10 Best Fishing Kayak Paddle in 2023 | All Good Fishing

Last updated on January 4th, 2023 at 01:13 pm

The engineers are known through their tools to get a job done, so do the kayakers with their paddles in any of their fishing kayaks. You should better say, paddles are the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to fishing kayaks as they play a key role in making or breaking out your voyage.

Picking up the best fishing kayak paddle takes the same effort as you have to do while picking a budget fishing kayak itself. The market is loaded with hundreds of kayaks, but the kayaking paddles are available in several thousands of options and choices. Of course, it becomes pretty hard to choose the best one out of the rush.

You’ll find several paddles for a fishing kayak in different sizes, a lot of shapes, and considerable variants that become quite hard to pick. But, they aren’t always true and justifying especially for your needs or expectations associated with them. So, you need to figure out the Best Paddle for Fishing Kayak as per your need.

With the right fishing kayak paddle along with the right skills in your hand, your lazy kayak would feel like a rapid fish catching machine that you would definitely love. A good kayak paddle transforms your kayaking experience that would ultimately lead to an enhanced fishing experience.

How & Why choose the Best Fishing Kayak Paddle?

There are quite a few factors that you need to keep in your mind before making a final choice for these blades. First thing first, your paddles need to be stiffer yet lightweight so you would be comfortable and confident while using them out. Bulky paddles in contrast aren’t truly easy to use and control in some cases.

Then comes the paddle length which is technically a vital player in maneuverability. Paddles with a longer shaft provide kayakers with enough stroking clearance and power that let you paddle the kayak wisely and efficiently. Obviously, it is not the ideal case in every situation, but this is recommended especially if your kayak is wider, so it would give you a stable ride out there.

Alongside the blade, the shaft of a kayak also plays its part. Paddles with straight shafts tend to be more responsive when dealing with stronger currents so you can maneuver your kayak as soon as possible. However, these shifts aren’t quite supportive if you are planning a longer journey.

Instead, bent shafts can help you out in a better way. These shafts give a good paddling experience as it reduces stress on your arm length making your kayaking pretty efficient. Aluminum, Fiberglass, or Carbon fiber shafts are recommended materials to be used in paddles shafts so they would give decent longevity.

Now, if you need a paddle with a longer shaft, it would definitely need a decent storage space so it won’t miss out. Not everybody is comfortable with it as it occupies a lot of space especially while transporting this out. To kill this debate, kayaking paddles are now available in single, two, and more than two pieces.

With these things pinned in your mind, you will get the best paddle for kayaks. So, without any further ado, let’s dive deeper into the list that’s waiting for your first impression. Don’t forget to check the availability of any paddle which you think is the best option for your needs.

Top 3 Pick Of Best Fishing Kayak Paddle

Best Fishing Kayak Paddle At A Glance

IMAGE	PRODUCT	SHOP
Overall Best Fishing Kayak Paddle	Best Marine Kayak Paddle & Leash Benefits: Comes with a Safe leash, Lightweight kayak paddle, The Maneuverable design, Durable fiberglass blades	Shop Here
The comfortable handle	Bending Branches Angler Scout 2P Kayak Fishing Paddle Benefits: Lightweight and easy to use, Adjustable yet a durable shaft, An Impressive build quality, With a Hook retrievable blade	Shop Here
Best Fishing Kayak Paddle under $50	Poseidon Fiberglass Blades Paddle Benefits: Best paddle for 50 bucks, Reinforced Plastic blades, Durable Aluminum shaft, Lightweight & less fatigue	Shop Here
Paddle with an adjustable shaft	Backwater Paddles Assassin Carbon Fiber Paddle Benefits: Lightweight kayak paddles, Build up of Carbon fiber, Responsive and versatile, the money	Shop Here
Cheapest Fishing Kayak Paddle	Backwater Paddles Assault Hand Paddle Benefits: Lightweight & strong, An Optimal build quality, One of the Cheapest paddle, Stable and a bit maneuverable	Shop Here
The Premium Most Kayak Paddle	Werner Camano Fiberglass Kayak Paddle Benefits: Lightweight & high-quality, Responsive & durable paddle, Comes with adjustable length, Best one for longer sessions	Shop Here
The Maneuverable Kayak Paddle	Pelican PS1129 Poseidon Fishing Kayak Paddle Benefits: Lightweight and durable, Responsive Retrieval groove, Best one for longer distances, An adjustable shaft and length	Shop Here
A value to money Fishing Paddle	Carlisle Magic Fishing Kayak Paddle Benefits: Curved & glass-filled blades, Flexible yet durable blades, Easy to carry & transportable, Responsive & powerful strokes	Shop Here
Paddle with a drip ring shaft	Pelican PS1131 – Symbosia Fishing Kayak Paddle Benefits: The Fiberglass shaft, Durable build quality, A Protective drip ring, An Adjustable length	Shop Here
Budget Fishing Kayak Paddle	KERCO Boomba Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle Benefits: Gives an excellent build & feel, Optimal coverage for distance, An easier to control blade irons, Consistent ball flight & a fast speed	Shop Here

Best Fishing Kayak Paddle | Our Best Picks & Reviews

1. Best Marine Kayak Paddle & Leash

Best Marine topped the list with one of the most popular kayak paddles that are also amongst a few of the best-selling fishing kayak paddles. These guys were launched back in 2021 and you will get it in 05 different shades that all look quite adorable to be very honest. It is given in three different sizes that start from 86”.

Though the kayaks are commonly measured in inches and feet for their length, this is not the case with the paddles for kayaks as they are typically measured in centimeters. So, we’ll shift our measuring unit to CM instead of an inch from now and onwards. This specific paddle starts from 220 cm & goes up to 250 cm.

For weight, they are truly the lightweight paddles that you would love as their shortest version weighs no more than a kilo or even less than that. Not just its lightweight, it is also pretty compact as it is splittable into two pieces so you would take it anywhere without any problem as it doesn’t need a lot of space.

When it comes to its build quality, you would also find it pretty satisfying as Best Marine is using reinforced fiberglass to compose its blades. With these blades installed on the shaft along with the lashes, you would find it pretty safe, maneuverable, and quite enjoyable.

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2. Bending Branches Angler Scout 2P Kayak Fishing Paddle

Bending Branches with their exclusively the best fishing kayak paddle that comes in a 02 piece design so it won’t take a lot of space for storage. This paddle was launched back in 2012 making it amongst the senior-most launches on this list. Officially, these paddles are launched in orange and green colors that both look good. Further, it is offered in 05 different lengths from 220 to 260 cm out there.

First thing first, this guy comes along with a measuring tape that’s nicely incorporated alongside its shaft. This is the best deal for fish hunters as they need to measure the size of their catch that’s been tackled down here with this paddle. From now, you won’t have to take a special measuring tape in your pockets.

Bending Branches uses reinforced fiberglass blades so these guys would give a decent life with you. There are many good points here, but its only major drawback would be the lashes that are not included in this deal. Anyways, its shaft is also durable and you would find it quite responsive in some strong currents.

Another notable thing; its blade comes along with a tiny little groove which is technically effective to carry your lures without losing them. This tiny little thing can save your entire day if you are landed with limited lures in your gearbox. Furthermore, its adjustment also works quite fine to make it a compact paddle.

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3. Poseidon Fiberglass Blades Paddle

Poseidon is the successor to Bending Branches and the third-best fishing kayak paddle with their fiberglass paddles blade. These blades were launched back in 2020 and it doesn’t weigh more than 02 pounds at all. Though it is a little bit bulky for its plastic build, it is still easy to control, if you are an experienced kayaker.

In the start, Poseidon launched this specific paddle almost in 03 sizes but it is currently limited just to the 240 cm version of it. Alongside this, it has quite a unique and sort of attractive granite texture that looks very refreshing that would be best for fast-moving streams and rivers. 

Anyways, let’s explore the paddle itself. This guy is made up of plastic that is a bit reinforced to grab some power in its structure. Although we don’t recommend plastic paddles to some extent, this specific paddle is still great as far as price is concerned. This is why they are cheaper but also less durable than carbon fiber.

To make it perform, this paddle comes right in a straightforward shaft that allows you to take some rest instead of keeping rotating this out there. In a nutshell, you won’t feel stressed and tired with this sort of handle at this price. For its shaft, it is made up of aluminum that’s durable and affordable both at the same time.

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4. Backwater Paddles Assassin Carbon Fiber Paddle

We have now got the Assassin paddle that is brought up by Backwater paddles. Backwater launched this specific model of paddles back in 2017 and it comes almost for the same weight as we had in Poseidon blades. Just like for the previous one, this specific model is also offered just for a single color out there.

Backwater designed this paddle in a length of 250 and 260 cm that is quite responsive for its pricing and size. Anyways, this is the first-ever carbon fiber paddle of this guide as previous ones were fiberglass or plastic made. This is why it is still under budget for many of the kayakers out there.

Besides this, it is a fascinating and versatile fishing kayak paddle that works pretty decently when it comes to its performance out there in the waters. Alongside this, it features a strengthened build so it would last for a long time. With its slightly convex cut in the blade, the entire kayak would respond quickly.

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5. Backwater Paddles Assault Hand Paddle

Backwater once again with their assault paddles that are going to be a nicer version of its sibling. This one was also launched back in 2013 and this features a weight of 02 pounds hardly makes it a more compact and lightweight guy.

Now, this isn’t an entire paddle itself as Backwater is only providing you with its blades that are on a completely next level. So, if you are already having a paddle but that’s not working fine, you would need to get its shaft and install it with this specific paddle to feel the real taste of fishing.

Technically, it would be a great match for the beginner kayakers due to its budget & design part of course. You can literally take this paddle just in one of your hands and it would start moving the kayak immediately but this isn’t true at all. It would take some effort that you need to put so it would be working fine.

It is made up of carbon fiber so its life would not be a big deal for you guys. It could also work in a windy situation but you need to get used to it. Alongside, it is worth spending every penny & you will have a nice paddle to start kayaking. It also gives you an adjustable option so you can adjust as per your needs. 

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6. Werner Camano Fiberglass Kayak Paddle

Werner has finally grabbed this list with its one and only Camano paddle that is considered as one of the best fishing kayak paddles out there. This was launched back in 2017 and it has the same weight as Poseidon blades right on the third spot. Currently, it comes in up to 06 different colors that look quite good. Alongside, its size starts from 225 cm and goes up to 260 cm in its length.

Werner is following the requirements rather than trends and this is the reason why this paddle is offered in an adjustable shaft. Theory aside, but the adjustable or splittable shafts are quite compact as you only need two feet of space to store them without breaking them out.

Both the storage and transportation are quite easy from now. With this paddle, you will get enough power and response while using this out. Anyways, the paddle is made up of carbon fiber which is durable and quite responsive. So, you won’t need to be stressed or to get tired as you usually do by pushing the paddles.

Overall, it is a complete package of lightweight body, durability, and an outstanding design that would ultimately transform its performance. With its adjustments, you can readjust the size of it as per your height and requirements. Of course, its shaft is straightforward and also plays its part to let it perform.

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7. Pelican PS1129 Poseidon Fishing Kayak Paddle

Pelicans do not just make kayaks, they also make paddles for them or any sort of kayak that would bring a cute smile to your face. We’ve got you with Pelican’s PS 1129 that was launched back in 2018 and feels quite lightweight honestly speaking. However, it doesn’t currently come in any sort of color or size variant.

Pelican is using high-quality and reinforced fiberglass to form these durable and outstanding fishing kayak paddles so they would perform outstandingly. Depending upon the size you pick, the performance or stability could vary but it is totally fine for the paddles as the length of any paddle plays a significant role in kayaking. By the way, it is currently offered only in a 98-inches version of it.

Pelican integrates polypropylene blades in these paddles that make them quite resistive and also supports their design in terms of durability that is a core need of any fishing paddle. If used with wider kayaks, it would perform marvelously.

Alongside, the adjustment is also pretty easy and you don’t need to mess with this department which is a major concern on other mediocre kayak paddles. With its optimal blade shape, you can now kayak on longer distances and comfortably. Plus, the paddle itself floats on the water pretty nicely.

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8. Carlisle Magic Fishing Kayak Paddle

Carlisle grabbed the third last spot of this premium guide with their Magic Fishing Kayak paddle that you definitely need to look at. This guy was launched back in 2020 and it comes for a weight of fewer than 02 pounds in real-time. Carlisle launched this paddle in 04 different colors and the same goes for its sizes as well.

For the price, it is going to be a nice deal for kayakers of any skill. First of all, it is a lightweight kayak paddle even though it is filled up with glass and polypropylene for its blade. However, it features an exceptional build quality with these things.

For its shaft, Carlisle uses a fiberglass shaft that provides you with a reasonable grip so you won’t mistakenly throw it away in the water. Anyways, the blade itself is featuring a cutout right in the bottom center part of it. The blade is flexible and this is why it produces quite responsive strokes without any exception.

Again, it is a two-piece construction that you can simply store without struggling as such. Along with this, you will also get a measuring tape sort of measure on its shaft that would help measure the size of your potential catch.

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9. Pelican PS1131 – Symbosia Fishing Kayak Paddle

Pelican for the second yet last time with its PS1131 fishing kayak paddle. It is a launch of 2018 and its weight doesn’t exceed 2 pounds making it quite a balanced kayak paddle. Though it is not offered for any color or size, you can’t argue its universal color or size due to its pricing. The rest is also acceptable here.

Firstly, it comes loaded with an Integrated hook retrieval system that is an ideal requirement for any fisher and kayaker as it would help you rescue your lures. Later, it comes with a reasonably lengthened shaft that you can adjust as per your needs. Later on, this shaft also gets measuring tape on it so you can measure your catches without the need of keeping any additional measuring tool alongside you.

With the incorporation of reinforced fiberglass, these paddles provide you with a durable or an above-average strength profile. On the very lower end of its shaft, you will get a drip ring that prevents the entire shaft from water, so you can maintain your grip on the paddle.

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10. KERCO Boomba Carbon Fiber Kayak Paddle

Let’s wind up this list of the fishing kayak paddles with Kerco which is one of the best kayak paddles manufacturers. Kerco launched this guy back in 2018 and this entire paddle weighs no more than two pounds. This is a great deal if you are still struggling to get a paddle for reasonable pricing.

Boomba by Kerco is offered in a two-piece design that is pretty easy to take off and on. Alongside, it doesn’t require a host of space just to store this, and this compactness also makes it a transportable fishing kayak paddle. The build quality is reasonable for the price and it comes with an expected range of strength.

Overall, this paddle gives a stable ride and you don’t need to push it hard. The stroking power itself is more than enough to get it done and it saves your focus & energy that you can spend finding the fishes under the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Fishing Kayak Paddle under $50?

Usually, fishing kayaks are offered with paddles right out of the box so you won’t have to spend and stress out paddles. But, if you haven’t got any paddles or you want to upgrade your paddles, you still need this guide. Oceanbroad Kayak Fishing Paddle 98 Inches, Poseidon Fiberglass Blades Paddle, and Backwater Assault Paddles are the 03 best fishing kayak paddles under $50.

How to paddle a fishing kayak?

When putting your blade into the water, make sure you first catch in which you insert the paddle and bring it back when the blades are fully inside the water. In this method, you won’t notice a water splash and the kayak will move in the forward direction. Also, don’t move your arms a lot in your forward and reverse stroke as it would only create stress in your arms that could lead you to injuries.

Who makes the best fishing kayak paddle?

To be honest, several brands claim to make quality fishing kayak paddles but it isn’t the necessary case for all of them. As per our experience with the kayaks and paddles, we found Carlisle, Kerco, Werner, Best Marine, Backwater, Oceanbroad, and Perception paddles quite worthy and efficient. All these come at a different pricing range.

Summing Up the Best Fishing Kayak Paddle

Kayaking paddle is among the most important accessories for any kayaker who wants to spend his day out there on the bodies of water. To get the best possible kayaking experience, your kayak and paddles should be of the perfect kind so it won’t stress you out. Paddles need to be satisfying so your boat could go better. 

This list covers possibly the best fishing kayak paddles so you would find your kayaks pretty maneuverable. Your paddles should be lightweight and of a long shaft so it would perform outstandingly. On top of that, they also come in a portable shape and size that makes them pretty more impressive. Alongside, it also depends on your budget and requirements.