Last Updated on August 4, 2022 by Donnell Henderson
One of the strongest lures of fishing as a hobby is the opportunity to be one with nature and relax. Imagine yourself sitting in your kayak in the middle of the lake, listening to the sounds of Mother Earth as you wait for the fish to nibble and pull at your line.
Fishing also brings in that adrenaline rush when you feel a sudden and powerful tug on your hook, and you know it’s going to be a big one—but you know what they say—everything is better with a friend. So, here, we’ve reviewed the best two-person fishing kayaks currently available on the market so that you can take a buddy on your next fishing adventure!
My Top PickIf you’re in a bit of a hurry and don’t want to stick with us to the end, our top pick is the Lifetime 10-Foot Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak. Using their proprietary hull design and features, they packed everything in this kayak, ensuring that you have everything you need on your next fishing adventure.
Tandem Fishing Kayak Reviews
Lifetime 10-Foot Sport Fisher Tandem Kayak
Lifetime is a well-known brand for fishing kayaks, one of them being their tandem model, the Sport Fisher Tandem. This relatively inexpensive and lightweight kayak is durable and robust. Made from high-density polyethylene, it is resistant to the usual wear and tear that affects most kayaks.
Key Features
- Blow-molded from HDP for superior strength and durability
- 5-year limited warranty from Lifetime
- Provides increased stability and excellent tracking
- Multiple footrest positions
- Comes with two double-sided paddles, two padded backrests, three fishing pole holders and a six-foot storage hatch
What We Like About This Product
For a tandem fishing kayak, the Sport Fisher is relatively light at 66 pounds, but it is built like a tank. You will have to be incredibly clumsy or downright unlucky to tip over or sink this kayak with its supreme stability.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
The stability it offers is commendable for a tandem kayak, but it does have its drawbacks. The increased weight means it won’t be as fast as other kayaks on this list. Another issue is that the seats aren’t the most comfortable, but you can resolve this by buying different seats with more comfortable padding.
Pros
- Excellent stability
- Various footrests for fishing leverage
- Multiple fishing pole holders
Cons
- Uncomfortable seats
- Slower than other kayaks due to increased stability
If you want a kayak that has numerous features and is stable and safe, then the Sport Fisher Tandem is definitely for you. The durable build also means that it will last a long time.
Overall Rating – 4.5 of 5
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak
Going on with the trend of inflatables, another excellent kayak is the Intex Explorer K2. This kayak is lightweight even for an inflatable and priced at less than $100. It is the best tandem fishing kayak if you have no money in the bank but want to bring someone along to experience the world of fishing.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl construction
- Two separate air chambers
- Inflatable beam floor for rigidity
- Features Boston Valves for easy inflation and deflation
- Comfortable and inflatable seats
What We Like About This Product
The Intext Explorer K2 Kayak is what it is: a barebones but serviceable kayak for someone on a budget. Despite its low price, it is still a quality inflatable kayak, and it will do its job.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
When we say barebones, we mean there are no mounts for fishing accessories at all, but, again, for less than a $100, what can you expect?
Pros
- The incredibly low price point
- Well-built
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Offers decent maneuverability
Cons
- No fishing accessory mounts
- Little storage space
- Limited to calm lakes or slow-moving rivers
The Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is for those who want to tandem fish on a tight budget. We wouldn’t recommend it for long trips due to the limited storage space, but it will definitely do the job of bringing you to the middle of a lake or river for a quick fishing session and get you back safely.
Overall Rating – 4 of 5
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Two-Person Fishing Kayak
Among the issues that come with purchasing a kayak are storage and transport. These often limit your choices if you don’t have space at home or the capacity to bring a large kayak to your favorite fishing spot. The solution? Inflatable kayaks, particularly the Seylor Coleman Colorado two-person fishing kayak.
Key Features
- 18-gauge PVC construction (NMMA certified)
- Multiple air chambers ensure that this kayak stays inflated in case the kayak is punctured
- Air-tight for a leak-free fishing experience
- Double-threaded Boston Valve for easy inflation and deflation
- Various accessory and attachment holders
- Trolling motor fitting
What We Like About This Product
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is definitely on the cheaper end of this list. Despite being inflatable, it is durable due to the superior construction materials used. Also, for an inflatable, the maximum carrying capacity is impressive at 470 pounds, enough for two people and an appropriate amount of fishing gear.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
First, it doesn’t come with paddles, which, to us, is a shady way of pushing the trolling motor. If you don’t already have 96-inch oars or longer, you might want to reconsider this kayak. Moreover, if you like to stand up when fishing, this inflatable kayak doesn’t provide enough stability for that.
Pros
- Superior construction
- Inflatable
- Easy storage and transport
- Multiple accessory and attachment holders
- Space to add a trolling motor
Cons
- Unstable
- Doesn’t come with paddles
If you’re on a budget and want to go tandem fishing with a buddy, this kayak is at an excellent budget point. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better one at this price.
Overall Rating – 4 of 5
Old Town Twin Heron Angler Tandem Kayak
Buying a kayak from a manufacturer that’s been around for over 120 years means you’re going to get only the best as far as quality and innovation are concerned. Old Town Canoe doesn’t fail us with their Twin Heron Angler Kayak, which they filled to the brim with fishing features.
Key Features
- Features Old Town’s proprietary Auto Trim hull design for improved stability
- Removable and adjustable seats to modify the kayak for your trip’s needs
- Features Comfort Flex seats that provide improved support and comfort
- “Glide Track” foot brace system for better leverage
- Six rod mount receivers and two Cannon rod holders
What We Like About This Product
If we don’t look at the features, the manufacturer alone will make us purchase this kayak because of their long legacy of craftsmanship and innovation in the industry. The kayak is feature-rich and an exquisitely looking kayak, whether you want to use it for tandem fishing or alone.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
There’s nothing we can complain about in this kayak; it’s stable, and it has all the features you can ask for in a tandem kayak. We do have to say that it is on the higher end when it comes to the prices of kayaks we reviewed, but it is worth it.
Pros
- Multiple rod mounts and holders
- Feature-rich
- Proprietary Old Town design
- Spacious
Cons
- Pricey
We may sound a bit like fanboys when reviewing this kayak, but, if you removed the name and just looked at the features, it would stand on its own merits as a high-quality tandem kayak that is well worth its price.
Overall Rating – 5 of 5
Brooklyn Kayak Company TK122 Tandem Fishing Kayak
One of the most important things to look for when searching for the best two-person fishing kayak is stability. The BKC TK122 brings that to the table with a wide, flat bottom for balance in different water conditions and a high maximum load. It’s a definite frontrunner in this list.
Key Features
- 9 feet long and 77 pounds with a wide, flat bottom for increased stability
- Stable in multiple water conditions with a maximum load of 770 pounds
- Built-in Rotomolded handles for secure grip and portability
- Large storage capacity
- Upright and comfortable seats
What We Like About This Product
The stability and ample storage space of the TK122 are its most noteworthy features. The maximum load of 770 pounds means that, regardless of how heavily built you and your friend are, you’ll still have enough leeway for equipment.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
There’s very little to complain about in the TK122, except maybe for the dry box latches, which are made from inferior-quality plastic. They’re easily broken but easy enough to replace, and the company’s customer service is terrific about it. Still, for a relatively obscure company, this is something they should address.
Pros
- Stable in different water conditions
- Can easily be transported
- Large storage capacity
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Dry box latches are flimsy
- Doesn’t have fishing accessory holders
Buying a kayak from a relatively unknown company is a pretty significant risk, but we are sure that BKC will make a name for themselves in quick fashion. This reasonably-priced tandem kayak is worth your consideration.
Overall Rating – 4 of 5
Bluewave Convoy
Whoever said that you have to choose between comfort and style probably never saw the Bluewave Convoy. The stylish tandem kayak comes in multiple vibrant colors, but don’t let its outward appearance fool you. It has plenty of features that make it a formidable tandem kayak worthy of your consideration.
Key Features
- Two-person sit-on-top kayak with extra space for an additional small person
- Multiple rod holders (two flush and two swivel-mounted rods)
- Two waterproof storage hatches
- Comes with two comfortable padded seats and two paddles
- Max load of 480 pounds
What We Like About This Product
The build and design of the Bluewave Convoy are unique, the material used is sturdy, and it is quite spacious for a tandem vessel. There’s enough space for a child if you want to bring one along on your fishing adventure.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
It is at the pricier end of this list, and, while it does look fantastic, there are cheaper alternatives available with similar features. Regardless, this kayak remains competitive.
Pros
- Multiple accessory holders and mounts
- Can fit up to three people: two adults and one child
- Large storage space
Cons
- Pricey
- Relatively unknown manufacturer
If you’re looking for a flashy kayak for the family, then the Bluewave Convoy is worth considering. It comes with all the standard features of kayaks, and it ensures you can bring your family along to enjoy the hobby that you love.
Overall Rating – 4 of 5
Elkton Outdoors Tandem Fishing Kayak
There are a lot of generic Tandem Kayaks out there with very little to set them apart. Elkton Outdoors decided that their tandem kayak would be different and would float head and shoulders above the rest. The manufacturer ensured that their vessel would be named among the best tandem fishing kayaks on the market.
Key Features
- Constructed to last a lifetime with its Rotomold injected body
- Two carry handles allow for easy transportation
- Dimensions and weight let it fit easily onto the bed of a truck or trailer
- Air-tight storage compartment, two storage areas on both ends of the kayak
- Packed with accessories
What We Like About This Product
Elkton Outdoors jammed everything they could into their tandem fishing kayak to ensure that you could bring any fishing accessory on board. It is a true tandem kayak with enough space for two people to fit comfortably inside. There’s even space between the two seats for some more gear or a cooler.
What We Don’t Like About This Product
This kayak is on the high end of this list, but that’s the price you have to pay for all the accessories added to it. The added gear also comes with the drawback of it being incredibly massive and therefore quite challenging to paddle if you do end up using it alone. It requires two people paddling to move this beast through the water.
Pros
- Built to last a lifetime
- Has everything except the kitchen sink
- Spacious
- Lots of storage space
Cons
- Pricey
- Massive with all the gear loaded
All the standard features that come with this kayak makes it worth the price, and it is an attractive option whether you’re a newbie or a veteran angler.
Overall Rating – 5 of 5
Tandem Fishing Kayak Buying Guide
Buying a tandem fishing kayak can be a daunting task, especially when you consider that you’re purchasing something not just for yourself but also for your friend or family member that you will be taking with you. If you’re looking for a kayak that is more portable and flexible, check out these awesome river fishing kayaks. Before you stress about the different features you need to consider, we’ve come up with a buying guide to help you make your decision.
SINK or SOT
Sit- in kayak or sit on top—all kayaks fall into one of these categories, and you’ll have to choose which one you’re more comfortable using. Most anglers prefer the SOT design as it gives more mobility and space to move around your kayak. Note that there is a higher chance of getting wet while on a SOT kayak compared to a SINK. The latter also has more storage capacity as the cockpit takes less space.
Kayak Dimensions
The dimensions of a kayak are crucial as, outside of design, these dictate the overall stability, speed, tracking, and maneuverability of your boat. For example, a wider kayak provides increased stability while a longer kayak will move faster and has better tracking. Moreover, if you’re looking to do ocean fishing, the size of the kayak is vital as it has to be stable enough so that you’re not constantly tossed around by waves.
Storage and portability also go hand in hand with the dimensions of your kayak. You have to be practical with the size of your kayak; only purchase a large craft if you have a dedicated trailer and storage space at home. Otherwise, exposing it to the elements and leaving it outside will cause unnecessary wear and tear.
Fishing Accessory Holders and Mounts
If you’re an experienced angler, you know how important it is to have a fish finder and a GPS on board your kayak, especially on long trips. You’ll need to make sure your chosen kayak has a built-in GPS mount and a scupper transducer mount. The best tandem fishing kayak should have these along with multiple rod holders to ensure the best kayaking experience possible for you and your fishing buddy.
Comfort
Sitting on a kayak for hours on end can be a pain in the behind—literally. So, make sure that your seats are comfortable and adjustable and provide adequate support for your back and your hindquarters. There are also seats that you can adjust to help you reel in a catch.
Speaking of helping you catch fish, your kayak should also have multiple or adjustable footrests on board. These provide you with the leverage you need to fight with those big catches and help reel in those bad boys.
Storage Space
The storage space should be among your top considerations as well, especially if you take long fishing trips with a friend. Make sure that you have enough storage space for your food and the fish you catch along with tackle boxes. There are kayaks on the market that have built-in tackle boxes outside of a storage area, so you have more space for things like a cooler if you want to enjoy a cold one while waiting for the fish to bite.
Motor, Paddles, or Pedals
Kayaks come with either paddles or pedals and choosing between these mostly depends on preference. If you wish to have increased stability and convenience, you should look for kayaks that have a motor mount.
Final Thoughts
The titleholder of best tandem fishing kayak is relative—it depends on you. As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder; the best yak is the one that fits your needs. You can buy the most expensive kayak on this list, but if it’s too bulky or you aren’t able to transport it correctly, it’s not the best for you.
Make use of our buying guide and determine what matters to you, and cross-reference that with what’s available in the market. Heck, the best tandem kayak for you might not even be on our list, but we hope this article helped you in your quest to find the right one for your needs.
