12 Best Fishing Kayaks For Big Guys & Gals In 2024

The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 is a premium kayak that will grow with your needs. The long outline and flat, spacious deck make this a stable kayak without sacrificing speed and tracking ability. I love having the versatility to stand up and fish the back bays or paddle long distances in open ocean wind and currents.

If you’re unsure whether to get a paddle, pedal, or motor drive kayak, the Wilderness Radar is one of the only fishing kayaks that can switch between all three. This is a kayak you’ll own for years, and it’s great to have all propulsion options available when you want to upgrade. Also, the seat is breathable, supportive, and crazy comfortable, which makes a huge difference when you’re out on the water for hours at a time.

A larger person looking for a fast, sturdy kayak that can handle any conditions should consider the Wilderness Systems Radar 135.

The Tamarack Pro 103 is a great budget option if you’re a big guy just getting into kayak fishing or an experienced angler who wants a backup. You might not be able to stand on this kayak, but it has a stable hull designed to handle larger paddlers. Also, the supportive framed seat with adjustable foot rests are high-end features for this inexpensive price and provide comfort for hours of paddling and fishing. 

I’m surprised by how well the Tamarack Pro tracks and maintains speed in calm to moderate conditions for an inexpensive kayak. However, it’s not designed for rough conditions, so be careful if you plan to fish in the ocean. The two built-in rod holders, integrated gear tracks, and gear storage sections are handy for storing some basic fishing gear. 

Looking for a stable fishing kayak that won’t break the bank? The Tamarack Pro 103 provides premium comfort and ample storage at a budget price.

If you want a stable and dependable pedal drive kayak, the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 is an excellent choice. It’s a game changer having the use of both hands AND being able to move forward and backward. I find it especially useful to fish around structures and in strong currents. 

The reality is, though, pedal drives add moving parts, which means more maintenance and the risk of failure. That’s why I appreciate the quality and reliability of the Pescador Pilot. The pedal drive system is top-of-the-line, delivering smooth and powerful propulsion. And the design is well balanced. While the wide rear and center sections create extra stability for larger paddlers, the pulled-in nose increases speed. 

If you’re a larger person who wants the benefits of hands-free fishing and easy long-distance paddling, check out the Pescador Pilot 12.

Reel Yaks 110 provides all the benefits of a foot pedal kayak without the high-end price tag. I love that it comes loaded with awesome features you wouldn’t expect at this price point. 

It has 4 gear track rails, 6 flush rod holders, and multiple compartments for customized gear storage and equipment mounting. When I’m fishing on the ocean with wind and current, the hand-controlled rudder system makes it easy to steer and hold direction. 

For the money you save, you’ll sacrifice the reliability and performance of the pedal drive system. However, the pedal drive mount is compatible with popular high-end drive systems if you ever want to upgrade.

For tall people looking to save a few bucks for a feature-packed pedal drive kayak, I’d suggest taking a look at the Reel Yak 110.

Imagine cruising effortlessly across the water. Jumping between fishing spots in a kayak without breaking a sweat. Sound good? The built-in motor drive of the Old Town Sportsman 106 is what you’re looking for. 

Old Town has been making kayaks since 1940, and the Sportsman 106 lives up to their reputation for quality craftsmanship and design. The low-profile motor system is by far my favorite part of this fishing kayak. It’s built into the hull so it won’t get in your way on deck. Plus, the throttle and steering are hand controlled and unobtrusive. The motor flies on flat, calm water and is robust enough to push through heavy wind and current. 

It’s a heavy yak, but if you don’t mind the extra weight, larger kayakers will enjoy an unparalleled level of stability.  If you don’t want to sacrifice quality and performance, The Old Town Sportsman 106 is hands down my favorite kayak with a built-in motor.

If you’re hooked on the idea of a kayak with a built-in motor, but the high-end options aren’t in the cards, take a look at the Brooklyn Kayak Company PK12. 

The motor system is easy to install and has the power to make this lightweight kayak fly. The hand-powered rudder steering provides quick control. However, the throttle system sticks up through the deck in front of the seat, so there’s a chance it could get in the way when handling fish. 

There’s plenty of room for gear with 3 waterproof storage hatches, 2 flush mount rod holders, a cup holder, and a large rear storage section. Also, the stadium-style padded seat design is surprisingly comfortable, and I love that it can recline for relaxed pedaling. 

Although the PK12 lacks some high-end design features, it’s a high-quality kayak with a built-in motor that delivers serious value.

The idea of a two-person kayak might concern you as a big guy. Two people, and two sets of gear, all in the water together, is not my idea of a good time fishing either. That’s why I’d recommend checking out the Brooklyn Kayak Company TK122. 

With a 770 lbs capacity, even two tall paddlers can feel confident they won't go overboard. One look at this kayak, and you can tell it’s well-designed. There are two-rod holders, two gear track rails, and watertight storage compartments beside both seats. 

That means each person can customize their gear layout without depending on the other person to pass around equipment. However, one thing to watch out for is that the dry storage compartments might leak, so pack your phone and wallet in a waterproof case. 

The TK122 is a sturdy, well-designed tandem kayak for an affordable price. For a big duo, you’d be hard-pressed to find better value.

The Brooklyn Kayak Company PK14 provides a great balance between speed and stability. While 2 pedal drive systems power the kayak, the long length enhances tracking. 

It’s heavy, so you’ll need a second person to lift it onto roof racks. However, much of that extra weight comes from a wide, flat hull which enhances stability. One of the nicest features is the hand-controlled rudder system. It makes steering a long boat moving with the power of two people much easier. And if you’re looking for some added power, you can switch out one (or both) of the pedal drive systems with a compatible trolling motor. 

Fishing with a second person on board doesn’t have to be a pain. The PK14 and dual pedal power make fishing as a big pair easier and more efficient.

Standing on the Perception Outlaw 11.5 feels like fishing off a floating dock. It has a wide, flat deck with non-slip traction pads and an extra wide kayak pontoon designed to maximize stability for stand-up kayak fishing. If you want more walking room, you can even remove the seat. 

However, keep in mind that with great width comes slow turns. Unfortunately, you won’t be winning any races in this kayak, but that’s ok if what you want is a moving fishing platform. And with 2 double barrel fishing rod holders, 2 gear rail tracks, 3 solo mounts, and a large rear storage area, you’ll have no trouble bringing all your gear. 

Larger paddlers who want the confidence to stand and cast will appreciate the excellent stability of The Outlaw 11.5.

Fishing from a low-quality inflatable kayak can be uncomfortable and scary. The hull bends like a deflating air mattress, ineffective strokes make paddling a nightmare, and the fear your lure will sink the ship is hard to kick. 

It’s obvious Advanced Elements Straitedge is a different breed of inflatable kayak. The aluminum ribs provide a rigid skeleton that enhances tracking and makes paddling easier. I love that the floor is solid and stable enough to stand on, thanks to the drop-stitch construction. 

And between the solid floor and heavy-duty hull material, I’m not nearly as worried about punctures. The aluminum frames for mounting gear in the front and back of the kayak add some weight. But I’d rather have the convenience of ample space to mount rod holders, a fish finder, and other gear.

The Advanced Elements Straitedge is a stable and durable kayak I’d recommend to taller paddlers looking for a single-person inflatable kayak.

The Sea Eagle Fasttrack is a dependable tandem kayak that can hold a heavy load. 

One of the first things you’ll notice about this kayak is the heavy-duty construction. The puncture-resistant outer layer protects against fish spines, hooks, and other sharp equipment. The drop stitch flooring with non-slip padding makes it easy to stand and adds confidence in its durability. 

Unfortunately, I don’t trust the built-in rod holders. They’re flimsy and definitely not made for trolling. The ability to customize the seating arrangement makes it easy to create extra space between you and your partner while fishing. That extra working room makes a big difference when you’ve got lines in the water and a fish on board. 

When you’re out on the water with another person, you want to feel confident you’re on a stable kayak that’s up to the job. The Seaeagle is the tandem inflatable kayak I’d trust to provide that peace of mind.

The Sea Eagle Fish SUP isn’t exactly a kayak. It’s a cross between a SUP and an inflatable kayak. But this hybrid is so cool that I needed to include it on this list. 

The deck is long, flat, and stable with non-slip padding like a SUP, but it has a removable swivel seat. That means you can easily walk around deck, have room to handle fish and change tackle, and paddle like you would on a kayak. 

I also can’t believe there’s a removable trolling motor mount on the back of this hybrid. It has a 500-pound maximum load capacity, 2-rod holders, a storage box, and 14 D-rings for securing gear. That means even heavy guys can load down this hybrid kayak with all their gear.

I’d recommend this Sea Eagle Fish SUP for anyone looking to stand-up fish who doesn’t want to sacrifice deck space or paddling power.