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7 Best Kayaks To Make Your Friends Insanely Jealous
If you’re on the hunt for a kayak but are struggling to figure out the BEST kayak for YOU – you’re in the right place.
Today, I’m going to break down everything you need to know to find the kayak that will best meet your needs.
- Maybe you’re looking for a damn good fishing kayak
- Perhaps you want a kayak to use as a rescue vehicle in a future floodwater emergency
- Maybe you’re interested in using a kayak for epic backcountry camping trips
- Or perhaps you’ve been thinking about using a kayak as a bug-out vehicle in a disaster…
But regardless of the reason why you want a kayak – I’ve got you covered either way…
Because buying a kayak should NEVER be an impulse purchase. For example, just because you see one on “sale” at a big-box retailer doesn’t mean it’s right for YOU.
Plus, there are so many kayaks to choose from today; you need someone you can trust to help you wade through the overwhelming confusion. And that’s precisely why I wrote this article.
So today, I’m going to share everything I know about kayaks and even recommend a few I feel worth an investment. Here’s what I’m going to cover:
- Top 4 Reasons Why You Should Invest In A Kayak Today
- Explaining The Differences Between The 5 Main Types Of Kayaks
- 7 Best Kayaks On The Market Today (with Video Reviews)
- Expert Tips and Advice On Gear Loading and Kayak Storage
- The 8 Fundamental Kayak Strokes Every New Kayaker Should Learn
- How To Keep Your Kayak Gear Clean and Dry
- A Brief Note On Navigating In A Kayak
Note: click any of the links above to skip ahead – but make sure to check out our 7 detailed “Best” Kayak Reviews
As A Way To Introduce You To Skilled Survival, We’re Giving Away Our Ultimate Survival Gear Checklist. Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy Of It.
Top 4 Reasons Why You Should Invest In A Kayak
1 – Recreation / Fun
The number one reason why anyone gets a kayak is that they’re fun!
Getting out on the water is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a beautiful day.
Whether it’s a pristine lake, calm sea, or extreme rapids, they’re a freakin’ blast!
I mean, it would be such a shame to buy a kayak and never use it. So make sure you find time every year to take yours out of the garage and get out on the water.
2 – Remote Camping
With the right kayak, you can go beyond day trips out on the water to overnight excursions.
With a kayak, you can take a lot of essential camping gear with you WITHOUT having to carry everything on your back.
I know a lot of people who love the feeling of freedom and remoteness than backpacking provides. But don’t want to hike 10+ miles with 35 lbs of gear on their back. So they’ve taken up overnight kayak trips instead.
It allows you to escape into the REAL wilderness without breaking your back.
2 – Fishing
Kayaks are becoming more popular among fishermen. Why? Because they are an incredibly lightweight alternative to the traditional aluminum Jon Boat.
I don’t relish the days of yesteryear struggling to maneuver my father’s Jon Boat in and out of the water.
Instead, with a kayak, you get much of the same fishing experience with much less hassle.
You can even go extremely lightweight with an inflatable fishing boat!
Nowadays, many inflatable kayak models are designed with fishing in mind from the ground up.
3 – Emergency Rescue Device
We’ve all heard the term “up sh*t creek without a paddle.” And typically, this famous “saying” is used to describe all sorts of bad situations – not just water-related ones.
Unfortunately, it often becomes a reality in flooding emergencies!
Did you know, in the US, the most deadly natural disasters usually involve flooding?
On average, U.S. flooding kills more than 100 people a year — more than any other single weather hazard, including tornadoes and hurricanes, according to the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR).
For example, in both Houston and New Orleans, hurricane-induced surge and rain caused unprecedented urban flooding. Rising waters swamped homes, decimated businesses, and shut down entire cities.
Not to mention all the chemicals, fuel, sewage, and other dangerous pollutants that dumped into the rising water.
Many people became instantly trapped, waiting around for rescue.
But those who owned small boats or kayaks were far better off in the immediate aftermath. Why? Because they could evacuate, search for supplies, and move around as needed.
But, even much less dramatic flooding happens all across the nation – wreaking disruptive havoc and dangerous conditions.
It only takes a couple of feet of water to cause roads to be impassible for cars, SUVs, and trucks.
For example, during a recent flood in my hometown, the police asked for civilian help. They needed anyone with boats to evacuate a neighborhood due to just 18 inches of floodwater.
Kayaks, canoes, and small fishing boats saved the day.
It allowed them to get to dry land and on with their lives until the water receded.
4 – Stealthy Bug Out Transportation
In a worst-case emergency scenario, a small, discrete boat can get you off the streets and away from crowds
Moving away from danger to safety is called “bugging out.”
And even the tallest, bulletproof bug out vehicle can’t overcome deep dangerous floodwaters. But a kayak can.
A kayak is a quiet boat that requires no fuel and leaves no tracks behind.
- It slips stealthily through shallow water and floating vegetation.
- You can easily haul it up on shore when you reach a safe camp.
- It can be easily hidden from view by others on the water during a rest stop.
If you want the ultimate in stealth capability, look into duck hunting kayak setups. These kayaks are a floating blind camouflaged with netting and woven vegetation.
A well-concealed kayak blind can hide you from more than just your prey, but also anyone who might be hunting YOU!
Here’s a video of a kayak that’s been turned into a stealth machine for duck hunting. It shows you what’s possible:
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Explaining The 5 Main Type Of Kayak You Can Choose
The right kind of kayak for YOU depends upon:
- the type of water you’ll be using in on
- how you plan to use it (whitewater, lake, fishing, bugging out)
- how much equipment you want to bring along
Here’s the deal, there are thousands of unique kayaks on the market today (making research overwhelming). But the good news is – they all tend to fit into just a few categories.
So, if you can figure out which category of kayak you want, you’ll be able to focus in on the right one for you fast.
Here’s a video that goes over each of the different kayak categories in detail (or you can read more about each category below):
1 – Whitewater Kayaks
We’ve all seen videos of extreme kayakers dropping 100+ foot waterfalls and surviving. Chances are they’re in a very specialized whitewater kayak.
These are highly reinforced, extremely durable boats. But they’re not designed for much more than running whitewater rapids.
Why? Because They’re small (up to 7 feet long), have very little storage, and are not very comfortable in the long term. Plus, whitewater kayaks require very advanced paddling techniques and a lot of focused training.
So this is NOT your type of kayak – unless your plans include “extreme sports,” and you can accommodate these drawbacks.
Otherwise, you don’t “need” these capabilities, and a whitewater kayak is NOT the type of kayak that’s best suited for you.
2 – Inflatable Kayaks
If your kayak plans include some lake fun, gentle whitewater (not huge rapids), and fishing, then an inflatable kayak is your best bet.
These 10′-14′ foot boats are designed and built the same way as whitewater rafts, except they include several durable inflatable chambers.
These inflatable chambers provide the main structure and floor of the boat.
Most are also self-bailing, so any water that splashes in can drain out the bottom.
You can load your gear in waterproof drybags and lash it down in the bow and stern. And, best of all, they can be inflated when needed and deflated when you’re off the water!
3 – Touring Sea Kayaks
When kayaking long distances in open water (whether at sea or on big lakes), a touring sea kayak is likely your best option.
These boats are designed for efficient paddling and covering distances quickly.
The sit-inside design keeps your center of gravity low which helps to prevent tip over. Sitting low also helps to keep your lower body protected by a spray skirt. A spray skirt is a waterproof cockpit cover that fits snugly around the waist.
Many models have:
- integrated flotation
- gear tie-downs on deck for small, frequently accessed items
- sealed cargo hatches over internal large gear compartments
The long (16′ foot and up) and narrow profile makes them cruise through the water with ease. And the retractable rudders and skegs keep you tracking straight towards your destination.
One drawback of gear compartments is that everything has to be able to fit through a small hatch. So you’ll have to figure out how to pack your boat efficiently to ensure everything fits.
4 – Surfing Kayaks
Most touring sea kayaks do well with smaller surf. But not if your coastline has some bigger gnarly waves.
In such cases, a surf kayak is ideal for handling and piloting successfully through large breakers – which is vital when launching and landing in rough seas.
Surf kayaks feature a hull design that’s more agile than a touring boat. But it still maintains some cargo holds which are lacking in a traditional whitewater boat.
Again, these are more specialized models and take some specific training and techniques. So don’t expect to pick one up and be a pro the next day.
5 – Recreational Sit-On-Top Kayak
Finally, one of the most versatile types of kayaks is a recreational sit-on-top.
These have similar durability and use rotomolded plastics (similar to whitewater boats). However, rather than sitting down inside the kayak, the paddler sits on top.
That’s because the seat is molded directly into the upper deck of the boat.
Now, this seat location does have it’s drawbacks. For example, it’s not nearly as stable as other kayak styles so they are best suited for calm waters. However, the seat location does make getting in and out of the boat a breeze.
More extensive models feature internal cargo compartments with waterproof hatches.
They also include cargo areas to lash down drybags on deck, and some can even carry hundreds of pounds of gear.
There are some models with accessory attachment points. These attachment locations are ideal for adding a small electric trolling motor and fishing rod holders!
Note: Most fishing kayaks are of the “sit-on-top” variety. I’ve also seen a few decent inflatable kayaks used for fishing as well.
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7 Best Kayaks On The Market Today (with Video Reviews)
So, what’s the best kind of kayak for you?
It depends a lot on your specific usage plans. But versatility, durability, and ease of use are all things to keep in mind.
Here are a few of the best-rated models out there and what makes them stand out:
1 – Wilderness Systems ATAK 140
The storage options are great, including a live-well for fish!
PROS
- Stern and center mount storage
- Great, comfortable seat
- 400lb cargo and paddler capacity
CONS
- Expensive
- Heavy (95lbs)
Here’s a much-watch walkthrough video of the Wilderness Systems Premium Angler fishing kayak:
2 – Perception Pescador 10
The Perception Pescador 10 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak designed to be one of the best kayaks for the money.
This kayak includes a large open storage area, a covered dry storage box, plus two individual rod holders.
It also includes multiple gear tracks and a Solo Mount recesses to make it extremely easy to add lots of fishing accessories.
PROS
- Convenient seatback positioning
- Quick-adjust footrests
CONS
- Not as much storage space as other models
- Gear mount rails not as good as other models
You’ll get a real sense of the real value of this budget-friendly fishing kayak in the following review video:
3 – Old Town Topwater 106
This Topwater is a purpose-built fishing kayak. But the features that make it well suited to that task also make for an excellent bug-out boat.
But the standout here is the pedal drive. Being able to maneuver the boat forward and backward WITHOUT putting down the rod is a major bonus!
This feature also makes this kayak an ideal option for those with limited arm strength or mobility.
PROS
- Stable platform
- Great storage and mounting options
- Comfortable deck pads and seat
- PEDAL DRIVE!
CONS
- Very expensive
The following walkthrough video does a nice job highlighting all the unique features of this excellent fishing kayak:
4 – Lifetime Tamarack Angler
The Tamarack Angler is a stable fishing kayak platform boat. But it doesn’t have all the storage options that more expensive models offer.
Yet, with a good set of drybags and some proper packing, this can be overcome.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- Quality gear lash down points
- Lightweight
CONS
- Limited internal storage
The following video not only reviews the Lifetime Tamarack but provides many smart modifications as well:
When rigged as a single person boat, it has more than enough storage for gear lashed down in drybags where a second person would normally sit.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Can be packed small for storage and transportation
CONS
- Can be punctured
- Challenging to pack down into a case
This video shows how easy it is to grab this kayak, throw it in a vehicle and get on the water without breaking a sweat:
6 – Riot Escape 12
It has all the options you’d expect on a well-rigged fishing boat. This kayak includes ample storage, mounting brackets, comfortable seats, and a stable profile.
PROS
- Great rudder system
- Five-rod holders
- Center console storage
CONS
- Doesn’t track as well as other models
7 – Pelican Argo 100XP Angler Kayak
First off, this fishing kayak has ergonomic carrying handles to make hauling this relatively light 41 lbs unit around a breeze.
You’ll also be thankful for its adjustable footrests and Ergofit G2 Seating System. This means it comes with an adjustable and ergonomically padded backrest and seat cushion.
Anyone who’s spent a lot of butt time in a kayak will appreciate it.
As far as storage options go – it has a convenient front Quick-Lock hatch and a rear hatch with a storage bag.
It also has an open rear tank well that’s equipped with mesh deck cover.
So with all these storage options, you’ll have plenty of room to bring along all your most critical gear.
Finally, this Pelican Argo comes with a cockpit table with compartments and a smartphone holder, as well as a bottle holder built-into the seat to keep things within easy reach.
PROS
- Budget-Friendly compared to models with similar features
- Decent overall storage options
- Lightweight kayak (41 lbs)
- Comfortable seat
CONS
- Limited amount of internal “hatch” storage options
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Expert Tips and Advice On Gear Loading and Kayak Storage
One of the best parts of any boat trip is letting the boat take the load rather than your back.
You can bring heavier items and some luxuries that would never fit in a backpack (such as a lightweight camp table).
Many kayaks have load ratings in the 300-500lb range, including the paddler. This extra capacity leaves you with several hundred pounds of gear storage (fishing gear, camping gear, or even survival gear).
And when you get off the water at the end of the day, you’ll still have fresh legs and not a sore back!
Think of kayak camping as car camping, but away from the vehicles! Of course, you still need to load your boat correctly to keep it balanced and stable.
There are a lot of options for loading. But in general, try to keep the heavy items low in the boat and towards the center.
This loading technique goes for both front-to-back and side-to-side storage.
If you do this right, it will help keep you from tipping while maintaining maneuverability.
Each boat design is different, so it’ll take some practice to see how everything fits.
I recommend starting with smaller loads and spend a couple of hours on the water to test it out. Then move up to weekend trips to shake down your gear and skills.
Taking shorter trips will also allow you to learn the paddling skills needed for your boat.
As A Way To Introduce You To Skilled Survival, We’re Giving Away Our Ultimate Survival Gear Checklist. Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy Of It.
The 8 Fundamental Kayak Strokes Every New Kayaker Should Learn
There are several basic paddle strokes and rudder/skeg controls you should learn. Because paddling more efficiently will help you with maneuverability and endurance in any situation.
You can learn a lot online and take those skills to shallow, calm water for practice. But always have a friend or an instructor to help you in case of an emergency.
1 – Forward stroke
The forward stroke is the most used of all the strokes in kayaking; you’ll be using it ALL THE TIME. That’s why you’ll need lots of endurance in these arm muscles and a lot of power to keep forward motion.
You also need solid core and back muscles to do the heavy pulling that powers the stroke.
You’ll want to keep an upright body position and braced foot and knee. Maintaining the correct body position helps with both balance and efficiency.
2 – Reverse stroke
The opposite of the forward stroke, the reverse stroke. The reverse stroke technique is essential to stop your kayak in an emergency.
It requires many of the same muscles, just applied in the opposite direction. It means pushing instead of pulling and rotating your hips and shoulders in reverse.
3 – Sweep stroke
The sweep stroke allows you to apply a full, wide turn without a rudder.
It’s like the forward stroke, but with the paddle extended further out away from the boat to pivot.
When applied with a rudder, the sweep stroke can affect a quicker turn.
4 – Draw stroke
Draw strokes allow you to move your boat straight to the side.
It’s particularly useful when you want to tie several boats together. Because tied together, kayaks allow for more comfortable conversations or even enjoying a communal lunch on the water.
But the stroke is just as necessary when you’re pulling up alongside a dock or steep bank landing.
5 – Rudder Stroke
The rudder stroke is useful to keep control over the direction you’re heading.
Unlike the other strokes, the rudder stroke ends with the paddle blade, giving you indirect control over the gliding path forward between strokes.
If you plan to surf or whitewater kayak, you’ll need to use the rudder stroke. It allows you to maintain control without spending all your energy course correcting.
In fact, you can even use it if the wind is at your back and propelling you along without paddling.
6 – Edging
Edging is a maneuver that allows you to tilt your kayak slightly to one side.
Edging lets the curve of the hull act in a carving turn. The key is to learn the balance point of your boat and not over-rotate until you capsize.
7 – High/Low Brace
Bracing is an emergency maneuver. It helps you correct the momentum of a boat that has rolled past its tipping point.
It’s the first step in recovering a tipping boat. Bracing is also the primary technique of rolling up a kayak that has capsized entirely.
Keep in mind that it puts a lot of force on your shoulders and can cause injury if done incorrectly.
The difference between high and low braces is in hand and paddle position, but the purpose is the same.
8 – Self Rescue (if kayak flips over)
Finally, what if the high/low brace doesn’t work and you flip? Well, you’re now in the territory of a self-rescue…
This is one technique you should master before you stray too far away from shore – as it could save your life.
In freezing cold water temperatures, you won’t have enough time to swim to shore – unless you’re very close. So you’ll need to get back into your kayak and out of the water fast. Here’s a video showing you how:
As A Way To Introduce You To Skilled Survival, We’re Giving Away Our Ultimate Survival Gear Checklist. Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy Of It.
How To Keep Your Kayak Gear Clean and Dry
No matter what kind of kayak you choose, it’s imperative that you keep all your gear dry and safe from water.
Saltwater is a big concern for corrosion – since salt is highly corrosive. But even freshwater can ruin your tools, food, sensitive/expensive electronics, and ammunition.
Hard cases (Pelican), as well as kayak dry bags, are the first line of defense.
Pack all your gear in waterproof containers and double wrap the critical stuff. I like to line drybags with heavy-duty trash bags, just in case a slight leak makes it into the outer bag.
Heavy-duty Ziploc bags are also invaluable inside the larger packs. These help to keep critical maps, batteries, and other supplies dry even if the compartment becomes swamped.
Quick Note On Navigating In A Kayak
While you may have a great sense of direction on land, it’s easy to lose your bearings on the open water.
That’s why it’s crucial to practice navigation on waters you know well first — with a map/chart and compass.
Your GPS may be great (and should be your primary navigation tool), but it’s not any use if it gets dumped overboard.
Make sure your compass skills are up to the task, so you’re not stuck on the water with no backup plan.
It won’t take long to become familiar with picking out navigation landmarks from the water. You’ll discover that these techniques are like navigation on land.
Final Thoughts
Kayaks are a fun, versatile, efficient mode of transportation in all sorts of situations. Kayaks allow you to cover marathon distances or cross murky waters with ease.
So if your idea of fun includes water travel, a kayak is a wise option to have at your fingertips.
It’s stealthy, discrete, and can carry a ton of gear and supplies without putting a strain on your back.
Think about how they can fit into your life and give kayaks a try – you might find they’re your perfect bug out vehicle!
Jason K.
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The post 7 Best Kayaks To Make Your Friends Insanely Jealous appeared first on Skilled Survival.
Dogs in Survival Situations
Over 99 percent of the time I’m headed out into the wilds with little more than a water bottle and pocket knife, and often without a water bottle. And that’s because I wander into the sticks almost every day. That said, I have had to make decisions about what to carry, and if minimalism is essential, then I need an essential bear gun option as well. Thus, the G43 Bear Essential.
While bigger is better, especially when it comes to bears, bigger is also less convenient. Pardon the pun, but heavy weighs on your activities. Playing in the forest with five pounds of stainless .44, ammo and chest rig does get old. So once moving off the Dirty Harry platform, things become flexible. A .44 to a .41 is not too much of a jump. Nor is a .41 to a .357. And if a 10mm is like a .41ish, then a 9mm is like a sluggish .357ish. But then a plus-P 9mm really blurs the lines. Add some 
Another issue with a bear gun is actually pulling it on a bear. I meet many folks new to the real woods that think they will have plenty of time to assess and react when a bear appears. That’s like a new driver thinking they can avoid a collision or a fresh faced motorcycle rider who doesn’t need a helmet because they don’t plan on crashing, and if so, they won’t hit their head. I have to bite my tongue when I see an old high school friend learning to walk again after a minor tumble off his Harley.
My solution was to head to 
A second carry option for more civilized environs was also sourced from Craft Holsters with the 
All that said, I also have a 
The Buffalo Bore Outdoorsman 147 grain hard cast bullets leave the G43 barrel at around 1050 feet per second. That’s about 395 foot/pounds of energy at the muzzle, with it dropping to about 365 ft/lbs at 25 yards. Sounds all fine and dandy until you compare it to something like the .44 mag +P+ hard cast rounds I use in 
The modern 9mm is not your grandpa’s ballistics. The nine is a true performer, and with the explosion of 
