If you're a female angler just getting started with this form of fishing, these five kayaks are great options to get you out on the water.
Fishing from the shore is fun, but nothing beats floating by bass, trout, or tarpon. Boats are big, expensive, and tough to transport, but a kayak can make getting out on the water affordable and easy to do on your own.
While some kayaks aren't suited for fishing or might be too bulky for the average woman to load up in her vehicle solo, these are some great options for lady anglers.
Hobie Mirage Passport
Hobie
Featuring Hobie's MirageDrive with Glide Technology, the Mirage Passport helps anglers power through the water with ease. Kick-Up Fins automatically lift on impact, preventing problems from run ins with rocks, logs, and other shallow water obstacles. Designed with anglers of all kinds in mind, this kayak offers a vertical accessory tube and molded rod holders as well as dual-mounting tracks for keeping accessories at hand. Hobie's Twist and Seal Hatch system allows for opening or sealing the compartment with a single hand. The hinged lid ensures pieces don't go missing, and the rubber gasket keeps your gear dry and protected. The Mirage Passport sports a wide cockpit with EVA floor padding for stability in any conditions. The steering system is easy to operate, and the setup comes with a paddle. Available in slate blue and seagrass green, this kayak retails for $1,649. The Hobie Mirage Passport is also available in a 12-foot version for $1,869.
Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 Specs:
- Length: 10.5 feet
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 65 pounds
- Capacity: 325 pounds
Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota
Old Town
Powered by a 12-volt, saltwater-ready Minn Kota motor, this Old Town Sportsman 106 makes moving through water fun and easy. It features a built-in battery meter, powerboat-style throttle, and foot brace for hands-free maneuverability. An extra large rudder allows for optimal control in any direction. The Sportsman 106's removable seat is constructed of dual-layer Textilene, a durable fabric that resists UV rays and is easy to keep clean. A 3D mesh mid-layer adds breathability. The kayak is equipped with shallow water anchor mounting inserts, and four 18-inch tracks allow for easy accessory mounting. Anglers can place rods in either the one forward facing holder or the two rear-facing flush-mount holders. The non slip EVA foam deck pads offer stability and traction, and this low profile kayak easily loads up on a vehicle. Don't let the full assembled weight scare you off — this includes all the removable accessories and motor. The Old Town Sportsman 106 retails for $2,999.
Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota Specs:
- Length: 10.5 feet
- Width: 37 inches
- Weight: 121 pounds
- Capacity: 525 pounds
Kaku Kayaks Zulu
Kaku
This versatile model from Kaku Kayak allows for paddling, pedaling, or powering to get wherever your next adventure takes you. The Zulu features a perfectly spacious deck for comfortable moving around fishing gear while maintaining stability on choppy waters. It comes equipped with the company's multi-functional Voodoo chair, which anglers can sit in, sit on top of, or use as a sight casting platform. A micro-power pole mount is integrated into the Zulu design, and the paddle craft is easy to customize for any angler. Convenient hatches provide plenty of storage of extra gear. It measures just over 12 and a half feet long and 35 inches wide. While it's a bit heavier than many other setups, it boasts a generous weight capacity of 500 pounds. This base model is available for $1,425 in a variety of fun color combinations. It also comes in an added pedal drive system for $2,125.
Kaku Zulu Base Model Specs:
- Length: 12.7 feet
- Width: 35 inches
- Weight: 85 pounds
- Capacity: 500 pounds
Bonafide EX123
Bonafide
For women who want a sit-in-style kayak that's still great for fishing, the Bonafide EX123 checks all the boxes. The company's QuickClick Stadium Seat sits high for ergonomic positioning and features adjustable support straps for perfectly tuned tension. The streamlined design provides stability even when standing and is versatile enough for any outing. The Bonafide EX123 is loaded with storage options for keeping your gear organized and dry. A molded forward storage well with a hook-resistant cover provides a convenient space for small items, while the rear hatch — featuring an innovative HatchWell cover — can stow larger items. The removable console sports an integrated MiniTub, two cup holders, and multi-use pockets. The Bonafide EX123's deck provides stable traction for standing while casting. It's relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver for loading up to transport at $1,199.
Bonafide EX123 Specs:
- Length: 12.25 feet
- Width: 29.5 inches
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Capacity: 375 pounds
Wilderness Systems Targa 100
Wilderness Systems
Dubbed a recreational kayak by Wilderness Systems, this sit-on-top kayak is comfortable enough for a full day on the water. The sling-style seat offers breathability and adjustability for a tailored fit, while a heel pad allows for relaxing on the wide open floor. The Targa 10 is super stable and easy to paddle in a variety of settings. A hooded bow storage area keeps gear dry, and a rear storage deck sports bungees for securing other items. An integrated, removable cooler is within arms reach for grabbing snacks or a sip. The lightweight kayak is easy to transport and load on a roof rack, thanks to two molded-in stern handles and a rack notch. Available in several bright colorways, the Targa 10 retails for $1,449.
Wilderness Systems Targa 100 Specs:
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 32 inches
- Weight: 57.5 pounds
- Capacity: 325 pounds
Kayaks — just like a lot of fitness, recreation, and outdoor equipment — have been notoriously difficult to find in the last couple years. Availability is slowly improving, but expect prices to continue to increase. We'd say, as soon as you spot an in-stock option that fits your needs, be sure to snag it!
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