Kid fishing gear is important for your junior angler. Kids need gear designed specifically for them, whether it be a kayak, paddles, PFD’s, or apparel. There has always been gear designed for kids when it comes to kayaks, paddles, clothing, etc., but we’re now seeing gear specific to your junior angler’s needs.
Kid Fishing Gear
Several kayak manufacturers are now making kid specific kayaks for angling. Jackson Kayak introduced the new Skipper earlier this year at iCast 2015. Truth be told, there are several options available to fit the needs of our junior anglers. Whether your junior angler wants to fish from a sit on top or sit inside kayak, there are loads of options to choose from. I personally believe a kayak between the length of 8′ to 10′ is perfect for kid fishing.
Pelican Sport
Pelican has long been a great brand for starter kayaks, especially for the junior paddler. Pelican is also a great option for kid fishing kayaks, with many options which won’t break the bank. My oldest son started out and still paddles a Sonic 80X kayak, and it’s been a great kayak for him to learn how to kayak and fish. Pelican has always had the Castaway 100 kayak, but will also introduce the Bounty 100 Angler for 2016.
Castaway 100
- Length: 10′
- Width: 30″
- Weight: 42lbs
- Capacity: 250lbs
- MSRP: $299.99
Bounty 100 Angler
- Length: 10′
- Width: 28″
- Weight: 38lbs
- Capacity: 275lbs
- MSRP: $399.99
Perception Kayak
Perception is another great example of a quality starter kayak without the big budgets. We initially learned of the new Perception Pescador Pro while attending the iCast 2015 show. It immediately catches the eye, and looks like a fishing machine with tons of great features. The new Pescador Pro will be available Fall 2015.
Pescador Pro 10
- Length: 10’6″
- Width: 32″
- Weight: 57lbs
- Capacity: 325lbs
- MSRP: $729
Wilderness Systems
Wilderness Systems has long had a fan favorite with the Tarpon series of kayaks, and the Tarpon 100 Angler is perfect for kids. The award- winning design of the Tarpon 100 Angler offers both agility and speed to zip from spot to spot, but also the right amount of stability for fighting fish or rough waters. The Tarpon 100 Angler features the SlideTrax accessory system and the Phase 3 AirPro seating system for all day comfort.
Tarpon 100 Angler
- Length: 10′
- Width: 30.5″
- Weight: 61lbs
- Capacity: 325lbs
- MSRP: $885
Old Town Kayaks
Old Town Kayak features the Heron 9 Angler. A sporty design, the Heron 9 Angler is an easy-to-paddle kayak that can maneuver perfectly into your favorite fishing spot. An affordable choice for casual anglers who are seeking a lightweight, compact kayak outfitted for fishing and cruising in calm waters.
Heron 9 Angler
- Length: 9’6″
- Width: 28.5″
- Weight: 39lbs
- Capacity: 300lbs
- MSRP: $479.99
Ocean Kayak
Ocean Kayak offers a great sit on top kayak specifically for fishing with the Tetra 10 Angler. The Tetra 10 Angler is a great choice. Perfect for those with a small to medium-build, the Tetra 10 Angler features a small Modular Fishing Pod (Mod Pod II) in the center console, two flush mount rod holders and the unique Comfort Hybrid seat back.
Tetra 10 Angler
- Length: 10′ 8″
- Width: 29.5″
- Weight: 50lbs
- Capacity: 275lbs
- MSRP: $849.99
Jackson Kayak
Jackson Kayak introduced the world to the Skipper at this year’s iCast event. Designed specifically with the junior angler in mind, the Skipper offers tons of features for rigging, hi/lo Elite seat with tackle storage, and the stability to stand and fish like dad. The Skipper is sure to be a big hit for junior anglers.
Skipper
- Length: 9′
- Width: 28″
- Capacity: 200lbs
- MSRP: $999
Native Watercraft
Native Watercraft has definitely revolutionized the kayak fishing industry with the Propel series of kayaks. The Slayer Propel 10 is a kayak that allows the kids to pedal versus paddle, and a kayak that they can definitely grow into with a weight capacity of 400lbs. Native also offers pads which will lift the child up and move them forward making pedaling that much easier.
Slayer Propel 10
- Length: 10′
- Width: 34″
- Weight: 59lbs
- Capacity: 400lbs
- MSRP: $2399
There’s definitely a perfect kayak for your junior angler. There are several different options with varying price points, features, and abilities. Regardless of the kayak you choose for your junior angler, enjoy the memories made and time spent together enjoying the great outdoors and chasing that next trophy fish!
Shrimp Three Ways Next Post:
Kid Fishing Gear, Part Two