Kayaking is a water sport that can be enjoyed by people in many different ways, making it one of the most diverse sports at the moment. Each of these ways of enjoying the waters require different types of kayaks. Specifically, this article will explore the difference in design and function between leisure kayaks and fishing kayaks.
What is a Leisure Kayak?
A leisure kayak is a kayak that is designed for a ‘tranquil’ experience, suited for beginners or casual kayakers and is usually used in calm waters with little to no boat traffic such as lakes or flat waters. An inflatable leisure kayak is usually between 8-12 feet long and 28 inches wide and weighs between 14-18kg, depending on how many people it is designed to hold. They usually have a long, narrow structure, allowing easy manoeuvrability, making it the perfect kayak for beginners!
Here is a link to some of the leisure kayaks we have to offer: Leisure Kayaks - Asgard Aqua Sports
What is a Fishing Kayak?
A fishing kayak is designed to fulfil the needs of anglers (people who fish with a rod and line, rather than those who fish with nets), and its main function is its stability as it allows the user to stand up, walk around and place heavy fish upon. Fishing kayaks range between 13-15 feet in length and 35-40 inches in width in order for the user to have maximum stability on the water, as fishing is a sport that requires great concentration and a lack of sharp movements. Additionally, fishing kayaks usually include placeholders for fishing rods and storage space for the fish that are caught.
Here is a link to some of the fishing kayaks we have to offer: Fishing Kayaks - Asgard Aqua Sports
Differences
The first, and arguably most noticeable difference between leisure kayaks and fishing kayaks is their size. Typically, a leisure kayak is longer and thinner whilst fishing kayaks are shorter and wider. The main reason for this is the functions of these kayaks - a leisure kayak is for moving around in the water, being able to change direction quickly and travel at relatively fast speeds, whereas a fishing kayak is designed with stability as its main function, as anglers are supposed to remain still in the water, and are usually catching 15-30lb fish. Additionally, the majority of fishing kayaks are designed for 1 person, whereas leisure kayaks can seat up to 3 people at once.
Secondly, the functions of a leisure kayak differ completely from those of a fishing kayak. For example, a fishing kayak provides a more specialised experience for anglers, with its storage compartments designed for fishing, whereas a leisure kayak is designed for simply having fun on the waters with less storage and a more aerodynamic design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, leisure kayaks and fishing kayaks provide a different experience on the water and have less in common than one may assume, both in function and design. Both are viable options for those who seek adventure on the water depending on how they aim to do so. A leisure kayak is more suited to a casual kayaker who wants to explore a body of water with their friends, whereas a fishing kayak may be attractive to those who are into fishing and intend on doing so in a kayak.