Do you want a kayak that is easy to assemble, lightweight and comfortable? If so, then this article is for you! We will be reviewing the best fishing kayaks under $1000. These kayaks are perfect for beginners who don’t have a lot of experience on water. In addition to our reviews, we’ll also provide some helpful tips on what features to look for in a fishing kayak.
A fishing kayak is a small, lightweight boat that you use to paddle around in lakes and rivers. Fishing kayaks are designed specifically for fishing, which means they have features that make it easy to catch fish. For example, many fishing kayaks come with built-in rod holders and storage compartments. They also tend to be more stable than other types of kayaks, which makes them ideal for beginners.
If you’re looking for a new way to fish, then consider buying a fishing kayak. Not only are they fun to ride, but they’re also a great way to get closer to the fish. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of fishing kayaks available on the market and provide our top picks.
Why is price important when choosing Fishing Kayaks?
Price is important because it can help you narrow down your options. You should buy the best fishing kayak under $1000 that suits your specific needs. For example, if you’re a beginner, then we recommend buying an affordable option so you don’t end up wasting money on something that’s beyond your skill level.
On the other hand, if price isn’t an issue for you and all of our picks are outside of your budget range, then consider looking into pricier models by well-known brands like Jackson Kayaks or Ocean Kayak . These companies make higher quality products than cheaper alternatives; therefore they tend to cost more money. However, even though these kayaks may be out of most people’s budgets (including ours), they still make great options for experienced kayakers.
Fishing Kayaks Under $1,000 Reviewed
When it comes to finding the best fishing kayaks under $1000, you have a lot of different options to choose from. But, if you’re looking for a quality option that won’t break the bank, the Pelican Basscreek 100xp is hard to beat. This 12-foot kayak is designed with anglers in mind, and it includes all the features you need to get started on your next fishing adventure. It’s stable and easy to maneuver in even the roughest conditions, and it comes with everything you need to hit the water including a paddle and rod holders. The Basscreek 100xp also has plenty of storage space, making it the perfect option for those who want to take along all their gear.
If you’re looking for a quality fishing kayak that won’t break the bank, the Pelican Basscreek 100xp is hard to beat. This 10-foot kayak is designed with anglers in mind, and it includes all the features you need to get started on your next fishing adventure. It’s stable and easy to maneuver in even the roughest conditions, and it comes with everything you need to hit the water including a paddle and rod holders. The Basscreek 100xp also has plenty of storage space, making it the perfect option for those who want to take along all their gear.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Plenty of storage space
- Not as fast as some other kayaks on the market
The Tarpon is Wilderness Systems’ most popular fishing kayak, and for good reason. At just under $1000, it’s a great value for the money. The boat is designed with stability in mind, making it perfect for anglers of all levels of experience. It also comes packed with features, including a variety of storage options and two flush mount rod holders that are built into the carrying handles. The Tarpon is also extremely comfortable, making it a great choice for anglers who want to spend long days on the water without sacrificing comfort.
At just under $1000, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon is one of our best fishing kayaks under $1000. It’s designed with stability in mind, making it perfect for anglers of all levels of experience. The boat comes packed with features including multiple storage options and two flush-mount rod holders that are built into its carrying handles which makes this model very convenient .
- Stable for beginners and pros
- Comes with multiple storage options
- Considered comfortable by some owners
- Not particularly fast due to its width (which also makes it more stable)
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is a great kayak for fishing that won’t break the bank. This sit-on-top kayak is stable and tracks well, making it perfect for larger bodies of water. It comes with all the features you need to get out on the lake and start fishing, including rod holders, storage space, and a livewell. The Outlaw 11.5 is also extremely comfortable compared to other kayaks in its price range and size and can carry up to 350 lbs.
This kayak’s biggest downside is that it can be a bit heavy, weighing in at 70 pounds when empty. However, the weight also means you are getting an extremely durable kayak for your money so this shouldn’t discourage too many people from buying it! If you want an affordable fishing kayak with lots of great features to get out on the water and start catching fish right away, then this might just be what you have been looking for. The Perception Outlaw 11.5 comes highly recommended by users all over who love its stable design and comfortability while fishing!
- Affordable
- Stable
- Heavy (70 lbs)
The Riot Escape 12 Angler is a great fishing kayak under $1000 that will not let you down. This sit-in recreational kayak is stable and tracks well, making it perfect for larger bodies of water as well as rivers with mild rapids. It comes with all the features you need to get out on the lake or river and start fishing including rod holders, storage space, multiple flush mount rod holders ,and a livewell .
The Escape 12 Angler is a good fishing kayak to start with if you’re new to the sport. This sit-in recreational kayak has an adjustable seat and foot braces which provide comfort throughout your outing, even when battling a big catch . The Escape 12 comes in at around 55 pounds , making it easy enough for most people to load into their cars or onto their kayak racks.
- Stable and tracks well
- Comes with all the features you need to start fishing
- Adjustable seat and foot braces for comfort
- May be too large for smaller bodies of water
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler is a great fishing kayak under $1000 that will provide you with many years of fun on the water. This sit-in recreational kayak handles well and has all the features needed for an enjoyable day out on the lake or river . The Angler comes with multiple flush mount rod holders , storage space, adjustable foot braces, as well as front and rear molded carrying handles which make loading this onto your car rack easy.
This sit-in recreational kayak weighs less than 50 pounds making it easy to carry around if need be. With its high weight capacity of 400 pounds plus ability to keep up speed in rough waters due to its polyethylene construction , this is one tough little kayak that is perfect for anyone looking to do a little fishing on the cheap.
One downside of this kayak may be its price point as it falls just under the $1000 threshold. But, if you are in the market for an affordable and well-made fishing kayak, then the Lifetime Tamarack Angler should definitely be at the top of your list.
- Multiple flush mount rod holders
- Adjustable foot braces
- Storage space
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- May be too small for some anglers
If you are looking for a larger fishing kayak that is still under $1000, then the Vibe Sea Ghost 110 may be just what you are looking for. This sit-on-top kayak can hold up to 500 pounds and comes with all the bells and whistles an angler could want, including two flush mount rod holders , six mounting points for Scotty® gear mounts, a transducer scupper hole, and a large tank well with bungee straps .
The Sea Ghost is also very stable in rough waters due to its wide design so you don’t have to worry about getting wet or losing your tackle box overboard. At only 46 pounds , this kayak is easy to transport and set up by yourself. And as a bonus, this kayak comes with front and rear bungee cords to hold down your gear.
- Very stable, great for beginners
- Rod holders included
- Easy to transport and set up
- Only available in one color choice
The Perception Pescador 12.0 is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable and durable fishing kayak. This sit-on-top kayak is made with a polyethylene hull that can hold up to 325 pounds, making it perfect for solo anglers or couples. The Pescador also comes with all the features you would expect on a higher-priced kayak, including two flush mount rod holders , four mounting points for Scotty® gear mounts, a transducer scupper hole, and multiple storage hatches.
At only 47 pounds, the Pescador is easy to transport and set up by yourself. And because it’s available in seven different colors, you’re sure to find one that suits your own personal style.
The only real downside of the Pescador is its size, which may be too large for some users. Some have said it feels a little tippy in rough water or with high winds, so you might want to choose another model if these are common conditions on your local waters . However, this kayak definitely makes up for any downsides with its superior comfort and performance features!
- Super durable and affordable
- Plenty of storage space
- Easy to transport by yourself
- Only available in one size, which may be too large for some users.
The Sun Dolphin Journey is a perfect choice for those looking to get into kayak fishing or as a secondary boat. It’s also an excellent option if you’re not sure that this type of water sport will be your thing, because it comes with features found on much more expensive models at only half the price! The low profile design and smooth hull make paddling simple even in choppy waters, while the storage compartment provides enough space for all of your gear . You can easily attach a trolling motor thanks to the included transom mount , and there are multiple footrest positions so everyone feels comfortable while paddling.
- Inexpensive
- Smooth hull and low profile design make paddling easy
- Storage compartment can fit a lot of gear
- Transom mount allows for trolling motor attachment
- May be too small for some anglers
The Perception Catch 100 is a great option for those just getting into kayak fishing or looking to upgrade their current model. It comes with plenty of storage room, making it easy to pack all your gear without worrying about cluttering the inside of the boat. This yak even has enough space for two people so you can bring along a friend! The large open cockpit provides lots of room and makes entry/exit extremely easy, perfect for those who are new to the sport.
The Catch 100 is also outfitted with a comfortable seat and great stability, both of which are important when you’re spending hours on the water. It tracks well and maneuvers easily, making it easy to get to your spot without having to fight against the current.
- Roomy open cockpit
- Stable and comfortable
- Tracks well
- May be too large for some anglers
The Perception Access is a great option for those who are looking to upgrade from their entry-level kayak, but aren’t quite ready to commit hundreds of dollars. This fishing yak comes with lots of storage room and plenty of space inside the cockpit so you can bring along all your gear without worrying about cluttering up the boat.
With its large open cockpit, getting in and out of this model is extremely easy – perfect for first timers or anyone planning on spending hours on the water. The Catch 100 also has enough stability and maneuverability that it’s not difficult to get used to, even if you’re using it for the first time. With a weight capacity of 250 pounds, this kayak is also great choice for anglers who are planning to go out on their own or with another person.
Overall, although the Catch 100 does not have all of the bells and whistles that come along with pricier fishing boats, many people find that its simple design helps them focus more on what they want – which is just being able to hit the water quickly in order to enjoy lots of fun fishing!
- Stable
- Inexpensive
- Roomy cockpit
- No built in rod holders
Key Considerations for Buying a Fishing Kayak
- Sit-On-Top
The first type of fishing kayak we’ll be discussing is the sit-on-top kayak. As the name suggests, this type of kayak has an open top design, which makes it easy to get in and out of. Sit-on-top kayaks are also very stable, which makes them a good choice for beginners.
One downside to sit-on-top kayaks is that they can get quite hot in warm weather conditions. In addition, they don’t offer as much protection from the elements as other types of kayaks do. If you’re looking for a kayak that you can use in all weather conditions, then we recommend choosing a different type .
One downside to sit-on-top kayaks is that they can get quite hot in warm weather conditions. In addition, they don’t offer as much protection from the elements as other types of kayaks do. If you’re looking for a kayak that you can use in all weather conditions, then we recommend choosing a different type .
- Inflatable
The second type of fishing kayak we’ll be discussing is the inflatable kayak. Inflatable kayaks are a good choice for those who want to save space, as they can be deflated and easily stored away when not in use.
In addition, inflatable kayaks are very portable, which makes them a good option for those who like to travel. One downside to inflatable kayaks is that they tend to be less stable than other types of kayaks , so they may not be the best choice for beginners .
- Traditional Sit-In
The third type of fishing kayak we’ll be discussing is the traditional sit-in kayak. This type of kayak has a closed top design, which makes it more difficult to get in and out of than other types of kayaks. However, sit-in kayaks are more stable than other types , making them a good choice for those who are new to fishing kayaking.
Another advantage of sit-in kayaks is that they offer protection from the elements, making them a good choice for those who plan on using their kayak in all weather conditions.
A common mistake among kayak buyers is being concerned with weight capacity. The weight capacity of a fishing kayak refers to the amount of gear, including your own bodyweight, that can be safely stored on board while you are paddling it.
As long as there are no limits placed by airlines or shipping carriers for how much luggage can accompany you during travel, then this should not be an issue when choosing which kayaks to include in your shortlist.
Some manufacturers may list two different numbers for their maximum carrying capacities: one referring solely to total storage space and another taking into account what kind of items will fit best inside the vessel (such as large coolers versus small day packs).
The next consideration when choosing a fishing kayak is deciding between a Sit-On-Top (SOT) or Sit-Inside-Kayak (SIK).
SOT kayaks provide more storage and stability, making them the perfect option for those who want to bring along plenty of gear on their fishing trips. They are also ideal for beginners as they are very difficult to tip over.
SIK kayaks offer better protection from the elements and can be easier to paddle in windy conditions, but they do not have nearly as much storage space as SOT models. Additionally, they require more balance and experience to operate than SOTs, so may not be suitable for beginner anglers.
When choosing between these two styles, you will want to consider how often and where you plan on fishing. If your kayak is going to spend most of its time in calm waters (like a lake or pond) then an SIK may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for something that can handle choppier conditions like ocean bays and estuaries, then a SOT may be more suitable as it would provide additional stability against waves and wind gusts.
The next decision you need to make is what type of kayak you want. The three most common types are recreational, touring, and fishing kayaks.
Recreational kayaks are designed for short trips on calm waters and typically have a lot of storage space for gear. They are the widest and shortest of the three types, making them great for beginners who may not be as experienced in paddling or handling a kayak in rough conditions.
Touring kayaks are longer and narrower than recreational models, allowing them to move faster through the water while also providing more storage space. They are best suited for those who plan on taking longer trips (several hours) on open water and require greater speed and efficiency when paddling.
When it comes to choosing the best fishing kayak under $1000, you also need to consider your body type and comfort level.
Length has a direct impact on how quickly you move through the water, so for those who plan on traveling long distances or covering large amounts of ground in one day may want to lean towards longer models.
Width is important because if your kayak feels too narrow then it can be less stable than wider options while also making it more difficult for you to store items inside (such as coolers). For women or shorter individuals this may not pose much of an issue but taller anglers will likely prefer wider designs over skinnier ones.
Many people look for something that are able-bodied enough handle, which means it should be able to support your weight without wearing down too quickly.
The last two factors you will want to consider are kayak stability and portability.
Stability is key when it comes to fishing kayaks as you do not want to spend your time worrying about whether or not the boat is going to tip over. All of the kayaks on our list have been selected because they offer a high level of stability, but if you are still unsure then be sure to read the product reviews before making your final decision.
Portability is also important as you will likely need to transport your kayak from your vehicle to the water’s edge. Many models now include carrying handles and/or wheels which make transporting them much easier, but always check these features before purchasing any vessel.
If you are interested in purchasing a used kayak, then looking for one that is made of rotomoulded plastic can be helpful.
These models tend to retain their value well over time and have very few issues with cracking or delamination when properly cared for.
Of course, if your budget will allow it then new boats are always the best option as they typically come with warranties which cover any manufacturer defects. If buying pre-owned vessels does not fit into your budget though, do not worry! There are plenty of affordable options on our list even thought they may have been lightly used by another angler before being sold second hand.
Tips for Using Fishing Kayaks Under $ 1,000
- When buying a fishing kayak, you should consider the length. A longer kayak is more stable and tracks better than shorter models.
- Stability of fishing kayaks can be divided into two types: standard stability which measures your ability to stand up inside the boat while its stationary on flat water; and aggressive or enhanced stability that allows for standing even when it’s moving along waves or rivers. Keep in mind that an increased sense of security comes with less maneuverability compared to short boats.
- Another thing worth considering are storage options available within the hull as well as behind seat if this option is present – these will allow you to bring plenty of gear including bigger fish finders, spare paddles etc., especially because some folks also use kayaks for camping.
- If you are looking to use your kayak for fishing in salt water, be sure to get one that is specifically designed for such a purpose as the materials used will be corrosion resistant.
- Consider price and availability of replacement parts when making your decision – some brands tend to be more expensive and difficult to find spares for than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
If you are looking for the best fishing kayak under $1,000 then you have come to the right place. We have taken all of your considerations into account and narrowed down our list to only five options that we think will work perfectly for what you need. You can find more in-depth information about each model below in their individual reviews or by clicking on the links at the bottom of this article. Now let’s take a look at how they compare when it comes to price so that you know which one is most likely going to fit within your budget! We hope these tips were helpful. Good luck with finding your perfect fishing kayak!