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In the world of angling, the right equipment can make all the difference.
And when it comes to chasing bass, the choice of kayak is paramount.
Check out the top contenders for the title of the “Best Bass Fishing Kayak”, ensuring your next fishing adventure is a “reel” success.
Can’t wait for the winner? My top pick is the Wilderness Systems Radar 135 because of its performance, spacious deck, and customization options.
Top 17 Best Bass Fishing Kayaks Reviewed
1: Wilderness Systems Radar 135 (best overall)
- Length: 13 foot 6 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Depth: 15.5 inches
- Weight: 90 pounds
- Weight capacity: 475 pounds
The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 is the best bass fishing kayak, in my opinion, because of its customizable deck and tri-powered capabilities.
This can be a great choice if you’re looking for versatility, as this kayak can be customized to suit your fishing environment.
It’s compatible with the Helix Motor Drive and Pedal Drive systems (both sold separately), giving you the freedom to choose how you get to your next fishing hole.
It has excellent storage space. And it’s packed with lots of features, including SlideTrax rails.
It’s also compatible with down-imaging and side-scanning sonar fish finders (sold separately), with the built-in transducer scupper.
One thing that this kayak doesn’t have is built-in rod holders. But the gear tracks let you add your own for more convenient positioning.
Pros
- Tri-powered capabilities
- Customizable deck
- Lots of storage
Cons
- No rod holders
2: Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 (best pedal kayak)
- Length: 13 foot 2 inches
- Width: 36 inches
- Weight: 122 pounds (assembled)
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is a large, spacious fishing kayak that features an award-winning pedal drive system. This makes it an excellent choice for trolling for bass, as it’s easy to maintain a consistent speed and it can cover a lot of water.
Being over 13 feet long, this is an ideal kayak for bass fishing in large lakes and bays.
The forward and reverse rotational pedal drive means you can reach your honey hole faster. The included rudder also helps you to maintain direction or hold your position in currents and wind.
The elevated seat is comfortable for all day fishing, with added lumbar support.
This is a big fishing kayak with plenty of space for gear.
But this is not a lightweight kayak. It’s also pretty expensive.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Award-winning pedal drive
- Great for large lakes
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
3: Perception Outlaw 11.5 (best stand-up fishing kayak)
- Length: 11 foot 6 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Weight: 77 pounds
- Weight capacity: 425 pounds
The Perception Outlaw is an affordable fishing kayak that’s built for stability, with a wide standing platform and deck padding for added grip for safe standing. It won our best standing kayak list.
One of the best features of this fishing kayak is the stowaway seat. This gives you a walkable deck, so you can fish without gear getting in the way.
This is an incredibly stable kayak that’s perfect for bass fishing in lakes, ponds, and flatwater rivers. It’s easy to maneuver both on and off the water.
You’ll find two double-barrel rod holders, bow and stern tankwells, plus several molded trays to store tackle.
The Outlaw isn’t feature-packed but it does have gear tracks in the side carry handles. It also lacks foot braces because of the walkable deck.
Pros
- Made for standing
- Stowaway seat
Cons
- No footrests
> Full Perception Outlaw 11.5 review
4: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 (most stable)
- Length: 12 foot 3 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Depth: 16 inches
- Weight: 86 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
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