Fishing kayaks vs. bass boat anglers, what could go wrong!? We set up shop at the Big Bass Bash tournament in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, to get live reactions from boat anglers on what they thought of our fully decked out fishing kayaks. We’re sure you might be thinking, “just buy a boat,” but some of the reactions from these boat owners might surprise you.
Kayak fishing has come a long way in the past five years alone. Armed with state-of-the-art motors, electronics and accessories built specifically for kayaking, fishing kayaks are changing the angling game. Even if you aren’t an angler, check out some of the raw reactions from these tournament anglers!
If you are interested in learning more about how each of these kayaks were built and all of the accessories that were used, check out below as we break down each one individually. First, we'll look at the base kayak model for each and then we'll look at the accessories that were added to make them the loaded kayaks they are today.
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 Fishing Kayak
Length: 13'8" / 4.17 m | Width: 38" / .97 m | Carrying Capacity: 600 lbs / 272 kg
Everything elite anglers look for in a fishing kayak was meticulously thought out when building the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 Fishing Kayak. Complete control, power, stability, performance, comfort and loaded with features, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 has it all.
A wide and solid standing platform also includes noise reducing EVA traction pads to keep anglers concealed from their prey. Sneak up on your fish from any angle using the MirageDrive 360 with Kick-Up Fin Technology.
With a high weight capacity of 600 lbs, the Pro Angler 14 360 is capable of hauling tons of gear. Multiple large storage hatches with pivoting tackle management systems mean you don't have to make tough choices on what gear to leave behind. Two H-Rail horizontal rod racks, live-well ready rear cargo area, retractable transducer shield, and molded in vertical rod holders set the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 as one of the gold-standard fishing kayaks for experienced anglers.
$5,999
Check out the accessories used to load the Hobie Pro Angler 14 360:
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' / 3.7 m | Width: 37" / 94 cm | Weight: 119 lbs / 54 kg | Carrying Capacity: 558 lbs / 253 kg
Building upon the ultra-popular Old Town Sportsman Minn Kota line, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Fishing Kayak takes powered kayaks to the next level. The AutoPilot 120 leverages Minn Kota's Spot-Lock technology to get you to your fishing spot faster and holding your position on your favorite hole. With a touch of your thumb, the AutoPilot 120 uses the Bluetooth i-Pilot remote to make driving your kayak as easy as possible.
Like the Sportsman 120, the AutoPilot 120 was built for kayak anglers serious about taking their game to the next level. Hands-free fishing is made possible by combining the motor with a foot brace steering system. Premium adjustable seating using textilene keeps you comfortable, dry, and cool on long days on the water and in the sun. EVA foam deck for stand-up stability, lift assist deploy and stow motor for quick adjustment in shallow water or transport, four 18" accessory rails, three-hull wiring kits and a universal transducer mount are but a few of the features this fishing kayak offers. A culmination of all the Old Town kayaks that came before it, the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is the result of years of research, adaptation, and a drive to build the best fishing kayak possible.
$4,349
Check out the accessories used to rig out the AutoPilot 120:
NuCanoe Unlimited Fishing Kayak
Length: 10' | Width: 39" | Weight: 62lbs (without drive) | Carrying Capacity: 500lbs
A kayak that was designed to get through any obstacle, the NuCanoe Unlimited's hull is built for speed, stability and to take on any water conditions. Ready for pedals, power, and electronics, the Unlimited is ready to be rigged out however any serious angler wants.
Featuring the new Tarpon Drainage System, a GearPod, watertight hull integrity, 22' of aluminum accessory tracks, thru-hull wiring ports and a transducer pod, the NuCanoe Unlimited is ready for any accessory. Other features include flush rod holders, tackle pockets, rod tip holders, and easy wiring access ports and plates. Build your NuCanoe in an Unlimited amount of ways!
$1,799
Check out the accessories used to rig out the NuCanoe UNLIMITED:
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River kayaking always adds a heightened sense of risk. You need extra gear, an increased understanding of paddle techniques and more awareness of your surroundings at all times. These risks become even more elevated when using motors to move upriver. Here is how to stay safer on the river when using motors.
Not a kayak, not a boat but something in-between. Jackson's Blue Sky Boatworks 360 Pro is a catamaran-style fishing vessel that blends the adaptability of a fishing kayak with the stability of a bass boat. Reach the same water kayaks can with the added benefit of more space and stability. Meet the Blue Sky Boatworks.
Choosing between a fishing kayak and a canoe comes down to more than personal preference — it's about matching the right watercraft to your fishing style, water type, and gear needs. Fishing kayaks offer superior maneuverability, customization, and hands-free pedal drive options that make them a favorite for anglers. Canoes, on the other hand, shine when it comes to hauling more gear, portaging, and loading for multi-day adventuring.
