The Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling combines stability, stealth, and hands-free control.
You want to cover water, keep your lures in the strike zone, and fight fish without juggling a paddle. I get it. Trolling from a kayak can be smooth and fun, or it can be a fight with wind and current. The right boat or motor changes everything. In this guide, I break down the best options for different budgets, waters, and goals. I include motorized beasts, nimble pedal rigs, and smart add-ons. I also share hard-won tips from long days chasing stripers, trout, pike, and redfish. If your goal is steady speed and sharp boat control, this list will save you time and help you land more fish.
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136…
Equipped with a saltwater-ready, GPS-enabled, integrated Minn Kota trolling motor, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 motorized kayak allows you to propel and maneuver using the Bluetooth-connected i-Pilot remote. Motor…
Reel Yaks 9.5ft Raider Propeller…
POWERFUL & RESPONSIVE PROPELLER DRIVE: Command the water with our smooth kayak pedal drive system, giving anglers hands-free power, stealthy acceleration, and effortless reverse maneuvering — perfect for tight spaces,…
Brooklyn 10.5 Pro Motorized Fishing…
POWERED FOR PERFORMANCE: Includes a reliable trolling motor for hands-free propulsion, perfect for covering more water, holding position while casting, or navigating wind and current with ease. STABLE SIT-ON-TOP DESIGN:…
Old Town AutoPilot 136 (Ember Camo)
This is the kayak I reach for when I want full motor control. The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 pairs a Minn Kota motor with GPS Spot-Lock. That means you can hold on a contour line or hover on a waypoint with a press of a button. It tracks well, cuts chop, and stays stable when you stand to net fish.
The seat is all-day comfortable, and the deck is clean and open. Gear tracks and mounts let you dial in rod holders, cameras, and electronics. The motor lifts for shallow water and transport. For anglers who troll in current or wind, this is a big edge. It is the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling if you want power and precision.
Pros:
- GPS Spot-Lock holds your line while you set rods
- Remote control steering for hands-free trolling
- Ultra-stable platform for standing and netting
- Ample deck space for multiple rod holders
- Quiet motor lets you troll stealthy spreads
- High-seat comfort for long sessions
- Durable hull for big lakes, bays, and rivers
Cons:
- Heavy to cartop without help
- Needs a quality battery, which adds cost
- Storage space needed for motor and rigging
My Recommendation
If you troll in wind, current, or open water, this is a top pick. The Minn Kota system saves time and stress. You can make tight turns, hold lines, and work baits at precise speeds. It shines for stripers, walleye, salmon, and lake trout. For me, it is the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling when I need total control, range, and comfort.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Big lakes and bays | GPS Spot-Lock and strong hull handle wind and chop |
| Hands-free trolling | Remote Minn Kota control keeps lines clean |
| All-day comfort | Supportive seat and open deck reduce fatigue |
Reel Yaks 9.5 Raider Pedal Kayak (Modular)
The Reel Yaks Raider 9.5 is a compact pedal kayak with a modular body. It breaks down for easy storage and small car transport. The propeller drive gives you hands-free trolling at steady speeds. The deck is simple and the seat sits high for comfort.
I like this rig for small lakes and creeks where space is tight. The pedal system is smooth and easy to maintain. The 380 lb capacity is generous for a short kayak. If you want a nimble, easy-to-store boat that still trolls well, this is a smart pick.
Pros:
- Modular design packs into small spaces
- Hands-free pedal drive for steady trolling
- Lightweight and simple to launch
- Comfortable seat for long sits
- Gear tracks for rod holders and mounts
- Good stability for its size
- Quick assembly and breakdown
Cons:
- Shorter hull limits top speed
- Not ideal for very rough water
- Less deck space than long kayaks
My Recommendation
This is ideal for weekend anglers who live in apartments or have small cars. You get real trolling performance without a trailer or big garage. It is the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling if you value compact storage, quick setup, and pedal power. It also works well for kids or smaller paddlers who want a light, calm ride.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small waters | Short hull turns fast and fits tight launches |
| Space-limited anglers | Modular body stores in closets or small sheds |
| Hands-free fishing | Pedal drive keeps lures at steady speeds |
BKC 10.5 Pro Motorized Fishing Kayak
The Brooklyn Kayak Company 10.5 Pro includes a trolling motor and a framed seat. It is a sit-on-top that is ready to fish out of the box. The layout supports rod holders, a paddle, and basic electronics. The motor gives you steady speed for spoons, cranks, or live bait.
I like the no-fuss setup. If you want a motorized kayak without complex rigging, this is it. The hull is stable, and the aluminum seat keeps your back happy. It is a clear value play for anglers who want to troll more and paddle less.
Pros:
- Comes with motor and paddle
- Stable platform for trolling rods
- Comfortable seat for long days
- Good value for a motorized setup
- Easy to rig rod holders and basic sonar
- Simple controls for new users
- Compact size for easier transport
Cons:
- Shorter hull can slap in heavy chop
- Less range than larger motor kayaks
- Battery not included in many packages
My Recommendation
Pick this if you want a turn-key motor kayak for lakes and calm bays. It is forgiving and easy to learn. You can troll two lines, make smooth turns, and work shorelines with ease. For budget-minded buyers, it may be the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling that still gives you motor power and comfort.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Beginners | Motor included and simple rigging |
| Calm water trolling | Stable hull with good tracking |
| Value shoppers | Motorized features at a lower price |
Newport 36lb Kayak Trolling Motor (24”)
This 36lb thrust Newport Kayak Series motor fits small kayaks well. It has a 24″ shaft, LED battery meter, and saltwater-ready parts. It runs quiet and keeps a steady pace for light trolling. I like it for creeks, small lakes, and backwaters.
You get five forward speeds and three reverse speeds. The handle is simple and easy to adjust. It mounts on a transom plate or a simple bracket. If you want a basic motor that saves your legs, this makes sense.
Pros:
- Light and easy to mount on most kayaks
- Saltwater rated hardware and components
- LED battery indicator helps manage power
- Quiet operation for spooky fish
- Affordable option to start trolling
- Short shaft works with low-freeboard kayaks
- Simple speed control for new users
Cons:
- Limited thrust for heavy loads or strong wind
- Manual steering requires attention
- No GPS hold or cruise control
My Recommendation
This is a smart add-on for paddlers who want to try trolling without a big spend. It pairs well with compact kayaks and light gear. For smaller waters, it may be the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling upgrade because it keeps speed steady and your hands free to fish.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kayaks | Low weight and short shaft fit better |
| Beginners to motors | Simple control and easy mounting |
| Fresh and saltwater creeks | Quiet and corrosion-resistant parts |
Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak
The Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a stable, budget-friendly fishing kayak. It has a lawn chair style seat, gear tracks, and a wide standing area. The hull is tough and light thanks to Pelican’s RAM-X material. It is easy to transport and launch solo.
While it is paddle-driven, you can troll slowly with a steady stroke or add a small motor bracket. It tracks well for a 10.5-foot boat. For ponds, lakes, and calm rivers, it is a reliable platform. It is a good base if you plan to add a compact trolling motor later.
Pros:
- Very stable for standing and fighting fish
- Lightweight hull for easy transport
- Comfortable lawn chair style seat
- Gear tracks for rod holders and accessories
- Durable material for rough use
- Good value for new anglers
- Simple to rig with a small motor
Cons:
- Shorter hull limits trolling speed
- No built-in motor mount
- More paddle effort in wind
My Recommendation
If you want a stable starter boat that can become a trolling rig, this is it. Add a light transom mount and a compact motor, and you have a simple system. It is not fancy, but it works. For many, it can be the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling on a tight budget and a tight car rack.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Beginners on a budget | Stable, comfy, and affordable |
| Small lakes and ponds | Tracks well at slow speeds |
| DIY motor setups | Easy to add a compact transom motor |
Old Town AutoPilot 136 (Photic Camo)
This Photic Camo version is the same proven AutoPilot 136 with a different finish. You still get the Minn Kota motor with i-Pilot remote and GPS Spot-Lock. The hull is rock solid and built for gear. It is a calm, quiet ride that holds speed with ease.
If you chase fish on long lines or troll along weed edges, this boat shines. You can hover next to ledges and keep baits in the strike zone. It is also a stable filming platform if you record trips. It is a prime choice for serious trolling anglers.
Pros:
- GPS Spot-Lock makes boat control easy
- Remote throttle and steering free your hands
- Stable deck for standing and landing fish
- Roomy layout for rods and electronics
- Reliable motor performance over long sessions
- Quiet and stealthy at low speeds
- Premium build feels rugged and refined
Cons:
- High price compared to paddle-only boats
- Heavy for rooftop transport
- Needs battery and charger planning
My Recommendation
Pick this if you want a refined, high-control trolling platform. It is a dream for walleye boards, striper swimbaits, and salmon spoons. If you want the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling with top control tech, this is your paint scheme. The Photic Camo looks sharp on the water and in photos.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Serious trollers | GPS lock and remote control |
| Electronics-heavy setups | Space for sonar, batteries, and mounts |
| Filming trips | Stable ride and clean deck for cameras |
Newport 55lb Kayak Trolling Motor (24”)
The 55lb thrust Newport adds more muscle for wind and current. You still get a 24″ shaft, LED battery gauge, and saltwater-ready parts. It is a great match for larger kayaks or loaded rigs. Speed steps are smooth and predictable.
I use higher thrust when I pull big cranks or troll with multiple lines. It holds course better in chop. You will want a quality battery to feed it, but the payoff is strong control. It is a solid upgrade for serious trolling days.
Pros:
- Extra thrust for wind, current, and big spreads
- Saltwater ready for bays and flats
- LED battery meter for smart power use
- Quiet and efficient at low speeds
- Short shaft suits kayak transoms
- Good value for its power class
- Simple mount and control layout
Cons:
- Heavier battery draw at high speeds
- Manual steering requires vigilance
- No GPS or auto-pilot features
My Recommendation
Choose this if you fish big water, windy days, or tow planers. The extra thrust keeps you on line and in control. For many anglers, pairing this motor with a stable sit-on-top gives the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling setup at a fair price. It is the right call when conditions are rough.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Windy lakes and bays | More thrust to hold speed and direction |
| Heavier kayaks | Power to move loaded rigs |
| Planer boards | Stronger push for multiple-line spreads |
FAQs Of Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling
How fast should I troll from a kayak?
Most trolling speeds range from 1 to 3 mph. Start slow for live bait and finesse lures. Go faster for cranks and spoons. Match speed to target species and lure action.
Do I need a motor for trolling, or will pedals work?
Both work. Motors give steady speed with less effort and better control in wind. Pedals are quiet and simple. Pick based on your water, budget, and battery needs.
What thrust is best for a kayak trolling motor?
For small kayaks, 30–36lb thrust is fine. For bigger kayaks or wind, 45–55lb is better. Use a quality deep-cycle battery for reliable run time.
How important is GPS Spot-Lock for trolling?
It is a big help. It holds you on breaks, bait balls, and wind-swept points. It saves time and lets you fish more. It is a top feature for the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling.
Can I add a motor to any fishing kayak?
Many kayaks can take a motor with the right mount. Check hull design and capacity. Use a short shaft and secure wiring. Follow local boating rules.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want power, precision, and comfort, the Old Town AutoPilot 136 is hard to beat. It is the Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling when wind or current make boat control tough.
On a budget or short on space, the Reel Yaks 9.5 Raider and Pelican Catch Mode 110 shine. Add a Newport motor for steady speed, and you have a smart Best Fishing Kayak For Trolling setup that just works.
