Top 5 Fishing Kayaks Under $500 In 2025

Fishing from a kayak opens up a world of possibilities. You can reach those hidden spots where the big fish lurk, far from the crowded shores. But let’s face it, not everyone has a fortune to spend on a good fishing kayak. The good news? You don’t need to break the bank to get on the water. In 2025, the market is brimming with cheap and affordable fishing kayaks under $500.

We’ve scoured the options and found the top 5 best cheap fishing kayaks under $500. These budget fishing kayaks offer the features you need without the hefty price tag. From stable platforms for casting to ample storage for your gear, these cheap fishing kayaks deliver value without compromise.

Best Cheap Fishing Kayaks Under $500

Here are our top picks for the best kayaks under $500:

1. Sevylor Colorado Inflatable Kayak

The Sevylor Colorado Fishing Kayak is a solid choice for anglers on a budget. This inflatable fishing kayak offers a mix of features that make it stand out in the under $500 range.

During our tests, we found the sevylor’s affordable fishing kayak to be surprisingly stable on the water. Its wide base gives you confidence when casting or reeling in a catch. This affordable fishing kayak’s inflatable design might raise eyebrows, but it’s tougher than it looks. The sturdy material held up well against rocks and branches without any punctures.

Setting up the Colorado is a breeze. We had it inflated and ready to go in about 15 minutes. The included pump made the process quick and easy. Once on the water, we appreciated the comfortable seats of this affordable fishing kayak. They’re adjustable and provide good back support for long fishing sessions.

Storage is ample on this cheap fishing kayak. There are multiple mesh pockets and D-rings to secure your gear. We found it easy to keep our tackle boxes and other essentials within reach. The rod holders are a nice touch, allowing for hands-free fishing when needed.

Maneuverability is decent, though not exceptional. The Colorado tracks well in calm waters, but you’ll need to put in some effort in stronger currents. The removable skeg helps with tracking, and we recommend using it in most conditions.

One drawback we noticed is this cheap fishing kayak’s weight capacity. While rated for two people, it feels more comfortable with just one person and gear. Solo anglers will have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy their fishing experience.

The Sevylor Colorado Fishing Kayak is best suited for casual anglers and beginners looking for the best cheap fishing kayak. It’s a great option for those who want to explore different fishing spots without the hassle of transporting a hard-shell kayak. Its portability makes it ideal for camping trips or fishing in remote areas.

2. Pelican Argo 100XP Angler Kayak

The Pelican Argo 100XP Angler Fishing Kayak is a solid choice for anglers looking for an affordable yet capable fishing platform. During our tests, we found this 10-foot fishing kayak to be surprisingly versatile and well-suited for various water conditions.

One of the first things we noticed was this cheap fishing kayak’s stability. The multi-chine hull design provides a secure feel, even when casting or moving around to reach gear. This stability doesn’t come at the cost of performance, though. The Argo 100XP tracks well in calm waters and handles light chop with ease.

This cheap fishing kayak’s construction impressed us. Made from Pelican’s RAM-X material, a triple-layer polyethylene, it feels durable and ready to withstand the rigors of fishing trips. At 41 pounds, it’s also light enough for one person to carry to and from the water.

We appreciated the thoughtful storage options. The 4-inch day hatch kept our small items dry, while the rear tank well with bungee cords secured our larger gear. The smartphone holder is a nice touch for those who use fishing apps or want to keep their phone handy.

The ErgoFit seating system provides decent comfort for shorter trips. While not as plush as some high-end kayaks, we found it adequate for a few hours on the water. The adjustable footrests help in finding a comfortable paddling position.

For fishing features, the Argo 100XP Angler comes with two flush mount rod holders and one swivel rod holder. We found these sufficient for most fishing styles, though some anglers might want to add more accessories.

The Pelican Argo 100XP Angler Fishing Kayak is best suited for beginners and intermediate anglers who want a reliable, no-frills cheap fishing kayak. It’s particularly good for lakes, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal waters. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it offers a great balance of performance and value for those seeking the best affordable fishing kayak under $500.

3. Lifetime Tamarack 100 Stand-Up Kayak – $479

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is a popular choice for anglers on a budget. During our tests, we found this affordable fishing kayak to be a solid performer in its price range, offering a good balance of features and affordability.

One of the standout features of the Tamarack Angler 100 is its stability. The flat bottom and chine rails provide excellent initial stability, making it easy to cast and reel in fish without feeling wobbly. We felt confident moving around in this affordable fishing kayak, even in slightly choppy waters.

At 10 feet long and weighing about 52 pounds, this cheap fishing kayak is easy to transport. We had no trouble loading it onto a car roof or carrying it to the water’s edge. The multiple footrest positions accommodated different leg lengths in our team, which was a nice touch.

Storage options on the Tamarack Angler 100 are decent for its size. We appreciated the two storage compartments – one in the rear and one in the center – which kept our gear dry. The bungee cord lashing on the front and rear allowed us to secure additional items.

For fishing features, this affordable fishing kayak comes with two flush-mounted rod holders and one top-mount rod holder. We found these adequate for most fishing styles, though some anglers might want to add more accessories.

The seat, while not the most comfortable we’ve tried, was acceptable for shorter trips. We did find ourselves wishing for more padding during longer outings.

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is best suited for beginners or casual anglers who primarily fish in calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, or protected coastal waters. this affordable fishing kayak’s stability and ease of use make it a great starting point for those new to kayak fishing.

While it may lack some of the advanced features of pricier models, the Tamarack Angler 100 offers good value for its price. It provides a stable platform for fishing, decent storage options, and enough versatility to handle various fishing scenarios. If you’re looking for an affordable entry into kayak fishing, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is certainly worth considering as one of the best fishing kayaks under $500.

4. Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Fishing Kayak – $480

The Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Fishing Kayak is a popular choice for anglers seeking an affordable entry into kayak fishing. During our tests, we found this small fishing kayak to offer a decent mix of features and performance for its price point.

At 10 feet long and weighing about 44 pounds, we found the Journey 10 easy to transport and maneuver. Its lightweight design allowed us to easily load it onto our vehicle and carry it to the water’s edge without much effort.

The stability of this affordable fishing kayak is adequate for calm waters. While it may feel a bit “tippy” at first, we got used to it quickly. It’s stable enough for fishing in lakes and slow-moving rivers, but we wouldn’t recommend it for rough waters or standing casts.

Storage options on the Journey 10 are impressive for its size. We appreciated the portable accessory carrier, which can be used as extra storage space or removed for more leg room. The shock cord deck rigging also came in handy for securing additional gear.

For fishing features, this cheap fishing kayak comes with three rod holders – two flush mount and one swivel. We found these sufficient for most fishing styles, though some anglers might want to add more accessories.

The seat, while not padded, has a molded shape that provides basic comfort. For longer trips, we’d recommend adding a cushion or upgrading the seat.

The Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Fishing Kayak is best suited for beginners or casual anglers who primarily fish in calm lakes or slow-moving rivers. Its ease of use and affordability make it a good starting point for those new to kayak fishing.

While it may lack some of the advanced features and stability of pricier models, the Journey 10 offers good value for its price. It provides a functional platform for fishing, decent storage options, and enough versatility to handle various calm water fishing scenarios. If you’re looking for an affordable way to get into kayak fishing and don’t mind sacrificing some comfort and advanced features, the Sun Dolphin Journey 10 is worth considering as one of the best inexpensive fishing kayaks.

5. Pelican Icon 100XP Angler Fishing Kayak – $233–$465

The Pelican Icon 100XP Angler Fishing Kayak is a solid choice for anglers seeking a balance of features and affordability. During our tests, we found this 10-foot kayak to offer good performance and comfort for its price point.

One of the standout features of the Icon 100XP Angler is its stability. The multi-chine flat bottom hull design provides excellent initial and secondary stability. We felt confident moving around, casting, and even attempting to stand up in calm waters. This stability doesn’t come at the cost of performance, as this affordable fishing kayak tracks well and is easy to maneuver.

At 49.1 pounds, the Icon 100XP Angler is relatively lightweight for its size. We found it easy to transport and launch single-handedly. The RAM-X material construction feels durable and ready to withstand the rigors of fishing trips.

The storage options impressed us. The 4-inch day hatch kept our small items dry, while the rear tank well with bungee cords secured our larger gear. The smartphone holder is a thoughtful addition for those who use fishing apps or want to keep their phone accessible.

We appreciated the Ergofit Seating System, which provides good comfort for extended fishing sessions. The adjustable backrest and ample leg room allowed us to find a comfortable position easily.

For fishing features, the Icon 100XP Angler comes with two flush mount rod holders and one swivel rod holder. We found these sufficient for most fishing styles, though some anglers might want to add more accessories.

The Pelican Icon 100XP Angler Fishing Kayak is best suited for beginners to intermediate anglers who primarily fish in lakes, slow-moving rivers, or protected coastal waters. Its stability and ease of use make it a great option for those looking to get into kayak fishing or upgrade from a basic recreational kayak.

Overall, we found the Icon 100XP Angler to offer good value for its price. While it may lack some advanced features of higher-end models, it provides a stable, comfortable platform for fishing with enough versatility to handle various fishing scenarios. If you’re looking for an affordable fishing kayak that doesn’t skimp on essential features, the Pelican Icon 100XP Angler is worth considering as one of the best fishing kayaks under $500.

How To Choose a Cheap Fishing Kayak Under $500

Selecting the right budget fishing kayak requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s what to keep in mind when looking for the best inexpensive fishing kayak:

Stability: Look for a affordable fishing kayak with a wide, flat hull. This design offers better stability, which is crucial when casting or reeling in fish. Some kayaks even allow you to stand up while fishing, providing more casting options.

Weight Capacity: Ensure the kayak can support your weight plus your gear.  A larger fishing kayak often means better stability and performance, but consider your transport capabilities too. Some models even offer a $500 lb capacity fishing kayak, which is ideal for larger anglers or those who carry a lot of gear.

Storage Options: Check for ample storage space. Rod holders, tackle box compartments, and dry storage areas are essential for a successful fishing trip. Some kayaks offer creative storage solutions that can maximize your space.

Comfort: A comfortable seat is vital for long fishing sessions. Look for an affordable fishing kayak with adjustable seats with good back support. Remember, you might be sitting for hours, so prioritize comfort.

Portability: Consider the kayak’s weight and whether you can transport it easily. Lighter kayaks are easier to carry but may sacrifice some features. You might want to look into kayak carts for easier transport.

Durability: Look for kayaks made from sturdy materials like high-density polyethylene. These will withstand the wear and tear of regular use and potential impacts with underwater obstacles.

Maneuverability: A shorter kayak is typically easier to maneuver but may sacrifice speed and tracking. Balance this with your fishing needs. Consider how fast you need your affordable fishing kayak to go for your typical fishing trips.

Propulsion Method: While most budget kayaks are paddle-powered, some affordable models offer pedal propulsion, which can free up your hands for fishing.

Weather Resistance: If you plan to fish in various weather conditions, consider how your kayak will perform. Some kayaks handle wind better than others, which can be crucial for maintaining position while fishing.

Customization Options: Look for kayaks that allow you to add accessories easily. Many anglers enjoy customizing their kayaks with fish finders and other gadgets to enhance their fishing experience.

Remember, the best affordable fishing kayak for you depends on your specific needs and the type of fishing you plan to do. Consider where you’ll be fishing most often, whether it’s lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, as different environments may require different kayak features.