Jackson Kayak was founded in Rock Island, Tennessee by Eric Jackson, known as E.J.—the most accomplished kayaker in history with over 100 wins. Innovation at Jackson Kayak comes from real-life adventure needs. In 2004, the company launched its first child kayak, a whitewater design for Eric’s 10-year-old son, Dane, weighing just 44 pounds. As E.J. says, "We were going to make a product that nobody else was willing to make, and we were going to succeed doing it."

Today, Jackson Kayak is recognized worldwide as a leader in quality and performance. Over the past decade, Jackson Kayak has developed the most innovative whitewater and fishing kayaks on the market. With top engineers and designers, each kayak benefits from decades of combined knowledge and experience, ensuring the best possible design and performance on the water.

Industry-Leading Whitewater Kayaks

Eric Jackson first collaborated with avid paddler David Knight in 1997 to design a whitewater kayak that would change the industry forever. Eric brings firsthand knowledge of kayak design and water physics to every Jackson Kayak. Since then, the company has produced the world’s most successful whitewater kayaks, winning more freestyle world championship medals than any other brand. Jackson Kayak ensures that everyone—from expert whitewater champions to everyday paddlers—can find the perfect kayak.

Revolutionizing Fishing Kayaks

In 2010, the original Jackson Kayak Coosa revolutionized kayak fishing and ignited the market. Today, Jackson offers a full line of fishing kayaks that provide all-day comfort, unmatched stability, and standability. Leading the industry with innovations like the Flex Drive and E-Drive, Jackson continues to redefine what’s possible in fishing kayak performance.

Our Philosophy and Craftsmanship

Jackson Kayak operates under a simple philosophy: "conceived, designed, and manufactured to do something no one has done before, and do it better." A sign hanging in the Sparta, Tennessee factory reads "BUILD IT LIKE IT'S YOURS." This reminds every employee that each kayak they build is someone’s personal boat, crafted with care and precision.

Eric Jackson says, "One of the most rewarding things I’ve ever experienced, even considering all the World Championships, is being out on the water in a Jackson Kayak we made right here in Sparta, Tennessee—designed and built one at a time by hand."