If you decide to go after ducks, you must have the adequate boat to move swiftly and as silently as possible. But what makes the best duck hunting kayak? When purchasing your vessel, you have to ensure that it will provide you with the necessary stability that you need to shoot with accuracy.
So how do you choose the best hunting kayak? Doing so should not be a difficult task as long as you keep in mind some crucial factors. To help you, we analyzed and reviewed several models, taking into consideration some criteria: the type, the weight capacity, the length, the weight, and the warranty provided. All of these affect the kayak’s performance, so it’s vital to find the right balance between them if you want to succeed with your activity. Below, we explained and detailed these criteria. By consulting this article, you are guaranteed to make the right choice!
More features: UV-protected high-density polyethylene, multiple footrest positions, adjustable padded seat, two fishing rod holders, front and rear shock cord straps, two storage compartments, stability chine rails
There are lots of excellent duck hunting kayaks out on the market, and Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 waterfowl kayak is one of them. What is so special about this model? First of all, you will love all its features: it is comfortable and stable, and it will help you hunt efficiently. Its sharp bow construction provides you with excellent tracking features and speed. This way, you can effortlessly glide through the waters and hunt.
Also, its flat hull and wide beam prevent the boat from tipping when you are hunting. You will love two 6″ storage compartments in the center and rear. They help you easily organize and pack your gear. Did we mention that this waterfowl hunting kayak is resistant and strong? It is made from durable high-density polyethylene. It is UV-protected and resistant, and you don’t have to worry about your boat deteriorating even if you are using it under the sun.
What we liked: This kayak’s hunting performance is over the top. You will enjoy it firstly because it is silent. It does not make too much noise when it moves. This way, you don’t need to worry about scaring the birds away. Secondly, you will love the stability it provides because the kayak lets you shoot even if you are standing up.
Additionally, its padded seat comes with an adjustable backrest that will guarantee your comfort when you are sitting and waiting for the right occasion to hunt.
We love the multiple footrest positions available that help benefits from excellent comfort. Also, the material used in its manufacturing is durable, and the product has an excellent warranty period of 5 years.
What could be better: The only regret we have is the fact that it comes in one color.
More features: lightweight design, front and rear shock cord straps, high-density polyethylene, UV-protected, two flush rod holders, adjustable rod holder
It is no wonder why the Lifetime brand appears a second time in our best duck hunting kayak reviews. The manufacturer is known for producing top-quality models, and the Lifetime Hydros Angler Kayak with a Paddle is no exception. Whether you enjoy occasional rides across the water or are an angler, you will love this model because it comes with excellent features. Firstly, it is very affordable. It is the most affordable one here, so you won’t have to spend a huge amount of money to buy it.
Additionally, it has an adequate length that fosters your comfort. Whether you are sitting or standing, you will not experience discomfort when using your gear. You will also love the fact that it boasts a lightweight design. Indeed, this duck hunting kayak only weighs 41 lbs. It can handle loads of up to 225 lbs.
What we liked: Did we mention that this waterfowl hunting kayak is built from a high-density polyethylene? It is sturdy, strong, and can be used without the fear of it getting bad while in use. Also, it is UV-protected, and you can make use of it under the sun without any worries that it will deteriorate. It comes with a paddle that facilitates your gliding in waters.
Additionally, there are two flush rod holders, an adjustable rod holder, as well as front and rear shock cord straps. It provides exceptional stability, and you can hunt with it safely.
What could be better: Unfortunately, the equipment inside might get wet since its bow is really low.
More features: pedal-driven, mesh seat with 2-level adjustment, leak-proof one-piece construction, large front and rear open storage, gear tracks, consoles, and rod holders
Are you looking for a premium kayak for duck hunting? The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 has got you covered. This model boasts a pedal propeller system: the Pilot Drive that facilitates movement on the water. It helps the kayak glide effortlessly, swiftly, and quietly. This way, you can get closer to your prey without scaring them or making them fly away.
This Pilot Drive is also practical because it provides you with the right balance between comfort and simplicity. It is a hand-free propelling kayak, and you don’t need to work out paddles to make it move. This way, you can use your free hands to hold your hunting weapon.
Another great feature of this duck hunting kayak is the fact that its leak-proof one-piece construction prevents water from invading the equipment. This means that you are not constrained and can safely glide through any spot with serenity.
What we liked: The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 kayak is made for long hunting sessions. Its captain chair is specifically designed with ergonomic support, superior cushioning, and a zonal mesh. All these features provide you the adequate comfort you need when you are seated. On top of that, you can adjust the mesh seat according to your liking. This way, you can either tilt your back and the position of your entire seat. Moreover, we love the large front and rear open storage provided, as well as the consoles and rod holders.
What could be better: Many will find its price to be very high, which makes it less accessible. Also, it is a bit heavy.
More features: multi-chine flat bottom hull, removable storage compartment, adjustable footrests, molded carrying handles, drain plug, accessory eyelets, and paddle holders
In terms of hunting comfort, it’s hard to beat the Pelican Sentinel 100X. This model is equipped with an ergonomic, easily adjustable seat. You can benefit from the comfort it provides and set it according to your preferences. Additionally, it possesses adjustable footrest positions that allow you to stretch your legs anytime you need to.
The Pelican Sentinel 100X sit-on-top kayak is mostly aimed at beginners, whether kids or adults. You will love that it is made from durable, patented Ram-X material. These assure your security and protection when using your gear. As such, the material can withstand shocks, bumps, and knocks along the way.
Another interesting feature of this kayak for duck hunting is the fact that it is compact. Its small design makes it easy to maneuver on the water. Also, its multi-chine flat bottom hull contributes to providing you with the right amount of stability you need when hunting.
What we liked: Being a sit-on-top, compact boat, it is easy to store and transport. It does not occupy much space and is practical for those who don’t have enough place. Additionally, the kayak is equipped with the ExoPak, a removable storage compartment that perfectly fits into the tank.
The product boasts a weight capacity of 275 lbs. and is delivered with a practical drain plug that helps you empty your boat in case there is water inside.
We enjoy the fact that it is easy to clean and that it is not too heavy.
What could be better: The warranty period is short compared to other models.
More features: two retractable carrying handles, multi-chine flat bottom hull design, a storage platform with bungee cords, hatch with storage bag, rod holders, adjustable footrests, accessory eyelets
The Pelican brand is known for the comfort of its kayaks, and its Pelican Basscreek 100XP model is no exception. It is equipped with an Ergofit seating system, which is known for being adjustable and breathable. This way, you are comfortable, and your back is not compressed by heat. You will love the open deck that allows you to stretch your legs for more comfort. Additionally, the kayak is easy to maneuver, and you will have no difficulty reaching your best hunting spot.
As for the construction, this Pelican BASSCREEK kayak for duck hunting is manufactured using top-quality RAM-X premium polyethylene. To further boost its sturdiness, it is built with three separate layers. This way, it is more resistant to shocks, bumps, and knocks along the way.
Also, the bottom hull on the kayak helps it to be stable. Additionally, it features a multi-chine design that prevents the boat from tipping when you are using it. Because of all these features, the kayak is suitable for everybody, despite their skill levels.
What we liked: Thanks to its Olive Camo color, this duck hunting kayak is not easy to spot on the water. This way, your prey will not see you at a distance, and you will be able to hunt in the most efficient way possible.
We love the large tank well and two storage hatches that help you easily store your gear. This way, you will not have to keep your things on the desk. As a bonus, it has rod holders, adjustable footrests, and accessory eyelets.
What could be better: The only regret we have is the fact that the warranty period of 2 years is short compared to other models in this review.
More features: 18-gauge PVC, adjustable seats, compatible with Sevylor trolling motor, comes with a bag
The brand Sevylor has come up with this awesome kayak for duck hunting. The Coleman Colorado model is a 2-Person boat with perfect balance. Also, this boat boasts an 18-gauge PVC construction paired with a 1000D tarpaulin bottom and 840D nylon cover. These elements make your kayak tough and very sturdy. It can withstand difficult conditions, shocks, and knocks.
Despite it being inflatable, the durability of its materials makes this product suitable for most environments. You will love its impressive weight capacity of 325 lbs. There is more than enough capacity for two people, as well as for equipment and gear.
What we liked: Apart from being spacious and capable of welcoming two persons, it has enough space to move and turn. Additionally, the kayak has adjustable seats, so you can benefit from the right amount of comfort you get during your hunting trips. While the boat has been primarily designed for paddling, it is delivered with fittings in the back to install a trolling motor that will help you to easily move around.
We love the fact that it is portable and that it includes a paddle holder for each hunter. This enables you to use your free hands to hunt.
What could be better: Some people say that the seating in the kayak is low.
When you consider kayaks potential, you discover that their use is endless and that they can apply in various situations. Therefore, when trying to purchase the best boat, do not hesitate to consider your hunting style first. With that being said, the best duck hunting kayak comes with a handful of advantages. Why should you use or purchase them? You will discover more facts here!
Below, you can find are the main advantages of kayaks for duck hunting:
The first advantage of kayaks for duck hunting is the fact that they are silent and glide without noise on the water. This way, they offer you the peace and quietness you need to hunt without scaring the prey. The reason why they are quiet is that most of them don’t have motors. This makes it easy for you to slice through the water and sneak up on your targets without them noticing or hearing you.
You will also love kayaks for duck hunting because they give room for more access. By this, we mean that you can access places that motorboats can’t. This, therefore, makes it easy for you to reach secluded areas where you are sure to find ducks. More access means more hunting opportunities and a better experience.
The kayak for duck hunting is a swift boat. It glides faster on the water and provides you with the adequate speed and maneuverability that you need for your hunting trips.
Another important advantage of this type of boat is the fact that it is economical. Compared to motorboats, you will not have to spend huge sums of money to purchase one.
Also, you will not have to worry about purchasing gas to power it. With the use of the paddles, your boat will effortlessly glide on the water.
Kayaks for duck hunting are convenient. Both their weight and size often make them easy to use. They are easy to transport and store, and you will not feel that it is bulky, although some models can be heavy.
When selecting the adequate model for you, there are a few things that you must keep in mind. Firstly, you must consider your skill level, as well as the amount of storage you need.
Carefully considering these factors as well as your hunting style will help you determine exactly what you want out of your duck boat. Also, make sure you review the different selection criteria we will subsequently share.
The first criteria to consider when purchasing the best duck hunting kayak is the type. By this, we mean:
When it comes to purchasing the best duck hunting kayak, you want to make sure that it has the best weight capacity for you. This criterion is important as it will determine the maximum load capacity that your boat can support.
We generally recommend looking for hunting kayaks that provide the highest maximum loads. There is no limit to this parameter. As such, this depends on the equipment and gears you will want to store.
Either way, anything over 200 lbs. will be capacity-wise. In our reviews above, the model that has the highest weight capacity of 475 lbs. is the Perception Pescador Pilot 12.
The width of your kayak for duck hunting plays an important role in the turning ability. A wider boat means that it will be stable, although you will not be able to turn around easily or go fast the wait you want.
Concerning the length, it determines the comfort you will get, especially for your legs. It is important to find the right balance of length and width if you want to benefit from a unique experience.
It is preferable to buy a kayak that is not too heavy. Not only will you be able to glide effortlessly on the water without the feeling of bulkiness, but you will also be able to transport it easily.
In our duck hunting kayak reviews above, we have lightweight boats. However, the lightest one is the Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2.
This feature ensures that your boat remains stable, without wavering or tipping, when you are using it.
You might want to stand and shoot, and if your kayak is not stable enough, not only will it turn over, and you will fall, but it will also draw the attention of your targets, and they fly away from you.
All the models reviewed above are stable and provide you with sufficient steadiness.
Since you will move through shallow waters for duck hunting, it is important to purchase a kayak that is manufactured with excellent materials. They have an impact on the durability of your boat as they determine whether it is resistant and long-lasting.
We recommend purchasing a boat made from high-density polyethylene, such as the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100. It is strong and can resist shocks, knocks, and even UV rays.
Your lures, guns, baits, ammo, duck calls – whatever gear you’d like to bring on, you’ll need a place to store it. Then, there are your provisions, snacks, drinks, food, etc.
That is why we recommend looking for kayaks for duck hunting that provide leak-proof hatches, as well as deep, wide tank wells with bungee cords.
In our reviews above, the Pelican Basscreek 100XP model responds to these features. The storage is dry, and its bungee system helps to stash items easily and quickly.
Whatever waters you navigate in, you want to maneuver your boat for hunting adequately and swiftly and get it in the right position. That is why we recommend purchasing a model that allows you to use it according to your hunting style (standing, sitting, hands-free).
Looking for the best duck hunting kayak? You must also consider the comfort of the seat provided.
Since you might be sitting for a long period, you want to make sure that the seat is ergonomic and that the kayak provides enough room for you to sit comfortably.
You will find that some manufacturers use mesh seats. They are practical because they dry easily when they come into contact with water.
The warranty protects your investments. For a given time, you can contact the manufacturer in case a problem arises with your boat. Make sure to check the warranty policy to be sure that you can count on compensation or a refund.
In our reviews above, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 kayak and Lifetime Hydros models come with an excellent 5-year warranty.
Other features add value to the product, and you must consider them when looking for the best duck hunting kayak. These include:
Kayaks for duck hunting can range from being budget-friendly like the Lifetime Hydros that costs around $300 to being outlandishly expensive, such as the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 that can cost up to $2000. How much you are willing to pay depends on you and on the features you want to benefit from.
We advise you to always purchase the duck hunting kayak that you can afford. Indeed, make sure the boat you are interested in range within your budget. This way, you are sure to make a good deal.
We hope that this review has made you want to purchase a duck hunting kayak. If you are looking for our editor’s choice, we recommend the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 model. It is affordable, easy to use, and it comes with good features. You will love the two storage compartments as well as the multiple footrest positions.
Do you want to get a budget-friendly kayak? The Lifetime Hydros Angler Kayak is the one designed for you. It is perfect for small budgets, and it comes with an excellent 5-year warranty period. You will love the lightweight design, the adjustable rod holder, as well as the front and rear shock cord straps.
The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 model is designed for those who are looking for a premium boat. It comes with numerous features, including a large front and rear open storage, a leak-proof construction, as well as a mesh seat with 2-level adjustment. Therefore, these are the reasons why it is included in the list of the best duck hunting kayaks!
