Fishing Kayak For Big Guys

A fishing kayak is a pointed, narrow boat you float in a river, lake, ocean, or sea. You can move a kayak along a water body with a single double-bladed paddle that allows you to maneuver through waterways. Fishing kayak for big guys is another popular type of kayak

kayak

Kayaks have been in existence for a long time now. Ages ago, the people in the Arctic regions used kayaks to transport for hunting, fishing, and navigating waterways.

kayaks

Kayaking is one of the many fun sports people undertake in their free time and during the holiday. You can combine kayaking with other outside sporting activities like fishing and camping. You’ll even find kayaks specifically designed to suit your fishing needs.

Kayak

As mentioned, everyone can kayak. However, there are specific kayaks big and tall guys can’t use. If you’re a big guy, you’ll need to be cautious about the kayak you go into the sea.

Here are some of the best fishing kayaks for big guys:

5 Best Fishing Kayaks for Big Guys

As mentioned earlier, big and tall people can’t use just about any kayak. They need something stable with a larger weight limit to bear their body mass.

Such kayaks are easy to find on the market, but you still need to know what you’re looking for.

That said, here are 5 best kayaks for big guys:

1. VK-21 LON: 13.6 ft Single Propeller Pedal Fishing Kayak

kayak

VK-21 LION is one of the best fishing kayaks for big guys because:

  • It’s a 5 star product that has everything you’re looking for, from total kayak control, performance, stability, speed, stealth, features, power, and comfort, with a length of 4.15m * 87cm.
  •  It uses a propeller pedal system allowing you to reach a higher speed of up to 4 knots when back and forward pedaling.   
  • Has incredible features includes a comfortable adjustable frame seat, 11 scupper plugs, 1 propeller pedal, 1 paddle, a flush rod holder, 1 square hatch, a triangular hatch,1 black bungee, and 2 foot pads.

It also comes with the following specs

  •  Size: 415x87x38 CM
  • Hull weight: 43 kgs (95 lbs)
  • Weight capacity: 250kgs (550 lbs)
  • G.Weight: 60 kgs (132 lbs)
  • Durable LLDPE/HDPE
  •  3 years Limited warranty
  • Anti-UV: 8
  • Usage: Fishing, Surfing, Cruising
  • 20ft: 22 pcs 40HQ: 68 pcs

2. VK-11 GRACE: 11.5 ft Single Pedal Propeller Kayak

Another good kayak for big and tall paddlers is the VK-11 GRACE. Here are the features that make it the best option for you:

  •  It has a 5 star rating for stability and speed and it’s engineered to achieve efficiency and simplicity
  • The pedal is customized to reach 5.5MP with a 10.1 gear ratio for efficiency, and the best part is that they’re maintenance-free.
  • They come with all the gear you need for your fishing expedition, including 1 paddle,1 comfortable adjustable aluminum frame seat, 1 pc fishing rod holder, 1 propeller, 8 scupper plug, 1 drain, 2 round hatches, 4 H-tracks, 1 black bungee, and 1 full rudder system.

Its specifications include the following:

  • Size: 350x82x40 CM
  • Weight capacity 250 kgs (550lbs)
  • Hull weight: 38 kgs (84lbs)
  • G.W weight: 54kgs (119lbs)
  • Durable LLDPE/HDPE
  • Anti-UV: 8
  • 20ft: 22 pcs 40HQ: 68 pcs
  • 3 years warranty

3. VK-10 MAGIC: 11.8 ft Single Fishing Kayaks

VK-10 MAGIC is also a good option for big peddlers for the following reasons:

  • It’s the most stable fishing kayak with 5 star rating for stability and speed
  • It has a multipurpose center console for fish finder holes and GPS
  • VK-10 MAGIC also comes with everything you need for the trip including, a comfortable adjustable aluminum frame seat, fishing rod holder, rudder system, a paddle, waterproof hatchet and an aluminum rail

The kayak’s maximum weight capacity is 300 kgs (667 lbs), and a hull weight of about 40 kgs (88 lbs). Its gross weight (G.W) is 48 kgs (106 lbs) with durable Linear Low-Density Polythene (LLDPE)/High-Density Polythene (HDPE).

4. VK-32 MARIUS: 10.5 ft Single Propeller Pedal Fishing Kayak

VK-32 Marius is one of the best fishing kayaks for big guys because it:  

  • Gives you the best forward and reverse pedal propulsion experience with 5 stars for stability and speed.
  • Comfortable, durable, and breathable with a mono mesh
  • Spacious cockpit and maximum stability, suitable for larger paddlers
  • It also comes with the necessary gear including 1 comfortable adjustable aluminum frame seat, a fishing rod holder, a single paddle, 1 propeller, 4 flush rod, a  full rudder system holder, and a  black bungee.

The specifications include the following:

  • Size: 320x85x37 CM
  • Hull weight: 37 kgs (81 lbs)
  • Weight capacity: 250kgs (550 lbs)
  • G.W weight: 50 kgs (110 lbs)
  • Durable LLDPE/ HDPE
  • 3 years limited warranty
  • Anti-UV: 8
  • Usage: Fishing, Surfing, Cruising
  • 20ft: 22 pcs 40HQ: 68 pcs

5. VK-12 ROMANCE: 14.1 ft Double propeller Tandem Pedal Fishing Kayaks for big guys

The reviews from customers show that this may be the best fishing kayak for you when you want to go fishing with a friend. Its features include the following:

  • They’re sit-on-top models with advantageous features that accommodate paddlers and fishing rod holders.
  • They have versatile features that make them the most preferred kayak in the market including 2 paddles, 2 comfortable adjustable aluminum frame seats, 2 propeller paddle drive system, scupper plugs, flush rods rod holders,  round hatches and a full rudder system.
  • The sit-inside kayak operates using a tandem paddling system, which is convenient for couples and big guys.

The best part about it is that you can use these on top kayaks even if you’re a beginner because it only takes a few hours to learn how to operate them.

The sit-on-top kayak’s weight capacity is 300 kgs with a hull weight of 48 kgs and a G.W weight of about 78 kgs.

Types of Fishing Kayaks for Big Guys

Many fishing kayaks are available in the market today, categorized into two main groups: whitewater kayaks and flat water kayaks.

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Whitewater kayaks

Under this category, there are 4 different types of kayaks, each with its advantages and disadvantages. These kayaks include the following:

Kayak

Playboats 

Most kayaking beginners choose this kayak, thinking they’re easier to operate and to run through a river. However, they’re pretty uncomfortable and need a much more experienced kayaker who can play on the standing holes and waves.

Creek boat

Creekers or the creek boats are about 8 feet long with a larger volume to aid resurfacing. They are very comfortable, but you have to be careful as a beginner because they have a displacement hull.

kayak

River runners

They’re 7-8 feet long to manage sharp turns and to give you just about enough time to track for a while in the flat areas of the water. They have enough storage space to store your fishing gear, such as fishing rod holders, and are surprisingly comfortable.  

Old school kayaks

They’re one of the oldest kayaks made in the late 80s. They’re longer than modern kayaks, making them the best option if you want to track over a long distance.

However, they can be pretty problematic when running in a river with tight turns. They also have a less spacious cockpit which isn’t ideal for larger paddlers.  

Flatwater kayak

kayak

Under flatwater kayaks, there are 4 different types. They include:

Recreational kayaks

Unlike a sit-on-top kayak, recreational kayaks have a closed cockpit. It has a large opening to fit one of your kids, making it an excellent option for big and tall paddlers.  

You can open and close the cockpit whenever you want for a relaxed ride, and they’re less expensive than a touring kayak. However, they’re shorter and can’t track their way through waterways.

Pedaling kayaks

A pedaling fishing kayak or a pedal-driven kayak is an excellent kayak for people with shoulder and back pain because you don’t use your arm unless you pull it to the shore.

kayak

They use a pedal-driven system and are the best kayaks for long distances. You can either choose a pedaling kayak like a bike or one that uses flippers.  

Sit-on-top kayaks

A sit-on-top kayak has an open cockpit, so you get into and out of the kayak without struggling. They’re also wide and more stable than most fishing kayaks.

kayak

Sit-on-top kayaks are one of the best fishing equipment as you can easily access all your fishing gear. However, be prepared to have a wet ride if you go for a sit-on-top kayak.

Touring kayaks

These kayaks are about 12 feet long and narrower than most, with smaller cockpits and thigh braces.

The braces help the paddler roll back upright in case the kayak overturns.

kayak

The best part about that is that they’re faster than most kayaks and can track their way through waterways. Unfortunately, they’re pretty expensive and different to transport and store.  

Other types of fishing kayaks mainly used include the following:

Tandem kayaks

If you like fishing with the company, these are the best kayaks for you. They can accommodate two paddlers and still have enough space for your fishing gear.

kayak

A tandem kayak is the perfect fishing kayak for larger paddlers because they’re more stable with enough storage space and can bear their weight capacity. However, they’re heavier because of their massiveness.

Sit-inside kayaks

Sit-inside kayaks are the best if you’re an experienced paddler with a few tricks to rescue yourself in case it capsizes.

You can use them for multi-day fishing in areas with rougher waters or regular rainfall.

They combine the efficiency and speed of touring kayaks with the stability of old-school kayaks.  

Sit-inside kayaks also have sufficient storage space for your camping or fishing equipment, and you can convert one of its storage units to create a tank well to maintain the freshness of the fish.

Inflatable kayaks

An inflatable kayak doesn’t require as much storage space because you can deflate and store it in your garage. You can also fit the inflatable kayak in the trunk of your SUV or Sedan.

Kayak

Features of Kayaks For Big Guys

Buying a fishing kayak for big guys may be a little challenging, especially if you have 300 lbs or more. You must consider many things, including the kayak weight capacity, length, and width.

Here are the key measurements and features you must look for when purchasing a kayak for big and tall people:

Kayak’s Maximum Weight Capacity for Big Guys

The first thing you need to know when purchasing a fishing kayak for big and tall guys is its weight limit. Evaluate various fishing kayaks and get one with a high weight capacity.

The weight limit should be more than your weight and your fishing equipment, such as rod holders and fish finders. You also want to leave a reasonable margin for buoyancy and keep the kayak stable.

When determining the weight limit of the kayak, you should note that the kayak’s weight contributes to its maximum weight capacity. You can apply this formula to calculate its weight capacity:

               Your weight + kayak weight + gear weight/.8 

This way, you can account for about a 20% buffer between the kayak maximum weight and you. It means that if you weigh about 200 pounds, the kayak 40, and 20 pounds for gear, you’ll need a 325 lb capacity kayak.

A kayak with a smaller capacity may also work, but it has less stability and speed, and you’ll have to paddle harder. Also, you’re likely to ride lower in the water.

Best Kayaks for Big and Tall People

Now you know how to select a kayak that can support your weight, but that’s not all. You also need to know the best size that’s more suitable for you. For instance, the right kayak for big guys is one with a longer length.

Here are some of the things to consider when choosing a kayak for big guys:

Kayak width considerations

You’ll likely have difficulty getting in and out of a kayak if you have a bigger build. This happens because you chose a kayak that suits your build requirements.

A kayak with a broader hull is more stable and comfortable, and you can get in and out quickly without overturning the kayak. Therefore, if you’re a larger paddler, you should look for a kayak with a hull width of at least 30 inches.   

Kayak length considerations

Kayaks come in different lengths to maintain buoyancy and a reasonable width because the kayak length adds to the volume of the kayak.

On average, most kayaks are 10 feet long, but you’ll have to look for one that’s at least 12 feet long if you’re a big guy.

Comfort considerations

You’ll be seated for a long time when going out kayak fishing, and you want to be very comfortable throughout the expedition. You, therefore, have to choose a kayak that provides the level of comfort you need, which is sometimes challenging to find for larger paddlers.

You may want to try one with the following:

  • An adequate cockpit width: A cockpit is the kayak’s opening. It’s the area you use to get in and out of the kayak. The width of your boat determines the size of your cockpit. Narrower kayaks are likely to have smaller cockpits.   
  • Sit on top: A sit-on-top kayaks are likely to accommodate large-bodied paddlers. They’re stable and great kayaks for you if you’re whitewater kayaking.
  • A padded seat: Getting a kayak with a padded seat is an added advantage. They’re comfortable for long rides and can bear your weight. Also, check for an adjustable seat with a backrest.

The design

For beginners, the sit-on-top kayakers are the perfect fit. They’ll give you the confidence to paddle to the fishing spot. They’ll also be safer and more comfortable. They have a streamlined hull which makes them unsinkable and buoyant.

Material

Fishing kayaks are made from different materials; hard-shell kayaks and inflatable kayaks. While a hard-shell kayak is made of materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, wood, and fiberglass, an inflatable kayak is mainly made from light plastics. You, therefore, have to choose the material that best suits your needs.  

However, the best kayak for big guys is made of high-quality plastics. It’s a high-weight capacity kayak with more strength, versatility, and affordable prices.  

Storage and portability

If you have a small garage for the kayak, you should probably consider purchasing an inflatable kayak. You can deflate and fit them into a smaller space than the hard-shell kayaks.

Kayaking Equipment

Different kayaks for different sporting activities have various kayaking equipment. However, some are common to all kayaks regardless of the activities.

Therefore, when purchasing a kayak for big guys, ensure it has the following essentials:

  • Buoyancy aid/life jacket
  • Wetsuit
kayak
  • Signaling whistle
  • Paddle  
kayak
  • Helmet

What’s The Best Time to Go Kayaking

Kayaking is the perfect sport for every season, from spring to autumn to summer. Generally, warm weather and seasons are the best to go kayaking, whether recreational, surfing, or fishing.

kayak

Winter isn’t an ideal time to go kayaking because it poses a danger to all, big or small kayakers. It affects the water temperature, and some areas are even frozen.

Basically, you’re safe to go kayaking for the 3 seasons of the year, but if you’d like to do it in the winter, you should get a guide for safety purposes.

What’s the Difference Between a Fishing Kayak and a Regular Kayak

As mentioned, people from the 90s used kayaks for many activities, including hunting, traveling, and fishing. Nowadays, kayaks are used primarily for fishing and other recreational activities because there are modified boats for traveling.

Ancient and modern kayaks can perform the same activities. However, old kayaks are heavier (because they’re made of wood), more expensive, and uncommon. On the other hand, modern kayaks are readily available, lighter (they’re made of plastic), and moderately priced.

Another significant difference between a modern kayak and a traditional one is its design. Modern kayaks have compact sizes and smoother lines with a target-specific build making them more suitable for certain activities.  

For instance, fishing kayaks are specially modified to suit all fishing needs. They’re pretty different from the regular kayaks people use for surfing and touring.

Kayak

Here are the significant differences between a fishing kayak and a regular kayak:

  • Dimensions: Unlike traditional kayaks, fishing kayaks have wider dimensions.
  • Capacity and storage space: Fishing kayaks are designed with a larger storage space to accommodate all the fishing gear. They also have a high weight capacity compared to the rest.
  • Propulsion system: You can choose between a pedal drive system, trolling engine, and a paddle.
  • Sit-on-top design: Most fishing kayaks have a sit-on-top design. They have larger rooms to fit big guts and accommodate your gear.
  • Flat hull: Another significant difference between regular and fishing kayaks is that they have a flat haul, making them more stable.

How to Keep Your Kayak Stable

It can be challenging for big and tall guys to maintain top fishing kayak stability. To be able to keep them stable, the first thing you must know is that kayaks operate like bicycles. The more you paddle, the more stable it becomes.

However, you have to stop the kayak to fish. So, how do you do it without increasing your chances of capsizing? Well, the answer is simple. Anchor your kayak. It’ll keep your boat stable and prevent it from drifting with currents and wind.

Also, avoid leaning on one side of the kayak to prevent capsizing. An excellent trick to use for this is ensuring your nose is always over your belly buttons.

Conclusion

Now that you know what to look for in a fishing kayak, you can confidently purchase the most suitable kayak for your long-awaited fishing trip with family or friends. It could be a VK-21 LION or a VK-11 GRACE. They have the best features and performance. However, don’t limit yourself to these options because there are many fishing kayaks suitable for big peddlers. Always remember that investing in a quality kayak improves your experience.

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