Hey there my fellow fishers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best inflatable SUPs for fishing this year. Now, for those of you who like to get out on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), if you are anything like me you have spent more time trying not to fall off rather than thinking about fishing. But, as I was fishing from the safety of the bank the other day, I saw a guy doing just that.
From the outset, it makes sense as a SUP certainly has the potential to provide outstanding mobility for quick and straightforward access to fish-rich areas. And from a high up position, you certainly have a greater view of the fish swimming around you.
And as it turns out, there are a number of good options out there built for fishing. So to help you out, I have had a bit of a look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them out.
My three recommended inflatable SUPs for fishing
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are SUPs for fishing?
A stand up paddle board is a long board that the rider stands on and paddles with a single paddle. Of course a solid paddle board will perform better in glide and tracking, but an inflatable one will provide more significant overall benefits to anglers as it is lightweight and portable and may be carried in a SUP backpack to isolated fishing sites.
The most reliable fishing paddle boards offer storage space, connection places and action mounts for your fishing gear. Fishing rod holders are also necessary for storing your rod while paddling into an ideal position. And as with inflatable kayaks and pontoon boats, they are made with extra strong fabric to withstand the rigors of fishing as well.
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good inflatable SUP for you fishing needs.
- Stability
- Weight capacity
- Attachment points
- Deck pad
- Paddle
- Rod holders
- Additions
Stability
When it comes to factors to consider in buying yourself a SUP, stability is always a priority. In SUP fishing, you do more than simply stand on your board and paddle. You’ll need the extra stability to switch between rods, bait, throw and perhaps reel in a few big ones without worrying about keeping balanced.
Stability is determined mainly by board size, with a focus on breadth. Wider boards are more stable, but you sacrifice some mobility. However, sharp, sudden turns are not likely to happen on a day of SUP fishing, so this is acceptable.
Weight capacity
Weight capacity and stability go hand in hand, but there is one crucial distinction. Most SUPs will have a specified weight capacity, indicating at what weight the board will remain afloat. However, when you approach closer to this weight capacity, your stability will vary.
Based on this information, I recommend calculating the volume of the board you’ll require with your body weight, as well as an estimate of the total weight of your gear. A decent rule of thumb is that your board’s volume (generally indicated in the specifications) should be 1.5x or greater than the weight of yourself and your gear.
Attachment points
When it comes to equipment storage, you’ll want to ensure that your SUP can carry and utilize any existing equipment. For this reason, I suggest inspecting the D-rings strategically placed on the SUP, whose primary purpose is to hold your fishing gear – especially if you do manage to tip it over.
Your rod holders, paddle, and other necessary equipment may benefit from these attachment points. Always count the number of D-rings the model offers and decide whether these are sufficient to keep everything in place.
Deck pad
To make the most out of a SUP, consider a deck pad with a good combination of grip and comfort.
If you need a little additional grip, a diamond-patterned and deeply stamped deck pad will work nicely. On the other hand, grooved deck pads are a more comfort-focused alternative. As a side note, if you value aesthetics, you may wish to search for a deeper color that mud or fish blood cannot readily stain.
Paddle
Several SUP models today come with a paddle so that you are ready to go. Entry-level, lower-priced SUPs will often come with a plastic or metal paddle. While plastic is often the lighter alternative, you’ll notice greater flex in the shaft as you drag your board through the water, giving you less leverage and forcing you to work more to get your SUP moving.
Aluminum is significantly more durable, but it is heavier and may cause you to tire out faster when paddling lengthy distances. A fiberglass paddle, lighter than aluminum and more robust than plastic, is generally included with mid-range SUPs.
Paddles composed of carbon fiber or a carbon fiber composite will perform the best. These paddles are lightweight but sturdy enough to keep you going for linger periods of time.
Rod holders
As with fishing kayaks, if it doesn’t have a rod holder, where are you going to store your rig as you travel?
Additions
Other potential additions include
- Hand pump: The item is used to inflate the SUP.
- Shoulder strap: The shoulder strap becomes handy for easily transporting the inflatable SUP.
- Repair kit: This add-on helps fix any minor damage the inflatable SUP might incur as you use it to catch target fish.
- Non-slip EVA footpad: To win against a struggling fish, you would require a good stance, and the non-slip EVA footpad helps you achieve it.
- Backrest: For additional comfort and support to your back, if you choose to site and fish then this item is proven to be helpful.
- Warranty: Reputable brands that produce high-quality items include warranty periods and return windows to provide a little safety net if you have any problems with your SUP.
FAQ
Can you fish off a stand up paddle board?
Absolutely you can. SUPs are maybe not as stable as a kayak or a pontoon boat however they do come with all the accessories required to meet your fishing needs. This includes rod holders, seats and D-rings for holding your gear secure. All you need to do is paddle and cast.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Fishing Paddle Board
This first SUP option boasts versatility and offers a generous storage area for all your fishing gear. It comes from a well-known brand for producing top-quality kayaks, fishing vests, and coolers. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Elkton Outdoors
- Material: PVC
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 3 feet
- Weight capacity: 290 pounds
- Product weight: 26 pounds
- Includes paddle: Yes
Other inclusions:
- Rod holders
- Removable fin
- Repair kit
- Dual action high-pressure pump
Why have I chosen it?
This brand has one of the broader boards on my list, with a 12-foot length and a width of 3 feet giving you enough room for you and your stuff with the increased stability that a large board provides. The body is built from heavy-duty PVC and uses the drop stitch technique, resulting in a lightweight model that is resistant to punctures and rips.
Inflating it will also be quick and easy thanks to the attached high-pressure pump. In gear mounts, there are three Scotty Mounting plates, two of which have rod holders and the third may be used to connect a fish finder or other handy accessories.
2. Goture Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
My second recommended fishing SUP is perfect for beginners while offering incredible performance for those more experienced users. It is packed with additional accessories that provide everything you will need for fishing. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Goture
- Material: PVC
- Length: 11 feet
- Width: 2.75 feet
- Weight capacity: 330 pounds
- Product weight: 37.5 pounds
- Includes paddle: Yes
Other inclusions:
- Detachable fin
- Padded seat with backrest
- Hand pump
- Safety leash
- Rod holders
- Shoulder strap
Why have I chosen it?
This fishing SUP comes with a big capacity travel backpack and is easily assembled and disassembled. A swivel seat connects directly below the center handle for increased comfort, and it comes with two built-in rod holders and paddle holders on the seat mount.
The SUP’s maximum load capacity is 330 pounds, more than enough to accommodate an angler and his equipment or you can even take everything off to have fun with the kids as well. It also comes with numerous other goods to get you ready to go SUP fishing including a camera attachment on top.
3. Sea Eagle FishSUP Inflatable FishSUP
This final SUP is considered one of the best for SUP fishing. It’s loaded with fantastic features yet portable enough to carry anyplace. Those who enjoy fishing but don’t want to bother transporting a large boat to and from the lake will love this impressive inflatable SUP. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Sea Eagle
- Material: High-quality PVC
- Length: 12.6 feet
- Width: 3.3 feet
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
- Product weight: 45 pounds
- Includes paddle: Yes
Other inclusions:
- Paddle pocket
- Non-slip EVA foam footpad
- 14 stainless D rings
- Motor mount
Why have I chosen it?
This ultimate SUP is among the most stable stand-up paddle boards available. With a length of 12.6 feet and a width of 3.3 feet, you’ll have unrivaled stability and fishing comfort. The spacious platform allows you to fish sitting or standing, depending on your preference. Long SUP boards are typically tricky to navigate; however, this is not the case with this one as it’s easy to control thanks to its unique design.
The SUP has also has numerous impressive features that will help you enjoy SUP fishing including:
- Several D-ring attachments that may be used to secure gear and equipment.
- When not in use, you may store your paddle in the paddle pocket placed immediately in front of the deck pad.
- The swallow tail was a superb design element that significantly improves stability and maneuverability.
- The bungee cords linked to the four front D-rings are great for fastening equipment. They’re a fair size, and you can quickly put the mesh storage box with the board, a lifejacket, and a dry bag, among other things.
- Motor mount for a small trolling motor.
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$1,199.00
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Conclusion
There you have it, my three best inflatable SUPs that will make your SUP fishing efficient and fun. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
