When looking for the best tandem fishing kayak, you might find yourself overwhelmed, even if you are an experienced kayak fisherman. As such, we’ll discuss what makes a good tandem fishing kayak, as well as our top 5 picks for this year.
We’ll also provide some buying tips for those who may be new to this type of recreational activity or have never bought any outdoor gear before in their lives. So sit back, relax, and enjoy your read!
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS…
| Brand | Product | Type of kayak | Weight capacity | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TopElkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak |   | Inflatable | 450 lbs | Check price |
| Intex Excursion Pro Kayak |   | Inflatable | 400 lbs | Check price |
| Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 Personal Fishing Kayak |   | Inflatable | 470 lbs | Check price |
| BKC TK122U 12'6" Tandem 2 or 3 Person Fishing Kayak |   | Hard shell | 770 lbs | Check price |
| BKC TK219 12.2' Tandem Fishing Kayak |   | Hard shell | 595 lbs | Check price |
Table of Contents
Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews
Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak
- INFLATES QUICKLY- The Elkton Outdoors Inflatable 2 Person Kayak inflates in only minutes from its compact storage size to a full size kayak
- RUGGED & DURABLE- Elkton Outdoors tandem fishing kayak is constructed with 18-Gauge rip resistant 1000D PVC making it tear and HOOK resistant so you dont have to worry about springing a leak when you are out on the lake
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED- Includes all the fishing kayak accessories you need to hit the water including 2 Adjustable Seats, Rod Holders(2 Vertical & 4 Trolling), Double Sided Oars, Double Action Pump & Carry Bag
- EASY TO REPAIR AND ADJUST- Three separate removable air chambers allows for quick and simple adjustments, diagnosis and repair
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 was designed specifically with anglers in mind, and it was designed to be the ultimate inflatable fishing kayak for solo anglers or a pair of anglers. It has a durable tough PVC tarpaulin bottom, and although the kayak only weighs approximately 27 pounds, it has a recommended weight limit of 450 pounds, which is higher than most inflatable kayaks, on the market. Unlike most kayaks, this one was designed for comfort, and the seats that come with it are easy to connect to the kayak and they are adjustable, which makes them better suited for people of different sizes.
Besides, the seats have a gel interior that will keep you out on the water for a longer time. Although this kayak doesn’t have any sort of built-in pockets or storage units, it does come with a mesh storage compartment that can be removed and transported separately from the kayak itself, and there is a special place at the front of the kayak to strap the compartment in, while out on the water.
Finally, this kayak is not lacking in extra accessories that make it stand out. It comes with everything you will need to have an enjoyable and hassle-free time on your kayak fishing trip. For instance, it comes with 8-rod holders designed to hold various types of rods, the mesh storage pack, a carrying pack, 2 paddles, and a pump to inflate the kayak upon arrival at the entry point water of your choice.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
- Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core: Light weight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
- High pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with high pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
- Removable and adjustable mounting bracket for additional accessories, such as GPS systems, fish finders, swivel fishing rod holders etc. Includes a carry bag and repair patch
- Includes 2 removable skews for deep and shallow water, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable bucket seats
- Storage space in bow and Stern with stainless steel d rings for tying down Dry bags and gear
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak was designed to provide you with a quality kayaking experience, whether you are out to just kayak or fish out on the lake. It has a lightweight design that makes it easier for a single person to carry the kayak to the optimal space, and the core is made from super-tough laminate PVC with polyester to help make it highly resistant to things like sunlight and impacts.
It comes with 2 different removable skews that make this kayak capable of maneuvering in both shallow and deep water, which will allow you to take it out basically on any type of water source you prefer. It also comes with 2 adjustable bucket seats that make it easy to maneuver the space inside of the kayak to meet the height and size requirements of both passengers. This model has a weight capacity of 400 pounds, and this limit should take into account not only the combined weight of the users but the gear that they carry, as well.
For the user that wants to carry different things with them, this kayak has a small storage area both in the bow and the stern with stainless steel D rings that will allow you to tie things in place to keep them dry and safe from falling out of the kayak, while in motion. Finally, this model comes with 2 86-inch aluminum oars and a high-output pump to ensure you have everything you need to head out on the water upon receiving the kayak.
Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 Personal Fishing Kayak
- 18-gauge PVC construction is rugged for lake use , NMMA certified
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover provide durable protection from punctures
- Multiple air chambers allow another chamber to stay inflated if one is punctured
- Airtight System is guaranteed not to leak
- Berkley Quick Set Rod Holders are adjustable for enhanced hands-free fishing
- Sevylor trolling motor fittings expand your fishing capabilities
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 is one of the top tandem fishing kayaks on our list because of the quality experience that it is designed to provide any angler looking for an inflatable model to take out on the water. It is constructed using 18-gauge PVC and it has been NMMA certified to ensure the safety of the user. The bottom is made from durable 1000D tarpaulin material, and it has an 840D nylon cover that helps to provide it with durability and protection from punctures.
This kayak has multiple air chambers, which means that if one of the chambers is ever punctured, the kayak will still float, and it has an airtight system that helps to guarantee that it will not leak. Unlike some of the other kayak models, this one has Berkley Quick rod holders built-in to the kayak that are adjustable and will allow for a hands-free fishing experience.
On the side of the kayak, users will also enjoy that they will no longer have to worry about losing their paddles while trying to reel in a fish. It has paddle holders built into the design that will help to secure your paddles when not in use and keep them out of the way. Finally, it is important to note that if purchased, this kayak does not come with its own pump to inflate it or the paddles. They are sold separately, but this will provide you the opportunity to purchase ones that feel best in your circumstances.
BKC TK122U 12’6″ Tandem 2 or 3 Person Fishing Kayak
- THE PERFECT KAYAK FOR OUTDOOR FUN: Tje Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC TK122U tandem kayak has extra space to fit 3 - making it ideal for paddling with kids on family adventures and epic fishing trips
- FULLY LOADED ACCESSORIES: The kayak comes equipped with 2 ergonomic aluminum frame seats, 2 adjustable aluminum paddles, 2 waterproof hatches, 4 built in rod holders, 2 paddle parks, and 1 bungee cargo tie down
- CRAFTED FOR STABILITY: The Roto Molded single Piece High density polyethylene material is superior to inflatable kayaks and a capable craft on ocean, lake, or river, while supporting up to 770 lbs
- BUILT-IN FISHING ROD HOLDERS: 2 flush-mount rod holders and 2 articulating rod holders can keep multiple baited lines in the water at once or just keep the rods out of your way during paddling
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The BKC TK122U Tandem Fishing Kayak was crafted to provide the user with a stable experience. It can be used in most types of water conditions, and it can be used not only as an excellent fishing kayak but as a relaxing way to just float down the river or on a lake. The seats have an aluminum frame with padded backrests and seats to provide the user with comfort, and there are multiple adjustment points that make way for different sized people to sit in the seats and remain comfortable for the trip.
It is important to note that this kayak is not an inflatable model, which means that you will need some way of transporting it from home to where you want to cast it off. There are two large storage units that are designed to be water-tight, which makes them a perfect place to store your wallets, keys, and other personal items that you do not wish to lose or get wet.
When it comes to fishing mounts, this is the perfect kayak for you to consider because it has multiple mounts that are capable of holding different types of rods and reels while you are sitting back and relaxing or even paddling. Finally, it is designed with a wide and flat bottom that helps to create stability with the kayak to keep it from flipping over as easily as some other kayaks do.
BKC TK219 12.2′ Tandem Fishing Kayak
- The BKC TK219 features 4 carrying handles. A pair of adults can carry the 3-person kayak comfortably. With three people, overland transport is almost effortless
- The BKC 219 offers superb stability in multiple water conditions, from ocean to lake to river, and suitable for stand-up fishing
- Safely stow your wallet, keys, and more in the BKC TK219 two watertight storage hatches. Theres one for each seat and open cargo space with tie downs
- The BKC TK219 4 flush-mount kayak fishing rod holders and 2 adjustable rod holders allow you and your fellow fisherman (or fishermen) to keep multiple lines in the water at once
- Single piece roto-molded high density HDPE is impact and abrasion resistant, and contains UV protection
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This is another hard-shell fishing kayak that we have come to recommend for various reasons. It comes with water-resistant storage that makes it perfect for ensuring that your personals will remain dry, while out in the water, and you will not have to constantly worry about anything falling out of the kayak. It is important to note that this kayak is not designed for standing, and if someone stands up in it, the possibility of it flipping is high.
Unlike the above hard-shell kayak, this one features 4 carrying handles that make it easier for two people to carry this kayak from the car to the water’s edge. It is large enough for 3 people to use, but it is important to note that this kayak has a weight capacity of 595 pounds, and this weight capacity includes the weight of the people in it and all of their gear. The kayak is designed to have superb stability in most water conditions, which means it can be used in more situations than the traditional kayak.
Finally, this kayak comes with 4 flush-mount fishing rod holders and 2 adjustable rod holders that will allow all anglers in the kayak to use multiple fishing lines at the same time. These holders are also excellent for holding your fishing rod while you are paddling, eating, or just sitting back and relaxing out on the water waiting on your next bite.
Our Top Choice
After researching and reviewing all of the different tandem fishing kayaks above, we have come to the conclusion that the best tandem fishing kayak is the Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak. This kayak has one of the larger weight capacities for an inflatable fishing kayak, and it comes with comfortable seats that will allow the anglers to thoroughly enjoy the fishing experience.
However, this does not mean that it will always be the best choice to meet your individual needs and desires for a fishing kayak. For instance, if you are looking for a kayak that has a higher weight capacity, then you might want to consider the BKC TK122U 12’6″ Tandem 2 or 3 Person Fishing Kayak.
The downside to this kayak is that it is not inflatable, which means you have to worry about how to transport it to and from the water, but it can hold up to 750 pounds, which means you can bring more gear with you for longer trips.
Regardless of which kayak you choose, the last word of advice we can give you to make sure you pick the best one is to research and know your needs and limitations. After all, you want to make the best purchasing decision for your needs and not the needs of others, and you can only do this by knowing what it is you want and what to look for.
Tandem Fishing Kayak Buyer’s Guide
Before you even begin to look at different tandem fishing kayaks, there are some features that you should consider to ensure that you are making the best purchasing decision for yourself and not someone else. After all, no two kayak models are designed to be exactly alike, and therefore, you may find a kayak that is lacking in desired features or perhaps just has features that you are not keen on.
Well, this is why we have compiled the following knowledge to help you choose the best fishing kayak for you and your needs without having to constantly search for information from all over the place that might never actually answer any of your questions.
Different Types of Tandem Fishing Kayaks
Here are a few types of tandem fishing kayaks and what you can expect from each type. This is important because each one has its own pros and cons.
SOT or Sit On Top Kayaks: These kayaks tend to be easier to get in and out of, especially if it ever flips when you are out on the water. These types of kayaks generally have a sufficient amount of space for storing different items and room to maneuver in and remain comfortable. However, the biggest con to this type of kayak is that the user will more than often get wet while rowing.
SIK or Sit Inside Kayak: You’ll be warm and dry inside these kayaks. In fact, they’re designed so that you can literally sit in them while paddling to stay nice and cozy all day long! You might not even notice the wind or rain pelting your body with its relentless fury as it swirls around outside of your protective vessel.
The only con is this type of kayak isn’t easy to get back into once you flip over. In most cases, you’ll need to perform a self-rescue technique such as a kayak roll or wet exit. As such, there isn’t a lot of sit inside fishing kayaks let alone ones suitable for two persons.
Inflatable Kayaks: There are two main types of kayaks, hard-shell and inflatable. If you’re on a budget, an inflatable is a way to go as they tend to be cheaper than their hard shell counterparts. A single person may find these easier for carrying because they can often come in a duffle pack or backpack form which makes them much lighter!
They, however, do have some drawbacks: punctures happen more easily with this type and should you get one repaired it will cost quite a bit more money than if your other options were intact.”
Features and Accessories to Look For
Now that we have introduced you to the most common types of tandem kayaks, we will talk a little bit about the different features, aspects, and accessories that you should look for in the ideal kayak.
Weight Capacity: The weight capacity of a kayak is always an important aspect to consider because you should be able to comfortably deal with 300-400 pounds when on a trip, and if you can find one that provides more than this then it would be the better choice.
The best thing about choosing lightweight kayaks over others is they are significantly lighter which means there’s less strain put on your body as well so it’s good for people who have back problems or something like arthritis.
After all, you have to remember that the weight capacity is not just the weight of the people in the kayak, this capacity also includes the weight from gear and other things that you might be taking out on the water with you, as well.
Overall, when you are going kayaking, it is always better to have a heavier kayak than to get on the river and be unable to move because your kayak was too light.
Storage Capacity: When you need to take a friend out on the water, one of your main concerns should be storage space! Can they sit behind me? Do I have room for their lunch and snacks back here with us too?!
If these are some of your questions, then make sure that there is enough dry storage so we can pack all our goodies without worrying about anything leaking. The last thing anyone wants is soggy sandwiches when fishing or camping right!?
When looking at kayaks online before purchasing them in person from stores like Walmart or Target it’s always good practice to look down under this specific section because in many cases as mentioned above not having any sort of actual built-in dry compartment will severely limit what people bring along.
Another thing to look for is a storage place for your paddles. With most kayaks designed for fishing, this is definitely one of the more important things to look for because it will allow you to fish without constantly worrying about losing your paddles overboard when you are in the midst of reeling in a fish or casting out your line.
Recommended Reading
Buying Guide And Review Of The Best Kayak Fishing PFD
This article is focused on reviewing the best kayak fishing pfd on the market. We also highlight the different types of PFDs and how to choose one.
Buying Guide And Best Beginner Fishing Kayak For All Kinds Of People
In this article, you will find the best beginner fishing kayak for 2 people, people on a budget, big & tall people, women, and children.
How To Register A Kayak: Full Guide To Kayak Registration
Not sure if you need to register your kayak in your state? What if you travel to another state? We cover these issues and more related topics in this article.
Pros And Cons Of Sit In Vs Sit On Kayak: The Ultimate Breakdown
Struggling to choose between sit in and sit on top kayak? This article tackles the pros and cons of each kayak along with how to pick the best one for yourself
Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000: Our Top 5 Picks & More
In this article, I’m going to be talking about the best fishing kayak under $1000 and how to choose one. Even if you are tall or big, we've got you covered!
DIY Lure Guide: How To Make A Fishing Lure The Right Way
We are here to tell you just how to get started with making your own lures, what kinds you can make, using what materials, and much more!
