Fishing Kayaks Under $1000
Fishing kayaks let you reach spots that bigger boats can’t, without breaking the bank. In 2024, you can find great fishing kayaks under $1000 that don’t skimp on features.
Today’s affordable fishing kayaks come with smart designs for different fishing styles. Some are stable enough for stand-up casting. Others are compact and easy to transport. Many have clever storage solutions for all your gear.
The best part is you don’t need years of experience to enjoy kayak fishing. With the right fishing kayak, even beginners can start exploring new fishing spots and catching fish from their own personal kayak.
Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS Fishing Kayak Review ($549.00)
The Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS Fishing Kayak is a popular choice among fishing kayaks under $1000. Priced at $549.00, it offers great value for anglers. This 10-foot sit-on-top kayak is designed specifically for fishing enthusiasts.
The Boss 10 Fishing Kayak features a catamaran hull design for improved stability. It allows anglers to stand while fishing confidently. The kayak comes with a fold-down seat for comfort during long fishing sessions. Non-slip pads and a stand-up assist strap enhance safety and ease of use.
For storage, the Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS Fishing Kayak is well-equipped. It includes one swivel and four flush-mount rod holders. Ample storage space is available for tackle and gear. The kayak is made from durable UV-stabilized fortiflex high-density polyethylene. It weighs 65-68 pounds and can carry up to 375 pounds. Made in the USA, this Boss 10 Fishing Kayak is a solid option for anglers seeking quality fishing kayaks under $1000.
The Seastream Angler 120 ($799.00)
The Seastream Angler 120 is a well-designed fishing kayak that offers a lot of value for under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be a stable and comfortable platform for anglers of various skill levels.
At 12 feet long, Seastream Angler 120 provides a good balance of maneuverability and tracking. The wide hull design contributes to its stability, allowing for confident casting and even stand-up fishing in calm conditions. However, this stability does come at a slight cost to speed.
One standout feature of Seastream Angler 120 s the EZ Rider seat. It’s multi-position and height-adjustable, which we found crucial for maintaining comfort during long fishing sessions. The seat’s width and padding are notably better than many competitors in this price range.
For anglers, the Angler 120 UNI-Track accessory system allows for easy customization, while the flush-mounted rod holders and horizontal rod storage with tip protection are thoughtful touches. We appreciated the oversized tank well, which provides ample storage for tackle boxes and other gear.
While Seastream Angler 120 performs well in most conditions, we did notice it can be a bit sluggish in strong currents or windy conditions. However, for its intended use in lakes, slow-moving rivers, and protected coastal areas, it performs admirably.
Pros:
- Excellent stability for stand-up fishing
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Good storage options
- Well-equipped for fishing customization
- Durable construction
- Good value for the price
Cons:
- Not as fast as some competitors
- Can be sluggish in strong currents or wind
- Heavier than some kayaks in its class
- Limited speed in open water
At $799, the Seastream Angler 120 offers a compelling package for anglers looking for a feature-rich fishing kayak without breaking the bank. Its combination of stability, comfort, and angler-friendly features make it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced kayak anglers aiming under $1000.
Pelican Catch Classic 100 ($733)
The Pelican Catch Classic 100 is a versatile fishing kayak that offers impressive stability and comfort under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be an excellent choice for anglers of various skill levels.
At 10 feet long and 34 inches wide, Pelican Catch Classic 100 provides exceptional stability. The tunnel hull design allows for confident casting and even stand-up fishing in calm conditions. Many users report feeling secure enough to move around freely without fear of tipping.
One standout feature of the Pelican Catch Classic 100 is the ERGOCAST dual position seating system. The seat is remarkably comfortable, with users comparing it to a “luxury recliner.” We appreciated the ability to switch between a lower position for paddling and a higher position for better visibility while fishing. The mesh material keeps you cool on hot days.
The Pelican Catch Classic 100 features multiple rod holders, accessory eyelets, and a spacious rear tank well for gear storage. The anti-slip carpet is a nice touch, providing secure footing when standing.
While Pelican Catch Classic 100 excels in stability, this comes at the cost of speed. It requires more effort to paddle, especially over long distances or in windy conditions. However, for its intended use in smaller bodies of water, it performs admirably.
Pros:
- Excellent stability for stand-up fishing
- Extremely comfortable seat
- Good storage options
- Well-equipped for fishing
- Durable construction
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Slower than some competitors
- Heavier and harder to transport solo
- Limited speed in open water or windy conditions
- May be too wide for some car roof racks
At $733, the Pelican Catch Classic 100 offers great value for anglers prioritizing stability and comfort over speed. It’s an ideal choice for fishing in lakes, slow-moving rivers, and protected coastal areas, especially for those new to kayak fishing or anyone who values a stable platform over long-distance paddling ability under $1000.
Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler ($494)
The Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler is an inflatable fishing kayak that offers a unique blend of portability and functionality for under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be a versatile option for anglers who prioritize convenience and storage.
At 9’8″ long and 35″ wide, Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler provides excellent stability. The built-in aluminum rib frame enhances tracking and maneuverability, making it perform more like a hard-shell kayak. We found it to be stable enough for stand-up fishing in calm conditions.
One standout feature of Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler is the patented aluminum accessory frame at the front. This unique addition allows for easy mounting of fishing accessories, rod holders, and even action cameras. It’s a feature not commonly found on inflatable kayaks and adds significant value for anglers.
The inflatable lumbar support in the seat provides decent comfort for longer fishing sessions. However, some users report that the backrest could use more support for extended periods on the water.
The Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler comes well-equipped with multiple D-rings, bungee deck lacing, and self-bailing ports. This kayak’s durability is noteworthy, with many users reporting it can handle up to class 3 rapids without issue.
Pros:
- Excellent stability
- Built-in aluminum frame improves tracking
- Unique accessory mounting frame
- Highly portable and easy to store
- Durable construction
- Self-bailing ports for versatility
Cons:
- Seat comfort could be improved for longer sessions
- Slower than some hard-shell kayaks
- Drying time can be lengthy
- Multiple inflation points can be tedious
The Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler offers good value for anglers seeking a portable fishing kayak. Its combination of stability, durability, and fishing-specific features make it a solid choice for those who prioritize convenience and versatility over speed and long-distance paddling ability under $1000.
Ascend FS 12T ($750)
The Ascend FS 12T is a fishing kayak that offers a good balance of features and affordability under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be a stable kayak suitable for various fishing environments.
At 12 feet long and 31 inches wide, Ascend FS 12T provides decent stability. The tunnel hull design allows for confident casting and even stand-up fishing in calm conditions. However, some users report that the stability could be better when compared to wider models.
One standout feature of Ascend FS 12T is the adjustable frame seat. It’s comfortable for long fishing sessions and can be raised, lowered, or removed entirely. The seat’s design allows for good visibility and easier casting. However, there have been reports of the seat being prone to rusting over time, which is a concern for long-term durability.
Ascend FS 12T features large open storage areas in the bow and stern, secured with bungee cords. There’s also a water-resistant hatch in the cockpit for keeping valuables dry. The deck is carpeted with slip-resistant foam padding, which is comfortable for bare feet when stand-up fishing.
While Ascend FS 12T performs well in most conditions, we did notice it can be sluggish and challenging to maneuver, especially in windy conditions or currents. The lack of a rudder system contributes to this issue.
Pros:
- Good stability for stand-up fishing
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Ample storage options
- Well-equipped for fishing customization
- Affordable price point under $1000
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors (77 lbs)
- Can be slow and hard to maneuver
- No rudder system
- Seat may be prone to rusting
- Limited availability with select retailers
Oru Kayak Inlet ($899)
The Oru Kayak Inlet is a unique foldable kayak that offers exceptional portability without sacrificing too much on performance under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be an innovative solution for paddlers with limited storage space or those who want easy transport.
At 9’8″ long and 31″ wide, Oru Kayak Inlet foldable kayak provides good stability for a folding design. The flat bottom and wide hull contribute to its steadiness, making it suitable for beginners and recreational paddlers. However, it’s important to note that it’s designed for calm waters only.
Weighing just 20 pounds, Oru Kayak Inlet foldable is significantly lighter than traditional kayaks. It folds down to a compact 42″ x 10″ x 18″ box, making it easy to store and transport. We found the 3-5 minute setup time claim to be accurate, especially after a few practice runs.
The open cockpit design of Oru Kayak Inlet foldable provides ample space for gear and even allows for a small child or pet to ride along. However, it lacks dedicated fishing features like rod holders or gear tracks.
The Oru Kayak Inlet foldable is made from durable 5mm double-layered polypropylene, which proved to be surprisingly tough during our tests. Oru claims it can withstand 20,000 fold cycles, which is impressive for a folding design.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Quick and easy to set up
- Good stability for calm waters
- Durable construction
- Ample cockpit space
Cons:
- Limited to calm water use only
- Lacks dedicated fishing features
- Can be affected by wind due to lightweight design
- More expensive than some traditional kayaks
- Seat comfort could be improved for longer trips
At $899, the Oru Kayak Inlet offers a unique solution for paddlers who prioritize portability and easy storage under $1000. It’s best suited for recreational use on lakes, slow-moving rivers, and protected coastal areas. While it may not have all the features of a dedicated fishing kayak, its innovative design and ease of use make it an attractive option for casual anglers and those with limited space.
Perception Outlaw 11.5 Fishing Kayak ($929)
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is a fishing kayak that prioritizes stability and comfort over speed in a good price point of under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be an excellent platform for anglers who value a steady casting deck and ample storage.
At 11’6″ long and 35″ wide, Perception Outlaw 11.5 provides exceptional stability. The wide, flat hull design allows for confident stand-up fishing, even for larger anglers. However, this stability comes at the cost of speed and maneuverability.
One standout feature of Perception Outlaw 11.5 is the elevated frame seat, often described as “heavenly” by users. It offers a high vantage point, similar to a captain’s chair on a small boat. The seat is remarkably comfortable, allowing for long fishing sessions without discomfort. Its breathable mesh design keeps you cool on hot days.
For anglers, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 comes well-equipped. It features four integrated rod holders, tackle storage options, and large open areas in the bow and stern for gear. The flat, open cockpit with non-slip padding is ideal for stand-up casting.
While the Perception Outlaw 11.5 excels in stability and comfort, it struggles in windy conditions and currents due to its high profile and slower speed. However, it tracks surprisingly well, allowing for multiple casts before needing to reposition.
Pros:
- Exceptional stability for stand-up fishing
- Extremely comfortable, elevated seat
- Ample storage space
- Well-equipped with fishing features
- Good tracking for a wide kayak
Cons:
- Slow and less maneuverable than some competitors
- Struggles in windy conditions
- Heavy (101 lbs), making solo transport challenging
- High center of gravity can be intimidating for some users
Under $1000, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 offers good value for anglers prioritizing stability and comfort over speed. It’s best suited for calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and protected coastal areas. While it may not be the fastest kayak on the water, its stability, comfort, and fishing-specific features make it an attractive option for those who want a steady platform for casting and reeling fish.
Native Watercraft Falcon 11 ($999)
The Native Watercraft Falcon 11 is a versatile sit-on-top kayak that offers a good balance of stability, comfort, and features for under $1000. During our tests, we found it to be a solid choice for recreational paddlers and anglers alike.
At 11 feet long and 32.5 inches wide, Native Watercraft Falcon 11 provides excellent stability. The flat bottom design contributes to its steadiness, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. We found it to be extremely stable in both low and high seating positions, even allowing for stand-up fishing in calm conditions.
One standout feature of Native Watercraft Falcon 11 is the comfortable framed seat. Users consistently praise its comfort, with some calling it “wonderful” and “heavenly.” The seat offers high and low positions, providing flexibility for different paddling and fishing scenarios.
It features dual flush-mount rod holders, a console for battery storage and transducer access, and a bow hatch for hull storage. Native Watercraft Falcon 11 also includes gear tracks for easy customization and mounting of accessories.
While the Native Watercraft Falcon 11 excels in stability and comfort, it sacrifices speed. During our tests, we found it to be relatively slow, reaching full speed after just two or three strokes. However, it tracks decently and is easy to maneuver, making it suitable for calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Pros:
- Excellent stability
- Very comfortable seat
- Good storage options
- Well-equipped for fishing
- Easy to customize with gear tracks
Cons:
- Slow compared to other kayaks
- Heavy (55 lbs), can be challenging to transport solo
- Not suitable for rough water conditions
- Limited speed may frustrate more experienced paddlers
At $999, the Native Watercraft Falcon 11 offers good value for recreational paddlers and anglers looking for a stable, comfortable kayak under $1000. While it may not be the fastest kayak on the water, its combination of stability, comfort, and fishing-friendly features make it an attractive option for those prioritizing these aspects over speed and long-distance paddling ability.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Fishing Kayak
- Stability: Look for a kayak that offers good stability, especially if you plan to stand while fishing. Wider kayaks generally provide more stability.
- Comfort: Consider the seat design and adjustability. A comfortable seat is crucial for long fishing sessions.
- Storage: Ensure the kayak has enough storage space for your fishing gear, including rod holders and tackle storage.
- Propulsion: Decide between paddle, pedal, or motor-driven kayaks based on your preference and fishing style.
- Weight Capacity: Consider your weight plus the weight of your gear when choosing a kayak.
- Length: Longer kayaks are generally faster and track better, while shorter ones are more maneuverable. Consider whether a 10-foot or 12-foot kayak would better suit your needs.
- Portability: Consider the kayak’s weight and how you’ll transport it to and from the water. Some anglers prefer inflatable kayaks for easier transport.
- Customization: Look for kayaks with gear tracks or mounting options for accessories like fish finders.
- Hull Design: Different hull designs offer various benefits. For example, sit-on-top kayaks are popular for fishing due to their stability and ease of use.
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Remember, there are good cheap fishing kayaks available if you’re on a tight budget.
FAQs
What’s the difference between sit-on-top and sit-in fishing kayaks?
Sit-on-top kayaks are generally more stable and easier to get in and out of, making them popular for fishing. Sit-in kayaks offer better protection from the elements and are often faster.
Do I need a specialized fishing kayak?
While you can fish from any kayak, specialized fishing kayaks offer features like rod holders, tackle storage, and stable platforms for standing, which can enhance your fishing experience.
How much should I expect to spend on a good fishing kayak?
Prices vary widely, but you can find quality fishing kayaks ranging from $500 to $2000+. Higher-end models often offer more features and better performance. This article focuses on options under $1000, which offer a good balance of features and affordability.
Can I stand up in a fishing kayak?
Many fishing kayaks are designed to allow standing, but it depends on the specific model and your balance skills. Always test the stability before attempting to stand. Some stable kayaks are specifically designed for this purpose.
What safety gear do I need for kayak fishing?
Essential safety gear includes a personal flotation device (PFD), whistle or sound-producing device, and appropriate clothing for the conditions. A paddle leash and first aid kit are also recommended. For additional safety, consider using an anchor system to keep your kayak in place while fishing.
Can I use a trolling motor with my fishing kayak?
Yes, many fishing kayaks can be equipped with trolling motors for easier navigation. Check out our guide on the best saltwater trolling motors for fishing kayaks for more information.
How do I transport my fishing kayak?
There are several methods to transport a kayak, including roof racks, trailers, and truck beds. For smaller vehicles, consider a kayak cart or dolly to help move your kayak from your car to the water.
Are there kayaks suitable for both fishing and touring?
Yes, some kayaks offer a good balance between fishing features and touring performance. Check out our comparison of fishing kayaks vs touring kayaks for more information on choosing the right type for your needs.
Remember, the best fishing kayak for you depends on your specific needs, fishing style, and the waters you’ll be exploring. Take the time to research and, if possible, test different models before making your decision.