Top 10 Best Tandem Kayaks For Fishing in 2022 | Buyers Guide & Reviews

If you are a person who loves adventure, you must have heard about Tandem Kayaks, right? These Kayaks are often known as only TANDESMS and these are for the people who prefer to be social in this solo world. Sharing the paddling session with someone special is always what we want.

And so, we are here to present you with the Best Tandem Kayak of this 2018 that are leading the market along with the customer’s heart. This review on best Tandem Kayaks will not only provide the features, positive and negative aspects of the top-notch Kayaks these days, but also will come up with the ideal Kayak as per your requirements providing the details.

Top 10 Best Tandem Kayaks Comparison:

Product

Name

Weight

Body

Seat

Details

Brooklyn-Kayak

70 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Vibe-Kayaks-Skipjack

86 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Brooklyn-UH-kayak

68 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Ocean-Kayak

57 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Lifetime-Fishing-Kayak

60 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-Inside

sun-dolpino-kayak

70 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Lifetime-sit-on-top-kayak

60 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-Inside

lifetime-beacon-kayak-paddle

90 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

lifetime-beacon-kayak-red

90 pounds

UV-protected Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Vibe-Kayaks-Shipjack

86 pounds

Polyethylene

Sit-On-Top

Why Should You Buy a Tandem Kayak?

There are people who do not find interest in buying tandem kayaks. They do not understand why tandem kayak is so much popular when it comes to having fun in water. People often do not understand the reason behind using a sea tandem kayak.

In most cases, if you visit any recreational travel spot and you ask for a kayak for traveling, they will offer you a tandem kayak. Even if you are single and traveling alone, the authority will not (usually) give you a single kayak. Rather they will prefer a tandem kayak for you.

Here, we will talk about why you should get a tandem kayak for you!

Comfort

When we talk about comfort, tandem kayaks are the best. Just think about the single beds and double beds. Can you imagine how comfortable it is to sleep in the double bed than the single bed? Tandem kayaks are basically made for two persons. If you and any of your friends are going to enjoy in a water body, nothing can be better than tandem kayak. You people will fit in properly in the tandem.

On the other hand, if you are single and you want a comfortable journey, there are no alternatives to tandem kayak. Single kayaks are good to afford you an amazing ride. But if your main concern is comfort and all you want is a relaxed journey, pick up tandem kayaks. The seats are made comfortable for you so that you can have an incredible journey.

Space

If you love to enjoy the journey and have fun taking a whole lot of space, go for tandem kayak. Tandem kayaks include the perfect ratio for you and your partner to fit in with all your accessories. If you are traveling alone and you have a lot of gears with you to carry, tandem kayaks are the best option to go for.

Tandem kayaks include incredible space for the people and the accessories. As it is larger than the regular single kayaks and so, the boat is roomier. You will get more space in the cockpit area for keeping all your necessary items there. So, if you are a person who usually takes a lot of stuff in journeys can rely on the tandem kayak.

Weight Capacity

On the other hand, you have to keep in mind that everybody is not very fit when it comes to seat sizes. There are people who are very much heavy. In this case, they require excessive room in the kayak. If they select a tandem kayak, they will never be able to sit properly. They will feel uncomfortable and the single-seat will not be able to hold them.

Also, single kayaks include less weight lifting capability. Here, if you are too heavy then it will never be able to hold you properly. The kayak can lose its control in the journey and you will fall down from the kayak. In this case, you better pick up the tandem kayak so that it can hold your weight properly.

Stability

You might be thinking that tandem kayaks are tough to handle when it comes to the comparison between tandem kayaks and single kayaks. But trust us, tandem kayaks are easier to operate than the single kayaks of the market.

When we talk about stability, you have to keep in mind that the things that weightless are more likely to fall down only with a little pressure.

When it comes to kayaks, the same thing is important. When you are going for a single kayak, the kayak has less weight itself. In this case, if you want to handle the kayak perfectly, you have to be experienced. If you are new in this sector, you will never be able handle the kayak as a professional.

Here, you have to think that if you select tandem kayak, it will be a little weighty than the single kayaks. And so, it will be more stable than the single kayaks. Even in the choppy seas, you can operate a tandem kayak perfectly where the single kayaks are tough to operate.

You have to remember that single kayaks are very unstable and turning the kayaks is tough for the newbie.  

Economic

If you compare the price of the kayaks, tandem kayaks seem less pricy and economic at the same time. When you buy a small size of a product, you should know that 2 small-sized products cost more than a full-sized product. In this case, the amount of the product is same but the packaging costs a little extra money.

And the same goes for tandem kayaks and single kayaks. The single-seat kayaks are a little expensive. If you compare the price of the tandem kayaks and the single-seat kayaks then you will find that the single kayaks are less in price. But if you compare the size and the weight tandem kayaks can hold, you will see that tandem kayaks are more economic.

When e tandem kayak can hold two people, a single kayak can hold only one. If you compare the price of two single kayaks that can hold two different persons, the total price of these kayaks will be more than a tandem kayak.

Two better than One

We all know that tandem kayaks are made for two persons. If you pick up a single kayak, it can never hold more than one person. If you go for a tandem kayak, you will be able to travel with more than one person.

On the other hand, some of the tandem kayaks can hold more than two persons. There are seats in some tandem kayaks for a little kid. So, you will be able to travel with more than two persons in some cases. It is far better than the regular single kayaks as you are able to travel with more than one person.

1. Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC UH-TK219

Brooklyn-Kayak

Features

  • 12 foot tandem sit on top Kayak
  • Perfect for 2-3 person
  • Weight capacity 440 pounds
  • 6 rod holders and 4 carrying handles
  • 2 paddle rests and 6 rod holders
  • Includes cargo storage

Tandem Kayaks are the ultimate choice if you really want to enjoy your outdoor sports. And if you want to enjoy the fishing period with your beloved one then Brooklyn Kayak Company’s BKC UH-TK219 12 ft. tandem kayak will be the ideal selection.

For having a 12 ft. length, this Kayak can hold 2-3 persons easily. That makes this kayak a multi-person kayak or it can also be addressed as family-person kayak! This Kayak has 4 flush mount and 2 adjustable rod holder which makes 6 total rod holders. The 2 adjustable rod holders are great for keeping various fishing lines in water.

 The two Kayak seats are luxurious and this kayak has rear pouches for proper ease. Not only for family fishing, solo exploring and fishing is also attention-grabbing in this Brooklyn Kayak.

Pros

  • Provides stability with balanced comfortable seating
  • Has two 2-piece aluminum paddles which is lightweight
  • Dual watertight storage

Cons

  • Doesn’t have space for mount trolling

2. Vibe Kayaks Shipjack 120T

Vibe-Kayaks-Shipjack-120T

Features

  • 12 foot along with 72lbs sit on top kayak
  • Has 3 seats position 
  • Weight capacity 500 pounds
  • 6 rod holders and 4 carrying handles
  • Multiple storages
  • 2 paddle-parks for security

  • If you are a beginner but you are up for a comfortable Kayak ride then you can reliably settle on Vibe Kayak’s Skipjack 120T. The 6 rod holders including 2 flush mount holders (with caps) and 4 mounting point rod holders can make you fishing life more remarkable than ever. 

    It is also equipped with 4 carrying handles for uncomplicated transportation. This stable kayak can uphold 2 adult and one child in the 3 seats and can be solo paddled from the center position. Multiple storages are great for bearing accessories.    

    Two sealed hatches with built in cup holders for safe housing of smaller items and rear cargo area with bungee tie-down straps for larger gear

    Pros

    • Can go easily for river water or flat water
    • Easy to paddle for people of any age
    • One year warranty on parts and attachments

    Cons

    • Has limited manufacturer’s warranty

    3. Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC UH-TK181

    BKC-UH-TK181-Kayak

    Features

  • 12.5 Inch Sit on Top Tandem Fishing Kayak
  • Has a loading capacity of 450 pounds
  • 7 rod holders
  • Can hold 2 person (has 2 seats)
  • Has waterproof storage

  • BKC UH-TK181 by Brooklyn Kayak Company is the idyllic kayak if you want solo adventures in ocean or water. This sturdy kayak can hold up to 450 pounds of weight so no worries for weight now! There are 2 seats in this kayak along with a length of 12.5 Inch. The carrying handles make it easy for transport and the storage located between the legs of the paddlers make bearing stuff trouble-free 

    It is equipped with 7 rod holders that include 4 flush mounting holders and 3 articulated fishing rod. Flush-mounted rod holders are great for multiple lines at once in the water and the adjustable holder can ensure the perfect angle for your compatibility. The secure cargo area and the two paddle rests guarantee your safety.

    Pros

    • Great paddle rests for least risk
    • 34 Inch beam for protection from wind and water
    • 5 years warranty

    Cons

    • Takes on too much water sometimes

    4. Ocean Kayak

    Ocean-Kayak-Malibu

    Features

  • Has a length of 12 ft.
  • Can take up to 2-3 persons
  • Weight lifting capability 375-425 pound
  • 2 comfort plus seats
  • Deck for easy load

  • This 12-feet Malibu Tandem Sit-on-Top Ocean Kayak is a perfect deal if you are married and has one baby or pet. It has 2 comfort plus seats for supreme ease.

    You can go for 2 adults along with one child or one pet. The 3 seating positions are bow position, stern position and middle position.

    If you are super worried about weights then let us ensure you that the weight lifting capacity of this Kayak is around 375-425 pounds, so breathe out the stress about weight and have fun with your kayak voyage!

    The paddler in the center can paddle solo if he wants. This kayak has molded-in handles, skid plate, molded-in seat walls, patented overlapping foot-wells and gear straps for an enjoyable adventure. This compact yet versatile Kayak has deck for easy loading.   

    Pros

    • Compact and lightweight
    • Stable and versatile
    • High weight lifting capability

    Cons

    • No storage
    • Need to purchase the paddles separately

    5. Lifetime 10 foot Tandem Fish Kayak

    Tandem-Fishing-Kayak

    Features

  • Has a length of 10 ft.
  • Weight lifting capacity 500 pounds
  • 2 seating facility
  • Made of high-density polyethylene
  • 2 double-sided kayak paddles
  •  6’ storage hatch


    This Lifetime Kayak of 10 ft. is a wonderful kayak as it is made of high-density polyethylene for UC-protection. Three people (2 adults and one child) can easily seat on the kayak as it has multiple foot-rests for ultimate comfort. Has 6’ storage for storing your accessories.

    Having 500 pounds weight lifting ability, it has 2 double-sided kayak paddles for uncomplicated paddling. In companied with the 3 fishing pole for enjoyable adventure, the 2-padded backrest take care of your health and body. 

    Pros

    • Paddle clips and padded backrest
    • Affordable
    • 5 years warranty

    Cons

    • Length is not exceptional

    6. Sun Dolphin Bali

    Sun-Dolphin-Bali-Tandem-Kayak

    Features

  • Has a length of 13.5 ft.
  • Can bear 2-3 persons
  • Weight lifting capacity of 600 pounds
  • 3 covered cargo space compartments
  • Adjustable seats                                                                                                                              
  • If you want best tandem Kayak that has enough space for comfortable seating then undoubtedly this Sun Dolphin Bali kayak is going to be your favorite. This is because it has a length of 13.5 ft. which is absolutely perfect for 3 persons.

    You can go for solo ride or you can settle on 2 or 3 persons if you want to. The seats are adjustable and have comfortable backrests. This kayak can lift around 600 pounds weights and is equipped with paddle holders and carrying handles.

    There are 3 cargo space compartments for bearing your needed stuff with you easily. This 70 pound weighed Kayak is completely lightweight and portable.

    Pros

    • Lightweight
    • Onboard shock cord deck rigging
    • Has back support
    • Adjustable foot braces

    Cons

    • Doesn’t come with paddles

    7. Lifetime 10 foot Tandem Sit-on-Top Kayak

    Lifetime- 90118-Manta-Tandem

    Features

  • Has a length of 10 ft.
  • Seating facility for 1-2 persons
  • Weight leading capacity of 500 pounds
  • 2 double sided paddles
  • Forward cargo area                                                                                                                       
  • This Lifetime Kayak can be a perfect combo of ease and exploration id you can ride it well! This 10 ft. Kayak can go for solo or tandem ride but it also fits in up to 3 persons.

    This is because of its 500 pounds high weight lifting capacity. This includes 2 double sided paddles and a forward cargo for easy transport.

    This lightweight Kayak of 60 pounds is portable and easy to bear. The rear of this Kayak can carry the handles easily. The 2 soft backrests make you journey comfortable.

    Pros

    • Soft backrests
    • Lightweight
    • High and Dry seating positions
    • 5 years warranty

    Cons

    • The length is not perfect for tall people

    8. Lifetime Beacon Tandem Kayak with Paddles

    life-time-beacon-kayak

    Features

  • Has a length of 12 ft.
  • Has built-in padded CRS
  • Weight capacity of 500 pounds
  • 2 paddles and 2 paddle keepers
  • 4 carry handles
  • Storage hatch                                                                                                                                 
  • If you want to take you Kayaking experience to the next level, Lifetime Beacon Tandem Kayak is all you need! This 12 ft.

    Kayak has built-in padded CRS with UltraLite seats for a combo of comfort and security! It can uphold weight up to 500 pounds and is perfect for 2 persons. It is equipped with 2 paddles along with 2 paddle keepers     

    The 4 carrying handles make your transportation easy and for all you accessory, you get storage hatch. The skeg wheels and cargo lacing system ensures the quality of this Kayak. 

    Pros

    • Secure foot bracing
    • UltraLite Seats
    • Skeg wheels
    • Cargo net lacing system

    Cons

    • Has no cup holder

    9. Lifetime Beacon Tandem Kayak Red

    Lifetime-Beacon-Tandem-Kayak

    Features

  • Has a length of 12 ft.
  • Includes 2 built-in padded CRS
  • As weight lifting capacity of 500 pounds
  • High density UV-protected Polyethylene
  • Storage hatch                                                                                                                                    
  • To enjoy your Kayak ride, you can try this Lifetime Beacon Tandem RED Kayak. You can go for solo ride or you can also take your friend!

    This tandem Kayak can hold up to 2 persons and has the ability of lift up to 500 pounds weight. It has foot braces for security and molded-in footwells for utmost comfort.

    This kayak has skeg wheels and ultra-lite seating facility for adventurous ride. Along with the storage hatch, the High density UV-protected Polyethylene is guarantees the quality of the Kayak brand. 

    Pros

    • Has Ultra-Lite seating facility
    • Skeg wheels
    • Molded-in footwells and foot braces

    Cons

    • Absence of Paddles

    10. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T

    Vibe-Kayaks-Skipjack-120T

    Features

  • Has a length of 12 ft.
  • Perfect for 2-3 persons
  • Includes 2 luxurious seats
  • Equipped with 2 paddles
  • Weight capacity of 500 pounds
  • 2 sealed hatches with rear cargo area                                                                                          
  • If you are adventure-freak then Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T Kayak is something that will never let you down. This 12 ft. Kayak can hold up to 500 pounds wùeight along with 2-3 persons. It has 2 padded seating facility and 2 paddles for easy surfing. For storing during adventure, this kayak provides 2 sealed hatches and a rear cargo space.

    It has 4 mounting points and 2 flush rod holders. The 2 paddle parks ad 4 carrying handles can make you journey safer and more fascinating   

    Pros

    • Includes 2 flush mounted rod holders
    • Equipped with 4 mounting points
    • Has 2 paddle parks with 4 carrying handles

    Cons

    • Has limited warranty

    Guide To Choosing The Right Kayak For Fishing

  • Before purchasing any Tandem Kayak, know your own height and your partner’s height. Of you are too much tall then you can to purchase a high seated Best Tandem Kayak and if you are short then go for a lower seated Kayak otherwise you will face difficulties while kayak paddling.             
  • The other thing you have to keep in mind is how much area or space do you guys cover. If you are a little healthy then you have to go for Kayaks that have bigger space or length. The weight of you and your partner is also a fact. Different Kayaks have different capacity to lift weight, discover that.                                                                                                                         
  • Then you should know if you are going to do Kayaking gently for cruising or fishing. If you are going to need a larger storage then you have to make sure that the Kayak you selected has storage hatch and cargo space.                                                                                                         
  • If you are a beginner then go for a Kayak that is easy to paddle and operate. If you are experienced in Kayaking then go for any of your choice.

  • Types of Tandem Kayak

    We have talked a lot about the buyer’s guide of tandem kayak. So now, you know how to get the best tandem kayak for you. This process includes a lot of pressure as this kayaks requires so much know-how to select.

    If you have ever used a tandem kayak or your have read about it, you will know that there are several types of tandem kayak. People that love fishing have love for kayaks too. Fishing can be more enthusiastic if you are riding a kayak. Do you think that all kayaks are the same? If you are thinking that then you are going for a wrong perception.

    What is tandem kayak? There are a lot of people who don’t know what tandem kayak is. I hope you already know about kayaks. Tandem kayak is one kind of kayak that can hold more than one person. Tandem kayaks are basically of 17 feet to 24 feet in length. Kayak includes seats for two people and two people can paddle here. So, the kayaks that include 2 different paddling options and can hold two persons are called tandem kayak.

    Now that you know what tandem kayak is, you should select one if you love to have adventures. But before getting into the best tandem kayak for you, you have to know about which type of tandem kayak you want.

    Here, we will talk about 5 different tandem kayaks that will help you in selecting the best kayak for you.

    Tandem Fishing Kayak

    You already know by the name of this kayak that this kayak is specially made for fishing. If you love fishing, you can select this kayak for you. This kayak basically has two different pieces of sport paddles for running the kayak properly. On the other hand, it has two padded backrest so that you back stays pain-free throughout the journey.

    If you want to have a third partner here, you are free to do that! Yes, it is possible for you to add another person in the journey. It will only require pampered pooch on board! As the kayak has adequate amount of space, you are free to add another person as your mate here.

    This kayak includes a forward cargo so that you never get worried about keeping all your stuff like fishing gear, rod and fishing reel in the kayak. The cargo includes shock cord straps to hold your accessories properly. Yes, there are people who get tensed about keeping their accessories in a kayak. For them, it is an amazing idea. It includes a tunnel hull.

    The best part about fishing kayak is it has ultra-stability keeping in mind that you are going to fish in the water body. There is a mast receiver along with pole holder with this tandem fishing kayak. In most cases, these are very lightweight and durable.

    Tandem Ocean Kayak

    Are you taking the regular tandem kayak in the ocean? You do not need to do it because there are tandem kayaks that are made especially for people that love to jump in the ocean and have the fun of kayaking!

    These kayaks are versatile and known for being highly durable. If you are a person who is searching for a kayak that has patented overlapping foot wells, you should get this one. These kayaks have a large space for you to move and settle while you are riding the kayak.

    You can have an amazing ride in this tandem kayak with your partner. Some people love their kids and cannot leave them alone. If you want to take your child to the kayak, you can do it too.

    As there is enough space to sit, your child will easily get in and have fun with you. What if you do not have kids? What if you have pets? The best part of your life will be enjoying a kayak ride in the ocean with your pet.

    You are surely going to face higher rough-seas there and this kayak has the ability to control that situation. Gear straps, skid plate, and comfortable back, everything is added with these kayaks. If you are going to ocean, get this one!

    Tandem Touring Kayak

    If you love to make tours and extended trips, this kayak will be your favorite piece, trust me! This is specially made for the elite kayakers. If you want to enjoy the unpredictable environments and survive that, you should get this kayak for you.

    If you go to extended trips, you will surely see our kayak pushed into the woods and rocks. In this situation, if your kayak is not very much sturdy, it will shatter into pieces!

    And to survive these situations, your tandem touring kayak is made with high-grade materials that can afford you longevity. It features a tri-form hull along with V-shaped cross-section in the middle of the kayak.

    Tandem Sit-On-Top Kayak

    The name says it all! In this tandem kayak, you will see a place where you can sit on the top of the kayak and have fun while kayaking. In this case, if you are using kayak in summer days and want to get splash of water, you can go for this kayak.

    This kayak has a hollow shape and it is very easy to control. If you are new in kayaking life, you should try this one. It does not include a hull and is open in design.

    Tandem Inflatable Kayak

    If you are finding it difficult to travel or you are getting into trouble to store the kayak in your house, get an inflatable tandem kayak. These kayaks are very easy to bear and easy to store. You can store these in your house easily. Though inflating and deflating the kayak may take a little time, it will make it easy to carry. These kayaks can be used for flat water along with calm ocean water.

    Do not try to use this in the water that has excessive tide otherwise you will fall from the kayak. If you want something easy to transport and store, get this one!

    Why Choose A Tandem Kayak?

    Tandem kayaks have a lot of benefits that make them a great choice for those looking for a recreational kayak. They are easy to transport and store, making them perfect for weekend getaways. They are also versatile, able to be used for both white-water and flat water paddling. Finally, tandem kayaks are affordable, making them a great option for those on a budget.

    Tandem kayaking can be more efficient than solo kayaking. When both paddlers are working together, they can move through the water more quickly and cover more ground.

    Tandem kayaking can be more fun when done with friends. When there’s someone else to share the experience with, the trip becomes even more enjoyable.

    Advantages

    Kayaking tandem is a great way to see more of your surroundings while you enjoy the tranquility of paddling together. Here are five reasons why you should consider tandem kayaking:

    1. It's a great way to get out and explore new territory together.
    2. Tandem kayaks are perfect for groups who want to kayak in tandem but also have some privacy.

    There are many reasons to consider using a tandem kayak when paddling. Not only do they provide more stability, but they also offer an advantage in terms of speed and maneuverability. Here are five reasons why you should consider pairing up with a friend for a paddling adventure:

    Greater Stability
    When you're out on the water solo, each paddle stroke can easily cause your kayak to veer off course.

    Family Trip

    With a tandem kayak, you and your partner can explore rivers, lakes and other waterways at your own pace. This allows you to get a feel for the landscape and wildlife while giving your partner a break. Tandem kayaks are also great for family trips or rentals because they can accommodate up to four people.

    Kayaks are perfect for traveling long distances with friends or family as they are both able to travel at the same time and in sync. Plus, tandem kayaks don't require any extra equipment or skills - just good coordination!

    Things To Know Before Buying A Tandem Kayak

    • What is Tandem Kayak Storage?

    When you travel in Tandem Kayaks, no matter alone or with your family, you need to bear some essential accessories and stuff (food, cloths, water etc.)

    If you do not have enough storage then you may find your adventure hard. Most of the Tandem Kayaks include storage hatch for carrying goods along with rear cargo space for carrying the paddles. 

    • Who paddles a Tandem Kayak?

    In this case, you have to identify the more experienced Kayaker. It is better if the experienced Kayaker sits in the rear seat of the Kayak. The reason of this is the person who is in the back will be the person who will steer the Kayak and so the rear Kayaker can direct easily from the back.

    If you are in a calm condition, then it will be a great initiative to place the newbie in the back so that he can increase their experience along with confidence.    

    • Can Tandem Kayak be ridden solo?

    A Tandem Kayak can be ridden solo. Most of the Tandem Kayak has 2 paddles in the center seat. And some of the Kayaks have the paddles in the back seat. No matter wherever the paddles are, you can ride your Tandem Kayak by yourself sitting there.

    • How much does a Tandem Kayak weigh?

    Tandem Kayaks are usually made for two persons (sometimes a child or a pet can be added.) These Kayaks can uphold 450 lbs. to around 600 lbs. weight. Most of the Kayaks in the market weigh between 60 lbs. to 80 lbs.

    • Can all Tandem Kayak bear Child?

    As we have said before, Tandems are for couples, many of these Kayaks can bear 2 persons along with one small child or pet. Some of these Kayaks have a small seat for babies or pets.

    The weight lifting capacity plays a vital role because the more weight it can lift, the more weight you can put. It is better not to ride Kayak with 3 adults.

    Final Notes

    Tandem Kayaks are to share your Kayaking experience with your beloved ones and paddling with a partner is never less fun!

    If you are up for making your life a little exploratory, pick any Best Tandem Kayaks from the subsequent list and get on it!

    Even moon has a dark side, so has these Kayaks. According to your preference, settle on any one. What are you waiting for?

    You get only one life, so never say “NEVER” and jump for what take you to bliss. Thanks for reading!