Photo by Rodrigo de Mendoza on Unsplash

Paddle board fishing is a growing interest among many, but what separates a traditional paddle board from a fishing one? In this article, I will be uncovering the differences between the two, and spotlighting the top 5 inflatable paddle boards for fishing.

Inflatable paddle boards are the perfect solution for those who can’t fit a traditional paddleboard on or in their car. Convenient for just about any activity, iSUPs make paddle boarding easier for beginners and more accessible to those who otherwise wouldn’t be able to join in on the fun. 

With different types of inflatable paddle boards, it is important to make sure you buy the right one. Most people buy all-around iSUPs, but if you are someone who plans on doing lots of fishing on your paddle board, you will want to make sure to buy one well-suited to your needs.

Traditional Inflatable Paddle Board VS. Inflatable Fishing Paddle Board

While there are not stark contrasts between traditional and fishing paddle boards, there are a few that make a lot of a difference. So, before you hit the water, familiarize yourself with what makes a paddle board ideal for fishing.

Traditional inflatable paddle boards are what you might expect to see on a leisurely excursion on the beach or through the mangroves. These are do-it-all paddle boards that can do anything. From long distance paddling to surfing modest waves, the traditional inflatable paddle board can get the job done.

Inflatable Fishing Paddle Boards are ideal for, you guessed it, fishing! These paddle boards make fishing feasible by being wider, more stable, and compatible with an array of fishing gear that other paddle boards are not. Fishing paddle boards are often able to withstand heavier payloads to accommodate fishing gear, accessories, and caught fish.

5 Best Inflatable Paddle Boards for Fishing

When it comes to fishing from a paddle board, these are the best of the best.

The BLACKFIN Model XL: A Paddle Board That Embraces Versatility

The BLACKFIN Model XL is an ideal choice for those who want to fish but don’t want to lose performance when it comes to paddling. At 11’ long and 34” wide, this board offers great balance and stability, while accommodating a 485 lb weight capacity. While the other paddle boards on this list are arguably more stable, this board’s smaller size makes it more maneuverable than others.

The  BLACKFIN Model XL features 20 D-rings, 8 action mounts, 2 scotty mounts, and front/back cargo areas. This board is incredibly versatile when it comes to lots of fishing gear and accessories. This iSUP is perfect for catching fish or cruising around with your friends. It’s the closest to an all-around paddle board on this list.

BOTE Rover Aero: An SUP to Carry All Your Gear

The BOTE Rover Aero is the complete OPPOSITE of the BLACKFIN Model XL. This paddle board is large and significantly heavier than most. At 12’6 long, 40.5′ ‘ wide, this beast is capable of carrying you and ALL of your gear for hours at a time. The Rover Aero weighs a whopping 63lbs inflated just by itself. While getting it in the water is more difficult than most SUPs, its size and stability make for an incredibly comfortable experience.

The Rover Aero is compatible with a 6HP outboard motor. This makes sense because, while you can certainly use a paddle, it is much easier to maneuver with an outboard motor. With 16 action mounts, 4 scotty mounts, 12-d-rings, and paddle holders, fishing on a paddle board has never been easier. Unlike most paddle boards, this one was designed with fishermen in mind. The Rover Aero comes with a host of fisher-friendly accessories straight out of the box.

Sea Eagle FishSUP: A Bonafide Boat

The Sea Eagle is less of a paddle board and more of a bonafide boat. At 2’6 long, 40” wide, and 6” thick, this inflatable SUP is just as stable and compact as the Rover Aero. With a 500lb weight capacity, you’ll be able to catch a shark on this bad boy. With an optional swivel chair and outboard motor, getting the Sea Eagle around is a breeze.

Made from military-grade PVC, it offers impressive durability, ensuring it can withstand rough conditions and potential impacts with rocks or debris. The FishSUP is also highly portable, easily deflatable, and fits into a convenient carry bag, making it perfect for travel and storage. Additionally, it comes equipped with multiple rod holders, a fish ruler, and ample storage for gear, enhancing the overall fishing experience. The Sea Eagle FishSUP combines the best features of a kayak and a paddleboard, making it a top choice for anglers seeking an efficient and enjoyable way to fish on various water bodies.

BOTE Rackham Aero: Simple, Comfortable, and Spacious 

The BOTE Rackham Aero is an excellent paddle board for fishing, particularly appealing to anglers who prefer simplicity and minimal gear. Its streamlined design offers a stable and spacious platform, perfect for standing and casting. Constructed from high-quality, durable materials, the Rackham Aero can withstand rugged environments and continued use.

Its simplicity shines with integrated features such as a removable fishing rack and cooler tie-downs, providing essential functionality without overwhelming extras. The board is also lightweight and easy to inflate, deflate, and transport, making it a convenient option for quick fishing trips. Overall, the BOTE Rackham Aero's balance of simplicity, durability, and stability makes it a top choice for fishing.

Gili Meno XL: A Budget-Friendly SUP for Novice Fishermen

The Gili Meno XL, while not specifically designed for fishing, is an excellent choice for anglers due to its exceptional balance and stability. The XL version offers a spacious, sturdy platform, making it easy to maintain balance while casting and reeling in fish. Its lightweight design ensures effortless transport and handling, ideal for those on the go.

One of its standout features is the lower price point, enhancing accessibility for beginners or those looking to test out paddle board fishing without a significant investment. Durable and easy to inflate, the Gili Meno XL provides a practical and economical option for anglers, combining performance and affordability in along with some user-friendly Gili fishing packages.