Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers for Fishing

Discover the Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers for ultimate stability! Find the best gear to enhance your kayaking experience now. For avid anglers, kayak fishing offers an exciting way to access remote waters and get closer to the fish. But stability can be a concern, especially when reeling in a big catch.

That’s where outriggers and stabilizers come in. These handy accessories attach to your kayak for extra buoyancy, giving you the confidence to cast lines in wobbler crafts.

Outriggers use parallel poles fixed to the sides of the kayak which float alongside, while stabilizers look more like mini side pontoons. They provide much-needed “training wheels” for rookie kayakers navigating unpredictable conditions. With your gear secured and balance reinforced, you can focus on landing that trophy bass as your kayak remains upright through the fight. 

Are you feeling wobbly in your kayak? Adding outriggers can make all the difference for stability. Quality kayak outriggers provide extra buoyancy for smooth sailing when needed. Going fishing or paddling choppy waters? Rig your ride with trusted outriggers. 

We’ll highlight the top outrigger options to keep you balanced and give you confidence in the water. With so many choices, we break down what to look for. Read on for a simplified guide to picking the best outriggers to match your needs and transform your paddling adventures.

The 8  Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers in 2024

Best Overall: Scotty 302 Kayak Stabilizer System

The Scotty 302 Kayak Stabilizer System is the best inflatable outrigger we reviewed. They are well-designed and work with most kayaks.

These outriggers are made of strong PVC fabric that won’t puncture easily. They attach to your kayak with 28-inch aluminum arms. This gives your kayak more surface area in the water for stability. The Scotty outriggers add over 30 lbs of extra buoyancy. This makes it easier to stand up and fish from your kayak without tipping.

The outriggers have handy rod holders to store your fishing gear. The rod holders attach to the outrigger arms. These outriggers fit on almost any hard-sided kayak. They have small mounting plates that don’t take up much deck space.

The biggest drawback is the price. Also, the outriggers aren’t adjustable to raise out of the water when not needed. But if you want durable, fishing-friendly outriggers, the Scotty 302 is a great choice.

Best Budget: Lixada Kayak PVC Inflatable Outriggers

The Lixada Inflatable Kayak Outriggers are a good budget option for casual paddling.

These outriggers are made of thick PVC fabric. PVC is puncture-resistant and holds air pressure well, like in inflatable kayaks. The outriggers have a double valve system for easy inflating.

Since they are inflatable, the Lixada outriggers are compact and lightweight. The whole kit weighs about 5 lbs, so it’s easy to transport and store. The outriggers fold down small to fit in your car.

The inflatable pontoons attach to aluminum outrigger bars that mount to your kayak’s deck. This gives you better stability in different conditions. However, the Lixada outriggers can be tricky to mount the first time. They also don’t adjust, so you can’t lift them out of the water. But for affordable stability, they are a solid choice.

Best Solid Outriggers: YakGear Kayak & Canoe Outriggers

For kayakers seeking hardcore stability, YakGear’s rugged outrigger system is a top contender. Their solid pontoons are constructed from heavy-duty blow-molded plastic to withstand the rigors of rough water. The 30-inch aluminum arms provide ample leverage to keep you on course and can be raised for maneuvering in shallow depths.

Installation is a cinch with the included RAILBLAZA mounts that click into any hard-shell kayak. The versatility doesn’t end there – the outriggers are also canoe-compatible with a mounting board add-on. Accessory rails on the floats let you attach GoPros or rod holders with ease.

As expected with solid outriggers, storage and transport present challenges compared to inflatables. These brawny rigs also come at a premium price point. But for unwavering stability and versatility at sea, YakGear has you covered. Their robust design and seamless accessory integration empower kayakers to explore any waters with confidence. 

Kayak Outrigger Buying Advice

You want to buy a kayak outrigger, but you don’t know what to look for. Here are some tips to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Stabilizer Type

 There are different types of kayak outriggers, such as pontoons, sponsons, and inflatable tubes. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, pontoons are more stable and durable, but they are also heavier and more expensive. Sponsons are lighter and cheaper but less stable and can get damaged easily. Inflatable tubes are easy to store and transport, but they can leak or puncture.

Ease of Installation

               You want the Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers that are easy to install and remove. Some outriggers require drilling holes in your kayak, while others use clamps or straps. You should also check how the outrigger attaches to the kayak, and if it interferes with your paddling or fishing.

Adjustability

You want the Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers that can be adjusted to suit different conditions and preferences. Some outriggers can be raised or lowered or moved closer or farther from the kayak. This can affect the stability, speed, and maneuverability of your kayak. You should also look for outriggers that can be used on both sides of the kayak or switched from one side to the other.

Durability

You want Best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers that can withstand wear and tear, and resist corrosion and UV damage. Some outriggers are made of plastic, metal, or wood. Plastic outriggers are lightweight and cheap, but they can crack or fade over time. Metal outriggers are strong and sturdy, but they can rust or dent. Wood outriggers are natural and beautiful, but they can rot or warp.

Additional Features

You want the best Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers that have some extra features that can enhance your kayaking experience. Some outriggers have storage compartments, rod holders, cup holders, or lights. 

These can be useful for carrying your gear, fishing, or paddling at night. However, these features can also add weight and cost to your outrigger, so you should consider if you need them.