Paddle boarding is a fun and easy way to cruise the waves on the ocean, lake, or river without the need for an expensive boat or kayak. And better yet? This popular recreational water sport helps to build your core muscles and improves balance!
The ancient technique of using a stand up paddle board to glide across the water has taken on a host of new roles today. Some use their paddle boards to explore coves and ride the surf during trips to the beach. Others take advantage of the agility of these boards to find the best fishing spots. Stand up paddle boards are even used by yoga enthusiasts who want to practice among the waves!
Stand Up Fishing Paddle Boards
SUP for fishing need to have certain features that make for a good fishing experience. Otherwise, you, your tackle, and your catch are going to end up in the drink. Fishermen (and women) need to be able to maintain their footing while casting and fighting with that trophy catch. They also like to sit and enjoy a cold one while they wait for the next bite. Top fishing paddle boards deliver all of this and more.
1. Atoll 11' Foot Inflatable Fishing SUP
The Atoll 11’ Foot Inflatable Stand Up Fishing Paddle Board is a multi-purpose board that works great for standard paddling, fishing, and yoga. At 11 feet long and 32 inches wide, there is plenty of space for casting and reeling. There is an attachment for a kayak seat, but a small folding chair will fit just as well. A large bungee can store a number of items securely, and an astounding 15 D-rings are enough to secure all of your belongings, yourself, an anchor, a stringer and more.
2. iROCKER ALL-AROUND Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board 11'
Another great inflatable fishing paddle board by iRocker, the iROCKER ALL-AROUND Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is truly and all-around winner. Advanced stability, as well as agility from the 3-fin guidance on the lower panel, make this an ideal board for sitting, standing, doing yoga, or wrestling with the day’s biggest catch. While this board has a lot in common with the Atoll, it supports nearly 100 lbs more weight, rendering it supportive enough for two anglers and loads of gear.
3. ANCHEER Inflatable SUP Stand Up Paddle Board 11'6" X 3'
Ancheer is one of the most reputable brands in stand up paddle boarding, and this heavy-duty inflatable SUP may be the best stand up fishing paddle board. Why is it called the best? Well, this board was made precisely for SUP fishing, and it’s much less expensive than many other multi-purpose boards. At 11.5 feet long and 36 inches wide, this board is plenty big for two passengers and a pet. It can also easily fit lawn chairs or folding chairs. It’s equipped with an extra large grip pad so you and your things won’t slip, and it features 15 D-rings and a custom rod holder that can hold up to three fishing rods.
4. Elkton Outdoors Grebe 12’ Inflatable Fishing Paddle Board
We love stand up paddle boards made with fishing in mind, and the Elkton Outdoors Grebe 12’ fishing paddle board is one of the best. This inflatable fishing SUP is equipped with two rod holders (one on each side of the board) and two bungee storage areas—a first on this list. The six D-rings can withstand 100 lbs of tension, which is crucial when dropping anchor on a windy day. A large EVA rubber grip pad covers a large surface that can fit multiple anglers, and its textured design is comfortable enough for barefoot fishing.
5. Z-Ray 11' Fishing SUP Stand Up Paddle Board Package
The Z-Ray 11’ Fishing SUP Stand Up Paddle Board is a versatile inflatable fishing SUP with some features that we haven’t seen before. A unique aspect of this board is the 11 steel rings that line each side. They add an extra level of versatility and customizability to the fishing experience. You can add an anchor, a seat, secure your cargo and more. This board is the ideal size for one fisherman and can be used for standard paddle boarding as well.
6. Aqua Marina Drift Inflatable Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board
The Aqua Marina Drift Fishing SUP is a heavy-duty inflatable paddle board that can be used for a lot more than just fishing. Its extra wide, 38-inch design makes it ideal for touring the lake or the sea with a friend or a loyal pet, and the ultra strong EVA textured grip will hold on to you and all your belongings. A raised side rail prevents your catch from flopping back in the water and helps prevent water from splashing aboard. As the board was made for fishing, it comes with two built-in rod holders and even includes a fishing cooler with purchase.
7. TOWER Xplorer Inflatable 14' SUP Fishing
The TOWER Xplorer Inflatable 14’ Stand Up Fishing Paddle Board may be the paddle board to end all paddle boards. Hulking at an unbelievable 14 feet long and supporting an unheard-of max weight of 700 lbs, this SUP has enough space for a small army to ride along. Bring all your tackle, a cooler, a few friends and the kitchen sink on your fishing trip and you’ll still have space left over. We especially love that it’s 8 inches thick, which prevents splashing and keeps you dry. While it’s great for SUP fishing, this board was built for speed, which means it doesn’t have storage components weighing it down. It does not have features that are normally associated with fishing SUPs.
As it turns out, you can do just about anything on a stand up paddle board. But, that doesn’t mean you can do anything on any paddle board. You’ve got to find the right one for your size, level, and activity of choice. Given the number of different paddle boards on the market, we soon found out that this is no easy task.
We got in touch with some SUP experts to find out just which are the best stand up paddle boards for the most popular paddle boarding activities. Then, we scoured real customer reviews to see how each board stood the test of time.
Let’s take a look at what we found!
Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
The first paddle boards on our list are the most affordable and convenient, though they are the least sturdy. Inflatable SUPs are perfect for tossing into the back of a compact car and heading to the beach on a whim. They are also great for beginners who want to give the sport a try.
1. SereneLife 10' X 30" Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
One of the highest rated stand up paddle boards on the market, the SereneLife Inflatable SUP comes with everything you need to hit the waves in no time, including a pump, repair kit, and a handy carrying case. Excellent grip and a 30-inch deck make this board great for all levels, and it can even fit a pet! The three bottom panel fins make for optimal agility.
2. Pathfinder 9'9" Inflatable SUP
The Pathfinder Inflatable SUP is just a bit shorter and a bit thinner than the SereneLife board reviewed above, but it also comes at a lower price. This durable paddle board is ideal for those who want to relax on the water. It comes with a convenient bungee cargo hold on the deck to secure your belongings as well as a D-ring for attaching a leash or anchor. This is perfect for those who want to take longer excursions and need to pack some supplies (water, sunscreen, etc.)
3. Tower 10 Foot Inflatable SUP
One of the longest, widest, and most durable stand up paddle boards on the market, the Tower 10 Foot Inflatable SUP towers over the competition. This SUP comes with absolutely everything you need. It has a bungee and multiple clips for storage, great grip, a fiberglass paddle, three fins, and plenty of space. You’ll have no problem fitting a friend or a pet on this board while you explore the open water. The Tower SUP is an inflatable paddle board that rides like a real, hard shell board.
4. iROCKER CRUISER Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Thick SUP Package
The iRocker Cruiser is another premium grade SUP that could rival a hard shell model. Even wider and longer than the Tower board, this beast is definitely meant for multiple paddlers. It even has an optional mount for a kayak seat on the side. It features great storage capabilities and a super durable build, but the stand-out feature is iRocker’s triple action, high-capacity pump that is included with purchase. It inflates 100% faster than other pumps, making it even easier to hit the waves on this stand up paddle board.
5. UBOWAY Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board with Adjustable Paddle
The UBOWAY Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board may not be a luxury model like the last few options on the list, but it comes pretty close and at a much lower price. Standard storage and durability are all that a recreational paddler needs, and this board delivers. Where it really shines is its EVA rubber grip pad, which extends to the very edges of the board for enhanced stability. It also comes with a mesh bag that can be used to transport the deflated board even if it’s still wet.
6. Vilano Journey Inflatable SUP Kit
The Vilano Journey Inflatable SUP is a top stand up paddle board for lovers of this sport. It’s super durable, comes with all the necessary extras, and has one of the best price tags we’ve seen. This board may not come with many bells and whistles, but most paddlers don’t need them. It does, however, come with extra D-rings that can be used for storage or for attaching a leash.
7. Ten Toes 10' Weekender Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Bundle
One of the most durable stand up paddle boards on the market, the Ten Toes 10’ Weekender claims to be indestructible. It’s made with military-grade PVC and comes in a sleek black and red design. Its dimensions are standard for one paddler and it comes with all the necessary extras including a pump, bag, and paddle. With a large bungee for increased storage and a super durable make, this board is ideal for rocky waters or longer excursions.
8. PEAK 10’ Yoga Fitness Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board Package
This ultra-wide board is a premium offering from Peak. Many inflatable boards are not suitable for yoga practice, but the PEAK 10’ Yoga Fitness SUP breaks away from the pack. Featuring an extra large EVA rubber grip surface that covers almost the entire board, paddlers will have no trouble holding positions and stretches while floating. When not being used for yoga, this board comfortably fits two riders.
9. PEAK 12' Titan Royal Blue Large Multi Person Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
Another SUP by Peak, the PEAK 12’ Titan took its name for good reason. This is the biggest inflatable stand up paddle board we’ve ever seen. It’s a whopping 12 feet long and 45 inches wide and can comfortably fit three adults or a whole family. A large storage area makes it great for picnics and the spacious surface area means it can be used as a floating dock on a lake (if an anchor is attached). Keep in mind that this board requires two people for effective paddling.
Hard Shell Stand Up Paddle Boards
Hard shell stand up paddle boards are not inflatable. They’re built solid, sturdy and are made to last. These boards won’t ever sag, and you’ll never have to worry about seams breaking or small punctures ruining the experience. On the other hand, storage and transport can be a hassle. These boards are recommended for anglers who use large hooks or haul in fish with teeth or sharp spines as well as those who have large pets with sharp claws. If you live near the water and paddle board frequently, hard shell SUPs tend to be more durable and convenient than inflatables.
1. Gold Coast Surfboards SBBC - Stand Up Paddle Board
This hard shell SUP is able to provide benefits that inflatable boards just can’t, including an ultra-comfortable soft top panel that’s great for leisure or yoga and built-in plugs that are flush with the board (opposed to dangling D-rings). The closed cell foam construction of the Gold Coast Surfboards SBBC SUP makes for a lightweight board with unrivaled stability on the waves, and the 3-fin guidance on the bottom panel was designed to provide optimal agility. One interesting feature of this board is its frontal plug, which can be used to attach an action camera.
2. PEAK 10'5 Escape Soft Top Aqua Stand Up Paddle Board
The PEAK 10’5 Escape Soft Top Aqua Stand Up Paddle Board is a hard shell SUP made for action. Its curved edges make it easy to get in and out of the water and its aerodynamic design was built for speed. This SUP is quite long and wide, making it great for stand up paddle boarding adventures, and the nylon fin can be detached to transform it into a surfboard. A true multi-purpose board, the Peak Escape is a durable and long-lasting hard shell SUP for lovers of water sports.
The Right Stand Up Paddle Board for You
The SUPs on this list are made with the highest quality materials and are designed for optimal handling on the water. To find the best stand up paddle board for you, all you have to do is figure out what you want to do with it. Do you want to glide around the bay or lie out in the sun? Are you a pro angler that wants to use the board year-round or are you looking for a summertime board the whole family can enjoy? If you’re a beginner, our experts recommend a multi-purpose board that will let you explore every opportunity.
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