The 5 Best Paddle For Kayak Fishing in 2025 – Buyers Guide

Best Paddle For Kayak Fishing

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Kayak fishing is massively popular throughout the USA, with loads of people taking to the water every week in the search for fun, relaxation and, of course, the hope of catching some great fish. When kayak fishing though, it is really important to have the best kit possible, and this includes the very best paddle you can afford.

Why is a Paddle So Important?

There are many reasons why a great paddle is important to any kayak fisherman, however it is also important to remember that the choice of paddle is a personal one. This is because one paddle doesn’t fit all – everyone has their own personal preferences and feels comfortable with different ones.

When you do find the perfect kayak paddle though, you’ll find that your days on the water are vastly improved. You’ll find paddling to take less energy; you’ll have more time to spend fishing, as opposed to paddling; and your enjoyment levels will rise hugely. In order to make sure you get the perfect kayak fishing paddle, there are a few things to take into consideration:

  • Angle. This refers to the angle of the blade on the paddle. Those who sit further down in their seat will generally find a low angle to be more effective, while those who sit higher up will prefer a high angle. Some kayak fishermen also like to stand up while paddling, and this will require a specialized type of paddle.
  • Blade Size. The size of your blade will affect how easy it is to use. Generally, the more experienced a kayaker is, the larger blade they’ll be able to use. Children will prefer a smaller blade, as it requires less effort to use.
  • Length. The length of paddle you require depends on two factors: how tall you are and how wide your kayak is. Taller kayakers often prefer a 240cm paddle, while those who are shorter in stature usually choose a 230cm paddle.
  • Weight. Generally, the rule is this: the lighter the paddle, the better it will be. This is because lighter paddles require less effort to use, and their fiberglass construction also ensures that they are incredibly strong. Some people do prefer a slightly heavier paddle though, but this is entirely down to personal preference.
  • Comfort. This is completely subjective, as comfort means something different to everyone. The only way to make sure your kayak paddle is completely comfortable is to try it out!

Once you have evaluated all of the above considerations, you should be able to decide on the type of kayak paddle that is perfect for you. Then you simply have to work out which of the many paddles on the market you want to buy! Below you’ll find five of the best, to help you with your search…

Werner Camano Premium Fiberglass

Werner Camano Premium Fiberglass

Werner are known to produce some of the very best kayak paddles around, and their paddles are used by serious hobbyists the world over. The Camano Premium Fiberglass is one of their very best, as it combines an incredibly strong design with extreme lightness, therefore making it easy to use for extended periods of time. Medium sized paddles also add to the ease of use.

With a low angle, it is designed for use by those who sit further down in their kayak, and it can be transported easily thanks to its take-apart design. While most people choose to go for the straight shaft, there is the option to purchase this paddle with a bent shaft, however whether you do is completely down to personal preference.

Made in the USA, you know that you’ll be getting the highest quality paddle when you purchase one from Werner!

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SeaSense X-1

SeaSense X-1

While paddles from Werner are seen as the best around, this SeaSense paddle is a great choice for those looking for something a bit more affordable. In fact, it can cost a tenth of the price of the Werner Camano, making it a good choice for those only just taking up the sport. Despite its cheaper price, it is made using aluminum, meaning that it is lightweight and easy to use, plus it is easy to take apart and transport.

The SeaSense X-1 is also shorter than the majority of other paddles, as it measures just over 210cm. This means that it is a great choice for smaller children, and also for those not looking to cover large distances in short amounts of time. What’s more, foam handgrips ensure that using this paddle is a comfortable experience.

So, this is perhaps the best choice for the beginner, although those buying it will probably progress to something slightly more professional as they become more proficient.

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Carlisle Taboo

Carlisle Taboo

The Carlisle Taboo paddle board is the perfect choice for those who like to stand up when they are paddling. A single bladed paddle measuring 190cm makes moving through the water seamless, and its aluminum shaft ensures that the weight is kept down. The blade is also impressive, as it is made from polypropylene and is therefore able to stand up to the pressure placed on it.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Carlisle Taboo is this though: if, for any reason, you are forced to sit down and paddle, you can unclick the handle and attach another blade to it, thus turning it into a two-bladed paddle and something that is perfect for paddling while sat down. It’s this kind of versatility that marks this paddle out from most of the competition.

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Bending Branches Angler Classic

Bending Branches Angler Classic

This paddle from Bending Branches bridges the gap between an affordable paddle and one that delivers great performance – making it perfect for the keen kayak fisherman with a limited budget. Like all good paddles, it is incredibly lightweight, and also comes with strong blades – which can be set inline or at 60°. It also comes in a choice of two colors – either sage green or bright orange.

Those who already own this paddle absolutely love the easy way it cuts through the water, meaning faster speeds and much less effort. It’s also available in lengths up to 260cm, with the extra-long length being perfect for those with a sit on top kayak. For those not able to afford a Werner paddle, this really is a great alternative!

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Carlisle Expedition Angler

Carlisle Expedition Angler

This is a paddle specifically made to meet the needs of the kayak fisherman, and comes from Carlisle, one of the best regarded companies in the kayak fishing world. The two-piece shaft – which is constructed using lightweight fiberglass – is of the highest quality, while the blades can either be set inline or at a 60° angle. The angle you choose is entirely down to personal preference and can easily be changed by attaching the two parts of the paddle differently.

The Carlisle Expedition Angler paddle is also suitable for all heights and kayak widths, as it comes in lengths of 220cm, 230cm and 240cm. What’s more, this paddle also comes with a really great look to it, which will please those who also like to look great while they are kayak fishing!

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Shane Baker

Shane Baker

My name is Shane Baker and when I am not with my family or working here I am out fishing! I caught my first fish when I was 6 – it was a trout at a stocked pond here in TX. Ever since fishing has been a passion of mine!

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