The best kayak for river fishing needs plenty of accessories and rod holders. Or if you\u2019re looking for the best kayak for river camping, dry storage space may be the most important feature. But the best kayak for river touring needs to be swift with superb tracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which river kayak is right for you? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best River Kayaks<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBest sit-on-top River Kayak: Perception Pescador Pro 12<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Perception](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Pescador-Pilot-12.0-705x252.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe wide and comfortable seat makes the Pescador Sit-On-Top a comfortable ride <\/strong>regardless of how tall you are. The seat can be personalized and is ergonomically padded<\/strong>, making it one of the more comfortable kayaks out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s a roomy watertight stern hatch<\/strong> (a rarity among sit-on-top models) as well as plenty of open-air storage thanks to strategically placed deck bungees. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSpecific engineering decisions make it one of the most stable<\/strong> kayaks thanks to its built-in buoyancy. A great choice for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Very comfortable<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Excellent durability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Two rod holders built into the hull<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our honest Perception Pescador Pro 12 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest All-Around River Kayak: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Wilderness-Sytems-Pungo_120-705x148.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nCapable of short overnight trips<\/strong>, the Pungo 120 is a versatile and well-made craft. It boasts impressive top speed and top-notch tracking thanks to the sleek and narrow design that gets you where you want to go as quickly as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s also stocked with extra features. A dashboard<\/strong> has been installed along with a custom-fit seating system that will keep most people comfortable. But the narrow design may feel a little cramped for those with longer legs. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTop deck storage is abundant with deck bungees installed on both sides of the cockpit while the stern hatch is large enough to fit your camping gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Good tracking in rough or windy conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Small cockpit opening<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Great craft for fishing, touring, or recreation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Inflatable River Kayak: Advanced Frame Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/advanced-elements-advanced-frame-side-view.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nAn inflatable kayak is never going to give you the performance or durability of a hard-sided kayak. But the Advanced Frame kayak provides competent toughness<\/strong> thanks to the puncture-resistant vinyl and two air chambers.<\/p>\n\n\n\nStorage space is often hard to come by for inflatables, but the Advanced Frame has a large bungee net <\/strong>stretched across the bow which should fit all your day trip needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAdd in that the Advanced Frame is a fraction of the price<\/strong> of most hard-sided river kayaks and you have a reliable and stable introductory vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Easy set-up and takedown<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can be stored virtually everywhere<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pooled water can start to smell if not put away properly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest River Kayak for Beginners: Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Sun](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/aruba-8-ss-kayak.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSun Dolphin has built a reputation for creating stable, user-friendly kayaks. The Aruba Sit-In kayak is no different. Perfectly tailored to newcomers<\/strong>, this boat offers one of the most stable rides<\/strong> thanks to its hull design. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA large watertight stern storage hatch is great value in this price range as are the two flush-mounted rod holders that make it possible to fish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Storage space and fishing rod holders are great value<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Covered central console<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spray skirt compatible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Aruba 8 SS\u202freview.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Sit-in River Kayak: Old Town Dirigio 106<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Old](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Dirigo-106-705x397.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nA sleek, good-looking kayak, the Dirigio 106 paddles as good as it looks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s a stable and responsive boat that\u2019s easy to paddle although some more inexperienced paddlers may struggle with the tracking in windy scenarios. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are two dry storage hatches<\/strong>. One in the stern and a smaller one in the bow along with a drink holder and the cockpit is wide enough to fit most paddlers comfortably. A well-placed bungee holder keeps your paddle secure when it\u2019s not in use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Only 46 pounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fantastic aesthetics, looks gorgeous on the water<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can be outfitted with a rod holder for fishing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget river Kayak: Aquaglide Yakima<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Aquaglide](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Aquaglide-705x496.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nIf you\u2019re looking for the best bargain, chances are you\u2019ll be in the market for an inflatable kayak. <\/strong>But that doesn\u2019t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Aquaglide\u2019s Yakima is a well-made and durable<\/strong> inflatable that is one of the most stable inflatable<\/strong> river kayaks out there. <\/p>\n\n\n\nA good choice for beginners or younger paddlers, it comes with a patch kit for any accidental bumps or punctures. But the Boston valves are surprisingly tough with proper maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Cheap and stable <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Should be used on mellow rivers only<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- One of the longer inflatable kayaks (11 feet)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Large 400-pound load capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Lightweight river Kayak: Dagger Zydeco 9.0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Dagger](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Zideco-9.0-1-705x269.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nWith a stubby profile, the Dagger Zydeco is a lot of fun to paddle<\/strong>. Highly maneuverable it can handle and steer around obstacles that would stymie other kayaks. For rough water it\u2019s easy to install a spray skirt to keep waves out of the cockpit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nJust nine feet long, the Zydeco weighs just 36 pounds<\/strong> when empty, making it easy to transport solo. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBut you can\u2019t have everything. The compact design means there\u2019s virtually no storage space <\/strong>and some longer-legged paddlers may find it hard to squeeze into the cockpit.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOn calmer water, it can struggle to track in wind and waves and you\u2019ll be disappointed with its top speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- At its best on choppy rivers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Portable and easy to transport<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Low top speed and no storage space limit it day excursions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best River Fishing Kayak: Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Vibe](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Vibe-Sea-Ghost-130\u202fon-both-sides.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nVibe produces just one type of kayak, but they do it very well. One of their best angling models is the Sea Ghost 130.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a 500-pound load capacity the Sea Ghost is capable of both day or multi-day trips<\/strong>. The \u201chero seat\u201d design is so comfortable you may consider replacing your recliner with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe boat is stocked with custom features<\/strong> all geared toward catching fish. Multiple \u201cgear tracks\u201d can accommodate most fishing gear. But the eye-catching addition is the watertight central console complete with a mount on top where a GPS or fish finder can be installed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Host of customization options to tailor your boat to your specific needs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Very stable but manages to maintain acceptable speed and tracking<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A little bulk and heavy makes transportation challenging<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Vibe Sea Ghost 130 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Tandem Kayak for Rivers: Vibe Skipjack 120T<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Skipjack](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Vibe-Skipjack-120-705x362.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOriginally designed for tandem fishing<\/strong>, the Skipjack is an impressive enough design to warrant consideration for non-fishing related adventures too.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith the same 500-pound load capacity of the Sea Ghost 130, the Skipjack can carry two paddlers comfortable with room for a small child or dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll find the same comfortable seats that Vibe is known for, and if you want to use it for its original purpose, you\u2019ll find four fishing rod holders and two mounts for fish finders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like most tandems it\u2019s stable but remains nimble <\/strong>and sleek enough to maintain tracking and speed in calm to moderate conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Built paddle holders and accessory mounts for fishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Comes with two paddles<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Heavy for its size<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lack of watertight storage limits it to day trips<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best river Kayak for touring & camping: Perception Rhythm 11.0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Diseno-sin-titulo-1.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAt home on lakes and rivers, the Perception Rhythm kayak is stable enough for beginners<\/strong> with enough storage <\/strong>to satisfy more experienced paddlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe well-padded seat keeps you comfortable all day while the generous stern hatch<\/strong> is big enough to fit your camping gear. The hatch isn\u2019t always watertight though, so bring a spare dry bag for an extra layer of protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWith a load capacity of 275 pounds, the Rhythm should have enough storage space to accommodate long weekend trips as long as you pack efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Sleek and efficient design<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Open bulkhead adds buoyancy and stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Longer keel (11-feet) for improved tracking and stability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How to Choose the Best River Kayak for you<\/h2>\n\n\n\nKnow the Class of the River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
River conditions are broken down into six classifications<\/strong>. The first two classifications are considered \u201ceasy\u201d and can be handled by most kayaks and canoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\nConditions are generally moderate, defined by few or no waves, wide channels, and easy maneuvering<\/strong>. It\u2019s important to note that conditions can change due to rain, snowmelt, and other variables.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe boats listed in the review above are meant for more placid rivers<\/strong> as opposed to whitewater conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re interested in paddling on more dynamic and challenging rivers that are class II rapids or higher, you\u2019ll need a more specialized<\/a> whitewater kayak and a more complete collection of safety gear<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nConsider What You Plan to Do Most<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The most important decision you have to make when buying a river kayak is figuring out what sort of paddling you want to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do you see yourself doing a lot of fishing? How about overnight trips? Are you just looking for something to use on the occasional weekend outing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While you can find boats that can fill all these niches, more versatile boats are more expensive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inflatable vs. Hard-Sided River Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Intex-K1-705x490.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/RHYTHM.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe boat\u2019s material will have a big impact on what sort of trips you\u2019re able to have. Inflatable boats are much easier to store and transport and are cheaper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you won\u2019t get the same performance as a hard-sided which is more stable and durable while providing more storage space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sit-In vs. Sit-On-Top River Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These are the two main design types. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sit-In<\/strong> boats have a \u201ccockpit\u201d that you sit in with your lower body covered by the deck. The lower center of gravity increases stability<\/strong> which allows sit-in hulls to be more streamlined. With a spray skirt<\/strong> you can protect your torso and legs from splashing waves and rain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe wide and comfortable seat makes the Pescador Sit-On-Top a comfortable ride <\/strong>regardless of how tall you are. The seat can be personalized and is ergonomically padded<\/strong>, making it one of the more comfortable kayaks out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s a roomy watertight stern hatch<\/strong> (a rarity among sit-on-top models) as well as plenty of open-air storage thanks to strategically placed deck bungees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Specific engineering decisions make it one of the most stable<\/strong> kayaks thanks to its built-in buoyancy. A great choice for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our honest Perception Pescador Pro 12 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Capable of short overnight trips<\/strong>, the Pungo 120 is a versatile and well-made craft. It boasts impressive top speed and top-notch tracking thanks to the sleek and narrow design that gets you where you want to go as quickly as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also stocked with extra features. A dashboard<\/strong> has been installed along with a custom-fit seating system that will keep most people comfortable. But the narrow design may feel a little cramped for those with longer legs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Top deck storage is abundant with deck bungees installed on both sides of the cockpit while the stern hatch is large enough to fit your camping gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An inflatable kayak is never going to give you the performance or durability of a hard-sided kayak. But the Advanced Frame kayak provides competent toughness<\/strong> thanks to the puncture-resistant vinyl and two air chambers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Storage space is often hard to come by for inflatables, but the Advanced Frame has a large bungee net <\/strong>stretched across the bow which should fit all your day trip needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Add in that the Advanced Frame is a fraction of the price<\/strong> of most hard-sided river kayaks and you have a reliable and stable introductory vessel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sun Dolphin has built a reputation for creating stable, user-friendly kayaks. The Aruba Sit-In kayak is no different. Perfectly tailored to newcomers<\/strong>, this boat offers one of the most stable rides<\/strong> thanks to its hull design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A large watertight stern storage hatch is great value in this price range as are the two flush-mounted rod holders that make it possible to fish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Aruba 8 SS\u202freview.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n A sleek, good-looking kayak, the Dirigio 106 paddles as good as it looks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s a stable and responsive boat that\u2019s easy to paddle although some more inexperienced paddlers may struggle with the tracking in windy scenarios. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two dry storage hatches<\/strong>. One in the stern and a smaller one in the bow along with a drink holder and the cockpit is wide enough to fit most paddlers comfortably. A well-placed bungee holder keeps your paddle secure when it\u2019s not in use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for the best bargain, chances are you\u2019ll be in the market for an inflatable kayak. <\/strong>But that doesn\u2019t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Aquaglide\u2019s Yakima is a well-made and durable<\/strong> inflatable that is one of the most stable inflatable<\/strong> river kayaks out there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A good choice for beginners or younger paddlers, it comes with a patch kit for any accidental bumps or punctures. But the Boston valves are surprisingly tough with proper maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With a stubby profile, the Dagger Zydeco is a lot of fun to paddle<\/strong>. Highly maneuverable it can handle and steer around obstacles that would stymie other kayaks. For rough water it\u2019s easy to install a spray skirt to keep waves out of the cockpit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just nine feet long, the Zydeco weighs just 36 pounds<\/strong> when empty, making it easy to transport solo. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But you can\u2019t have everything. The compact design means there\u2019s virtually no storage space <\/strong>and some longer-legged paddlers may find it hard to squeeze into the cockpit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On calmer water, it can struggle to track in wind and waves and you\u2019ll be disappointed with its top speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vibe produces just one type of kayak, but they do it very well. One of their best angling models is the Sea Ghost 130.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With a 500-pound load capacity the Sea Ghost is capable of both day or multi-day trips<\/strong>. The \u201chero seat\u201d design is so comfortable you may consider replacing your recliner with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The boat is stocked with custom features<\/strong> all geared toward catching fish. Multiple \u201cgear tracks\u201d can accommodate most fishing gear. But the eye-catching addition is the watertight central console complete with a mount on top where a GPS or fish finder can be installed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full Vibe Sea Ghost 130 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Originally designed for tandem fishing<\/strong>, the Skipjack is an impressive enough design to warrant consideration for non-fishing related adventures too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With the same 500-pound load capacity of the Sea Ghost 130, the Skipjack can carry two paddlers comfortable with room for a small child or dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll find the same comfortable seats that Vibe is known for, and if you want to use it for its original purpose, you\u2019ll find four fishing rod holders and two mounts for fish finders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like most tandems it\u2019s stable but remains nimble <\/strong>and sleek enough to maintain tracking and speed in calm to moderate conditions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n At home on lakes and rivers, the Perception Rhythm kayak is stable enough for beginners<\/strong> with enough storage <\/strong>to satisfy more experienced paddlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The well-padded seat keeps you comfortable all day while the generous stern hatch<\/strong> is big enough to fit your camping gear. The hatch isn\u2019t always watertight though, so bring a spare dry bag for an extra layer of protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With a load capacity of 275 pounds, the Rhythm should have enough storage space to accommodate long weekend trips as long as you pack efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n River conditions are broken down into six classifications<\/strong>. The first two classifications are considered \u201ceasy\u201d and can be handled by most kayaks and canoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Conditions are generally moderate, defined by few or no waves, wide channels, and easy maneuvering<\/strong>. It\u2019s important to note that conditions can change due to rain, snowmelt, and other variables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The boats listed in the review above are meant for more placid rivers<\/strong> as opposed to whitewater conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re interested in paddling on more dynamic and challenging rivers that are class II rapids or higher, you\u2019ll need a more specialized<\/a> whitewater kayak and a more complete collection of safety gear<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most important decision you have to make when buying a river kayak is figuring out what sort of paddling you want to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do you see yourself doing a lot of fishing? How about overnight trips? Are you just looking for something to use on the occasional weekend outing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you can find boats that can fill all these niches, more versatile boats are more expensive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The boat\u2019s material will have a big impact on what sort of trips you\u2019re able to have. Inflatable boats are much easier to store and transport and are cheaper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But you won\u2019t get the same performance as a hard-sided which is more stable and durable while providing more storage space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are the two main design types. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sit-In<\/strong> boats have a \u201ccockpit\u201d that you sit in with your lower body covered by the deck. The lower center of gravity increases stability<\/strong> which allows sit-in hulls to be more streamlined. With a spray skirt<\/strong> you can protect your torso and legs from splashing waves and rain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Best All-Around River Kayak: Wilderness Systems Pungo 120<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Inflatable River Kayak: Advanced Frame Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best River Kayak for Beginners: Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Sit-in River Kayak: Old Town Dirigio 106<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget river Kayak: Aquaglide Yakima<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Lightweight river Kayak: Dagger Zydeco 9.0<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best River Fishing Kayak: Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best Tandem Kayak for Rivers: Vibe Skipjack 120T<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Best river Kayak for touring & camping: Perception Rhythm 11.0<\/h3>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Choose the Best River Kayak for you<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Know the Class of the River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Consider What You Plan to Do Most<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Inflatable vs. Hard-Sided River Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSit-In vs. Sit-On-Top River Kayaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Native-Watercraft-Slayer-10-1-705x300.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n