Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000 – Cheap, Inflatable, Sit on Top With Paddles

Just as binoculars are the best fit for hunting and bird watching, fishing kayaks are a great way to get out on the water. They come in many shapes and sizes, offer different power options for propulsion, and are made with an array of materials- from plastic or fiberglass to hardwood like cedar or mahogany-, some even have decks; where anglers can stand up straight!

Fishing kayaks have seen a recent surge in popularity, especially for those on a budget. With higher-end models starting at $1000 up to over $2000, many anglers turn to less expensive options. Fortunately, there has been an influx of affordable vessels that offer just about everything you need without breaking your bank account.

You are sure to find a fishing kayak that is perfect for you and your needs in the sub-$1,000 category. Here are the best fishing kayaks under $1000 on the market today.

2022 Top 5 Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000

Image Product Price
Editor’s Pick

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

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Best Value

Perception Outlaw 11.5

Perception Outlaw 11.5

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3

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

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4

Sun Dolphin Boss SS Kayak

Sun Dolphin Boss SS Kayak

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5

StraitEdge Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak

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1. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Best 2-person Inflatable Kayak

An excellent starting kit for any newbie in kayaking, the Intex Excursion Pro series is a great option to enjoy your day out in the water.

The 2-person fishing kayak is also lightweight and easy to transport. Its sleek design is not only visually appealing, but it also offers plenty of storage and space for both gear and passengers. The storage space is enough for your cooler, making it a superb option for your touring and fishing excursions.

The Intex Excursion Pro offers the ultimate comfort experience with its adjustable seats and ergonomic backrest. The cushion it provides for your back is out of this world necessary for the fun outdoor expeditions. Don’t forget the adjustable footrests that prevent that annoying numbness on your legs after a long day in the water.

Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about the vessel toppling over because it’s spacious and sturdy enough. Only a 400-pound Goliath Grouper can destabilize or sink this beauty. We bet you can do a great deal with a 400-pound inflatable kayak. This material is unaffected by seawater, oil, sunshine, impact, gasoline, or abrasion. You may also enhance its longevity by utilizing it in calm water bodies.

A bonus feature is that it is super easy to set it up-max 10 mins. Every part of the kayak is loaded with springs and high-pressure valves, allowing fast and easy deflation and inflation. The package also comes with a hi-output pump and pressure gauge that notifies you when you get the proper pressure.

With all the features you could need in a fishing kayak for just over $314, the Intex Excursion Pro series inflatable fishing kayak has been one of our favorites this year so far!

Pros

  • The Intex Excursion Pro is quite the bargain in that it is a 2-person kayak and inflatable.
  • It’s super easy and quick to set up, making it perfect for a day out on the water.
  • The package includes everything you will need, even a hi-output pump and pressure gauge.
  • Its ease of use making it an excellent option for newbies to kayaking.
  • It’s comfortable and cozy for both passengers and has enough space.
  • The design is sleek, and the color is bright. It feels like you’re a part of nature on the water.

Cons  

  • It does not come with a safety jacket

2. Perception Outlaw 11.5

Perception Outlaw 11.5

Best Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

We are suckers for sleek designs, and the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is one of our favorites this year with its minimalistic features. The kayak was created to be disruptive in every manner possible. Thanks to its outstanding stability, extremely high seat, and wide-open deck, it’s an intriguing fishing platform at an excellent price point. It offers a snag-free fishing experience with its flat deck with two traction pads that muffle sounds, allowing you to sneak up on your fish loot.

With 77 lbs (35 kg), it is pretty light for a fishing kayak, so carrying and storing it should be a breeze. Large molded-in carry handles on the bow and stern and two side handles provide a firm grip and sturdy strap points for secure transportation. The kayak can carry up to 425 lbs (193 kg), enough capacity for an average-sized adult and all the fishing gear required.

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 offers a plethora of storage, thanks to its large bows and stern compartments. To top it all up, you won’t be on the rack in search of your refreshments. With molded-in trays and cup holders, your refreshments are always within reach. You can also use the trays to store tools, bait, and other supplies.

One of the first things you notice about the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is how high the seat is. The seat perch height is 16′′ (41 cm). Such a high vantage point is ideal for sight fishing as well as standing or sitting comfortably.

The seat has a breathable mesh material that allows plenty of ventilation on hot summer days and dries fast. The seat on the Outlaw is easily detachable, which adds to its versatility. To optimize the standing area, fold it and put it in the slot at the rear.

Its incredible stability and open deck make it a fantastic option for fishing, mainly fly fishing or sight fishing. All in all, the Outlaw 11.0 is a premium fishing kayak at an affordable price point that has many features and benefits to offer any angler. It’s perfect for those who require an agile hull but want something stable enough for long-term use.

Pros

  • Provides ample storage
  • Very stable, which makes it an excellent option for fly fishing or sight fishing
  • Lightweight, but still provides enough stability for fishing
  • Clean and sleek design
  • It dries quickly and allows for plenty of ventilation

Cons

  • Does not have footrests
  • The seat does not have a low position, making it challenging to paddling performance in rough waters.
  • It may not be suitable for beginners, as it is quite a large kayak and heavier than other fishing options on the market.

3. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Best Kayak with Paddles

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is ideal for individuals looking to get out on the water and begin kayak fishing in ponds, reservoirs, lakes, and slow-moving rivers and streams. It’s 31 inches wide, with a flat bottom, and stable chine rails, making it a great fishing kayak.

Even when you land a trophy fish, it won’t rock when you throw and is difficult to tip. You won’t be traveling in circles with this one, thanks to the deep hull tracking channels. It glides effortlessly across the water and is quite maneuverable. It gives you access to spots that even larger boats cannot.

The Lifetime Tamarack 100 Angler Kayak is made of UV-resistant high-density polyethylene and is designed for hours of paddling and fishing in the sun. The blow-molded hull is highly resistant to impact and will not be destroyed by rocks, trees, or other things encountered in the water. This is for sure a worthy investment for a long-lasting kayak.

The kayak has more than enough storage space due to its two sealed storage hatches, straps on the back and front, and deck space that allows for a crate, small fishing cooler, a small tackle box, fishing accessories, beverages, and other kayaking gear.

The Lifetime Tamarack 100 Angler Kayak is highly stable in the water because of its robust hull design, broad beam, and chine rails. Even under less than ideal settings, it is not at all tippy. Giving you an excellent platform from which to cast and battle fish without being thrown overboard. You can sit sideways in the water with both legs dangling. It is not intended for standing-up fishing, although you may stand on it when you need some bit of stretching

For just under $500, this fishing kayak is one of the best budget fishing kayaks and an incredible value.

Pros

  • A highly sturdy fishing platform
  • Pricing is reasonable, and the value is outstanding.
  • Quite large, with plenty of storage space.
  • There are three fishing rod holders and one paddle holder.
  • A five-year warranty is included.

Cons

  • The seat pad could use some additional cushioning as it can be uncomfortable to sit on if you plan to spend more than three hours in the water.

4. Sun Dolphin Boss SS Kayak

Sun Dolphin Boss SS Kayak

Best Sit-On/Stand On Top Angler

With a fishing kayak like the Sun Dolphin Boss SS, you can have it all. You’re able to fish from your sit-on model and stand up out of the water when needed for some relief or when you are in rough waters. Its high-end features make it an excellent angling craft.

Its stability with maneuverability is unbeatable, thanks to its catamaran-style hull. Its tri-hull design is also more efficient when paddling in a straight line. The hull is intended to allow you to stand while fishing, enabling you to throw more accurately and over greater distances than while seated.

Thirty-three inches broad, the yak provides enough stability whether sitting or standing. There is a non-slip platform on the deck, providing additional traction for those who prefer to stand. The raised seat is another beautiful feature of this yak. The chair may be adjusted either high or low, depending on your preferences. The elevated seat position provides you with a better vantage point for sight fishing.

The seat’s mesh fabric features a high back for extra lumbar support, making it more comfortable for extended durations on the water. The yak also has more than enough storage space spacious enough to accommodate a crate or a cooler. Two hatches provide access to the hull for additional storage below the deck. Bag inserts are included for storing more minor things.

It’s not just a fishing kayak; it is also an excellent boat for exploring and sightseeing on the water.

Pros

  • Stable for all types of fishing
  • Easy to maneuver
  • It has a large fishing deck
  • Excellent for sight fishing

Cons

  • Its relatively heavy
  • Not built for speed

5. StraitEdge Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Best Easy Set-up Inflatable Kayak

Advanced Elements has created the perfect fishing kayak for those who are looking to get into budget-friendly waters. The StraitEdge Angler is an inflatable kayak that packs down and fits easily in a backpack, making it easy to transport whether you’re going on hikes or camping trips.

The StraitEdge Angler has maximum stability thanks to Its wide beam and high-pressure drop stitch floor technology. The 4-6 PSI drop stitch floor, along with the larger 38.5-inch beam, offers sufficient sturdiness for standing, and the bottom is protected and gripped by a traction mat, allowing for easy movement. The kayak is built with a frame seat that provides a firm base for vigorous paddling and all-day comfort, further bridging the gap between inflatable and rigid kayaks.

The Straightedge Angler Pro has a reasonable quantity of storage capacity. It doesn’t have any waterproof compartments, but it does feature two-rod holders near the seat and two large bungee-laced decks with stainless steel D-rings to keep your stuff safe.

Most inflatable kayaks have poor tracking and maneuverability, yet the Straitedge Angler Pro surpasses many comparable watercraft. Because of the drop-stitch hull with chine and a detachable deep fin, it tracks rather well for an inflatable vessel.

The Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Pro is a good alternative for anglers searching for a competent inflatable kayak. It is robust enough to endure for years, and it gives a smooth ride that will save you from weariness and back strain during long travels.

Pros

  • The drop-stitch floor offers enough stability for standing and increases the craft’s mobility.
  • The Accessory Frame System enables you to attach rod holders, fish finders, GPS devices, and other accessories.
  • The detachable deep fin offers excellent tracking.
  • Compatibility with ElectraFin motors

Cons

  • One needs to be extra careful to prevent the spring valves from leaking

To Sum It All Up

A fishing kayak does not need to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable fishing kayaks that will offer excellent performance for people wanting an exciting new hobby for the outdoor life.

FAQS:

Fishing kayaks attract so many questions. Below are some of the questions revolving around them. Take a look.

Are there any good fishing kayaks under $1000?

Yes, there are some great options for fishing kayaks for under 1000.

Are fishing kayaks expensive?

No, many affordable fishing kayaks are available that will provide you with excellent performance at a lower price point.

What is the best inflatable fishing yak?

The StraitEdge Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak and Intex Excursion Pro Kayak are  excellent choices because

Which are some of The Best Fishing Kayaks under 1000 dollars?

-Any one of these will do: the Advanced Elements StraitEdge Angler Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Sun Dolphin Boss SS, Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100, or the Perception Outlaw 11.5

What should you consider when choosing the kayak for fishing?

-Make sure you choose a kayak that is stable enough for your needs and will provide a smooth ride. You’re also going to need one with plenty of storage space, so don’t forget about that!

Where can I find great deals on fishing boats?

-A great place where fishing enthusiasts gather from all over the globe to buy and sell is Amazon. They have a wide selection of fishing boats that come in all sizes, shapes, colors, and budgets for you to choose from.

What are the pros and cons of an inflatable kayak?

-Pros: you can easily pack it away in a backpack or bag, and they’re lighter than other types. Cons: they need to be inflated before use, which may take time. They also have less stability because there’s no rigid hull like traditional hardshell boats