray skirts.

Top 5 Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys

The “Best-Price” Top 5 list is the value option of quality and mid-price. You will find kayaks with better quality here and can comfortably accommodate the heavier angler. All options have a max capacity weight of 400+ lbs.

TOP 5 Best-Price Fishing Kayaks

#1 FEELFREE LURE 13.5 V2

Feelfree Lure 13.5 V2 Fishing Kayak

The Feelfree Lure 13.5 V2 is the Editor’s Choice for the Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,399 (2023 list price)
• Category: Paddle Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 13′ 6″
• Width: 34″
• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Carry Weight: 107 lbs
• Rudder: Ready
• Material: Rotomolded single piece high density polyethylene

FEATURES

• NEW Rod Tip Protectors + Rubber Catches
• NEW Redesigned Insulated Front Console
• Removable Sonar & Electronics Pod
• Patented Gravity Seat
• Patented Wheel In The Keel
• Uni-Track Accessory Rails
• Stand Up Leash

PROS

• 13.5 foot long for faster speed
• Reinforced standing platform
• Multi-height adjustable gravity seat
• Long accessory tracks
• Integrated keel
• Removeable sonar pod

CONS

• Heavy weight class kayak 107 pound
• Seat backrest is too low

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Overdrive pedal drive pod or Motordrive pod
• Beavertail rudder kit

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Most: the “wheel in the keel” that makes Boonedox kayak carts and scupper carts obsolete.
• What Big Guys Like: The Lure 13.5 V2 is built for large folks with a stand up assist strap, a wide hero seat, a large reinforced platform and well balanced for the larger angler.
• Why This Kayak Was Editor’s Choice: One of the most stable kayaks on the list. At 13.5 foot length and a 34 inch width, it is ready for long trips for all size big guys for a great value. Features like the rod tip protectors, large accessory pockets on sides, and the removable sonar pod make this kayak special. The price and value make this the winner.

Purchase at: Feelfree Local Dealer

#2 HOODOO TEMPEST 120P PEDAL DRIVE KAYAK

Hoodoo Tempest 120P Pedal Drive Kayak

The HooDoo Tempest 120P Pedal Drive Kayak is the Runner Up for the Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,299 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′
• Width: 33″
• Weight Capacity: 450 lbs
• Carry Weight: 77 lbs (without seat)
• Rudder: Skeg Included
• Material: Single-piece rotomolded polyethylene

FEATURES

• 1 adjustable aluminum frame seat
• 4 handles
• 1 watertight hatches
• 1 medium tankwell with bungees
• 1 hand rudder
• 2 flush-mount rod holders
• 4 gear tracks

PROS

• Comes with 2 anchor trolleys
• Covered center storage behind seat
• Removeable center skeg for better tracking
• Great for flat or calmer lakes or inshore waters

CONS

• Hatch is partially accessible when drive is up
• Top mounted rudder system would perform better than provided below hull rudder
• Small storage hatch in rear tankwell makes cooler rock

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• 2 rod holders for gear tracks
• Mounts and fish finder with scupper transducer

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: This kayak is also easily convertible to a pedal or motorized kayak with an optional beavertail rudder.
• What Big Guys Like: Around 13 feet long while supporting a 600 lbs weight capacity and still only 70 lbs carry weight.
• Why This Kayak Was Runner Up: There are 2 main attributes of a winning fishing kayak for big anglers: a comfortable seat and a stable platform. Add great storage and sensible mounting areas for accessories and it locks in at the #2 choice.

Purchase at: HooDoo Online Dealer

#3 BROOKLYN KAYAK COMPANY BKC PK13 ANGLER

Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler Fishing Kayak

The Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler is a great choice presenting at #3 for the Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,662 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 13′
• Width: 33.25″
• Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
• Carry Weight: 80 lbs (without seat)
• Rudder: Included
• Material: Roto Molded single piece/High Density Polyethylene HDPE

FEATURES

• Instant Reverse Pedal Drive
• 4 handles
• 2 hatches
• 3 flush-mounted rod holders
• 2 accessory plates
• 8 scupper plugs
• pedal cover with cupholder

PROS

• More seating positions with optional swivel chair 
• Open cockpit for more comfort
• Removeable center skeg for better tracking
• Great for flat or calmer lakes or inshore waters
• Inflatable pontoons included

CONS

• Unconventional rod holder placements
• Not suitable for choppy or fast water
• Inflatable pontoons take up some leg room
• Not enough room for a 48 quart cooler

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Pontoons if you want to stand and fish comfortably
• Storage pockets for fish grips and tools
• Under seat tackle storage

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: This is the lowest priced pedal kayak on this list. The reversible pedal drive has a fan blade and the rudder control is on the left gunwale and in a very comfortable spot.
• What Big Guys Like: A 550 pound weight capacity can accommodate the larger anglers and their gear. This 13 footer is fast and fairly stable despite its narrower width.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: The BKC PK13 Angler comes with all the fishing gear you will need: pre-drilled accessory mounting brackets on side, an adjustable wide seat on a rail system to adjust your leg room. The rear tankwell is large enough for a 48 quart cooler or you can use a 24 quart for an extra seat for small guests.

#4 WILDERNESS SYSTEMS A.T.A.K. 140

Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 Fishing Kayak

The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 Fishing Kayak is a great all-around fishing kayak loaded with awesome features from bow to stern. #4 on the Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $1,729 (2023 list price)
• Category: Paddle Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′ 3″
• Width: 35″
• Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
• Carry Weight: 86 lbs
• Rudder: Skeg Included

FEATURES

• AirPro MAX seating system w/extended travel
• SlideTrax accessory tracks: 2 rear, 2 midship, 2 front
• Bow storage hood
• Flex pod OS removable console
• Stand up assist strap
• 4 security bars to secure kayak
• Rectangular stern hatch w/bungee and SlideTrax

PROS

• Stand up assist strap
• Optimal AirPro “Perch” seat for higher elevation
• Removeable pod center console
• Large standing deck cockpit

CONS

• Undersized tankwell compared to competitors
• Heavy kayak at 95 pounds

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Helix MD motor drive
• AirPro 3D Seat
• AirPro Max lumbar support

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: This kayak offers both a “cooler” fishing mode and a “open cockpit” fishing mode
• What Big Guys Like: The “Advanced Tactical Angling Kayak” (A.T.A.K.) has an open design that is highly walkable and stable. This 12 foot kayak is fast and stable for even the largest anglers!
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: One of my favorite kayak designs. It balances speed and balance for all size kayakers.

#5 JACKSON KAYAK BITE FD

Jackson Kayak Bite FD Fishing Kayak

The Jackson Kayak Bite FD Fishing Kayak makes #5 on the Best-Price Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $2,699 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 11′ 6″
• Width: 35″
• Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
• Carry Weight: 96 lbs (without seat and drive)
• Rudder: Included

FEATURES

• Instant Reverse Flex Drive Mark IV Pedal Drive
• Gear tracks
• Oversized transducer scupper
• Flush-mounted rod holders and cup holders
• PowerPole and Torqeedo motor ready
• 2 molded handles and 2 side handles
• 2 tackle box storage areas on side of gunnels

PROS

• Adjustable and padded EZ HILO Comfort seat
• Large cockpit for more comfort
• Next generation Flex Drive for improved performance 
• Large front and rear tank wells

CONS

• Not suitable for choppy or fast water
• Only suitable for small lakes, rivers and inshore fishing 

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Pontoons if you want to stand and fish comfortably
• Storage pockets for fish grips and tools
• Under seat tackle storage

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: Stability. This is the most “walkable” deck on this list (along with the Jackson Big Rig FD in the next category).
• What Big Guys Like: At a 40 inch width, this is the fishing barge of the group! It is super walkable and stable and loaded with all the best features. Note: It is a little hard to paddle because of the width and your paddle angle, so consider the optional pedal drive system.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: This is the “Cadillac” of the kayaks. More thought out features. With all the gear tracks and huge storage, it can accommodate the longer fishing trips. This is definitely “Big Man’s” kayak. would have ranked higher if not for the hefty price.

Purchase at: Jackson Kayak Local Dealers

Top 5 Premium Class Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys

These are the cream of the crop, the premium kayaks for big guys. All the best features at a “premium” price. You will find some of the largest kayaks on this list. Only the best quality kayaks for a large person make this list. All options have a max capacity weight of 500+ lbs.

Enter your text here…

TOP 5 Premium-Price Fishing Kayaks

#1 NATIVE WATERCRAFT SLAYER PROPEL MAX 12.5

Native Slayer Propel Max 12.5 Fishing Kayak

The Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 12.5 Fishing Kayak is the Editor’s Choice for the Premium Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $2,999 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′ 6″
• Width: 34″
• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Carry Weight: 95 lbs
• Rudder: Included

FEATURES

• Bow and stern mounting for motors
• Horizontal rod storage
• New high low adjustable seat
• Side tackle storage
• Electronics ready
• Battery storage/transducer access
• PowerPole ready

PROS

• Rod tip protectors 
• Convenient horizontal rod storage
• High performance rudder
• Instant pedal reverse

CONS

• Heavy weight class kayak at 95 lbs

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Sidekick onboard wheel system

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: Abundant storage. Horizontal rod storage, a huge rear tankwell and an oversized front hatch with a built-in battery compartment.  
• What Big Guys Like: For a premium kayak, you expect a wide, adjustable and comfortable seat. And this one as one. This kayak has the stability of a much wider boat, but extremely agile. The rudder system turns on a dime, even with a loaded kayak.
• Why This Kayak Was Editor’s Choice: The Slayer Propel Max 12.5 has the fastest prop pedal system we tried and with all the best features of the Jackson and Hobie you would expect to pay premium price. At $2,599, this kayak is the best bargain on the list and our favorite. 

#2 HOBIE MIRAGE PRO ANGLER 12

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 Fishing Kayak

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 Fishing Kayak is the Runner Up for the Premium Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys List.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: 4,549 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′
• Width: 36″
• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Carry Weight: 128 lbs
• Rudder: Included
• Material: Rotomolded polyethylene

FEATURES

•  MirageDrive 180 + Turbo kick up fins
• Vantage seats with lumbar support
• Retractable transducer shield
• H-Rail for rods and accessories
• Horizontal rod storage
• Front and center hatches
• Cockpit deck hatch with tackle trays

PROS

• Rod tip protectors 
• Convenient horizontal rod storage
• High performance rudder
• Instant pedal reverse

CONS

• Heavy weight class kayak at 95 lbs

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Sidekick onboard wheel system

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: No one makes a better seat. the Vantage seat is fully adjustable, wide seated, and durable. Mirage drive with kick-up fins would be our second feature.
• What Big Guys Like: The “walkability” is great and big guys should have no problems standing or reaching behind them while seated. Find out the average costs and standard conditions for renting a kayak for you or a friend by checking out our latest post. .
• Why This Kayak Was Runner Up: The Hobie Mirage Pro Anger 12 is one of the finest kayaks on this list. It is the standard for workmanship, features and a huge deck. The high price and heavy carry weight narrowly kept it from being the Editor’s Choice. 

Purchase at: Hobie Kayak Local Dealers

#3 NATIVE TITAN PROPEL 12

Native Slayer Propel Max 12.5 Fishing Kayak

The Native Watercraft Slayer Titan Propel 12 Fishing Kayak makes #3 on the Premium Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $2,999 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 12′ 6″
• Width: 34″
• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Carry Weight: 95 lbs
• Rudder: Included

FEATURES

• Propel Pedal Drive
• Dual Power-Pole Mounts
• Full Length Seat Sliding Track
• Horizontal Rod Storage w/ Rod Protection
• Under-Seat Storage Tray
• Groove Tracks Throughout
• Bow, stern and side padded carry handles

PROS

• Built-in dual PowerPole mounts in the stern
• Open hull design makes walk around fishing easy
• Plano box storage under the seat
• 4 horizontal rod storage areas with tip protectors
• Front-to-back gear tracks
• Transom mount for off the shelf trolling motor

CONS

• Heaviest kayak on this list at 178 lbs
• Hard to lift and load without help

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Rudder upgrade
• Boone Dox landing gear

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: Optional off-the-shelf trolling motor transom mount. We love the idea of adding your favorite trolling motor in the pedal pod slot. You can steer motor while standing fishing.
• What Big Guys Like: This kayak’s open hull design allow plenty of stable walk around space and easy standing from seat. It is made for all big guys and gals.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: Native Watercraft comes through again with the perfect fishing skiff-type kayak. All the features and a real value at $2900.

Purchase at: Native Watercraft Local Dealers

#4 JACKSON KAYAK KNARR FD

Jackson Kayak Knarr FD Fishing Kayak

The Jackson Kayak Knarr FD Fishing Kayak makes #4 on the Premium Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: $4,199 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 13′ 9″
• Width: 37″
• Weight Capacity: 475 lbs
• Carry Weight: 140 lbs
• Rudder: Included

FEATURES

• Instant Reverse Flex Drive Mark IV Pedal Drive
• Gear tracks
• TriTrak gear tracks
• Oversized transducer scupper
• Bow and stern trolling and electric motor ready
• EZ Hi-Lo seating system
• 2 molded handles and 2 side handles
• 2 tackle box storage areas on side of gunnels

PROS

• Designed for big oceans, large lakes and long distance travel 
• Large cockpit for more comfort
• Handles big surf, big waves, big currents, and strong winds.
• Large front and rear tank wells

CONS

• Heavy weight class kayak at 140 lbs
• Hard to lift for one person

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• JKrate soft cooler
• Seat back zippered pouch

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: Stability. This is the most “walkable” deck on this list (along with the Jackson Knarr FD in the next category).
• What Big Guys Like: At a 37 inch width, this is the fishing barge of the group! It is super walkable and stable and loaded with all the best features. Note: It is a little hard to paddle because of the width and your paddle angle, so consider the optional pedal drive system.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: This is the “Cadillac” of the kayaks. More thought out features. With all the gear tracks and huge storage, it can accommodate the longer fishing trips. This is definitely “Big Man’s” kayak. would have ranked higher if not for the hefty price.

Purchase at: Jackson Kayak Local Dealers

#5 HOBIE MIRAGE PRO ANGLER 14

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 Fishing Kayak

The Hobie Mirage Pro An/gler 14 Fishing Kayak is the “King of Kayak Fishing” and makes #5 on the Premium Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys list.

SPECIFICATIONS

• List Price: 4,699 (2023 list price)
• Category: Pedal Fishing Kayak
• Type: Sit on top
• Length: 13′ 8″
• Width: 38″
• Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
• Carry Weight: 144 lbs
• Rudder: Included
• Material: Rotomolded polyethylene

FEATURES

• MirageDrive 180 + Turbo kick up fins
• Vantage seats with lumbar support
• Retractable transducer shield
• H-Rail for rods and accessories
• Horizontal rod storage
• Front and center hatches
• Cockpit deck hatch with tackle trays

PROS

• Adjustable pedals for comfort
• Mirage drive allows pedaling in skinny waters
• Nearly impossible to tip
• H-rails have great accessory options
• Dual rudder controls on gunwales
• Kick up fins work as advertised
• Instant pedal reverse

CONS

• Heavy weight class kayak at 144 lbs
• Highest priced kayak on the entire list

SUGGESTED UPDATES

• Hobie H-bar standing support bar
• Hobie H-crate

CONCLUSION

• Feature We Like Best: The tankwell of this kayak is large enough to accommodate a cooler and a second angler in the back.
• What Big Guys Like: All the terrific features of the PA 12 and more. More stability, more standing room on the deck and more cockpit storage area around the seat and in the front hatch.
• Why This Kayak Made Our List: The Hobie Mirage Pro Anger 14, like its little brother the Pro Angler 12, is one of the finest kayaks on this list. The deck is wider, its longer and even more stable. Unfortunately, the price and heavy carry weight are extremely high. This just keeps this beauty out of the hands of too many less fortunate anglers to rank higher.

Purchase at: Hobie Kayak Local Dealers

 

What Are Big Guys Looking For In A Fishing Kayak?

Longer Kayak Length

The longer the kayak, the more weight it can naturally support. It is part also the main stability factor that will help for larger paddlers. 

Another consideration for longer kayaks is that they require options for transporting on vehicles. You will want to review How To Choose The Best Kayak Roof Racks? at the time of your purchase.

Bigger Kayak Width

These measurements, along with the hull shape, are the basis for stability. Wide and long tandem kayaks were given preference.

The downside to a wide kayak is “wagging” when paddling (tossing from side to side) and lack of speed.

Taller Seat Height

Bigger guys need a taller seat for added comfort. The taller the seat, the less stress on the hip and thigh area.

This is especially true for pedal kayaks. Pedal drives tend to elevate your legs while you sit, like a sitting stationary bike at the gym.

High Weight Capacity Kayak

You will definitely want a top kayak with a high weight limit. The maximum capacity includes the paddler, fishing gear, ice chests, and cargo for trips.

This list favored a weight capacity that exceeds 500 pounds for single kayakers. You will need to beware of some kayakers that seep water through the scupper holes even way below the maximum weight capacity.

Kayaks With A Rudder

Sit on top kayaks have a wide platform for a cockpit for stability.

A good beaver tail rudder helps with turning and good tracking, which keeps the kayak moving straight. This is especially needed in fast or open waters.

We favored kayaks with an included rudder.

Limiting Weight Of The Kayak

Kayak carry weight is one of the most important considerations for tandem kayaks.

How hard will it be to haul your kayak with your vehicle? 

How will you get it to the water from your car or truck?

Do you have help in lifting it onto your vehicle roof?

You can see why kayak weight would be an important factor in our evaluations. You can find detailed information about hauling options you have in The Ultimate Guide To Transporting Your Kayak.

Overall Value

We compared the price point for each kayak and compared its features, stability, and weight capacity in providing our choices.

Most sot kayaks have at least one sealed hatch and carrying handles that help carry these heavy kayaks. includes inflatable kayaks which have air chambers; most people are able to paddle solo

What Features Are Big Guys Looking For?

• Open Cockpit – spacious cockpit
• Hull Design
• Comfortable Seat
• Kayak Stability
• Storage Space – enough space

Best Fishing Accessories For The Best Fishing Experience

• Fish Finder. These handy devices have become so important for all the things they can do. Fish finders provide underwater locations for fish schools, GPS coordinates with waypoints to save your favorite fishing spots. Most importantly, they measure water depth that prevents grounding on sandbars and oyster beds.
• Pedal Drive. Pedal kayaks are popular for the convenience and “hands free” fishing.
• Horizontal Rod Holders. This is a cleaver way to stow away your rods while traveling or moving in the water.
• Trolling Rod Holders. Perfect for turning your rod to the right direction and angle while trolling.
• Kayak Anchor Pole. Just a fast and secure way to park your kayak in shallow water.