Kayak Paddles For Fishing Compared

How Is a Fishing Paddle Different from a Recreational Paddle?

While a recreational paddle is often a simple and cheaply made one to two blades on a shaft, a fishing kayak paddle is often higher quality and more complex. Some useful features of fishing paddles are built-in line hooks, branch hooks, and measurement systems. The angle of a fishing paddle is often different, and the shaft can be bent or feathered for better paddling. However, all of these features built into a paddle of higher quality materials can rack up the cost. That being said, while you can use both, we would recommend upgrading to an angling paddle if you are a regular fisherman.

Features to Look for in a Kayak Fishing Paddle

Length & Weight

A fishing paddle's length and weight will vary from person to person. Investing in a kayak paddle with a lighter swing weight will reduce fatigue in the long run and keep you enjoying the water for longer. The paddle length for a fishing kayak depends on multiple key factors: your height, seat height, and the width of your kayak.  We discuss sizing your paddle later on, so keep reading to discover which length is best for you.

Material

Fishing paddles can be made of a variety of materials. Many cheap ones are made of aluminum or plastic, which is good for beginners and low budget anglers. The trade-off of these paddles is that they are often heavy and offer lower performance levels than more expensive models. Fiberglass and carbon fiber are commonly used in higher quality paddles as they are durable and well-performing styles. Carbon fiber paddles are very expensive, but fiberglass ones are a great compromise between budget and performance.

Blade Features

In terms of design, the paddle blade can be either dihedral or asymmetrical. Dihedral blades are on two planes and are ribbed to promote a natural flow while asymmetrical blades have a longer top and tapered bottom for efficient paddling.

Fishing paddle blades can be shaped at a high or low angle to promote aggressive or relaxed strokes, respectively. Paddle blades can also be feathered or matched; we recommend that beginners using feathered ones if you have old or healing wrist, arm, or hand injuries.

Shaft

As mentioned, the paddle shaft can be made of a variety of materials, but it can also come in one, two, or four pieces. If you travel regularly, we recommend getting a two or four-piece depending on your travel style. The shaft can also be straight or bent; we recommend the straight shaft for beginners while they learn the ropes.

Ferrule System

A ferrule is a ring or band that strengthens or forms a joint. Ferrules are usually found on two or four-piece kayak paddles and are highly important. Ideally, you want a secure ferrule that will not allow water into the shaft and is easily removable through a button push system. Read reviews and product descriptions carefully to ensure that you get decent ferrules on your paddle.

Extras

These days, a fishing paddle does not have to be a simple paddle; it can have helpful features such as inbuilt line and branch hooks, a measurement system, leashes, and colorful palettes for higher visibility. Consider if these features are right for you and find one within your budget that matches your needs.

Budget

As kayak paddles can often cost anywhere from $20 to $500, you must set a budget for yourself beforehand and find a paddle that sits in that price range. If you like one that is a little over your budget, consider waiting for a sale or discount to get an even better deal.

1. Werner Camano Premium

The best kayak paddle for fishing, the Werner Camano Premium paddle is an excellent high-quality option for intermediate and expert paddlers. It is lightweight, durable, and available in eleven different design options for those who like to color coordinate. While this paddle is not fishing specific, we do think that it would be the perfect addition to your fishing gear thanks to its high performance touring strokes and gentle power. The light swing weight ensures that you will not become prematurely tired or injured over time.

A wide variety of lengths are available to suit most paddlers, and the fiberglass blades provide excellent performance. That being said, this is not the cheapest model and is not designed for beginners. With this in mind, novice paddlers may want to choose another model on this list. Overall, we love the award-winning performance and design of the Werner Camano Premium paddle and recommend giving it a try for yourself.

2. AQUA BOUND Sting Ray

Our runner up for top pick is the AQUA BOUND Sting Ray paddle, a two-piece model made in the USA. The AQUA BOUND Sting Ray is available in a wide range of size options and has on ovalized grip area on the seven-layer carbon fiber shaft. A posi lock ferrule keeps the two pieces together in a secure and easy to clean way.

For those looking for flexibility in their paddle shafts, it is possible to adjust this paddle up to 15 degrees incrementally. This light, strong, and durable model comes with drip rings and is available for a reasonable price but is only available in two design options, which is a shame. If you are a regular traveler or backpacker, try out the AQUA BOUND Sting Ray for yourself and see how easy it is to paddle no matter where you travel.

3. Bending Branches Angler Scout

Our pick for the best fishing kayak paddle for the money is the Bending Branches Angler Scout. This Bending Branches kayak fishing paddle is light, durable, and made in the USA. Available in a two-piece design, this paddle comes with a built-in tape measure and blade hook for rescuing lost lines. Lefties need not despair as this paddle is both left and right hand friendly and comes with ovalized grips for a more ergonomic design.  A three-hole snap-button ferrule holds the pieces together securely and allows for feathering angles of up to 60 degrees.

The fiberglass-reinforced blade will ensure that this paddle sticks with you through many adventures to come. That being said, this model only comes in two color options and is not short-person-friendly. If you are a taller angler or have a particularly high seat, this may well be an affordable option for you.

4. Perception Kayaks Pescador

The best adjustable kayak fishing paddle on our list, the Perception Kayaks Pescador model is designed for the Pescador but is a great choice no matter your kayak brand or model. This high quality and affordable kayak paddle is lightweight but tough and comes with a built-in line hook for those less than ideal casts. Ribbed dihedral blades power through the water with ease and is capable of pulling even heavy overloaded kayaks.

The fiberglass dihedral blades and aluminum shaft ensures that you do not need to compromise on quality and durability when it comes to your kayaking gear. It is possible to adjust the length of the kayak paddle to take a high or low kayak seat into account. While we do love the Pescador paddle, we do wish that it came in a wider variety of color and size options. With the limited sizes, this kayak paddle would be better for taller folks or those with wider kayaks.

5. KERCO Angler Pro

Our recommendation for best kayak fishing paddle for beginners, the KERCO Angler Pro is a well built two-piece paddle with a light swing weight and anti-slip design that will help you cut through the water. Having a lighter swing weight reduces fatigue and the likelihood of strain or overworked muscles in the future. The built-in lure hooks and measurement system means that you can fish without having to rifle in your gear bag whenever you catch something. 

The combination of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and nylon means that you have a durable and robust paddle that will keep you going for years to come. While we do love the build and features of this paddle, other customers have pointed out that the slow shipping and single size option do hold this particular model back. If this paddle is the right size and price for you, we recommend checking it out for yourself.

6. Carlisle Paddle Sunrise

The best lightweight kayak fishing paddle on our list, the Carlisle Paddle Sunrise is a model available in a wide range of sizes. Durable and portable, this two-piece paddle can be feathered up to 60 degrees and has high blade angles for speed and efficiency. An ovalized shaft helps paddlers keep an ergonomic grip on their paddle while they have fun in the sun. Rubber drip rings are built in to keep your hands as dry as possible while you paddle, and a push-button takedown system makes packing and setting up as easy as possible for those on a trip or limited time. The polypropylene and glass blades cut through the water and will stay strong against currents and underwater debris.

While we love the features of this paddle, we do not recommend it for beginners due to the high angle bent shaft design. We would suggest that this paddle is more appropriate for intermediate or advanced kayakers.

7. Backwater Paddles Assault

Kayak Paddle Sizing Guide

Kayak Paddling Skills: Tips for Beginners

Safety tips:

Holding your paddle:

Adjusting your hold on the paddle:

Gripping the paddle:

Sweep stroke:

Draw stroke:

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What is a hooked fishing paddle?

Do these paddles come with a paddle leash?

Not all paddles will come with a paddle leash. Read the product description carefully to make sure you get what you want.

What size paddle do I need for a 10-foot kayak?

It depends on your height and the kayak’s width. Confirm these things and read our guide above to help you decide.

Do fishing paddles float?

Fishing paddles do usually float, but we recommend getting a leash in case.

What is the difference between an oar and a paddle?

An oar usually has one blade and is used for rowing, whereas a paddle can have either one or two blades and is not used in rowing.

Where can I find the right fishing kayak paddle for me?

We recommend searching for your forever paddle on Amazon due to its wide selection of models, customer review database, affordable prices, and speedy delivery.

Conclusion