What is the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000 on the Market?

 

What a challenge it is to find the best fishing kayak, right? However, it is worth the effort. Just imagine jumping into your kayak and traversing a waterway, throwing in a fishing rod and gear, enjoying action-packed days in the great outdoors.

All you need is to find a kayak meant for you. Though, choosing the best fishing kayak under 1000 can be a tricky task. There are many considerations to make. That’s why you are here reading this article!

Go on to get some useful tips and leave all doubts behind. This guide will help you choose a kayak depending on your circumstances and surroundings. We will also cover common features you should look for and how to choose the best fishing kayak under 1000 – enjoy!        

 

What is a good fishing kayak?

So how do you choose a fishing kayak? What features should you look for? Before we look at specific features, we should look at your circumstances. How will you be using your kayak? Where will you be using it? The following are some considerations to make:

Still or moving water – What type of water you will kayak is important. Certain kayak models are suitable for certain waters. Lightweight kayaks are suitable for still water, i.e., lakes and ponds. For moving water, i.e., rivers, a heavier heavy duty kayak would be suitable.

Inshore or Offshore water – Currents and water depths can vary. This plays a huge part in your kayak choice. Consider if you are angling inshore or offshore. Generally, a long, slender kayak is preferable as it can help you paddle against the current. Moreover, the length provides extra stability.

Personal skill level – Finally, look at your own skill level. How comfortable are you in a kayak? Do you have years of experience? If you are a beginner, a still water angling kayak is suitable. Moreover, you should choose a kayak that has a greater degree of stability. Alternatively, if you are experienced., you can look for something with greater maneuverability.    

 

What is the best kayak for fishing?

Once you have considered your settings and skill, we can look at kayak features. Below we look at whichfeatures the best fishing kayak for under 1000 should have:

The classification of the boat is important. There are many fishing boats to choose from. Each has a different function and purpose. The below are some of the main types of boat:

•  Sit-on-top kayaks
•  Sit-in kayaks
•  Recreational
•  Day touring
•  Folding
•  Inflatable
•  Tandem
•  1 Person or 2 person

For you, the main choice will be sit-on-top or sit-in. Which you choose depends on your experience and confidence level. A sit-on-top fishing vessel has no enclosed cockpit – you are physically sitting on top of the boat. This requires greater skill and balance. A sit-in fishing kayak alternatively has an enclosed cockpit. You sit lower and have greater stability.

Other options are recreational, day tourer, or tourer. These are three fishing boat categories. Recreational boats are the cheapest. They are perfect for small river trips or an afternoon of lake fishing. Day tourers and tourers, on the other hand, are suitable for longer trips. If you plan on covering greater distances, a tourer is preferable – these boat have more storage and may even have a rudder.

Finally, you should consider your fishing trip. Will you be traveling alone or with a companion? You can purchase both 1 person and 2 person boats. If you will predominantly venture out on your own, a single boat is preferable. The extra cost would not be warranted. Alternatively, if you will always travel with a friend, consider a tandem boat. Instead of paying for twice for single boats, a tandem could save you both on costs.

What material is a kayak made of?

Kayak material is important. The boat material can alter the overall weight. Furthermore, it can also alter the boat’s resistance to damage and wear. There are many materials including polyethylene plastic, ABS, and composites. The below gives an outline of the main materials used for fishing kayaks:

Polyethylene Plastic – This form of plastic  is generally the least expensive. Polyethylene plastic is resistant to abrasion which is perfect if you are kayaking on fast moving waters with plenty of obstacles. This material is, however, also the heaviest. Therefore, fishing kayaks made from polyethylene do not have as strong maneuverability. The material is also prone to UV damage and will degrade over time.

ABS Plastic – ABS grade plastic offers higher quality than polyethylene. It has greater resistance to UV damage. Furthermore, it is also lightweight in comparison. These additional benefits obviously come with an added cost.

Composites – Many boats are made from composite materials. An example is carbon fiber and fiberglass. These represent the ultimate in quality and durability. Moreover, composite angling kayaks are the lightest available. They are highly resistant to UV damage. The only downside is a heavy impact could shatter the boat.

What is the best gear for kayak fishing?

Finally, look at the associated fishing gear. What gear is compatible with your chosen kayak? What accessories can you purchase for it? The following are some of the main accessories to look at:

Paddle – How can you move your device without a paddle? Most angling kayakers prefer a double paddle. This gives greater maneuverability. Consider length and weight, this is all down to personal preference and what you are comfortable.

Spray Skirt – This is only required if you purchase a sit-in device. If you purchase a sit-on-top device, you are above the water anyway. A spray skirt is required to keep you dry. If any waves splash over the top, a spray skirt will protect you.

PFD – To prevent drowning, you should buy a Personal Flotation Device (or a lifejacket). If you capsize and get stuck, a PFD will help you stay afloat. This is a basic safety device, and a must-have for kayak fishers. Some PFDs are already inflated and buoyant. Others require you to pull a chord like an airline life jacket. Choose a PFD you are comfortable wearing.

Top Ten Fishing Kayaks Under 1000

Nothing is more relaxing than spending a quiet day paddling the waters of your favorite fishing hole. The right boat can take you anywhere you want to go, from the tranquil mountain lakes of Colorado to the fish-filled backwaters of the Florida Everglades. Fishing kayaks give us the ultimate mobility. We can just throw it on the car’s roof and go fishing!

 

Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak – Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

Ocean Kayak makes some sharp looking boats, and the Prowler 13 Angler is no exception. This isn’t your typical wide and flat sit-on-top. The Prowler has the sleek lines and an efficient hull shape of a performance kayak, making it the best fishing kayak in 2019.

Ocean Kayak has been in the business of sit-on-top kayaks since before there was such a business. The Prowler is a downsized and modernized version of their famous Scupper Pro, a boat that helped kick off the kayak fishing craze.

If you’re looking for more than just a fishing platform and want a boat that is seriously fun to paddle, try out the Prowler 13.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: Polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Padded seat

Pros

• A fast, attractive, and stable hull shape
• 325-pound capacity for you and your gear
• Large storage hatches and rear well
• Includes two built-in rod holders

Cons

• Rudder not included, but can be rigged if desired
• Molded foot braces are comfortable but take up space on the deck
• Less stable than other choices and too narrow to stand in

Maneuverable and fun to paddle, but stable enough to be a top fishing kayak, Ocean Kayak’s Prowler is a fantastic boat that makes for a beautiful day on the water.

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Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 100 10-Foot Angler Sit On Top Kayak – Top Rated Fishing Kayak Under 1000

The 10-foot Yellowfin occupies the middle position in Vibe’s top fishing kayak lineup, between the 9-foot Skipjack and the 11-foot Sea Ghost.

Vibe makes fishing and recreational boats of all shapes and sizes. The Georgia-based company also makes plastic coolers and boat trailers.

Vibe’s boats are attractive and built well. They come with all the essentials like paddles and seats. The Yellowfin occupies the middle position in the lineup and has a great balance of space and portability.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Paddle, padded seat

Pros

• Vibe Hero Seat is tall and comfortable
• Includes a paddle
• Two round storage hatches plus rear well
• Short length means it is easier to carry and transport

Cons

• Only comes in blended camo colors
• Lacks a more versatile rail accessory mount system found on the Sea Ghost sistership

The Yellowfin, like its sister ships, is an excellent choice if you’re in the market for a top angler sit on top kayak.

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Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 9-Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak – Best Angler Kayak Under 1000 in 2019

Another option from Vibe is the 9-foot Skipjack. This boat comes with four flush-mounted rod holders and a mounting point for Vibe, Scotty, or RAM accessories. All in all, the Skipjack packs a lot of features into a nine-foot sit on fishing kayak under 1000 dollars.

Vibe’s lineup includes several models from nine to thirteen feet long. They’ve been recognized as one of America’s fastest growing privately held companies.

With only a 300-pound capacity, this boat might be limited for serious anglers with a lot of gear. But if you are looking for a small, easily portable boat or are a smaller paddler, the value offered by the Skipjack is hard to beat.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Paddle, deluxe padded seat

Pros

• Four flush-mount rod holders and accessory mounts
• Two paddle parks
• Comes with all the basics: paddle, plugs, and seat

Cons

• Limited capacity
• Short and wide hull makes paddling more difficult, especially in wind and waves
• Limited storage space for coolers and other gear

This model, like the Yellowfin and Ocean Ghost by Vibe, is the best design of sit on top kayak for fishing. It’s wide and stable and has all the options you could want.

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Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 110 11-Foot Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak – Best Sit On Top Fishing Kayak in 2019

If the Yellowfin and Skipjack are small for you, the 11-foot Sea Ghost might offer the space and capacity you’re looking for. It comes with a paddle, comfortable seat, and a kick-up rudder. Like other offerings from Vibe, the Sea Ghost includes lots of rod holders and tackle box storage options. A gear track system lines the gunwales of the boat to make outfitting with all your favorite accessories easy.

The Sea Ghost is one of the largest boats produced by Vibe, and it is also available in a 13-footer if you need more capacity and space. The company even sponsors a pro fishing team, and their coolers make the perfect fishing accessory for any kayak.

If the Ocean Kayak Prowler seems tippy for you, be sure to check out the Sea Ghost. This boat is a bit shorter, but thanks to more beam and a flatter hull shape this boat can hold more gear while being more stable. If you are looking for a top angler kayak you can stand up in, it’s hard to beat this one.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Paddle, “Hero” seat, rudder

Pros

• 425-pound weight capacity for all your gear
• Pre-rigged rudder allows you to maneuver the boat while using your hands to fish
• Versatile gear tracks for rigging your favorite fishing toys

Cons

• Only available in camo-style color patterns

Vibe’s Sea Ghost 110 is the best angling kayak, with a wide range of features, an eye-pleasing shape that will cut through the water effortlessly, and it’s just the right size to hold enough gear and be easy to carry.

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SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Excursion 12-Foot Sit-in Fishing Kayak – Best Sit-In Fishing Kayak in 2019

This sit-in design from Sundolphin is made explicitly for anglers. It’s a 12-footer that comes pre-rigged with two flush-mount rod holders, a swiveling rod holder, and a towable accessory compartment. It comes in an olive drab color.

Sundolphin makes several fishing kayaks under 1000 dollars. Everything from an entry-level sit on top fishing kayak to loaded sit-in models like the Excursion in any size and color you can imagine..

If you fish in cold weather or are opposed to getting wet, you might want to check out a sit-in kayak like Sundolphin’s Excursion.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-in
• Material: UV-stabilized “Fortiflex” polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Padded seat, floating storage container

Pros

• The accessory compartment can be used as a bait well and towed alongside for easy access
• With a spray skirt, you can keep your legs dry in cold weather

Cons

• Large cockpit can quickly fill up with water in rough conditions, consider adding a spray skirt and carry a bailer
• Sit-in design limits mobility and makes fishing a bit more difficult
• Only available in one color

Sit-in models are less popular with anglers for a few reasons, but don’t write them off completely. These models can be very comfortable and offer a lot of internal storage. With a spray skirt, a sit-in can keep you drier and warmer.

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SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Aruba SS 12-Foot Sit-in Kayak – Top Rated Kayak for Fishing in 2019

Sundolphin’s Aruba SS 12 is a non-fishing version of the Excursion. This boat lacks a swiveling rod holder but comes in a variety of colors include bright blue, green, and red.

Sundolphin’s Aruba is just an example if you’re looking for the best affordable fishing kayak. They make sit-on-top boats  as well as paddleboards and small fishing boats.

If you want more than just the best kayak for fishing, but an all-around good kayak to enjoy paddling around the lake and maybe even camping trips, the Aruba is a great value. This time-tested boat design has been around a long time and isn’t going anywhere soon.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-in
• Material: UV-stabilized “Fortiflex” polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Padded seat, floating storage container

Pros

• Multiple color options
• Towable accessory compartment comes standard
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Will keep you drier than many sit-on-top boats

Cons

• Limited storage options
• More difficult to access gear from its sit-in design
• Fewer aftermarket chair options available

The Aruba is a great value if you are thinking about a sit-in design. While it might not be the best kayak for fishing, it certainly will take you where you want to go, and you’ll have fun getting there.

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Aquaglide Blackfoot HB Angler XL Inflatable Fishing Kayak – Good Fishing Kayak

If you don’t want to worry about car-topping your boat, an inflatable might be the best value fishing kayak for you. Aquaglide’s Blackfoot is a fishing specific blow-up with a sturdy bottom and lots of capacity for gear.

Aquaglide makes a wide-ranging product line of inflatable water toys, from giant water slides, rock climbing walls for mega yachts, to fishing kayaks, and paddleboards.

If you don’t have the space to store or carry a regular boat, an inflatable makes a lot of sense. While it takes some effort to inflate and roll up, it can fit in the trunk of your car and stores easily in a closet.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Inflatable sit-in
• Material: PVC vinyl
• Gear: Padded seat, storage bag, cooler, repair kit, inflator pump

Pros

• 600-pound capacity is enough for two people or one angler with lots of gear
• Includes fishing cooler and seven Scotty accessory mounts
• Can handle up to Class II rapids, or smooth water
• Easy to store

Cons

• Inflatables can be harder to paddle in windy and wavy conditions
• The material is less durable than hard plastic
• Longer set up time because of inflating and installation accessories

Inflatable boats aren’t for everyone. While they are strong, they can be punctured by sharp rocks, nails, or debris. Regardless, for apartment dwellers and anglers with small vehicles, inflatables offer a great way to get on the water with minimal trouble.

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Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC UH-RA220 11-Foot 6-inch Angler Sit On Top Fishing Kayak – Good Kayak for Fishing in 2019

Brooklyn Kayak Company’s UH-RA220 is a flat and wide kayak for fishing that comes loaded with all the options. It has got a mind-boggling amount of storage on board and rail accessory mounts for even more toys.

BKC is a small manufacturer of recreational and fishing boats. Their mission has always been to sell ready-to-go boats that have everything you need to get out on the water fast.

BKC’s kayak for fishing represents great value for anglers. This boat is stable enough to go wherever adventure takes you, short enough to be transported on any vehicle, and can carry just about anything you throw in it.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: Polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Paddle, deluxe seat, rudder

Pros

• Enormous storage compartments
• Solid, blended, and camo color choices are available
• Loaded with everything you need, including a rudder
• Designed for stand-up casting

Cons

• Less maneuverable than sleeker boats
• The wide and flat design may not appeal to some

It’s difficult to find anything wrong with BKC’s top rated fishing kayak under 1000 dollars. This boat is ready to go fishing!

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Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Angler Kayak – Best Angler Kayak for the Money

A larger version of the 11-foot Sea Ghost above, this Vibe boat is a good kayak for fishing if you are looking for something a little longer. It comes with an upgraded seat, installed rudder, and lots of storage options.

Vibe’s Sea Ghost boats are rigged well and have great storage and features.

The Sea Ghost 130 is a wonderful fishing machine. If you can maneuver the boat to and from the water, you can’t go wrong with the stability and storage capacity offered from a longer boat.

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: High-density polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Paddle, “hero” seat

Pros

• Impressive 550-pound weight capacity
• Great tracking and stability
• Rail mount accessory system for maximum flexibility

Cons

• Camo colors only
• At 75 pounds and 13 feet long, this is a large and difficult to carry kayak

If you’re a bigger paddler, or you just want the stability offered from a bigger boat, the Sea Ghost 130 is the best angler kayak under 1000 dollars for you.

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Perception Kayak Pescador Pro Sit On Top for Fishing – most popular fishing kayak in 2019

Perception’s Pescador Pro is designed to be a fishing machine. It’s wide and flat design make it roomy and stable, with a comfortable seat to sit all day and has room to stand up if you want to make a long cast.

Perception Kayaks have been around nearly as long as Ocean Kayak has. Their offerings range from fishing kayaks to sit-in touring models and pedal powered boats.

Perception’s most popular fishing kayak has a lot to offer and is worth a look. It’s a decently outfitted kayak with plenty of flexibility to set up just the way you like..

Key features and benefits

• Type: Sit-on-top
• Material: Polyethylene plastic
• Gear: Seat

Pros

• Gear tracks, tackle box storage, and molded rod holders
• Available in 10 or 12-foot versions
• Good value for a high-quality sit-on-top

Cons

• Compared to other choices, storage is limited
• Large scuppers make for a wet ride, consider getting some plugs
• The molded seat may be uncomfortable for some

This angler kayak under 1000 dollars is an attractive option for those looking for a quality boat with lots of space. It doesn’t have the same storage options as some others, and it lacks the maneuverability of Ocean Kayak, but it’s an excellent boat for a great price.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Fishing Kayaks

We know you have questions about picking your next angling boat and we have the answers.

What color kayak is best for fishing?

The color of your kayak is a personal choice and speaks more to your tastes than to the fish you catch. Many boats marketed specifically for anglers are camo or darker drab colors, which blend in with shadows as viewed from below. If you are paddling in busy water, you will want to keep in mind your boat will also be harder to spot by other boaters.

 

Which kayak is best for beginners?

Sit-on-top kayaks are excellent for beginners. They are easy to get on and off of, and are easy to paddle. They are built wide for extra stability, and the materials used in their construction are durable. For these reasons, sit-on-top kayaks are the most fun and most comfortable boats for beginners to paddle.

 

Should I get a sit in or sit on kayak?

Traditionally, sit-on-top kayaks have been popular in warmer climates where you don’t mind getting a bit wet and you can hop on and off easily to swim or wade. Sit-in kayaks have been used when you want to keep dry and keep the water out.

Today, the choice of sit-on-top versus sit-in is more about your kayaking style than climate. Yes, you will still get a bit wet on a sit-on-top, but they are much easier to fish from, and offer much more options and storage areas.

 

What length of kayak do I need?

The length of kayak you want is limited by how you will transport and store it when not in use. Longer boats hold more load, paddle easier, and are faster on the water. They are, however, much heavier and are awkward to carry to and from the water. Additionally, storing a long boat in a garage or storage unit may be a challenge. For this reason, many paddlers choose a boat that is between 12 and 14 feet.

 

Is there a weight limit for kayaking?

The weight limit of a kayak is determined by its length, width, and hull design. Remember to include the weight of your loaded cooler and other fishing gear. Even the smallest kayaks will hold 250 pounds. If you are looking to carry more weight, you will want to consider a boat that is at least 12 feet long.

 

What is the average weight of a kayak?

The weight of the kayak depends on the size of the vessel and the material it is made. Most plastic boats range from 40 to 80 pounds. If you are looking for the lightest boat possible, be aware that lightweight designs limit the vessels strength. Composite kayaks are lightweight, but they chip and crack easily.

 

Are sit on top kayaks more stable?

Sit on top kayaks are less stable since the paddler must sit higher, and the center of gravity is higher off of the water. In reality, this is barely noticeable. Modern designs of sit-on-tops are wide and stable, and they make even beginners feel secure.

 

Can a sit-on-top kayak sink?

A sit-on-top cannot really sink. The plastic they are made from is naturally buoyant, and they are sealed. Unlike a canoe or a sit-in kayak, it’s nearly impossible to fill a sit-on-top kayak with water. Even if the seat, footwells, and storage areas are flooded, the kayak will still float. Most boats have scupper holes that allow them to self-drain if the decks to become flooded.

 

Do kayaks flip over easily?

No, kayaks are not easily flipped. If you are paddling in large waves or rapids, then it can happen. However, the kayaks used for fishing are wide designed made for easy paddling. These boats require some balance and care, but it is difficult to flip them over or to fall out.

 

Is it legal to kayak at night?

Most locations allow kayaking at night, but you will have to check your local regulations. For example, in Florida non-motorized vessels like kayaks and paddleboards must carry a white light so they can be seen by other boats.

 

Is it safe to kayak if you can’t swim?

If you don’t know how to swim, you must always wear your lifejacket. It is possible to fall off a kayak and wind up in the water. Taking the time to learn to swim will increase your comfort and enjoyment during your time on the water.

 

What is the difference between a kayak and canoe?

A canoe is an open decked vessel which you sit inside. Canoes are traditionally paddled with oars, which have a blade on only one end. This requires the paddler to alternate sides and use a special J-stroke to keep the canoe tracking straight.

Kayaks have enclosed decks. On a sit-in kayak, the paddler sits on the bottom hull and has a spray skirt wrapped around their waist, so that the deck of the vessel is closed off should a wave pass over the boat. A sit-on-top kayak is completely enclosed, and the paddler sits on the top of the deck in a molded seat. Kayak paddles are double-ended, so the paddler can move through the water efficiently with a natural motion.

 

How much weight can an average kayak hold?

It depends on the size of the kayak, but most boats can easily carry 250 pounds or more. Longer boats can carry larger loads, some exceed 400 pounds.

 

What is the best fishing kayak under 1000 on the market?

The best all-around kayak on the list and the best fishing kayak under 1000 is undoubtedly the Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 Angler sit-on-top fishing kayak. This boat is elegant, fast, and comfortable. It comes outfitted with the right features for a fun day on the water, whether fishing or just enjoying the scenery. If you are looking for a more stable platform that will let you stand up and have more carrying capacity, Vibe’s 11- and 13-foot Sea Ghost boats are excellent choices. They are wider and have more room to stand up in, all while offering a host of features that every angler will love.