Top 5 Best Fishing Kayak Under $800 Reviewed for 2021
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Kayak fishing is increasing in popularity, and for a good reason! Not only are kayaks a better workout, but they are also way cheaper than a traditional power-boat. When you’re fishing on a kayak, you can visit some of the most remote and under-fished waters.
As you may have seen on the Discovery Channel, fishing legend Kimi Werner uses her ocean kayak to paddle out to some of the most fruitful seas surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Kayak fishing is immensely versatile, relaxing, and fulfilling. Your adventure can be limitless with the right kayak.
Top 5 Rated Model Comparison Table
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Best Fishing Kayak Under $800: Our Top 5 Picks
This 120” adult kayak comes in a beautiful incognito olive green. The seat is comfortable, and the boat is designed for extreme safety and stability. The boat weighs 52 pounds and has rear carry handles for easy transportation.
Features
This Lifetime Tamarack has a weight capacity of 275 lbs and is equipped with practical features to enhance your fishing and paddling experience. The material is a UV-Protected, high-density Polyethylene. There are multiple footrest positions with different sized riders. With these and a padded seat back, customer comfort is the priority.
There are two flush-mounted fishing rod holders and one top mount. Once you start catching some fish, you can store them easily in the compartments on the rear and in the center.
For added safety, there are stability chine rails and deep tracking channels. There is a 5-year warranty included with purchase.
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Flush and rear-mounted rod holders
- Front and back storage compartments
Cons
- A thin seating pad
Customer Sentiments
This product has raving customer reviews. Satisfied buyers report that it’s effortless to maneuver on the water, and it’s not hard to load and unload. The only complaint was that the butt-pad is too thin.
SunDThe Sun Dolphin 10’ sit-in kayak is excellent for any fisherman or fisherwoman. The kayak is built with UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyurethane. You can load this kayak up with chairs, coolers, and a drybag of gear without having any worries.
Features
This kayak is packed with features for your comfort and convenience. There is a deluxe adjustable high back seat equipped with high back support and adjustable foot and thigh braces. Transportation is no problem with carrying handles.
There’s no issue with room on this little sit-in. There is a storage hatch and a water bottle holder. The Aruba 10 also has a paddle holder, shock cord deck rigging, and a Portable Accessory Carrier (P.A.C). The kayak is smooth on the water, and at 40lbs, it is surprisingly lightweight.
Pros
- Comfortable seating
- Water Bottle storage
- Covered compartment for dry storage/ cooler
- Easy to maneuver yet lightweight.
Cons
- A thin seating pad
Customer Sentiments
Customers have expressed satisfaction with the functionality and features of this versatile kayak. They also report that the kayak is a perfect size and very comfortable while on the water.
This two-person inflatable fishing kayak is super tough. You get so much with the purchase of the kayak, and you will be ready to get on the water. The package includes everything except for the life-vest. This is an excellent kayak for fishers and those looking to get into the hobby.
Features
The kayak is accompanied with two paddles, a Hi-output pump, and a carry bag. The boat itself is made from a 3-ply high-impact and abrasion-resistant material. There is an I-beam floor for rigidity while on the water, and it’s a three-chamber construction.
The spring-loaded high-pressure valves make it easy and fast to inflate and deflate. There is a pressure gauge included, as well.
For your fishing and comfort needs, the kayak has a mounting bracket for fishing accessories, adjustable footrests, a removable seat booster, and removable/adjustable seats with backrests. There are also floor-mounted rod holders and storage space with stainless steel d-rings for tying down your drybags and gear.
The underside of the Inex Excursion Pro has a directional skeg and a shallow water directional skeg so you can navigate the waters with ease. The boat has an impressive weight capacity of 400 lbs.
Pros
- Tough and resistant material
- Equipped with fishing accessories
- Storage space
- Comfortable seating
- Weight capacity of 400 lbs
- Easy to inflate or deflate
- Everything you need comes in the package
Cons
- The valve is only compatible with the provided pump
Customer Sentiments
Customers have expressed satisfaction with the functionality and features of this versatile kayak. They also report that the kayak is a perfect size and very comfortable while on the water.
This three personal kayak from Sea Eagle is an excellent choice for families who like to fish together; this is about as lightweight and portable as it gets and will fit in even the smallest trunk of a car. With a weight capacity of 640 lbs, you can rest assured knowing that this kayak is safe and sturdy. The kayak comes with two four-part paddles, a carry bag, and a foot pump.
You can take this kayak just about anywhere. You can paddle down the river, fish on a lake, or venture out to sea. Ideally, this is a two-person kayak but will very easily hold a child as well. The material is thick enough to withstand any dog paws if you want to bring your furry friend.
Features
The Sea Eagle 370 is made from 33-millimeter Polykylar hull and has an I-beam construction, spray skirts to keep you dry,and removable front and rear seats and handles. An essential feature for inflatable kayaks is the tracking. This kayak is equipped with two bottom skegs; these help with tracking and speed inflation.
The five deluxe one-way valves ensure reliability on the water, and there is also an open and close valve. In case of any trouble, there is also a pressure gauge and a repair kit.
Pros
- Extremely light yet durable
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Great tracking
- Fits in a small storage bag
Cons
- Flimsy seats
Customer Sentiments
Everyone is very pleasantly surprised after purchasing this product. Customers express being happy to report that the kayak works precisely as advertised and that it is easy to transport, inflate, and remove. Unfortunately, there is also a consensus that the inflatable seats are terrible.
This one-person sit on top from Vibe Kayaks is ideal for any solo fisher. The boat is fast, stable, portable, and affordable. Now every body of water can be your playground. The small size makes it easy to throw it on top of any car with a rack. This kayak delivers all you could ask for from comfort and convenience.
Features
The Skipjack 90 is 9 ft and 42 lbs with a weight capacity of 300lbs. The body is engineered for stability, and the boat is equipped with built-in buoyancy and a leak-proof roof. The seats are also very comfortable with an ergonomic design that includes a backrest, cushion, and foot braces for any size captain.
The kayak comes with four fishing rod holders, a fish finder mount, paddle parks, waterproof cargo hatches, and front and rear storage space with bungee tie-downs. There is also a tackle toss tray for quick changes and a 6’ sealed deck plate with a waterproof cargo bag.
Pros
- Essential fishing features
- Built-in ergonomic backrests and cushioned seats
- Comfortable handles for carrying
- Leak-proof roof
- Slip-resistant deck.
Cons
- Flimsy seats
Customer Sentiments
Overall, people are thrilled with their purchase of this kayak. Some customers have even reported being 101% satisfied. The kayak is reportedly very comfortable, easily maneuvered, and stable. The kayak performs well on all bodies of water and even holds up in a storm.
Fishing Kayak: Buying Guide
If you are getting into the hobby of kayak fishing, you’ll want to make sure that you find the best fit for you. There are a few general rules when finding the fight boat for your angler needs. We will go over two main questions you should ask yourself and the factors you should consider before making a purchase.
1. What Type of Kayak Are You Looking For?
There are two types of kayaks, those you can sit in-side and the sit-on-top. Sit-inside kayaks can be a challenging choice for fishing because the water will stay inside the boat until you get to land and empty it, which can make it uncomfortable when you are out on the water for a long time. These can also be hard to recover from if they capsize. Storage space is limited.
Sit on top kayaks are the best choice as their design offers instant access to cargo as well as room to mount fishing accessories. It can also be fun to take someone fishing with you; in this case, sit-on-top is much more versatile.
2. How Are You Going to Transport the Kayak?
If you have a small car, it is a smarter (not to mention cheaper) decision to go for an inflatable kayak over a polyurethane model. Today, inflatable kayaks are as sturdy and resilient as their counterparts. An inflatable kayak can also be more comfortable, especially for people of a larger size.
Additional Factors
People using kayaks for fishing should prioritize a few additional factors when looking for the best boat. Luckily, fish do not care about the color of your kayak and will not be spooked, but you want a bright kayak so that larger power-boats can spot you on the water. If you have a dull color kayak, you can always make up for it with a neon life-jacket.
You will also want to make sure that the kayak is accessory friendly. The best fishing kayaks come with rod holders, cupholders, mounts for fish finders, and space for all of the other essential accessories.
Tips for Fishing With a Kayak
So, you want to become a kayak angler? We have a few tips for you that will kick off your exciting and productive new hobby. Fishing from a kayak requires some additional skills that are not necessary when you are standing on a stable bank or aboard an anchored boat.
Cast One-Handed
Anglers have to adjust their style when they go from fishing on a stable front of a deck to a kayak. It is essential to know how to cast with one hand. Gear up accordingly and add some finesse to your tactics.
Master The One-Handed Paddle
You will also have to handle the paddle with one hand; this can be a challenge. You will want to practice locking the shaft of your paddle with your forearm, which will allow you to use it more like a canoe paddle.
Hug the Shoreline
Instead of paddling in the middle of the lake, get as shallow as you can as the current will be much friendlier. You will paddle more efficiently and have more energy to reel in a big one.
Verdict
Now you’re ready to get stocked with bait and head out to the water. All you’re missing is the kayak! The best kayak for fishing that costs less than $800 is the Intex Excursion Pro. This is an excellent kayak for any level of paddler or fisher. You will be able to paddle this boat solo or with a partner (even your pet!). With a sturdy, well-designed build and ample storage space, this is our top pick.
