Best Motorized Kayak

If you’re a person who enjoys spending days out on the lake fishing while spending time with your friends and family, you’re probably on the water from dawn to dusk. While we can’t deny how enjoyable and relaxing this may be, we know that if you’ve spent significant time fishing while on a kayak, you know the struggle of moving slowly and persistent body aches.

Motorized kayaks are a great option if you’re looking to travel faster, spend more time on the lake, and reduce the strain of paddling a kayak manually. 

Here is what you should expect in our top picks for best-motorized kayaks:

• A variety of fuel methods (electric, gasoline-powered, motor-powered, etc.)
• Options with built-in motors and/or engines
• Kayaks without motors, but built to support the addition of a motor
• A significant price range, though the kayaks are not ranked in the order of price

Take a look at our top choices for motorized kayaks and determine which of these kayaks would be the best fit for you.

Top-Rated Motorized Kayaks Available

1. Wilderness Systems Radar 115

The Wilderness Systems Radar 115 is a tri-powered kayak designed strategically for ease of use.

Key Features

• 11’8” long
• 85 pounds
• Supports up to 450 pounds
• Seats one
• Option to add a motor

The Wilderness Systems Radar 115 offers several features that are ideal for the avid fisherman and kayaker. With adjustable seating for a more comfortable experience, removable pods for individual storage personalizations, and S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology, you can expect an easy ride built specifically for you. You will have almost full capability to customize the kayak to fit your storage and fishing needs and desired transportation style, whether that is paddle, power, or pedal.

This kayak is the best option all-around. Not only is it a solid kayak, but it also allows you to attach a motor and incorporates a significant number of features perfect for fishing.

Pros

• M.A.R.T Hull Technology (Stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness, tracking)
• Tri-powered (paddle, power, pedal)
• Specialized angling features

Cons

• Does not come with a motor

This is an extremely versatile and customizable option.

2. Old Town Predator MK with Motor and Rudder

The OId Town Predator MK Fishing Kayak was designed for enhanced durability.

Key Features

• 13’2” long
• 5 pounds
• Supports up to 600 pounds
• Seats one
• Motor with 45 pounds of thrust

The Old Town Predator MK Fishing Kayak is a beast of a kayak. Not only does this kayak come with a built-in motor capable of thrusting you seamlessly through the water, but it also will provide you with all of the features you desire for fishing. This kayak includes rod holders, plenty of fishing storage space, and a slip-resistant deck that allows you to stand on your kayak while fishing.

This is our choice for the best kayak with an already included motor and rudder. Because this model includes its own motor, you do not have to worry about finding a motor that will work. The manufacturer has already selected a motor for that exact purpose.

Pros

• Slip-resistant deck
• Plenty of storage
• Option for hands-free fishing

Cons

• Relatively bulky

This kayak is the best option when it comes to kayaks with trolling motors.

3. Lifetime 10 Foot

The Lifetime 10-Foot Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak is a remarkably durable and dependable kayak.

Key Features

• 10’ long
• 60 pounds
• Supports up to 500 pounds
• Seats up to three
• Option to add a motor

The Lifetime 10-Foot Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak was constructed to be longlasting, with the manufacturer offering a 5-year limited warranty. This relatively lightweight kayak provides optimal stability while in the water and can fit up to three occupants at a time. The kayak is made of high-density polyethylene, recognized for its ability to prevent excessive wear and tear, particularly cracking, peeling, and fading. It also provides three fishing rod holders and paddles for manual propulsion.

This is our choice for the most durable kayak on the market. The physical materials used to create this kayak make this kayak virtually indestructible and ideal for any body of water.

Pros

• High-density polyethylene
• Stabilizing features
• Fits up to three people

Cons

• May leak

This kayak is a great option for more passengers seeking a versatile kayak.

4. 4 Stroke Gasoline Powered Jet Kayak

The 4 Stroke Engine Gasoline Powered Jet Kayak is a highly versatile, powerful machine.

Key Features

• 6’6” long
• 165 pounds
• Supports up to 220 pounds
• Seats one
• Jet-powered engine

The Jet Kayak comes with an extremely powerful gasoline-powered jet engine. Aside from its speed capabilities, which is up to 25 miles per hour, this kayak also handles well in the water and steering is a breeze. The deck of this kayak is watertight and made of fiberglass, making this jet-powered kayak highly dependable and durable for any and all use.

This kayak has the most powerful engine amongst all of the kayaks included on this list. You can expect quicker, more efficient travel as compared to a manual or even other motorized kayaks.

Pros

• Controls similar to fighter pilot
• Reaches up to 25 miles per hour
• High-powered engine

Cons

• Relatively heavy

This is the perfect selection if you are looking for speed, handling, and versatility.

5. Fissot Folding Jet Plastic Kayak

The Fissot 1-Person Folding Jet Plastic Kayak is a portable motor-powered kayak.

Key Features

• 10’10” long
• 106 pounds
• Supports up to 552 pounds
• Seats one
• Jet-powered engine

The Fissot is a lower-power motorized kayak with folding capabilities. This kayak includes adjustable wings for increased stability when on the water whether you’re standing or sitting. The electric motor is capable of traveling at over 7 miles per hour and the battery typically lasts up to three hours. Storage is ample on this kayak, with several storage locations available throughout the vessel.

This is the most portable and user-friendly kayak we found in our search. The ability to fold aspects of the kayak and use a speed controller to adjust the speed of the vessel makes this kayak easy to use and convenient.

Pros

• Speed controller
• Foldable and adjustable design
• Sitting or standing

Cons

• Not all storage is water-resistant

This is a great option if you want a portable kayak that is capable of reaching an acceptable speed with its motor.

6. BIC Kalao

The BIC Kalao Deluxe Kayak is described by its manufacturer as the “4×4 of kayaks.”

Key Features

• 14’4” long
• 87 pounds
• Supports up to 683 pounds
• Seats up to four
• Option to add a motor

The BIC Kalao Deluxe Kayak comes with several characteristics that make this kayak suitable for family outings and larger groups. Seating up to four people (two children, two adults), this kayak is also capable of having a motor mounted on it. This kayak was designed for ideal levels of comfort of occupants and transport of the vessel, including carrying handles, drink holders, and adjustable seating. While we would not recommend this kayak for your typical fishing outing on the lake, it is a great choice for families and watersports in general.

This kayak is great for families with children looking to get out on the water together. While it may not include features intended for fishing, it does allow you to keep the entire family in the same kayak and travel as one.

Pros

• Seats up to four (2 adults and 2 children OR 3 adults)
• Easy transport
• Highly stable travel

Cons

• Few, if any, fishing features

This kayak is great for families, but may not meet your needs if you are looking to fish or travel solo.

7. Sevylor Coleman Colorado

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is an inflatable kayak built with durability in mind.

Key Features

• 10’ long
• 40 pounds
• Supports up to 470 pounds
• Seats two
• Option to add a motor

The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is a lightweight option that also offers hand-free fishing capabilities. Though this design is inflatable, it is made of 18-gauge PVC, making it highly durable regardless of the current, and is easy to transport with the inclusion of carrying handles. While you may assume inflatable kayaks are risky to purchase, this kayak was designed to maintain inflation, even if one of the chambers is punctured, and includes and AirTight System to prevent leakage in general. In terms of fishing, this kayak offers rod holders for a hands-free fishing experience.

This is our only selection on the list that is inflatable, as inflatable kayaks are rarely considered durable and worthwhile. Despite this generalization, this kayak is relatively dependable for an inflatable kayak. Therefore, if you are searching for an inflatable and portable kayak, in particular, this is your best bet.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Hands-free fishing
• Airtight system

Cons

• Inflatable and prone to puncture

This is a suitable choice if you are seeking a durable inflatable and easy-transport kayak.

8. ClearYup Electric

The ClearYup Electric Kayak is an almost completely clear high-power kayak.

Key Features

• 10’ long
• 62 pounds
• Supports up to 440 pounds
• Seats two
• Trolling motor with 55 pounds of thrust

The ClearYup Electric Kayak boasts a unique design consisting of a completely clear bottom and a remote control electric motor. The remote control motor provides 55 pounds of thrust and allows for swift movements in any body of water. This design is also extremely lightweight, making transportation of the vessel simple and stress-free. Its polycarbonate design prevents shattering and is ideal even in inclement weather.

This is by far the most unique design on the list. With a clear bottom, you can view the wildlife and water beneath you without actually having to be in the water yourself. A design like this is rare, and it is possible that functionality suffers due to this design.

Pros

• Completely clear bottom
• Lightweight design
• Powerful motor

Cons

• No fishing features

This is a great choice if you are looking for a unique, lightweight kayak.

9. Nu Canoe Frontier 10 Stinger

The Nu Canoe Frontier 10 Stinger Kayak is a stable kayak with 360-degree mobility.

Key Features

• 10’ long
• 62 pounds
• Supports up to 500 pounds
• Seats one
• Option to add a motor

The Nu Canoe Frontier 10 Stinger Kayak is a fully customizable option designed to meet all of your kayaking needs. With 360-degree mobility and visibility, you’ll be able to face any direction without having to maneuver the kayak to a better position. This design is described as “motor-ready.” This model is easy to paddle and provides sufficient stability in any water condition. It also should be noted that this company offers free parts for life.

This is our top choice when it comes to mobility and increased visibility while on the water. Not only do the 360-degree chairs provide a greater field of vision, they also can prevent the kayak from overturning due to your sudden movements within the kayak.

Pros

• 360-degree mobility
• Enhanced stability
• Tri-powered (power, paddle, pedal)

Cons

• Reviews are limited online

This kayak is a great solution if you’re looking for increased visibility when on the water.

10. Nu Canoe Frontier 12

The Nu Canoe Frontier 12 Kayak is another great option with 360-degree vision and mobility.

Key Features

• 12’ long
• 77 pounds
• Supports up to 650 pounds
• Seats one
• Option to add a motor

The Nu Canoe Frontier 12 Kayak is often described as extremely stable on the water, with little to no fear of tipping regardless of water conditions. The manufacturer not only encourages users to stand on the kayak, but also suggests walking and fishing while on the kayak. This design is somewhat roomy, allowing you to move about the kayak as needed and swivel 360-degrees on the included seating. Whether you want to paddle, pedal, or use a motor, this kayak can do it all.

While this is our last choice, it is still a great option.

Pros

• 360-degree mobility
• Enhanced stability
• Tri-powered (power, paddle, pedal)

Cons

• High price for the value

This kayak is just another option if you’re looking for a tri-powered kayak with optimal vision.

The Final Word

In the list introduced above, we reviewed 10 motorized kayaks that are available on the market today. Among the selections provided are kayaks with built-in motors, kayaks capable of having a trolling motor installed, electric kayaks, and jet-powered kayaks.

The most important thing you can do before purchasing a kayak for yourself is determining what your needs are. You should figure out whether you want a kayak with a motor already installed or the option to install your own at some point in time. You should think about the fuel source for the kayak as well and decide which you feel most comfortable using. Also, make sure are able to transport the kayak and that it meets the legal requirements set by the areas in which you plan to use it.

Our hope is that our reviews helped you select the type of kayak you are looking for and the particular model of kayak that fits your needs best.