Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132
Courtesy of Old Town
“I primarily fish in the Piscataqua River, one of the fastest navigable rivers worldwide. With the ePDL+, I can fish in currents like never before with any other kayak. It excels at chasing schools of breaking fish in strong currents or exploring new waters. This kayak is a fantastic platform for standing and sight fishing. While striper fishing, I can utilize the motor to reach further and faster than usual. Then, I raise the motor and use a push pole as I fish. Raising the drive for obstacles or shallow areas is a breeze.” —Guide Tim Moore, Tim Moore Outdoors, New Hampshire
Price: $5,999
Native Watercraft TitanX Propel 12.5
Courtesy of Native Watercraft
“The TitanX offers several features that make it perfect for backwater fishing: Propel Pedal Drive (instant, hands-free reverse for fighting fish), exceptional stability (easy to stand and sight fish), Springblade Rudder system (maneuver through cuts and currents in marshes with responsive turns), and under-seat tackle drawer storage (quick access to gear for changing baits). Additionally, anglers can easily add dual Power-Pole Micro Anchors to the stern and a bow-mounted saltwater trolling motor. These additions are lifesavers when holding position on windy days or in strong currents.” —Tyler Brown, Chief Operating Officer, BIG Adventures (parent company of Native Watercraft)
Price: $3,599
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Hobie Mirage Lynx
Courtesy of Hobie
“Many modern kayaks come packed with batteries, electronics, anchors, and trolling motors, leading to questions about how a loaded kayak differs from a one-man skiff. Nevertheless, these setups are immensely popular for a reason. On the other hand, minimalist options remain available for kayak anglers. Hobie’s Mirage Lynx weighs just 47 pounds but employs a MirageDrive 180 with Kick-Up Fins. Similar to a paddleboard, there’s limited built-in storage, but ample opportunity for adding accessories as desired. The Lynx’s flat-bottom design offers both stability and maneuverability — consider the lengthy pedal to fishing spots, often across shallow bars that many kayaks can’t navigate. There’s no better kayak for quick unloading and launching from the roadside.” —Sam Hudson, Senior Editor, Salt Water Sportsman
Price: $3,299