The word “inflatable” is enough to make most hardcore anglers hesitate. For more seasoned (a polite way of saying skeptical and old) anglers like me, the term brings to mind big box stores and cheap rafts that were little more than glorified pool toys. Even now, with the advancements in materials and technology, it’s hard to imagine an inflatable craft stacking up against modern fishing kayaks.
I’m here to tell you, it’s officially time to break out of that mindset. Modern manufacturing techniques and upgraded materials have led to a deluge of amazing inflatable crafts hitting the market in recent years. Not only can these boats compete on an even playing field with hard-body kayaks, but many of them also have advantages that can only come from being inflatable.
From modular platforms that can be upgraded at will to full-size skiffs that can be stored in a backpack, the world of inflatable fishing crafts has exploded. There are more options with more diverse applications than ever before, making choosing the right fit increasingly difficult. We tested some of the most unique and popular inflatables on the market to help narrow down which are worthy angling platforms and which are full of hot air.
Best inflatable fishing kayaks for 2025: Our top picks
- Best pedal-drive inflatable: Vibe Uptown 100 Lite
- Best paddle inflatable: Wilderness Systems iATAK
- Best for the backcountry: Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler
- Most customizable: BOTE LONO Aero
- Single-person skiff: Newport NS130
- Multi-person skiff: Sea Eagle FastCat 12
Wear A Life Jacket
- Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
- Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.
Best pedal-drive throw-and-go inflatable fishing kayak
Vibe Uptown 100 Lite
Vibe Uptown 100 Lite Specs
Length: 10’
Width: 39”
Weight: 42 lbs
MSRP: $1,899.99
vibekayaks.com
Buy from:
Why I love it
This boat may be tiny, but that doesn’t mean it compromises on functionality. At only ten feet long, the Vibe Uptown 100 Lite is the quintessential “throw-and-go” fishing craft. This boat is shockingly stable given its short length, with a wide base and rigid deck that allow for standing and casting with ease. It also tracks well for a short, wide boat, with the add-on rudder doing an admirable job of steering.
The real highlight of this inflatable is the pod-style pedal drive system. With the removable pod design now common in many pedal kayaks, the Uptown has the added ability to use two different drive styles. The user has the option to use the propeller-style Impulse Drive or the fin-style X-Drive, depending on which pod they purchase.
Other notable features include the adjustable Switchback seat, a removable stern fin, and four mounting points for cameras or accessories.
Reasons to Buy
- Extremely portable
- Stable and fast with pedal drive
- Versatile and efficient
Consider Another Model If
- You need a lot of gear and tackle storage
- You plan to tackle big water
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a truly versatile pedal-driven inflatable that can be transported easily and doesn’t sacrifice functionality, the Vibe Uptown 100 Lite is the boat for you.
Best paddle inflatable fishing kayak
Wilderness Systems iATAK 110
Wilderness Systems iATAK 110 Specs
Length: 11′
Width: 38”
Weight: 44 lbs
MSRP: $1,579.00
confluenceoutdoor.com
Buy from:
WILDERNESS SYSTEMS AMAZON ECO FISHING SHOP
Why I love it
Another entry in the “small-but-mighty” category of inflatable fishing boats is the Wilderness Systems iATAK 110, short for “Advanced Tactical Angling Kayak.” The iATAK is as capable a boat as many hard-bodied kayaks on the market. It has a rigid, drop-stitched design and a deep inset cockpit. This results in a comfortable and streamlined platform for paddling and casting.
The overall design of this boat is well thought out with regard to comfort and functionality, highlighted by the ErgoBoost seat. This seat features a foldable platform back that allows for a higher sitting position while fishing or cruising. The cockpit also has attachable rails with adjustable footrests for comfortable paddling, as well as an inset fish ruler. The cherry on top of the cockpit design is the aluminum accessory rail, which can be attached behind the bow and used for a wide array of accessories. There are also several integrated accessory mounting points on the hull.
Perhaps the most significant feature that distinguishes the iATAK from similar inflatable paddle kayaks is its unique hull design. The bow features a hard keel-style fin, which Wilderness Systems calls fishbone technology, that drastically improves tracking and increases speed and stability while paddling.
Reasons to Buy
- Very portable
- As functional as most hard-body paddle kayaks
- Reasonably priced
Consider Another Model If
- You prefer a lot of deck space
- You’re considering mounting any sort of motor or anchoring device
Bottom Line
The Wilderness Systems iATAK 110 is an excellent fishing craft for the hardcore angler who prefers paddle power.
Best rugged backcountry inflatable fishing craft
Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler
Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler Specs
Length: 12’6”
Width: 36”
Weight: 45 lbs
MSRP: $1,399.00
seaeagle.com
Buy from:
Why I love it
While fishing is always at the top of my mind on the water, there’s something to be said for having a focus on safety and functionality. Luckily, the Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler inflatable kayak doesn’t sacrifice either.
With a rugged design and customizable array of features, this boat is designed for adventurous anglers and backcountry enthusiasts. With that in mind, the FastTrack Angler borrows from traditional rugged inflatables, such as whitewater rafts, with its unique four-chamber design. This ensures that you’ll still be afloat if you puncture the craft, which is a huge benefit if you’re camping far away from civilization or on a long solo float. The hull also features heavily reinforced side walls and a removable EVA foam floorpad that adds protection to the most vulnerable areas of the boat.
Sea Eagle offers several different packages for this boat, with the ability to change the seating being the biggest advantage. The swivel seat package is the most angler-friendly, featuring a raised setup that’s ideal for fishing. There are also lower inset inflatable seating options which allow you to turn the boat into a two-person fishing kayak.
Other impressive features of the 385fta FastTrack Angler include a removable skeg, customizable spray skirts, and 18 D-ring attachment points for strapping down anything you want to bring on a long float.
Reasons to Buy
- Extremely durable
- Reasonable price-point
- Highly customizable
Consider Another Model If
- You’re focused on fishing features and deck space over adventure
Bottom Line
The Sea Eagle 385fta FastTrack Angler is a perfect option for dedicated anglers who prefer getting away from the crowd.
Dress For Immersion, Not Air Temperature
- Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry.
- Avoid cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans; they retain water and accelerate cooling when wet. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If the water is very cold (60° fahrenheit or less), you should wear a wetsuit or drysuit.
Most customizable inflatable fishing kayak
BOTE LONO Aero
BOTE LONO Aero Specs
Length: 12’6”
Width: 35.5”
Weight: 51 lbs
MSRP: $1,749.00
bote.com
Buy from:
Why I love it
BOTE has taken a modular approach to many of their boats, and that concept is highlighted by the LONO Aero inflatable kayak. While the stripped-down nature of inflatable kayaks is one of their biggest advantages, that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice the ability to upgrade features. The LONO Aero is the pinnacle of this mindset, with a fairly simple base hull design that can be added to in a plethora of ways to craft the ideal fishing kayak for you.
The hull itself is shaped like a standard hard-bodied kayak rather than a board or pontoon. Featuring two small built-in stabilizer fins and one large removable skeg fin to help tracking, the LONO Aero paddles well on its own. However, if you want to seriously upgrade your mobility, BOTE offers a pedal drive option with a modular rudder system that can be installed.
In addition to the pedal drive system, BOTE offers a huge array of other accessories that can be added to upgrade this boat. The LONO Aero has a removable rear top that creates an attachment for many practical fishing accessories. The Rocket Rac rod holder is one of the better upgrades, allowing you to turn the two built-in rod holders into a four-rod system that’s easily accessible. The removable top also includes attachment points for a micro Power-Pole, and Sandspear pole anchor, as well as a circular port for a cooler or bait buckets, which BOTE calls the Kula Port.
Reasons to Buy
- Extremely customizable
- Spacious cockpit
Consider Another Model If
- You need something more compact
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a true fishing kayak that can be upgraded at will, the BOTE LONO Aero is the ideal inflatable craft for you.
Best inflatable single person skiff
Newport NS130 Inflatable Skiff
Newport NS130 Specs
Length: 13′
Width: 48″
Weight: 66 lbs, 90 lbs accessorized
MSRP: $2,399.99
newportvessels.com
Buy from:
Why I love it
While inflatable boards and kayaks are experiencing a revolution, the same can be said of small inflatable boats as well. The advancements in lithium-ion batteries and lightweight materials have allowed manufacturers to streamline and customize inflatable skiffs in ways previously not possible. Some of the brands exploring this realm happen to be trusted by kayak anglers and are now straddling a unique corner of the sport. Newport, for example, has taken full advantage of these new technologies with their popular line of electric kayak and small boat motors, and they’ve really upped the ante with the NS130 inflatable skiff.
At first glance, the NS130 looks similar to any number of cheap dinghies you’d see hanging from a barnacle-covered rope off the side of a yacht. While the general appearance is similar, the functionality couldn’t be more different. The NS130 is designed to be the ultimate solo fishing craft, with a five-chambered catamaran hull that’s slimmer and more stable than a traditional dinghy. With a suspended floor to allow for easy wiring, EVA foam deck, and PVC traction strips on top of the hull, the exterior of this boat is comfortable and functional.
The swivel seat attaches via a rail system and can be expanded to include a second seat, as well as allowing attachment of other accessories. The hull design is also geared towards portability and ease of loading, making it more similar in functionality to a kayak than a small boat. With eight grab handles and inset carrying handles on the loading skids, the NS130 is easy to pick up and load in a truck bed or rooftop rack.
Lastly, this boat is rated for up to a six-horsepower motor, which is perfect for covering a lot of water quickly while still maintaining the streamlined nature of a personal watercraft.
Reasons to Buy
- Great for handling bigger water
- Spacious and easy to manage
- Functionality of a small boat with the portability of a kayak
Consider Another Model If
- You want a paddle or pedal kayak
- Seeking a personal skiff where interior space isn’t taken by components
Bottom Line
If you want a lightweight and portable solo craft capable of handling big water safely, the Newport NS130 is an excellent choice.
Best inflatable multi-person skiff
Sea Eagle FastCat 12
Sea Eagle FastCat 12 Specs
Length: 12’10”
Width: 4’8″
Weight: 81 lbs hull only, 94 lbs with transom
Capacity: 440 lbs
MSRP: $2,149 to $3,199
seaeagle.com
Buy from:
Why I love it
Kayak and small craft fishing is the ideal solo pursuit, but sometimes you want to bring a friend along. Two-person kayaks are notoriously frustrating to use, and storing a larger boat isn’t always an option. Inflatables open creative options, such as the Sea Eagle FastCat 12 inflatable catamaran. The FastCat has enough space for two people to ride and fish comfortably, while still being light enough to load and car top easily.
Featuring the same four-chambered design as the FastTrack Angler, the FastCat is built to be durable and float even if punctured. Of all the boats on this list, this one has by far the most spacious deck, with an open-platform design that allows for easy storage and room to move. It also has a removable transom and seating system, which allows it to pack up much better than you’d expect of a craft this size. Speaking of the transom, it’s rated for up to a six-horsepower motor, which allows the boat to cruise at speeds up to 15mph.
Reasons to Buy
- Spacious and comfortable
- A high capacity rating of 1200 lbs
- Durable and rugged design
Consider Another Model If
- Price is a concern
- You don’t need a multi-person boat
- You are looking for a conventional pedal or paddle tandem fishing kayak
Bottom Line
If you need something that can comfortably ride and fish with two people, but still packs down small and doesn’t require much storage space, the Sea Eagle FastCat 12 is the inflatable for you.
Carry A Waterproof VHF Radio, Use Your Phone Only As A Backup
- A handheld VHF marine band radio allows you to communicate with the Coast Guard and other boat traffic. Use Channel 16 only for hailing and emergencies. The radio should be waterproof, because it is virtually certain to get wet.
- A cell phone, even if in a waterproof case or sealable bag, might not work, so don’t rely on it as the primary means of emergency communication.
Inflatable Fishing Kayak Buying Advice
Inflatable fishing crafts have become an increasingly popular option for anglers looking for something that can be stored easily without sacrificing performance. While there are more options on the market than ever, this list is a good example of just how varied they can be. With such a wide variety of designs to choose from, there are a few key things to consider before buying any inflatable craft.
The nature of an inflatable boat means it will be lighter and can be stored more easily, but it’s important to consider just how much that matters to you before purchasing one. If you need something that can truly be stored in an apartment or car trunk, avoid inflatables with rigid seats or add-on frames.
Next is to consider whether you need something with high gunwales and an inset cockpit, or a flat deck like a paddleboard. If your goal is to use an inflatable to access hard-to-reach areas or ultra-skinny water, consider a board-style hull or a smaller overall boat. If you want a kayak that can handle big water safely, a larger inflatable kayak is probably a better choice.
Lastly, durability is critical with any inflatable craft, but some are designed for more rugged use than others. If you’ll be fishing in places with hazardous objects like submerged coral, sharp rocks, or oysters, consider an inflatable with a multi-chambered reinforced hull.
Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak Brands
How we tested
I relied on personal testing and experience, as well as interviews with dedicated users, to help compile this list. Using these boats in a wide range of environments and a variety of fishing styles, we were able to identify the features that stood out for each.
Why trust us
My experience over decades of kayak fishing has helped me develop the techniques and preferences used to create this list. My passion for lightweight watercraft that can access hard-to-reach areas has made the inflatable kayak revolution a blessing. I’m constantly amazed at the new inflatables being released every year, and I love putting them through the paces to see how they stack up to traditional fishing kayaks.
Additionally, I don’t sacrifice performance with my kayaks, inflatable or not. If it can’t hold up to the rigors of a true day of fishing, I’ll never recommend it to other anglers. The inflatable watercraft listed here are angling machines.
Feature Image: Kevin Hughes
