What’s the Best Kayak for a Tall Person?

I’m not going to lie, I’m not an incredibly tall person. I’d say I’m a little bit taller than average: 5’11”. But with that being said, I still have a hard time finding a kayak that is super comfortable — so I can’t even imagine what it’s like for people that are much taller than average. But that’s why we’re here today…to find you (a tall person) the best kayak for tall person that you can paddle in comfortably for long hours out on the water.

No more feeling cramped inside like a little sardine packed into one of those tin cans. Those days are over. So let’s get to it…

What’s the Best Kayak for a Tall Person?

Wilderness Systems Pungo 125

We’re going to start off strong here with the Wilderness Systems Pungo 125. If you have done any outside research, besides this article, then you’ve probably come across this kayak often. It’s widely known as one of the best kayaks for a tall person and is featured regularly in articles just like this one. And for good reason…

It’s one of the best-selling recreational kayaks for larger paddlers and measures in at a staggering 12’6” long. If you know anything about kayaks already…that’s long. Most recreational kayaks average between 10-11 feet, so this is by far one of the best kayaks for tall people.

But, ah yes…the features. Not only is it a perfect kayak for a tall man, woman, or whoever decides to hop on in, it’s also packed with loads of features like a fully adjustable and ergonomic seat, adjustable foot rests and much, much more. It’s definitely a kayak you should check out.

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Perception Pescador Pro 12

If chilling out on the water and casting out for the best catch is your thing, then oh boy…do I have a kayak for you. The Perception Pescador Pro 12 is one of the best fishing kayaks for a tall person on the market today — measuring in at 12-feet-long — and it’s made right here in the USA.

The kayak is built for all-day comfort and comes with a lawn chair style seat, featuring a mesh back and 2-level seat adjustment. The seat can be raised or lowered, putting you in the perfect position for relaxed paddling or optimum casting. Oh, and get this…the lawn chair seat is fully removable, allowing you to take it out and sit by the campfire after a long day of fishing.

But that’s not all, not even close. This kayak is built to fish and ready to go as soon as it arrives. It has pretty much everything you need: gear tracks, fish-finder console, and two built-in rod holders so you can go hands-free when things are a bit slow.

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 really is one of the best fishing kayaks for a tall person. It’s a kayak that you really have to see in person to believe. You won’t regret this purchase.

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Lifetime Tioga Sit-On-Top Kayak

If you’re a tall person — or just someone who doesn’t like being crammed inside a plastic structure on open water — then maybe you should go the route of a sit-on-top kayak. They’re perfect for letting your legs stretch out, or if you have a pet that likes to calmly ride with you.

This kayak is constructed with uv-protected high-density polyethylene, so it’s built to withstand everything you throw at it. Front and rear t-handles make it super easy to pick up and carry during transit. There’s nothing better than a durable kayak that’s easy to carry and load up on whatever vehicle you’re using.

As far as storage, the Lifetime Tioga has that too. It’s equipped with front and rear shock cord straps, so you don’t have to worry about anything coming loose if a couple of unpredictable waves come through. And the 6-inch deep storage compartment allows you to carry anything that you really don’t want being blown away if some winds pick up.

All in all, the Lifetime Tioga Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great find for tall people — or just a person who prefers to sit on top of their kayak.

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BKC SK287 Angler Touring Kayak

Last, but not least, we have the looooooooooongest kayak in the article, measuring in at nearly 15-feet long. This long boy is made for the open water. It’s specifically crafted for stability on lakes, rivers and ocean water. No matter the conditions, this kayak is ready to cruise effortlessly.

The BKC is also the perfect fishing kayak if you’re looking for something that can withstand some tide, or maybe you are just in the market for a higher end kayak. Either way, you can keep your fishing lines in the water hands-free with the BKC SK287’s flush-mounted rod holders.

Not a fisher? No problem. This is also an excellent choice for the recreational paddler as well. It features a large storage capacity and a watertight hatch, so none of your supplies get soaked. No more wet camping gear!

Oh, and let’s not forget about the tight control this bad boy has. It features a foot pedal-operated rudder for the ultimate control in all water conditions. Confidently steer around rocks, waves and the occasional chop without putting your paddles down to steer.

Overall, the BKC SK287 is a great kayak for a tall person if you’re looking for a higher end model, or looking for something that’s great in open water.

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Bottom Line

I can’t stress enough how important it is to choose the right kayak, especially if you’re on the taller end. If you pick something too small, you’re really going to regret it as soon as you get in the water. You’re going to be cramped — and no one wants to be uncomfortable during a long day on the water.

But, with that being said, if you check out the options above, you’ll be enjoying a nice, well-fitting kayak in no time. And even if you don’t check out one of the kayaks above — they’ll at least put you in the right direction for when you feel more comfortable buying.