Canoeing has long been a favorite pastime for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Its high capacity, lightweight design, and versatility make it a top choice for both weekend paddlers and backcountry explorers. However, when it comes to fishing, canoes often lack the specialized features that anglers require. Fortunately, manufacturers have developed fishing canoes that not only offer stability but also come equipped with rod holders, gear tracks, and other fishing-specific accessories. In this article, we will explore the best fishing canoes on the market, designed to cater to your fishing style and needs.
Key Takeaways
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Fishing Canoe
Canoes come in various sizes and styles, each suited for different purposes. Whether you’re planning long-distance trips or after-work getaways, it’s important to consider some key factors before making your purchase. With the growing popularity of paddle fishing, there’s now a wide selection of fishing canoes available. Here are a few crucial factors to keep in mind when choosing your ideal fishing companion.
Stability
When it comes to fishing, stability is the foremost quality to consider in a canoe. A wider canoe with a flatter bottom provides better stability, making it less likely to tip over. Additionally, positioning the seat lower in the boat enhances stability while paddling or trolling.
Capacity
One of the greatest advantages of canoes is their ample storage space. With an open deck extending from stern to bow, canoes allow for easy storage of tackle, hunting gear, and camping equipment. This design also increases capacity, enabling canoes to carry more weight compared to rotomolded kayaks. Moreover, by adding a second seat, a canoe can accommodate another angler, a couple of kids, or even a furry companion.
Weight
The lightweight nature of canoes sets them apart from most sit-on-top fishing kayaks. Canoes utilize less material, resulting in reduced weight without compromising storage capacity. This not only makes transporting canoes easier but also allows for overland portaging to reach remote fishing spots that are otherwise inaccessible.
Durability
While fishing kayaks are typically made of rotomolded or thermoformed plastic, canoes are constructed using advanced materials that offer superior durability. Multi-layer plastic and composite materials ensure that fishing canoes are almost indestructible and easy to repair in case of any damage.
Accessories
Fishing canoes come equipped with various accessories to facilitate rigging. Look for wider twarts and gunnels, which allow for the installation of rod holders. Additionally, check for space behind the seat that can accommodate a gear crate with vertical rod holders.
The Best Fishing Canoes for Every Angler
Now that we’ve covered the key factors to consider, let’s delve into the top fishing canoes available on the market today. These canoes have been carefully tested to ensure they meet the diverse needs of anglers.
Best Overall: Old Town Sportsman Discovery Solo
The Old Town Sportsman Discovery Solo combines the best features of a canoe and a kayak. With its lightweight design, high-capacity storage, and excellent paddling performance, it’s truly a top choice for fishing enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Comfortable seat
- Rod holders
- Gear tracks
Cons:
- Only available in single-seat model
The Discovery Solo features an open cockpit, weighing only 56 pounds, yet capable of carrying up to 354 pounds. Its concave hull design enhances stability, allowing you to stand and fish with ease. The boat also offers ample storage space under the seat and features rod holders positioned for trolling or storage. Gear tracks provide additional room for mounting elevated rod holders, electronics, and other accessories. Whether you’re embarking on quick fishing trips or longer adventures, the Discovery Solo is a versatile and reliable fishing canoe.
Best Inflatable: Advanced Elements StraightEdge Angler Pro
The Advanced Elements StraightEdge Angler Pro is the perfect choice for those seeking a combination of performance, durability, and convenience. This inflatable fishing canoe offers great stability and comes with a convenient carrying case for easy transport.
Pros:
- Packs into a carry case
- Drop stitch floors
- Multiple air chambers
- Aluminum accessory mounts and hull inserts
Cons:
- Not ideal for long-distance paddling
The StraightEdge Angler Pro ensures rigidity by utilizing three air chambers. Two low-pressure chambers form the gunnels, while a drop-stitch panel creates a rigid floor. The canoe’s aluminum frame further enhances its stability and offers space for mounting rod holders, electronics, and other accessories. Made from puncture- and tear-resistant PVC material, this inflatable canoe excels in rough waters. Additionally, the canoe’s packability makes it convenient for travel, easily fitting into a duffle bag. Overall, the Advanced Elements StraightEdge Angler Pro is a reliable and versatile option for fishing enthusiasts.
Best Square Stern: Esquif Heron
If capacity and versatility are what you seek, look no further than the Esquif Heron. This canoe boasts incredible storage space, durable construction, and the option to attach an outboard motor.
Pros:
- Room for three
- Comfortable webbed seats
- Available with Ash wood gunnels
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
The Heron offers room for three anglers and an impressive 800-pound capacity. It features comfortable webbed seats, making long days on the water a breeze. The canoe’s T-Formex premium material, consisting of two layers of indestructible plastic with a foam core, provides durability and insulation from the cold. Whether you prefer paddling or using a motor, the Heron excels in both realms. Perfect for family outings or solo adventures, this versatile canoe is both practical and enjoyable.
Best for Standing: NuCanoe Flint
For anglers who prefer standing while fishing, the NuCanoe Flint is the ultimate hybrid canoe. With its wide beam and flat deck, it offers outstanding stability.
Pros:
- Rotomolded plastic
- Easy to rig
- Elevated seat
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
The Flint combines the best attributes of a kayak and canoe. It can be paddled with ease using a double-blade kayak paddle, and the elevated frame seat ensures comfort while standing or sitting. The canoe’s wide, flat hull provides exceptional stability and ample space for standing and fishing. With its open cockpit design from bow to stern, the Flint offers plenty of room for rigging accessories such as rod holders and electronics. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fishing, the Flint provides a versatile and stable platform for enjoying your favorite pastime.
Best Budget: Lifetime Wasatch
If you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on features, the Lifetime Wasatch is an excellent choice. It strikes the perfect balance between family-friendly fun and solo fishing.
Pros:
- Rod holders
- Removable seat backs
- Includes motor mount
Cons:
- Relatively heavy
With three seats, the Wasatch offers space for your entire family. Despite its 13-foot length, it remains easily manageable for a single paddler. The canoe’s blow-molded plastic hull ensures durability while keeping the price affordable. Its wide, flat bottom enhances stability, and the pronounced keel aids in straight-line tracking. The Wasatch comes equipped with convenient features such as a small wheel in the stern for easy transportation and a motor mount for attaching a 40-pound thrust trolling motor. With its numerous advantages and budget-friendly price, the Lifetime Wasatch provides an excellent fishing experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
After thorough testing and evaluation, the Old Town Sportsman Discovery Solo emerges as the standout choice among fishing canoes. Its lightweight design, sturdy construction, and exceptional fishing features make it the top contender. Combining the best aspects of a canoe and kayak, this hybrid model offers a spacious capacity, comfortable seating, and ample storage options. With the addition of gear tracks and tackle storage, the Discovery Solo truly stands out as the ultimate fishing canoe.
Discover your perfect fishing companion today and embark on unforgettable angling adventures!
Read Next: How to Build a Canoe
