A fishing kayak is the great equalizer. For a fraction of the cost of a boat, it puts you on the water and into places a bigger boat cannot go, the skinny bass coves, the quiet river stretches, and sheltered inshore salt. It is stealthy, healthy, and a genuinely effective way to fish, as long as you respect the water.
Paddle or pedal
Paddle kayaks are lighter, cheaper and simpler. Pedal kayaks cost more but free your hands to fish and make it far easier to hold position against wind and current, a big advantage for fishing. Either way, a stable, sit-on-top fishing model with rod holders is the place to start.
Rigging and fishing
Keep it simple and secure: rod holders, a milk-crate or tackle setup behind the seat, a small anchor or stakeout pole for holding on a spot, and a fish finder if you want one. The low, quiet profile lets you sneak up on fish, and you can cover a shoreline thoroughly.