10 Best Affordable Fishing Kayaks in 2019

Kayaking is an extremely fun way to get in touch with nature’s beauty and tranquility, most often away from the hustles and bustles of the city noises. Enjoy this exhilarating activity coupled with fishing and …

Kayaking is an extremely fun way to get in touch with nature’s beauty and tranquility, most often away from the hustles and bustles of the city noises. Enjoy this exhilarating activity coupled with fishing and you get mind-blowing relaxation. However, investing in a good kayak can sometimes be financially draining.

Manufacturers over the years have put different consumers in mind by producing affordable fishing kayaks. This, however, does not compromise the quality of the kayak. Just because you are on a budget, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Listed below are the 10 best affordable fishing kayaks in 2019 to choose from, so you can have a share of the fun on the waters.

Sevylor Coleman Colorado Affordable Fishing Kayak

At under US$500, the ruggedly built Sevylor Colorado affordable fishing kayak comfortably sits 2 people with their gear. This 2-person kayak features a durable PVC fabrication coupled with rugged nylon covering and tarpaulin bottom making it an ideal all-waters fishing kayak. The fishing kayak also comes with a multiple air chamber which complements the thick construction thus, enabling you to smoothly thread the waters.

Sevylor Coleman Colorado Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Affordable Fishing Kayak

The adjustable seats on the other end are designed to accommodate different body types and angles so you are guaranteed a comfortable paddling and fishing experience. And for steadier and accelerated water threading, the fitted patented Sevylor trolling motor makes it easier for you.

Features

  • Patented Airtight System to prevent leaks
  • National Marine Manufacturers Association certified
  • D-rings to attach your extra gear to
  • Multiple air chambers to always keep the kayak afloat

✅ Pros

  • Comes with paddle holders to hold your paddles
  • Comes with rod holders to allow hands-free fishing
  • Easy to assemble
  • Fitted with extra mesh pockets for fish lures or your snacks/equipment

 ⛔️ Cons

  • A little high on the price

Specifications   

Material: PVC, 1000D tarpaulin and 840D nylon
Weight: 41 lbs
Weight capacity:470 lbs
Price range:  $$$
Size:   10.9 ft x 3.3 ft

Sea Eagle SE330 Affordable Fishing Kayak

The Sea Eagle SE330 affordable fishing kayak boasts an extremely lightweight build of just 26 lbs and a class III white water rating, making it a badass on rough waters. This 2-person affordable kayak, however, features a tough and durable 33 mm PVC construction with high frequency welded seam to block out even a minuscule chance of leakage. The 500 lbs weight capacity is a testament to its impeccably strong build.

Sea Eagle SE330 Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sea Eagle SE330 Affordable Fishing Kayak

The 3 air chamber design guarantees that your kayak will not drown by always having a chamber full even when one is not filled up. The 11-foot length on the other end is just enough to enhance easy maneuverability and floating, even on rough waters. The inflatable kayak packs down to be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car.

Features

  • The 5 –deluxe valves feature an open and drain mechanism
  • I-beam construction floor
  • 2 attached skegs for enhanced speed and tracking
  • Class III whitewater rating

✅ Pros

  • Ultralightweight
  • High weight capacity
  • 5 one way valves
  • 3 air chambers

⛔️ Cons

  • Can be a little tricky getting into and out of

Specifications   

Material:   33mm PVC
Weight:26 lbs
Weight capacity:500 lbs
Price range: $$$
Size:11 ft x 1.25 ft

Inter Explorer K2 Affordable Fishing Kayak

At only less than US$100, the Inter Explorer K2 Fishing Kayak is perhaps one of the cheapest and best high-quality affordable kayaks. The 2person kayak features attractive sporty graphics which add visibility of the rugged nylon construction.  Additionally, the affordable kayak also comes with a removable skeg for enhanced directional tracking and stability and works great on rivers and lakes.

Inter Explorer K2 Affordable Fishing Kayak
Inter Explorer K2 Affordable Fishing Kayak

The kayak also comes with ample deck space to comfortably accommodate two people and their gear. The inflatable I-beam floor on the other end enhances comfort and rigidity. The smooth streamlined design on the 2-person kayak also allows for easy paddling.

Features

  • Streamlined design for easy paddling
  • Bright yellow and black graphics for added visibility
  • Removable skeg for directional tracking and stability
  • Grab line and handle for convenience

✅ Pros

  • Highly visible
  • Very affordable
  • Comes with two aluminum oars
  • Comes with a repair patch

⛔️ Cons

  • Designed only for freshwater

Specifications   

Material: Nylon
Weight:37 lbs
Weight capacity:400 lbs
Price range:$$
Size:  10.3 ft x 1.8 ft

Sevylor Coleman Quikpak Affordable Fishing Kayak

The smart and ingenious backpack design of the Sevylor Coleman Quikpak Affordable Fishing Kayak lets you unpack and hit the waters in less than 10 minutes. The lightweight carry design also makes it easier for the trekkers and minimizes load, as you can simply attach the rest of your gear to it. Additionally, the backpack opens up to a rugged and tough PVC and tarpaulin construction which can withstand the harsh outdoors.

Sevylor Coleman Quikpak Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Coleman Quikpak Affordable Fishing Kayak

As you enjoy the quiet waters, waiting on your catch, the fitted backrest and foot rests prevent any pain, strain, and discomfort. The drink holder on the other end provides a temporary home to your travel mug whilst the bungee cord securely holds additional gear. Plus, it comes with a paddle and pump.

Features

  • Patented Airtight system to prevent leakage
  • Patented Double lock valves for easy inflation and deflation
  • Tarpaulin bottom and polyester cover to prevent punctures
  • Fitted with a cup holder

✅ Pros

  • Very short set up a time
  • Deflates to an easy to carry backpack
  • Back and foot rests to enhance comfort
  • Bungee cords to hold gear

⛔️ Cons

  • Only fits one-person

Specifications   

Material: PVC and tarpaulin
Weight: 18 lbs
Weight capacity:   400 lbs
Price range:$$$
Size:8.7 ft x 3 ft

Sun Dolphin Aruba Affordable Fishing Kayak

Sturdy, spacious and stable on water, the Sun Dolphin Aruba affordable fishing kayak is designed for fishing. The one-person kayak features a strong and weatherproof UV-protective patented HDPE construction and boasts just the right length to allow easy maneuverability and tracking on fresh waters. To keep you comfortable at all times, the kayak is fitted with adjustable footpads, protective thigh pads and an adjustable padded seat. To provide ample space for you, the kayak also comes with a large open cockpit.

Sun Dolphin Aruba Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sun Dolphin Aruba Affordable Fishing Kayak

The outer bungee cords also provide extra space to securely attach your gear. The smaller ones on the opposite side provide room for your water bottle as you paddle on. The paddle holder on the other end removes the need to fumble around with your paddle.

Features

  • Shock cord deck rig
  • Added comfort with adjustable padded seat and foot braces
  • Protective thigh pads
  • Water bottle holder

✅ Pros

  • Very short set up time
  • Deflates to an easy to carry backpack
  • Back and foot rests to enhance comfort
  • Bungee cords to hold gear

⛔️ Cons

  • Storage is a little limited for larger gear

Specifications   

Material:High-density polyethylene
Weight:74 lbs
Weight capacity:250 lbs
Price range: $$$
Size: 10 ft x 2.4 ft

Air Head Montana Affordable Fishing Kayak

For the outdoor enthusiasts and paddling junkie in you, the Airhead Montana affordable fishing kayak was made just for you.  This compact kayak easily packs down into the trunk of your car or even your duffel bag for easy transportation. On the waters, it inflates with 2 very comfortable seats with adjustable back rests and mesh pockets to store your immediate personal effects.

Air Head Montana Affordable Fishing Kayak
Air Head Montana Affordable Fishing Kayak

The kayak is also fitted with 4 bottom fins that deliver low drag and excellent tracking. The 3 air chamber system on the other end powered by the UV and Water resistant rugged nylon fabrication prevents leaks, at all costs.

Features

  • High visibility orange exterior
  • 4 bottom fins for improved tracking
  • Neoprene elbow pads for comfort
  • Non-corrosive stainless steel and nylon equipment

✅ Pros

  • weatherproofed
  • 3 layer sealed bottom enhances durability
  • Adjustable foot brace and back seat
  • Easy set up

⛔️ Cons

  • Not ideal for rough waters

Specifications   

Material:  840D nylon
Weight:36.3 lbs
Weight capacity:500 lbs
Price range:$$$
Size:12 ft x 2.4 ft

Sun Dolphin Excursion Affordable Fishing Kayak

The Sun Dolphin Excursion affordable fishing kayak incorporates a sit-in design, offering generous deck space whilst maintain high tracking, maneuverability, and stability.  This kayak is a companion on those fresh water fishing trips and makes it very convenient to use thanks to its lightweight and easy to carry design. Plus, the patented weatherproof Fortiflex HDPE makes it highly durable and high performing on water.

Sun Dolphin Excursion Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sun Dolphin Excursion Affordable Fishing Kayak

The large deck space comes fitted with adjustable foot braces and a padded seat for comfort. The protective thigh pads on the inside prevent pain, strains, and discomfort as well. The holders on the other end offer mountable holding space for two fishing rods and one swivel rod.

Features

  • UV-protected HDPE construction
  • 4 bottom fins for improved tracking
  • Two flush mount and one swivel rod holders
  • Larger cockpit space

✅ Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Comes with protective padded thigh pads
  • Additional bungee cord for storage
  • Holds fishing rods

⛔️ Cons

  • The seat is not adjustable

Specifications   

Material:  High-density polyethylene
Weight: 41 lbs
Weight capacity:250 lbs
Price range:$$$
Size: 10 ft x 2.4 ft

Sevylor Coleman Big Basin Affordable Fishing Kayak

If you are looking for your small family’s ultimate fishing kayak- the Sevylor Coleman Big Basin affordable fishing kayak is your solution.  The 3-person capacity kayak is fabricated with rugged, heavy-duty PVC and works great on calm lake waters. The spray covers it comes with, leaves you spot dry by repelling off splashes. The heavy-duty, 3 people capacity design is further complemented with the multiple air chamber that keeps the kayak afloat even if you hit a snag.

Sevylor Coleman Big Basin Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Coleman Big Basin Affordable Fishing Kayak

The kayak is also fitted with d-rings so you can easily attach additional ear whilst the carry handles it comes with makes it easy to set it on water and move out with it. And just because, it carries multiple people, it doesn’t mean your comfortability is compromised, thanks to the adjustable seats.

Features

  • Multiple air chambers to always keep the kayak afloat
  • Airtight system to prevent leaks
  • Double threaded Boston valve for easy inflation and deflation
  • Spray covers to block splashes and keep you dry

✅ Pros

  • Fits up to 3 people
  • You can attach gear to D-rings
  • Guaranteed dry deck space
  • Adjustable seats to fit all

⛔️ Cons

  • Smaller weight capacity

Specifications   

Material: PVC and tarpaulin
Weight: 35 lbs
Weight capacity:490 lbs
Price range: $$$
Size:12.3 ft x 3.1 ft

Sea Eagle 370 Affordable Fishing Kayak

The Sea Eagle 370 affordable fishing kayak offers a lightweight solution with high weight capacity and can fit up to 3 adults (or 2 adults and a lot of gear). Thus, for your next camping and fishing trip, this inflatable kayak is ideal to take with – store in your tents, clothing and many more. And when on the water, the generous space and stability of the kayak are complemented with the strong 38mm PVC construction which is finished with high frequency welded seams.

Sea Eagle 370 Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sea Eagle 370 Affordable Fishing Kayak

On those long trekking trips to the river or camping site, the Sea Eagle 370 works in your favor as it can pack down to fit into a large hiking backpack. Plus, it’s extremely lightweight for a 3-person kayak. And it takes less than 10 minutes to set it up and enjoy the waters.

Features

  • UV and saltwater resistant
  • 2 bottom skeg for enhanced tracking and speed
  • Bow and stern grab line
  • Comes with five one-way valves for easy inflation/deflation

✅ Pros

  • Ultralightweight
  • Generous weight capacity and storage space
  • Packs down easily
  • Leak and puncture-free

⛔️ Cons

  • May not be ideal for tall or heavy people

Specifications   

Material:    38 mm PVC
Weight:   32 lbs
Weight capacity:  650 lbs
Price range: $$$
Size:12.5 ft x 3 ft

Sun Dolphin Journey Affordable Fishing Kayak

The Sun Dolphin journey affordable kayak boasts a cool, badass exterior design with a made for the outdoor tough and rugged construction. The Sun Dolphin Journey is the best affordable fishing kayak with generous and ample storage space. The kayak boasts ample cockpit space with bungee cords protected storage is.  Additionally, the portable accessory carrier also protected with bungee cords on the other end of the kayak, can be used as extra storage space.

Sun Dolphin Journey Affordable Fishing Kayak
Sun Dolphin Journey Affordable Fishing Kayak

To enjoy nature and the water fully, the kayak allows for hands-free fishing thanks to the two flush mount and one swivel fishing rod holders. Plus, its effortless and smart maneuverability and tracking abilities make the kayak ideal for lakes and rivers as well as those excluded fishing spots.

 Features

  • Portable Accessory Carrier (P.A.C) for extra storage
  • Flush mount and swivel rod holders
  • Larger seating area
  • Comes with a paddle holder

✅ Pros

  • Generous storage space
  • Excellent tracking and maneuverability
  • Rod holders allow hands-free fishing
  • Padded seats and thighs

⛔️ Cons

  • May not be ideal for tall or heavy people

Specifications   

Material: High-density polyethylene
Weight: 48 lbs
Weight capacity: 395 lbs
Price range:$$$
Size:   12 ft x 2.6 ft

Buying Guide

How To Choose An Affordable Fishing kayak

Storage

Storage is an important feature to look at when choosing the best affordable fishing kayak. This is because, with the nature of the activity, you want ample space to be able to fit in your gear and of course, the catch.

Look for kayaks that come with paddle holders and rod holders to help organize and keep things out of your way. Additionally, kayaks attached with bungee cords on the deck are ideal because they make use of the otherwise, difficult space to store equipment on, thus leaving more space for you in the cockpit area.

Multiple person kayaks such as 2 to 3-person kayaks also provide extra space. So for example, a pair can choose to ride on a 3-person kayak to savor that extra one-person space for their gear.

Size

To get the best affordable fishing kayaks for your ideal preferences, you need to remember that size affects function. Longer kayaks, for example, tend to be faster, however, shorter ones maneuver much easier. Thus, for a more relaxed and slower ride, shorter kayaks work better whilst longer ones work for a more exploring fishing expedition.

Narrow kayaks are favored by seasoned anglers and complement longer lengths or added speed and tracking. Wider kayaks work best for beginners because they are more stable.  And if you want the freedom of movement and standing up whilst inside the kayak, a wider one is a better choice.

Comfort

The best affordable fishing kayaks must be comfortable for you.  When choosing the right kayak for you look for features such as adjustable foot braces and seats, back rests, padded protective thigh pads and elbow rests. These features allow your body to comfortably endure long hours on the water without risking pain or fatigue. Furthermore, the features also allow the kayak to accommodate different body shapes and types.

Price and value

Kayaks can be very expensive. However, good and value-added kayaks are available for as low as below US$500. The best way to know that you found the right affordable kayaks is by examining the feature and value they come with.

 Be it inflatable or hard shells, some of the best affordable fishing kayaks come with multiple features such as an organized storage design, paddles, rugged construction and added kayaking equipment such as paddles, pumps, and repair kits. The latter can cost between US$100 and US$400 even though more expensive kayaks of similar value can go up as high as US$2500.

FAQs

Should I Go For A Sit-In or Sit-O?

A sit-in kayak is ideal for cold water kayaking because it provides more coverage than a sit-on kayak. Additionally, because of its covered design, it also protects from getting wet from the water. Plus, sit-in kayaks tend to have ore cockpit space and storage space in general.
Sit-on kayaks on the other end are more breathable and ideal for use on warmer days; furthermore, they work great for kayaking beginners because they are easy to get in and out of. Thus, it all depends on how you intend to you the kayak and the level of your expertise.

Are Hard Shell Kayaks Better Than Inflatable Ones?

It all depends on the quality of the construction and materials used. A high-quality hard shell will be better than an inflatable one and vice versa. Additionally, inflatable kayaks come with more advantages such as lightweight build which makes them easier to transport and carry.
Compared to hard shell kayaks, inflatable ones are easier to care for and maintain. Inflatable kayaks made of extremely strong and durable material tend to also be safer and of high quality.

How Important Is The Weight Of My Kayak?

The best affordable fishing kayaks are not very heavy. Lightweight kayaks are very easy to transport, especially if you are alone. Additionally, the weight of your kayak is an extremely important determinant of how it will perform. Weight affects the floating, tracking, maneuverability and speed of your kayak.

What Are The Benefits of Owning A fishing Kayak?

Fishing kayaks offer affordability in terms of equipment. You don’t need to hire or own a motorized boat for your fishing trips. The best affordable kayaks cost less than US$500. Additionally, they come with a 2-in-1 benefit; you have a kayak and a vessel to fish with!

Compared to fishing boats, fishing kayaks are also quite easy to operate. They also come with an advantage of being lightweight and compact (some even packable in the trunk of your car or backpack) compared to regular fishing boats, thus, they make your trip very convenient.

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