Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks: 8 Best Two Person Kayaks Pros & Cons Reviewed
The best tandem fishing kayak is a suitable option, preferably for parents who like to fish with their kids or friends looking forward to pitching on one vessel instead of investing in two or couples who wish to spend some quality time together. The idea is to ensure that you get along with the person with whom you decide to paddle.
Shopping for the best tandem fishing kayaks can be quite a daunting task, especially if you look at the price tag. Fortunately, you are smart enough and decided to do your homework before making a purchase. Here, we have compiled the tandem fishing kayak reviews from several hundreds of paddlers from around the world to aid your quest.
Quickly Navigate Through The Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks
- Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks
- Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews
- Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
- Sevylor Coleman Colorado Two-Person Fishing Kayak
- Vanhunks Voyager Deluxe Kayak 12ft
- BKC UH-TK181 12-Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak
- Lifetime Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak
- Intex Excursion Professional Series Inflatable Kayak
- Elkton Outdoors Tandem Fishing Kayak, 12.2 Feet
- Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T 12 Foot Tandem Angler And Recreational Two Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak With 2 Seats + Flush Rod Holders
- Kayak Buyer’s Guide – What To Look For In The Best Tandem Fishing Kayak ?
- Should One Use A Two-Person Fishing Kayak?
- FAQs
- Bottom Line
Best Two Person Fishing Kayak Reviews
| Product | Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak |
4.5 |
Buy Now |
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Two-Person Fishing Kayak |
4.2 |
Buy Now |
Vanhunks Voyager Deluxe Kayak 12ft |
4.4 |
Buy Now |
BKC UH-TK181 12-Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Lifetime Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak |
3.8 |
Buy now |
Intex Excursion Professional Series Inflatable Kayak |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Elkton Outdoors Tandem Fishing Kayak, 12.2 feet |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T 12 Foot Tandem Angler and Recreational Two Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak with 2 Seats + Flush Rod Holders |
4.3 |
Buy Now |
Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews
1. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
At number one in our best two person kayak for fishing list is the Intex Explorer K2. This best tandem fishing kayak is inflatable and very lightweight. For an inflatable priced under $100, this one is indeed a great buy. For people shopping on a budget, this one is a good buy if you wish to add some experience to your fishing world.
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$111.08 |
4.5 |
Buy Now |
Key Features
- Comfortable and inflatable seats
- Inflatable beam floor for rigidity
- Two separate air chambers
- Has boston valves that allows easy deflation and inflation
- Vinyl construction that is puncture-resistant
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
It is one of the best two person kayaks for fishing for someone who is on a budget. Regardless of its low price, it is quite a quality inflatable kayak and will do the job well.
What do we not like about this kayak?
It is a barebone kayak, this means that there are no mounts for fishing accessories at all. However, for a price lower than $100, what more could you expect?
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Cons
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This is a good pick for anyone who wants the best 2 person kayak for fishing on a budget. However, we do not recommend it for someone going on a long trip because it has only limited storage space. However, reading the tandem fishing kayak reviews for this one, we can say that it does a fab job of getting you in the middle of the river or a lake for a fun fishing session.
2. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Two-Person Fishing Kayak
The next best two person kayak for fishing is the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Two-Person Fishing Kayak. The primary issue that most people experience when picking the best tandem fishing kayak is transport and storage. These curtail your choices, especially if you do not have enough space at home or the capacity to bring with you a large kayak to your most preferred fishing spot. So, what is the ideal solution? You opt for inflatable kayaks, and what better than the Sevylor Coleman Colorado?
|
$628.41 |
4.2 |
Buy Now |
Key Features
- Trolling motor fitting
- Various attachment and accessory holders
- Air-tight to assure a leak-free fishing experience
- Double-threaded Boston Valve that enables easy deflation and inflation
- NMMA certified
- 18-gauge PVC construction
- Multiple air chambers that enables the kayak to stay inflated in case your kayak is punctured
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
We find this one of the best 2 person kayak for fishing because it is one kayak that lies on the spectrum’s cheaper end. Though it is inflatable, it is very durable owing to its superior construction and the materials used. For an inflatable kayak, the kayak’s maximum carrying capacity is pretty good at 470 pounds, which is adequate to accommodate two people and enable you to stock your fishing gear.
What we do not like about this product
First and foremost, this kayak does not come with paddles, which we believe is a bit of a shady way of pushing the trolling motor. If you do not already own 96-inch oars or one longer than that, you might want to reconsider buying this kayak and consider other kayaks from our list of best tandem fishing kayaks. However, if you like standing up when fishing, this should not be your pick because it does not offer the requisite stability to help you with it.
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Cons
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Thus, if you are on a budget and wish to go tandem fishing with your friend, this kayak is an excellent pick. You really have to be hard-pressed to find a better kayak at this price point.
3. Vanhunks Voyager Deluxe Kayak 12ft
The next best 2 person kayak for fishing that you can consider is the Vanhunks Voyager Deluxe Family Tandem kayak. It is an excellent kayak designed to accommodate two adults and a child, along with some extra baggage when you are out on an exploration. This kayak can be used by a single person too. For this, you can use the Vanhunks padded adjustable seat. Hence, with this kayak, you get the best of both worlds.
|
$693.58 |
4.4 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Molded-in Fishing Rod Holders
- Comes with a US Coast Guard-complaint hull identification number
- Style: Sit-on-Top
- Length: 12ft / 370cm
- Roto-moulded: 5mm Polyethylene Design
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 250kg / 551lbs
- You can use two different adjustable seats – Vanhunks Standard Seats or the Vanhunks Deluxe seats
- Width: 81cm/ 32inches, Length: 370cm/ 12ft, weight: 35kg/ 77lbs, height: 37cm/ 15inches
- Lifetime warranty is offered on the Vanhunks Kayak Hull and a 12month factory manufacturing warranty on all other parts and components.
- Inserts and fixtures secured with marine grade captive brass inserts and stainless steel bolts
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
This is the best 2 person kayak for fishing because it is super stable and comfortable. Thus, it is an excellent pick for the lake, ocean, or river. Moreover, it also has a comfortable carry handle on each side and on both the kayak ends. This makes it easy for you to carry it on the water’s edge.
What do we not like ?
The only problem with this kayak is that it is a heavyweight kayak. Thus, it is less mobile, and the extra length of the kayak only means that you will need more storage space than needed in other two person kayaks.
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Cons
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4. BKC UH-TK181 12-Foot Tandem Fishing Kayak
BKC UH-TK181 is the next best two person kayak for fishing. The kayak comes with approximately 68 pounds and has four carrying handles, which make it easy to transport by a few people.
This one is also the best two person kayak for fishing because it can decently hold two people. The maximum capacity it can accommodate is 450 pounds. This also comes with additional storage at the back seat and a large rear compartment with a bungee tie-down system. The kayak is easy to maneuver. It has a well-balanced hull and a sound tracking system, which keeps it stable in the rough waters.
The kayak also has two deluxe seats, multiple footrests, two lightweight aluminium paddles, and two bungee paddle rests.
|
$827 |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews & Key Features
- Length: 12.5 ft
- Width: 30 inches
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Capacity: 450 pounds
Why did we include it in our list of best tandem fishing kayaks ?
We feel this is the best two person fishing kayak because it has a good tracking system, multiple foot rests, and deluxe seats.
Why do we not like this kayak?
The only problem with this kayak is that it is quite expensive, and it comes with a low maximum weight capacity.
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Cons
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5. Lifetime Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak
Next best two person kayak for fishing that we recommend to you is the Lifetime fishing kayak. It is a great entry option for new kayakers and comes in a single version. The durable and rock-solid construction of the blow-molded from high-density polyethylene adds to its durability and strength. This one is indeed very stable, and with its flat hull, it assures a decent tracking. The kayak comes with multiple footrests that are designed, keeping in view the paddler’s comfort. More so, its 6-inch storage hatch to the stern is also likable. Its two padded backrests and three fishing pole holders make it pleasant. The kayak has a maximum holding capacity of 500 lbs. So, it will comfortably accommodate you, your partner, and your gear.
|
$700.00 |
3.8 |
Buy now |
Key features
- 5-year limited warranty from Lifetime
- Multiple footrest positions
- Blow-molded from HDP
- Great strength and durability
- Excellent tracking
- Increased stability
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
This one is a lightweight kayak and weighs nothing more than 66 pounds. However, this one is designed like a tank. In our view, you have to be outright unlucky or incredibly clumsy to have this kayak tip over or sink. The kayak is known for its unparalleled stability.
What do we not like about this product?
The stability offered by the kayak is pretty comfortable for a tandem kayak. However, it does have a few drawbacks. The higher weight means that it may not be as fast as the other kayaks on our list. Moreover, the seats are not as comfortable as you may want them to be. However, this can be resolved by shopping for different seats that come with more comfortable padding.
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Stable, sturdy, and rugged, this is indeed the best two person kayak for fishing at its price. If you do not want to have a partner with you on the kayak, you can even take your dog along for a good company.
6. Intex Excursion Professional Series Inflatable Kayak
The next best two person fishing kayak is the Intex Excursion Pro fishing kayak. It is a top-notch mid-priced two-seater kayak and is equipped with several high-end features that justify the price. Fishers will love the mounting bracket for their fishing accessories, and the integrated fishing rod holders enable hands-free angling.
It comes with two skegs, a deeper one that ensures directional stability and a shallow one that enables you to explore further. The I-beam floor offers better rigidity and high-pressure. The spring-loaded valves assure quick deflation and inflation.
With this kayak, you also get a pressure gauge, which allows accurate inflation. The two paddles, a hi-output pump, and a carry bag also come with this kayak. There is abundant storage in the bow and stern with D-Rings that secure the gear.
|
$519.99 |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Key features
- Built-in mounting brackets
- Shallow water skeg
- Fishing rod holders
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
It comes with a removable bracket to support additional hardware, such as GPS and fish finder. The kayak is engineered with super-tough laminated PVC with a polyester core, which makes it durable and lightweight.
What do we not like?
The weight allowed is only 400 lbs. Though durable, it is not going to be as sturdy as the hard-shell kayak.
Pros
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Cons
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It is a great inflatable kayak, which comes at a reasonable price. This one is ideal for fishing in the calmer waters. So, you do not have to dig a hole in your pocket.
7. Elkton Outdoors Tandem Fishing Kayak, 12.2 feet
Though there are many generic Tandem Kayaks, this one is way ahead of plenty of them and has made its way to our best tandem fishing kayak. Though pricey, it is worth your money.
|
– |
4.4 |
Buy now |
Key Features
- Built to last a lifetime
- Two storage areas on both ends of the kayak
- Air-tight storage compartment
- Dimensions and weight let it fit easily onto the bed of a truck or trailer
- Packed with accessories
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
Elkton Outdoors has included everything that they could to make it the best tandem fishing kayak to ensure that you could get every fishing accessory on the board. It has adequate space to fit in two people comfortably. There is also adequate space between the two seats for maximum comfort.
What we do not like about this ?
Though this is one of the best two person fishing kayaks, it does have a flip-side. The brand bills its seats as “premium adjustable seats” there have been quite a few complaints about the seats being flimsy. Moreover, the seats are quite difficult to set up. Moreover, the kayak’s shipping weight is already 72 pounds, but when it is rigged and ready to go, the kayak weighs approximately 90-100 pounds. Though some anglers like heavier and bulkier kayaks, it is still something you should know. It is indeed one of the most expensive ones on our list. A large reason for its high price is the extras that you get with this kayak.
Pros
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Cons
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All the standard features you get with this kayak make it an attractive option for a veteran and a newbie angler.
8. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T 12 Foot Tandem Angler and Recreational Two Person Sit On Top Fishing Kayak with 2 Seats + Flush Rod Holders
Next in our best 2 person kayak for fishing is the Skipjack 120T Tandem fishing kayak. It is ready to double your fun adventure for a lifetime. It is stable, lightweight, and has adequate space to accommodate you and your partner. The kayak has a load capacity of 500 pounds, and its two journey paddles assure due comfort. There is also waterproof storage where you can keep your phone and keys. It is a good kayak for all skill types.
|
$699.99 |
4.3 |
Buy Now |
Key features
- Comes with three seats
- 12-foot Skipjack 120T has a pair of built-in water-resistant seats
- Open slip-resistant hull that allows easy getting on and off the kayak
- Performs well in rivers, lakes, surf, and ponds
- 500 Pounds of Load Capacity
- 4 Fishing Rod Holders
- 2 Paddle Parks + 2 Easy Access Paddle Rests
What do we like about this best two person fishing kayak?
This best tandem fishing kayak has been engineered for safety. It tracks all types of conditions and waters smoothly. The leak-proof, single-piece, durable construction, along with in-built buoyancy, assures peace of mind and safety. Since the design of the hull is sleek, it ensures nimble and fast-tracking to help you reach your destination fast. Moreover, with the cushions and backrests, your comfort is assured. It also has foot braces for any size person, 2 easy-access cup holders, paddle parks, and 4 molded-in comfort grip handles for easy transport.
What do we not like?
Even though being one of the best tandem fishing kayaks, it will not be the best pick for harsh weather conditions.
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Cons
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Kayak Buyer’s Guide – What to Look for In the Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks?
Tracking and stability
In the pleasant world of kayaking, tracking means the ease of controlling and steering the vessel. Though this technique may demand a lot of practice, the kayak design has an active role to play in this. The same applies to stability. The best two person fishing kayak will be the one that holds against the sharp turns, waves, and your weight, along with the weight of the catch.
Storage space
The ideal best two person kayak for fishing requires to have ample storage space. It is another essential feature that you need to look for when shopping for the best tandem fishing kayak. Your vessel must have adequate room to accommodate the baits, rods, catch, and other gear. A kayak that has a waterproof storage hatch is absolutely handy in this case. In kayaks, space is always a problem. Thus, you need to prioritize and organize what you want to carry.
Comfortable seating
Kayaks require quite a lot of your body movements. In this case, fishing can be quite exhausting too. Hence, to make your experience enjoyable with the best tandem fishing kayak, you should ensure some comfort. It is possible only if you have a comfortable seat for yourself. If you have a good seat, you can allow your back to arch right. The seat should have a headrest, and it should come with decent padding.
Multiple rod holders
Fishing rods tend to get all tangled up. Thus, it would help if you were very well-organized. It is what multiple rod holders are for; they help you keep all the rods within your reach and keep them secure. They can come as an accessory or are in-built in some of the best tandem fishing kayaks. The installation can be further elevated by the employment of extenders, which you can buy separately.
Multiple footrests
Paddling needs stamina. Most of the stamina comes from bracing your legs for every stroke. The best tandem fishing kayak design incorporates adjustable non-slip footrests. The surface should also be multiple to enable it to account for different body postures. It gives you better control of the kayak.
Fish finder attachment
It is one of the best accessories that will prove to be incredibly helpful in your fishing trip. It is a smart technology that will always help you point in the right spot. For this, you will require a more extensive onboard fish finder or a waterproof smartphone; both of these will need an attachment accessory.
Cost
As in all kayaks, or every product you buy, cost does play a major role in helping you make a choice. In our view, you should always opt for the best 2 person kayak for fishing in your budget. However, you have to be a bit sensible while making a choice. If you have never used a paddle or cast a rod before, buying the top-notch Hobie is something you need to refrain from doing. In that case, going with the cheaper model seems more reasonable. See, you need to understand that both of them will get the job done for you, and there is no shame in going for a cheaper model.
Other Features
Fishing kayaks come packed with all these listed important and some not-so-important features that lure you into making a purchase. There are a few things that you may need, while others you do not while selecting the best tandem fishing kayak.
Having the option of mounting an additional accessory, such as a fish finder or GPS for kayaks, can be a good value addition, especially if you are planning to get more serious about kayak angling. The ability to attach a trolling motor is another thing to consider. However, before you add any bells and whistles to your kayak, question yourself – Do you need that? Would you ever use that additional feature in the future? Always weigh in your options and then decide what may be beneficial to you, now and in the long run.
Why Should You Use A Two-Person Fishing Kayak?
Fishing kayaks is one investment that you will never regret. Having said that, picking the best tandem fishing kayak may not be easy. To help you make a decision, we have come up with some of the merits and demerits of investing in the best tandem fishing kayak.
Advantages
- The tandem design is excellent for student-trainer arrangement.
- High speed ensured because of two paddlers
- More room to stack accessories and gear
- Better stability than a one person kayak
- When you have a partner to accompany, you do not feel lonely.
Helps you fight loneliness- by having a partner accompany you
Disadvantages
- Heavier than the other kayaks
- Not easy to steer because of the additional resistance that comes from the added length
- Usually pricier than the solo models
Best Two Person Fishing Kayaks: FAQs
Ques 1. What is necessary for an excellent Tandem Fishing Kayak?
Ans. After doing several tandem fishing kayak reviews, we have concluded that the best tandem fishing kayak can balance practical features in good locations. They come with adequate storage for two people and have comfortable seating with roomy leg space. Another option that you may look for in the best tandem fishing kayak is customizing the kayak in the future. For instance, there should be an option for you to include features, such as a pedal drive, GPS, fishfinder, or a trolling motor in the future if needed. However, it is not a mandatory inclusion. You surely need adequate space to accommodate two people to cast a fishing pole without hooking each other’s ears, which can, and at times does not happen.
In short, when you look for a tandem fishing kayak, you need to look for one with good hardware, comfortable seating, adequate space, and decent storage.
Ques 2: Can I Use a Tandem Kayak Solo?
Ans. Well, yes, you can. If you opt for a decent tandem kayak, it will be ideal for solo users who can benefit from the added storage options and added space without having a partner on board. There is also a choice for you to take your family pet along if you wish to enjoy a day out with them on the water. However, you need to know that there are a few tandem kayaks, which are more preferred for solo use than others. They tend to come with exquisitely adapted hulls, which prevent the kayak from rising out of the water when one peddler is on board.
Even though a single person can comfortably pilot all the tandem kayaks, if you think that you will use it solo more often than with a partner, you can consider opting for a tandem fishing kayak is primarily designed for solo use only. Do go through the tandem fishing kayak reviews beforeusing it solo in order to have realistic expectations.
What makes fishing kayaks so pricey?
One thing that every one of you may have noticed through these tandem fishing kayak reviews is that the best tandem fishing kayaks are a bit on the pricier side. It is predominantly because of the materials they are made from, and the accessories that they use, such as hollow seats, nice pedal systems, among other things. Honestly, you do not need all of these accessories, but all the manufacturers are adding it, and the customers agree with the consequent price increase. As the special materials are designed keeping durability in mind, the cost of manufacturing is on the higher side.
Final Word Based on Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews
Let us conclude by saying tandem kayak fishing is indeed a great pastime that you can enjoy with whole of your friends and family or anyone who enjoys chilling on the water. We hope with these tandem fishing kayak reviews, it is easy for you to find the best 2 person kayak for fishing.
Do let us know in the comment section below, which amongst these is your favorite best 2 person kayak for fishing and why. Also, if you have more options to add to the list, you can tell us about that too in the comment box. That is all from us for no. Happy kayaking!