July 24, 2021 19 min read

Updated on: January 9, 2024

Finding the Best Fishing Paddle Board

The sun is peeking over the horizon and the fish are biting. It’s time to load your tackle, fishing rods, and gear to catch some fish. 

We’ll help you to find the best fishing paddle board to make your day a success!

Man fishing on a the lake using SUP board

Why Use a SUP for Fishing?

There are many advantages to fishing from a paddle board.

  • Paddle boards are lightweight and easier to transport and store than a boat.
  • They can be maneuvered for access to small coves or tight spaces that a bigger vessel cannot. 
  • When you stand on a paddle board, you have a higher vantage point for better visibility of the water. 
  • Paddle boards are usually less expensive than a boat or kayak.
  • They are quieter on the water compared to boats - so  you’ll catch more fish!
  • Paddle boarding is great for your health and provides a full-body workout.
  • There’s more open space to move on a paddle board with plenty of room for casting.

Let’s be honest… paddle boarding is more fun!

Man fishing with a life jacket

Guide to Best Fishing Paddle Boards

Let’s review the best paddle boards that could make your day of fishing one to remember. 

Inflatable SUP Boards Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price

1. GILI Adventure 12’

GILI Adventure Inflatable SUP board for fishing
12' x 32" x 6" 23 lbs 330 lbs

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2. GILI Meno 11’6

GILI Meno Inflatable SUP board for fishing
11.6' x 35" x 6" 24 lbs 485 lbs

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3. GILI Manta Ray 12’/15’

GILI Manta ray multi-person SUP board for fishing

12' x 45" x 8"

15' x 56" x 8"

35 lbs

52 lbs

725 lbs

1150 lbs

Check Price

4. Sea Eagle Fish SUP 126

Sea Eagle Fishing SUP
12.6' x 40" x 6" 45 lbs 500 lbs

Check Price

5. Bote Rackham Aero

Bote Rackham Aero Inflatable fishing SUP
12.8' x 38" x 7" 45 lbs 400 lbs

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6. NRS Heron

NRS Heron Inflatable SUP board
11' x 39" x 7" 30 lbs 300 lbs

Check Price

7. Blackfin Model XL

Blackfin Model XL Inflatable SUP board
11'6 x 34" x 6" 29 lbs 485 lbs

Check Price

8. Bote Rackham

Rackham verge camp Inflatable SUP board

12' x 32" x 8"

14' x 34" x 8"

48 lbs

50 lbs

350 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

Fishing SUP Board Reviews

1. GILI Adventure 12’

The GILI Adventure is an extremely stable inflatable paddle board with numerous attachment points to load your fishing rod holder, cooler, and tackle. The GILI Adventure comes in both an 11 foot and a 12 foot length, but the 12 foot option provides the ideal space for SUP fishing.

The GILI is decked out with action mounts, Scotty mounts, and numerous D-rings to attach all the gear you might need. It has a large EVA deck pad to comfort your feet when fishing all day.

GILI Adventure Inflatable SUP board for fishing

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
12' x 32" x 6" 23 lbs 330 lbs

Check Price

Features and Specifications

  • Durable drop stitch construction with military grade PVC
  • Extra large EVA traction pad
  • Comes with a complete package including dual stage inflation pump, travel paddle, ankle leash, snap-in side fins, and snap-in center fin, SUP backpack
  • 20 D-rings to attach loads of gear
  • Paddle holder
  • SUP to Kayak seat conversion kit available
  • 3 action mounts and 3 Scotty mounts to attach GoPro, rod holders, or fish finders
  • Large cargo area with front and removable rear bungee storage
  • 2 year warranty

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Hybrid carbon fiber travel paddle of great quality
  • Rod holder for hands-free fishing
  • Multiple attachment points for tackle, fishing rod, and gear
  • Available SUP to Kayak conversion to take a break when fishing
  • Great SUP for fishing as well as all around use
  • A portion of each purchase supports ocean conservation efforts
  • None obvious - great fishing setup

2. GILI Meno 11’6

The GILI Meno is a stable paddle board with an extra-wide 35” deck for loads of space for a wide stance and room to move around, and added space to pack extra gear. Compared to other inflatable SUPs, the GILI Meno package includes many upgrades including a carbon fiber rail for extra rigidity and stability to the board, as well as a dual-chamber inflation pump, rolling SUP backpack, and a carbon fiber paddle

The Meno has numerous attachment points with eight action mounts and 18 D-rings for your deck cooler, Go Pro, or cup holder. Front and rear bungee cargo areas have ample storage space.

GILI Meno Inflatable SUP board for fishing

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
11.6' x 35" x 6" 24 lbs 485 lbs

Check Price

Features and Specifications

  • Complete package with travel paddle, ankle leash, rolling SUP backpack, dual chamber inflation pump, and additional fins (five total) that snap-in easily
  • Wide deck with extra-large, brushed EVA traction pad
  • Carbon fiber travel paddle - durable and lightweight
  • Durable with quality construction of military grade PVC 
  • Addition of carbon fiber rail for improved rigidity and performance
  • Paddle holder
  • 18 D-rings with room for accessories
  • Large front and rear bungee storage areas for fishing gear
  • 5 action mounts and 3 Scotty mounts to add fishing rod holders, cup holders, or your GoPro
  • Room to attach SUP to Kayak conversion seat
  • 2 year warranty

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Dual chamber pump for faster inflation
  • High quality accessories in the complete package
  • Multiple attachment points
  • Large traction pad with wide deck
  • Portion of each purchase supports ocean conservation
  • Great board for recreational use when you’re not fishing
  • High weight capacity means more gear will fit!
  • Great package - nothing to complain about

3. GILI Manta Ray 12’/15’

The GILI Manta Ray comes in two size options and both sizes would make great fishing paddle boards. The Manta Ray is a mammoth of a board with a wide deck built for multiple riders, but if you’re headed out for a solo fishing venture, that means room for extra gear and a friend. 

With a total of nine action mounts, you can attach cup holders, multiple fishing rod holders, bring a cooler, and extra tackle - you have the room! The Manta Ray’s durable construction and quality build mean it's a board your whole family can enjoy for years to come.

GILI Manta ray multi-person SUP board for fishing

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 

12' x 45" x 8"

15' x 56" x 8"

35 lbs

52 lbs

725 lbs

1150 lbs

Check Price

Features and Specifications

  • Complete package with two dual chamber pumps, two paddles, 4 snap-in side fins, 1 snap-in center fin, and a rolling SUP bag
  • Wide, spacious deck with comfortable EVA traction pad
  • Durable - military grade PVC
  • Two central grab handles with six grab handles total
  • Paddle holders
  • 5 action mounts and 4 Scotty mounts - so much room for attachments!
  • 22 D-rings
  • Large front and rear bungee storage areas
  • 2 year warranty

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Package with two travel paddles
  • Two dual-chamber pumps - double the filling power
  • Fantastic size with room for many
  • Multiple attachment points and action mounts - can deck out with accessories
  • Paddle holders for hands-free float
  • Rolling duffel bag
  • Purchase supports ocean conservation efforts
  • The big size means it’s heavier than others, but multiple grab handles make it easy for two to carry.
  • May be too wide for some to paddle easily - but easier to manage with two paddlers

4. Sea Eagle Fish SUP 126

The Sea Eagle is a SUP fisherman’s dream because of the extra features that cater specifically to fishing. The extra wide deck and 500-pound weight capacity mean there’s room for two on board. An added bonus is that it comes with an electric motor as a motorized SUP option to save your energy for catching fish.

The Sea Eagle includes a seat to rest when your legs tire of standing as well as fishing rulers to size up your catch immediately. These features set the Sea Eagle apart from other SUPs.

Sea Eagle Fishing SUP

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
12.6' x 40" x 6" 45 lbs 500 lbs

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Features and Specifications

  • Stable board with extra wide deck
  • Option to attach a 360 degree swivel seat to vary standing or sitting while you fish
  • Multiple package options to include an increased number of accessories or add-on features: Start up package, Deluxe package, Swivel Seat fishing rig package, Pro Motor fishing rig
  • Removable transom to attach motor
  • 55 lbs thrust capacity engine
  • Durable reinforced drop stitch design
  • Built-in 36-inch fishing rulers on deck
  • Paddle pocket to secure your paddle when a fish is on the line
  • 14 D-rings
  • Complete packages of varying options/additions
  • Swallowtail design for added stability
  • 3 year warranty SUP, 1 year warranty motor

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Extra wide deck for stability and room
  • Swivel seat is a nice option to sit when needed - requires upgrade to “deluxe” package
  • Fishing rulers included
  • A motor means more energy left for fishing
  • 500 lb weight capacity means more gear or a passenger can be added
  • 3 year warranty
  • A great overall fishing setup
  • If you truly want the height advantage of SUP fishing, the seat may get in your way.
  • Heavier than other SUPs
  • No action mounts - this is a BIG disadvantage when you want to attach rod holders, cup holders, or your GoPro
  • Single chamber pump - could be upgraded to double chamber with big SUP to fill
  • Not a SUP that is easily used for other non-fishing SUP recreation

5. Bote Rackham Aero

The Bote Rackham Aero is an inflatable stand up paddle board with a large deck space and the capacity to be a great fishing SUP. It has a unique two-chamber design with a recessed deck to provide extra stability. 

Bote allows room for heavy accessorizing with many ways to attach fishing gear. With a 400 lbs weight capacity, you could bring a friend. The Bote package comes with a few items unique to Bote, including a paddle sheath to insert your paddle when reeling your fishing pole, Rac receivers to attach Rac buckets or tackle racks, and a sand spear sheath to hold your anchor spear secure in shallow water.

Bote Rackham Aero Inflatable fishing SUP

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
12.8' x 38" x 7" 45 lbs 400 lbs

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Features and Specifications

  • Recessed deck for lower center of gravity 
  • Complete package with rolling bag, pump, travel paddle, and added sand spear sheath, removable paddle sheath, and Rac receivers 
  • Full-length deck pad
  • Two rows of Rac receivers to attach Bote tackle and bucket racs
  • Removable center fin and two attached side fins
  • Wide deck space for extra room or a passenger
  • Front and rear bungee storage area
  • 14 D-rings
  • 5 Scotty mounts
  • 2 year warranty

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Wide deck and recessed center for extra stability
  • Scotty mounts and D-rings for multiple attachments of accessories
  • 2 year warranty
  • “Extras” included in package: paddle sheath, sand spear sheath to anchor, and Rac receivers for bucket or tackle
  • Full length deck pad
  • Easily adapts to non-fishing SUP activities
  • Heavy when loaded - 75 lbs with gear.

6. NRS Heron

The NRS Heron has a simple overall design, but it has everything you need in a fishing SUP. It has two unique dual chambers that when inflated, add extra thickness and width for an extremely stable paddle board.

There is room for your tackle in the front and rear cargo areas and it has added daisy rigging for additional accessories. The NRS board is lightweight and easy to carry, but the entire package can be heavy to carry over distances.

NRS Heron Inflatable SUP board

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
11' x 39" x 7" 30 lbs 300 lbs

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Features and Specifications

  • Durable military grade PVC with drop stitch construction
  • Two inflated side chambers add extra stability
  • Front and rear bungee storage areas
  • Complete package with inflation pump, center fin and grass fin, plus travel SUP backpack
  • 3 year warranty
  • 6 D-rings
  • 3 Scotty mounts
  • Additional daisy chain rigging in the rear for attachment of cooler and tackle

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Lightweight board easy to carry
  • Stable with wide deck and dual side chambers
  • 3 year warranty
  • Simple design with all you need to fish
  • Durable build
  • Added daisy chain rigging with D-rings and action mounts to load your gear
  • Paddle not included - purchased separately
  • The loaded SUP kit/backpack is heavy and without wheels to transport over distances

7. Blackfin Model XL

The Blackfin Model XL is a great all around SUP with a stable overall design to make it perfect for SUP fishing. The Blackfin XL has a wide deck to allow a stable stance and has a tremendous weight capacity of 485 lbs!

The Blackfin has action mounts, Scotty mounts, and numerous D-rings to attach all the fishing gear that you need, and the 2021 model now includes attachment points for the addition of a fishing rack. It is a durable, well-built board with a complete package to get you right onto the water.

Blackfin Model XL Inflatable SUP board

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 
11'6 x 34" x 6" 29 lbs 485 lbs

Check Price

Features and Specifications

  • Complete package includes dual chamber pump, ankle leash, wheeled SUP backpack, three snap-lock fins, travel paddle
  • Wide deck and 485 lbs weight capacity - great for large riders
  • Front and rear bungee storage area
  • 20 D-rings attachments
  • 6 action mounts
  • 2 Scotty mounts
  • Fishing rack attachment points (rack sold separately)
  • Sand spear attachment on rail
  • Large EVA deck pad
  • Durable with triple-layer composite PVC
  • Carbon rail for extra rigidity and performance
  • 2 year warranty

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • High weight capacity
  • Lightweight board
  • Great all around SUP in addition to fishing SUP
  • Wide stable board great for tall or heavy riders
  • Dual chamber pump for faster inflation
  • Wheeled backpack
  • Sand spear and fishing rack attachments
  • Carbon rail
  • Multiple D-rings and action mounts
  • The extra width may be hard to maneuver for some users

8. Bote Rackham

The Bote Rackham is the only solid paddle board on our list, and it has the qualities of a great fishing SUP. As a solid board, it will naturally perform better than an inflatable SUP and has excellent tracking and glide through the water. Similar to other Bote SUPs, it includes Power Rac attachment points for Rac buckets and tackle racks to hold all of your fishing gear. Rac systems are inserts for your board to store more gear.  

The Bote Rackham has a wide deck, and it’s a stable board with a high weight capacity for multiple riders or loads of gear. The Bote Rackham is also a nice all around paddle board to double for non-fishing activities. The long narrow design would make a nice SUP touring board as well.

Rackham verge camp Inflatable SUP board

Measurements Weight Weight Capacity Price 

12' x 32" x 8"

14' x 34" x 8"

48 lbs

50 lbs

350 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

Features and Specifications

  • Durable “Gatorshell technology” - ABS plastic with ballistic grade composites
  • 8 action mounts
  • 10 D-rings
  • 1 year warranty
  • Compatible with Bote attachments: Rac systems, rails, and paddle sheath
  • Stach pod on deck for small valuables
  • Package includes SUP, center fin, and travel paddle

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • High performance with excellent glide and tracking
  • Beautiful design
  • Multiple attachment points for gear: D-rings, action mounts, Power Rac system
  • Wide deck and stable design
  • High weight capacity
  • Warranty
  • No Scotty mounts
  • Heavy to carry
  • Will need roof racks or truck to transport
  • Only comes with center fin - additional are extra purchase and could use some stabilizing side fins

Getting Started With SUP Fishing

Girl fishing using SUP board

There are many benefits to fishing from a stand up paddle board, and we’ve introduced you to our favorite fishing SUPs. In order to determine which paddle board is best suited for you, let’s review some basic SUP fishing guidelines.

What to look for in a fishing paddle board

There are many different features to evaluate when choosing the best fishing SUP but it will ultimately come down to how you wish to use your board and in what environment. Do you also want to use your fishing paddle board to float with friends? Do you plan to bring along your dog or child? There are many considerations.

Board Shape and Size

This is the most important factor when choosing a paddle board. When fishing, you want to cast your line and reel in a fish, without the risk of falling overboard. Finding a stable SUP is your goal. 

The wider, thicker, and longer the paddle board, the more stable it will be. For a fishing SUP, look for a width of at least 31 inches, 6 inches of thickness, and at least 11 feet long for the best stability. A long, wide board will not turn or maneuver as easily, but it does allow for good tracking as you fish down the shoreline.

Fishing Mounts

When you’re fishing, you have lots of gear - your fish finder, fishing poles, and favorite lures. Find a stand up paddle board with multiple attachment points including D-rings, action mounts, and Scotty mounts. 

Your D-rings provide attachment points for bungees to secure your deck cooler or dry bag. You can even attach a seat for your SUP with a kayak conversion kit. Action mounts provide attachment of fishing rod holders and cup holders. A good fishing SUP will also have Scotty mounts, which are a more universal attachment used across all boat and fishing accessories options. You can mount your GPS directly to a Scotty mount.

Weight and Storage Capacity

SUP board weight and storage capacity

A stand up paddle board needs to hold your own body weight and that of your fishing gear, ans most can  can easily accommodate this, with one or two passengers. For SUP fishing, consider the cargo space and bungees available in the front or rear as well as the action mounts or Scotty mounts that can be utilized to attach rod holders or fish finders. 

Type of Deck Pad

When you plan to stand and fish for many hours, you’ll want a padded, comfortable surface under your feet. Look for a large deck pad for comfort, but also one with added brushings or grooves to provide the traction needed to avoid slipping. 

Type of Paddle

Paddling around the lake is not your primary goal when SUP fishing, but you’ll still want a paddle to get you to your destination quickly and with little effort. An aluminum paddle is the cheapest option if you want something durable, but it tends to be heavier than fiberglass or carbon fiber options. A carbon fiber paddle with a carbon blade is the best paddle because it is lightweight, durable, and performs well.

A paddle holder is great when SUP fishing, because it provides a safe way to rest your paddle so you can concentrate on fishing. When reeling in the big one, you don’t want to worry about your paddle floating away. 

Warranty

Look to purchase your paddle board from a company that stands by their SUPs with a warranty. Reputable companies will offer a money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with your paddle board purchase as well as a warranty. In the rare instance that your stand up paddle board malfunctions, it’s important to know that you’ll be able to talk to the company without any hassle.

SUP Fishing Essential Equipment

Certain fishing equipment is essential for SUP fishing and shouldn’t be forgotten for a successful day of fishing. Most SUP fishing paddle boards will come with all you need to hop directly onto the water right out of the box.

Fishing SUP

Obviously… you need a fishing SUP decked out with the proper gear.

Paddle

GILI carbon fiber SUP paddle for sale

You won’t get very far without a paddle. As stated earlier, consider a lightweight paddle and a SUP with a paddle holder for hands-free fishing. In order of increasing quality, paddles come in aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber options.

Ankle Leash

GILI red paddle board coiled ankle leash for sale

Always attach your ankle leash to a D-ring for safety. If you happen to fall from your board, an ankle leash ensures that your SUP full of gear does not shoot across the water for you to chase.

PFD

Inflatable life jacket Onyx belt pack for sale

A personal flotation device (PFD) is a must-have item for your own safety, as well as a legal requirement in some locations.

SUP Fishing Optional Accessories/Gear

SUP Fishing Rod Holders

Black fishing rod holder GILI for sale

The ability to attach your fishing pole securely to your SUP makes it less likely that it will end up on the bottom of the lake. Fishing rod holders affix to action mounts and Scotty mounts and are a convenient option to secure your fishing rod.

SUP Anchor

Galvanized grapnel anchor from GILI for sale

An anchor makes SUP fishing easier because when wind, waves, or current continuously push you out of your fishing hole, you have to paddle back into position. A SUP anchor easily clips to a D-ring at the nose or rear and makes it easier to concentrate on your fishing pole instead of the paddle.

Cooler

White deck cooler bag for paddle board for sale

A deck cooler for your beverages ensures that you stay hydrated when fishing long hours on a sunny day, and can be stored in the bungee cargo area or secured to D-rings. This keeps your cold drinks within grasp, instead of you paddling back to shore.

Paddle Holder

YYTS red paddle board tool lanyard for sale

When SUP fishing, you want to have both hands free to reel in fish or cast your line. You obviously will need to paddle at times, but a paddle holder provides safe storage so your paddle doesn’t end up in the water - as your fish gets away. Some fishing SUPs have a built in paddle holder along the rail, but a paddle leash is another option.

Kayak Conversion Kit

Black GILI kayak conversion kit for sale

Standing on your SUP offers a great vantage point to see the water and fish habitat, but sometimes you get tired and simply want to sit. A kayak conversion kit transforms your stand up paddle board into a kayak easily as you attach it to available D-rings.

Electric Pump

GILI 12V electric iSUP paddle board pump for sale

An inflatable SUP needs to be inflated before you can hit the water, and sometimes it’s simply not fast enough! For a faster fill consider an electric pump. Simply plug it into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter and go.

Stabilizers

SUP board stabilizer for sale

When fishing, your SUP will be loaded with gear and you’ll be shifting your weight as you cast and reel in your line. Stabilizers attach to your stand up paddle board to make it more stable, and help you concentrate less on balancing so you can focus on the fish.

Dry Bag

GILI Waterproof 15L Dry Bag for sale

A dry bag is waterproof and seals shut to secure your valuables such as your wallet, keys, or cell phone. You can throw in an extra sweatshirt or towel if needed and a dry bag will keep it safe and dry.

Waterproof Phone Case

GILI universal waterproof phonecase for sale

If you want your phone handy to shoot photos of the huge fish you’ve caught, then use a waterproof phone case. It seals shut to keep it dry, but you can operate the buttons right through the case to take pictures or use your GPS. It comes with a lanyard to wear around your neck for quick access.

Fish Finder

GPS Fish Finder Portable Sonar for sale

When the fish are hard to find, consider a fish finder to track the underwater movements and find the lunkers hiding below. The Garmin Striker adapts well to fishing SUPs with a transducer arm that easily attaches to a Scotty mount and extends the fish finder below the SUP.

SUP Fishing Light

Innovative LED White Lighting with Suction for sale

If fishing in the pre-dawn hours or after dark, attach a SUP fishing light. Not only is it required in some areas by law, but it also helps you find your gear in the dark, and make your SUP visible to oncoming vessels. Many can be easily attached via suction cup directly to your SUP.

Tips for SUP Fishing

Tips on SUP fishing

Let’s review some helpful advice to help prepare you for a safe day on the water.

Check Your Gear

Don’t lose your valuable gear in the water by making sure it is secured properly. Use bungees to secure your cooler and tackle in the cargo areas, or hook larger containers such as coolers or tackle boxes to available D-rings. Pack your phone, towel, and other valuables in your dry bag to keep them from getting wet. 

Watch the Weather

Don’t get stranded at the other end of the lake when a thunderstorm hits. Watch the wind and storm advisories and prepare accordingly. If high winds are predicted, it is probably not the best day for SUP fishing because you’ll spend so much time fighting the wind that you won’t have time to fish.

Master Stability

Before loading up your fishing SUP with all of your gear and heading onto the water, make sure you’ve mastered your paddle board skills. Your balance will be tested with a paddle board full of supplies when you reel in a fish, so you want to be comfortable with your skill level before putting it to the ultimate test. Familiarize yourself with your board and take it out on a few trial runs before your first big fishing expedition.  

Minimize Movement

Even though fishing from a paddle board offers added stealth to sneak up on fish, you still want to minimize your movement while paddling and fishing so you don’t scare them away. Every paddle and shift on your board will send ripples and waves in the water. The more you practice, the more you’ll paddle efficiently and quietly to find more fish.

Lower Your Center of Gravity

When reeling in a big fish, lowering to your knees will provide more stability. Avoid sitting down completely, because then you lose your core strength to help reel in the fish. 

Trolling

Trolling is also an option on a paddle board. Let the wind blow your board across the cove while you work your line downwind. As you paddle down the shoreline, gain a good cruising speed, stow your paddle, and cast your line toward shore. 

Minimize Gear

Even though most fishing SUP typically have bungee storage areas and D-ring attachments, it still doesn't have the capacity to bring everything. Choose wisely and trim down unnecessary gear. Put as much small gear in your dry bag and consider doubling your cooler as a seat. Once you’ve decided on the optimal gear, distribute it evenly on your stand up paddle board to maintain balance.

Follow the Law

Get your fishing license and wear your PFD where you’re legally obligated to do so. Store your fishing license in your dry bag to keep it dry onboard your SUP. Fines for keeping fish illegally can be easily avoided.

Have Fun

The bottom line is to have fun on your fishing SUP. Find a quiet cove and soak up the sounds of nature, while waiting for the fish to bite. A stand up paddle board is a great way to relax and enjoy a nice float on the water.

Summary

The best fishing paddle board is out there waiting to be loaded with your tackle box, cooler, fishing rods, and enthusiasm. Hopefully, you’ve got all the information you need to choose a fishing paddle board that’s guaranteed to bring home fish!

FAQ’S

🏆 Can you fish from a paddle board?

Yes! Fishing from a paddle board is not only possible, but an excellent way to catch fish. While on a stand up paddle board, you have a great vantage point to see the water with plenty of open space to cast and reel your fishing pole. SUP fishing allows you to maneuver into tight spaces that a boat cannot access and then approach quietly so you don’t scare the fish. Plus, a paddle board is much less expensive than a new boat. 


👍 Best stand up paddle board for fly fishing?

Any of the Fishing SUPs listed here work equally well for fly fishing. The key to fly fishing is having a wide-open space around you to work your line, and a paddle board offers the perfect setup. While standing on a SUP, you have the height advantage to see the water and place your fly in the perfect location. A fishing SUP is easy to transport to remote trout streams and quiet paddling allows you to sneak up on the fish with ease.


🏝️ Best cooler for paddle board fishing?

When planning on a long day of fishing, don’t forget to pack your cooler. The GILI deck cooler is a great option to pack up to twenty 12oz cans for your trip and easily secure it in the SUP bungee cargo space or cinch it down to D-rings. It comes with a convenient carry strap and bungees.


❓ Inflatable vs. solid SUP?

An inflatable SUP is recommended for fishing over a solid paddle board. Even though a solid SUP can perform better than an inflatable paddle board, an inflatable has the advantage of versatility. You can trek to a mountain lake with your inflatable SUP easily, due to its light weight and portability thanks to a SUP backpack. An inflatable fishing stand up paddle board is durable with many attachment points to load your fishing gear, and is typically less expensive than a solid SUP. 


📦 How to choose the best fishing SUP?

The biggest consideration in choosing a fishing SUP is its stability. Look for a board at least 31 inches wide and 11 feet long to provide a wide stable stance with plenty of room to move. Fishing paddle boards should have action mounts and Scotty mounts to attach your fishing rod holders and fish finders. Look for ample bungee storage space for your tackle and cooler.


📦 How much should you expect to pay for a fishing paddle board?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $699 - $1699 for a fishing stand up paddle board, which is pretty good compared to a new kayak or boat. This provides a good baseline price range, but typically the quality of the board will mirror its price in most cases. The cheapest boards might not necessarily be the most durable or have quality accessories.

Pat McCaw
Pat McCaw

Author, physician, mom and lover of all things outdoors. If there’s water or a hiking trail nearby, that's her happy place. Throw in family and a couple of dogs and it's paradise!


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