7 Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1000 (Ranked and Reviewed)
If you’re in the market for a fishing kayak and you don’t want to break the bank, then you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we will rank and review seven of the best fishing kayaks under $1000 on the market.
We’ll consider factors such as price, features, weight, comfort, stability and performance. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker looking for your next fishing vessel, read on for some great recommendations!
All the kayak manufacturers listed here are major brands and have good reputation when it come to making the best fishing kayaks.
What Are The Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1000?
Here is my ranked and reviewed list of the best fishing kayaks under $1000.
1) Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120
Overview
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a great fishing kayak for those who want a boat that is both stable and lightweight. It’s made of durable polyethylene and weighs only 60 pounds, making it easy to transport from your car to the water.
The kayak also features a comfortable molded seat, fishing rod holders, and plenty of storage space for all your gear.
Top Features
- Lightweight and durable
- Straight Tracking
- Excellent stability
- Comfortable molded seat
- Built in rod holders
- Plenty of storage space
- Front storage hatch offers dry storage
- Magnetic water bottle strap system
Pros: The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a great fishing kayak for those who want a vessel that is both stable and lightweight. It’s made of durable polyethylene and weighs only 60 pounds, making it easy to transport from your car to the water.
The kayak also features a comfortable molded seat, fishing rod holders, and plenty of storage space for all your gear.
Cons: Some kayakers may find the fishing rod holders to be in an inconvenient location.
Pricing
Bottom Line
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is a great fishing kayak for those who want a lightweight and durable vessel. It’s feature-rich, with a comfortable molded seat, fishing rod holders, and plenty of storage space.
2) Vibe Sea Ghost 110
Overview
Looking for a kayak that can do it all? This might be the best fishing kayak for the serious angler on a budget.
The Sea Ghost 110 is the perfect kayak for anyone who wants to do everything. It’s fast and stable, making it great for kayak fishing or just exploring your local waterways. And because it’s designed with anglers in mind, you know it can handle whatever you throw at it.
With a toe-controlled rudder, the Sea Ghost 110 is easy to maneuver, even in tight quarters. You’ll be able to get to those spots other kayaks can’t reach and spend more time fishing and less time paddling.
Top Features
- Toe-controlled rudder for easy maneuvering
- Fast and stable
- 2 flush mount rod holders
- Comfortable seat with dual position and quick dry
- Large fishing cockpit
- Storage space for all your fishing gear
- Tackle tray slots
- Tackle storage
- Fishfinder transducer port
- Fast-access bow paddle park
- Adjustable foot braces
Pros: The Vibe Sea Ghost 110 is a versatile fishing kayak that is stable and easy to maneuver. It comes with flush mount rod holders, a comfortable seat, and plenty of storage space for all your gear.
Cons: Some kayakers complain that the center console hatch latches does not seem to be that secure.
Pricing
Check the latest price here.
Bottom Line
The Vibe Sea Ghost 110 is a versatile fishing kayak that is stable and easy to maneuver. It comes with fishing rod holders, a comfortable seat, and plenty of storage space for all your gear.
3) Perception Pescador 12
Overview
A kayak that is stable and great for larger paddlers.
The Perception Pescador 12 is the perfect kayak for you! It is designed to be the best all-around boat for the money. You will love its stability, speed, and straight-tracking performance.
The Perception Pescador 12 also comes ready to fish right out of the box! It has spacious open storage, covered dry storage, and two rod holders. So whether you are looking to explore lakes, ponds, or flat-water rivers, this kayak can do it all!
Top Features:
- Stable and great for larger paddlers.
- Great speed, and straight-tracking performance.
- Ready to fish right out of the box.
- Spacious open storage.
- Covered dry storage.
- Two molded rod holders.
- Kayak tracks on both sides of the kayak.
- Designed, molded and hand assembled in the USA.
- Backed by a 5-Year Warranty.
Pros: The Perception Pescador 12 is a fantastic fishing kayak for those who want something sturdy and quick. It includes fishing rod holders, covered dry storage, and plenty of exposed storage space for fishing gear.
Cons: Not much. Some people have complained that the kayak were damaged during delivery.
Price
Bottom Line
The Perception Pescador 12 is a great fishing kayak for those who want something sturdy and quick. It includes fishing rod holders, covered dry storage, and plenty of exposed storage space.
4) Sea Eagle 350FX Inflatable Fishing Explorer Kayak
Overview
The Sea Eagle 350FX is a inflatable kayak that’s great for those who want something lightweight and portable. It’s made of durable PVC and can be inflated in just minutes.
The 350FX also comes with fishing rod holders, a removable fishing seat, and an inflatable spray skirt.
Top Features
- Durable PVC construction
- Inflates in minutes
- Fishing rod holders
- Removable fishing seat
- Inflatable spray skirt
- Lightweight and portable
- Reinforced side tubes
- Removable floor & EVA slip resistant padding
- Adjustable footrests
- Packs small
Pros: The Sea Eagle 350FX is a fishing inflatable kayak that’s great for those who want something lightweight and portable. It comes with fishing rod holders, a removable fishing seat, and an inflatable spray skirt.
Cons: Some people have complained that the fishing rod holders are not very sturdy and that the built in 40″ Fish ruler is not easy to use.
Price
Bottom Line
The Sea Eagle 350FX is a inflatable fishing kayak that’s great for those who want something lightweight and portable. It comes with fishing rod holders, a removable fishing seat, and an inflatable spray skirt.
5) Pelican The Catch 100 Fishing Kayak
Overview
Looking for a fishing kayak that is lightweight and easy-to-store?
The Pelican The Catch 100 is perfect for the smaller angler. It has a maximum weight capacity of 350 lb and comes with a convenient ERGOCAST G2™ dual position seating system.
Feel free to stand up in this kayak when it’s time to reel in fish. It has solid secondary stability. With its durable construction, you can be sure that this kayak will last for many fishing trips to come.
Top Features
- Lightweight and easy-to-store
- Maximum weight capacity of 350 lb
- ERGOCAST G21 dual position seating system
- Rock solid stability
- Anti-slip carpets gives secure footing for stand up fishing
- Durable kayak in polyethylene
- In hull storage hatch with quick lock hatch
- Comes with bungee cords on outside storage
- Flush mount rod holders
- Front quick lock hatch
- Gear tracks
Pros: The Pelican The Catch 100 fishing kayak is a great kayak for those who are looking for something lightweight and easy-to-store. It has a maximum weight capacity of 350 lb and comes with an ERGOCAST G21 dual position comfortable seating system.
Cons: No cup holder and some owners complain that it doesn’t track very well, but it’s a wide kayak.
Price
Bottom Line
The Pelican The Catch 100 is a stable kayak that’s perfect for fishing. It’s lightweight and easy-to-store, making it a great choice for those who want something they can take with them on the go.
6) Perception Outlaw 11.5
Overview
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is the perfect kayak for anyone looking to get into fishing. It’s affordable, yet still packed with features that will make your time on the water more enjoyable.
With an expansive standing platform and seriously elevated seating, you’ll have no problem casting from this kayak. And with its intuitive features, you’ll be able to spend more time fishing and less time fiddling with your gear.
Top Features
- Expansive standing platform
- For small to XL paddlers
- Max weight capacity 425 lb
- Elevated seating
- Removable comfortable frame seat
- 2 “double-barrel” rod holders
- Plenty of storage space
- Gear tracks on each side
- Great kayak for fly fishing
- Easy paddle stowage and paddle holders
- Molded in handles near rear and front of boat
- Easy to paddle
Pros: The Perception Outlaw 11.50 is the best fishing kayak for those just getting started. It’s packed with features that make it easy and comfortable to use with an affordable price.
Cons: Some people have complained that the foot pegs are too close together and that the fishing rod holders are not very sturdy.
Price
Bottom Line
The Perception Outlaw 11.50 is a perfect fishing kayak for those just getting started. It’s packed with features that make it easy and comfortable to use. With an affordable price, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to get into fishing.
7) Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak, 120″
Overview
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great choice for those who want a fishing kayak that’s packed with features. It has a comfortable seat, plenty of storage space, and two fishing rod holders.
Top Features
Write me a bulleted list of Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak, 120″ top features
- Adjustable, padded seat
- Plenty of storage space
- Two fishing rod holders
- UV-protected kayak will not fade, crack, or peel
- Hull design with deep tracking channels
- 275 lb weight capacity
- Tracking skeg and sharp bow for great paddling performance.
- Paddle holder
- 2 storage hatches
- 5-Year limited warranty
Pros: Extremely stable, tracks well, tracks straight,
Cons: Some people have complained that the fishing rod holders are not very sturdy.
Price
Bottom Line
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak is a great choice for those who want an affordable fishing kayak packed with features. It has a comfortable seat, plenty of storage space, and two fishing rod holders.
FAQ
Is a lighter or heavier kayak better?
A lighter kayak can easily carry, be loaded in your car and be more easily accessible. In addition light boats make it easy to carry more gear as less of its weight can be absorbed from the weight of the kayak.
Which is better 10 or 12 foot kayak?
Many 12-foot kayaks have high top-end speed and are a bit heavier. Longer kayaks tends to get better speed due to its greater length-to-width ratio. This gives paddlers more flexibility for longer runs and to cover long distances. Great if you will fish on larger lakes.
Hull design is also important for stability, tracking and speed. A shorter boat is normally better for beginners.
Sit-In versus Sit-On-Top Kayaks
There are two main types of fishing kayaks: sit-in and sit-on-top. Sit-in kayaks have a cockpit that you step into, and they usually have a spray skirt to keep water out of the cockpit. Sit-on-top kayaks don’t have a cockpit; you simply sit on top of them.
Kayak stability
Primary stability is the initial stability of a kayak when you are sitting in it. It is the first thing you will notice when you sit in a kayak for the first time.
The primary stability of a kayak determines how “tippy” or “flat” the kayak feels. The secondary stability is the stability of a kayak when it is tilted to the side.
This is important for fishing kayaks because you will often be fishing from the boat. For beginners good stability is normally the best feature for a kayak.
Kayak seats
Most fishing kayaks have a seat that you can adjust to both high and low positions, depending on your needs. Some fishing kayaks also have a padded seat and backrest for added comfort.
If you will go on longer trips the seating can be important since you will spend a lot of time sitting. Make sure you find a fishing kayak with comfortable seat so you can have your upper body in a perfect position.
Inflatables versus Hardshells
Fishing kayaks are available in both inflatable and hardshell varieties. Inflatable kayaks are usually less expensive and more portable, but they’re not as durable as hardshell kayaks. Hardshell kayaks are generally more expensive, but they’re also more durable and easier to paddle.
Fishing-Friendly-Features
Most fishing kayaks come with fishing-friendly features like built-in rod holders, livewells, and fish finders. Other kayaks can be outfitted with aftermarket fishing accessories.
When choosing a fishing kayak, it’s important to consider what type of fishing you’ll be doing and what kind of features you’ll need. Check the different features from the various manufacturers to get you the best fishing kayak.
Some manufacturers have all the features included right out of the box like gear tracks and enough storage.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Fishing Kayak
It doesn’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t invest thousands on a fishing kayak. Kayak fishing is among the fastest advancing outdoor activity. Manufacturers have been competing against the new fishermen to design great kayaks for less than $1,000.
It’s very good news for serious anglers looking to get on an excellent kayak for fishing. There are many good fishing boats under $1,000 that are available. Some kayaks are great for calm water and others are better for rough waters.
Caring for your kayak
Most fishing kayaks are made from polyethylene, a tough and durable plastic. Polyethylene is virtually maintenance-free; it doesn’t require painting or varnishing, and it’s not susceptible to rot or mildew. To clean your kayak, simply rinse it off with fresh water after each use.
Make sure you keep gear tracks, adjustable footrests, waterproof hatches and accessory rails free of sand and dirt.
Wrap Up
We hope you enjoyed our fishing kayak reviews and that you were able to find the best fishing kayak for your needs and budget. Kayak fishing is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy nature. It’s also a great way to get some exercise.
There are a few things to consider before you buy a kayak, but once you have the right kayak, it’s easy to get out on the water.
Thanks for reading and happy fishing for the best fishing kayaks!
If you are looking to go fishing with a friend you can also get a tandem fishing kayak, but they normally cost more than $1000.
