Our Top Pick:
Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
★★★★★
Best Value:
Sea Eagle 300x Explorer
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Sea Eagle 385ft FastTrack Inflatable Kayak
★★★★★
A fishing enthusiast will look for the best equipment with assured quality and a great price. There are so many varieties of fishing kayaks and factors that contribute to the best decision for the right kayak. The main factors that can help ascertain are the kayak is well suited to your requirements; we have compiled a list of the best fishing kayaks under 1,000 that are considered to be a sound investment.
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| Table: Top 15 Best Fishing Kayaks Under 1000 | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak | Check Price » |
| #2 Sea Eagle 300x Explorer | Check Price » |
| #3 Sea Eagle 385ft FastTrack Inflatable Kayak | Check Price » |
| #4 Sea Eagle 393rl Inflatable Kayak | Check Price » |
| #5 Sea Eagle Travel Canoe 16 | Check Price » |
| #6 Vapor 10XT Kayak by Sunrise | Check Price » |
| #7 Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayak | Check Price » |
| #8 Skipjack 90 by Vibe Kayak | Check Price » |
| #9 AdvancedFrame Kayak by Advanced Elements | Check Price » |
| #10 Tandem Fishing Kayak by the Brooklyn Kayak Company | Check Price » |
| #11 Malibu Tandem Recreational Kayak by Ocean Kayak | Check Price » |
| #12 Pescador Pro 12 by Perception Kayak | Check Price » |
| #13 Tandem Kayak by Sun Dolphin | Check Price » |
| #14 Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak by Perception Kayak | Check Price » |
| #15 11.5-foot Riptide Angler by Brooklyn Kayak Company | Check Price » |
Best Fishing Kayaks Under 1000 Reviews
#1. Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak
If you are looking for a reasonably priced two-person kayak, this one by Sea Eagle will not disappoint you. It is easy to set up and comes with everything you need to get it up and running within no time.
Product Specifications
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Color: White with blue trims
- Maximum load capacity: 500 pounds
- Weight: 28.9 pounds
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 33.8 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This tandem kayak comes with two seats that you can place anywhere in the kayak and hence, you can adjust the seating to your paddling style and height. It can be used for solo kayaking as well. It comes with drainage holes that enable you to drain the water while you are kayaking. It appears to be stable and you can use your weight while paddling for more effective strokes. It comes with two skegs for tracking. While this may not be a top-of-the-line kayak, it is comfortable and you will not face any issue with performance.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Well-constructed
- Good performance
- Seats can be adjusted to paddling styles
- Quite stable
- Draining holes
- Can be used by beginners
Cons
- Sides can be too high for short people
Tip: Make use of the inflation gauge to ensure that you get the pressure right while inflating the kayak to 1.1 psi.
Info alert: This kayak is durable as it is made from k80 PVC and has welded seams as well as I-bean tubes along the sides.
#2. Sea Eagle 300x Explorer
Besides being affordable, this kayak is surprisingly sturdy. It is made from 1100 denier PVC fabric which makes it durable and resistant to abrasions. It can take a lot of beating without showing any signs of damage.
Product Specifications
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Padded seat and backrest
- Maximum load capacity: 394 pounds
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Length: 9.8 feet
- Width: 39.3 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This kayak can be used in a lake or whitewater, making it very versatile. It has great stability and you will find that it is easy to maneuver. It comes with a slide-in skeg that makes tracking in open water more efficient and effective. It has 16 self-bailing valves to keep the inside free from water. It is well-built and can take a lot of beating in challenging conditions without showing any signs of damage.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Well-constructed
- Easy to handle and maneuver
- Lightweight and portable
- Reinforced floor to withstand impact
- Large removable skeg for flatwater tracking
- Comes with a foot pump
- Easy to inflate
Cons
- Some users complained that the kayak took too much effort to inflate
Tip: If you open the drain valves, make sure you clean them afterward with a cloth to get rid of debris and sand.
Info alert: The large slide-in skeg is meant for open water kayak. Do not use it on whitewater.
#3. Sea Eagle 385ft FastTrack Inflatable Kayak
This kayak is built for two people. It is lightweight and stable. It is made from reinforced PVC, making it very durable. It can take impacts without showing any signs of damage.
Product Specifications
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Padded backrest and seats
- Color: White with blue trims
- Maximum load capacity: 634.9 pounds
- Weight: 35.2 pounds
- Length: 12.5 feet
- Width: 35.8 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This kayak is spacious and has a lot of legroom. You can even carry your gear without feeling cramped. It is very stable and it will not sink or keel over. The hull is resistant to sun exposure as well as saltwater. It has 18 D-rings to secure your gear and the seats. The rear skeg is great for tracking on flat water.
Pros
- Very stable
- Affordably priced
- Lightweight and portable
- Rigid after full inflation
- Easy to maneuver and handle
- Can be converted to a single-person kayak
- Spacious
- Comes with drain valves
- Does not get damaged or faded when exposed to saltwater or the sun
Cons
- The skeg cannot be used in shallow water as it is too long
Tip: This inflatable kayak comes with 4 air chambers and it is advisable to inflate the floor first before any other section.
Info alert: The design of the bow and stern provide the kayak with adequate buoyancy and lift.
#4. Sea Eagle 393rl Inflatable Kayak
This lightweight kayak is affordable and is part of the Razor Lite series by Sea Kayak. Compared to other Sea Eagle kayaks, this one is narrower and sleeker. That allows it to slice quickly through the water at high speeds.
Product Specifications
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Padded backrest and seats
- Color: White with blue trim
- Maximum load capacity: 500 pounds
- Weight: 35.2 pounds
- Length: 12.82 feet
- Width: 27.9 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This kayak, although lightweight, is extremely fast and stable. It is a single-person kayak and very comfortable. The seat is padded and that prevents your buttocks from going numb during long trips. It is well-constructed and made from reinforced PVC. That makes the hull resistant to impact. The kayak can be inflated in less than seven minutes and can also be deflated quickly. It is portable. It has storage space in the front and rear. The footrests can be adjusted based on your height.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Spacious
- Lightweight
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Extremely fast
- Adjustable footrests
- Straight hull
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not meant for beginners
Tip: Enjoy more powerful strokes by using the footrests. It minimizes strain on the arms and shoulders.
Info alert: The bow keel is inflated and this gives the kayak buoyancy and lift which comes in handy when you are kayaking in the ocean.
#5. Sea Eagle Travel Canoe 16
If you want to go with your partner and kids kayaking, this three-person kayak could be the right choice. It is affordably priced and ensures you enjoy cruising without a problem.
Product Specifications
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Padded backrest and seats
- Color: Dark green hull
- Maximum load capacity: 915 pounds
- Weight: 60 pounds
- Length: 16 feet
- Width: 38 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This kayak is worth the money you spend on it. Not only is it designed for three people but it makes recreational kayaking fun and exciting. It is an easy kayak to maneuver and handle. While it does not have an optional skeg, you will find that the kayak tracks straight and with relative ease. Its hull is double stitched and when it is inflated to 12 psi, it is hard and rigid. That gives it a lot of stability. It is made from reinforced PVC, making it durable.
Pros
- Affordably priced
- Three-person kayak
- Easy to maneuver
- Is quick and fast
- Abrasion-resistant hull
- Stable and rigid
- Durable
- Well-constructed
- Easy to store after deflation
Cons
- The inflatable seats are attached by Velcro to the floor
Tip: This travel canoe tends to bend and flex more than other similar canoes and you will have to get used to it.
Info alert: The bow and stern have plastic molds that allow the kayak to slice through the water when you are paddling in windy conditions.
#6. Vapor 10XT Kayak by Sunrise
One of the most important factors of a fishing kayak is comfortable seating and padding, as it is generally used for long periods. The Vapor 10XT Kayak by Sunrise is one of the best when it comes to padded support for an extended period. Not just that, it comes at a fantastic price, which makes it well worth the investment.
Product Specs
- Propulsion: Paddle
- Comfort Flex Seat with padded backrest and seats
- Color: Sunrise
- Hatch: Stern
- Maximum load capacity: 325 pounds
- Weight: 49 pounds
- Length: 10’
- Width: x 28.5 inches
- Deck Height:16.75 inches
- Warranty: Lifetime
Why We Recommend This Product
This is one of the top-of-the-line entry-level kayak, available widely and at a great price. It comes with extra padding and a superior seat that is comfortable for long hours. It has molded cupholder and holder for the paddle. It even comes with braces for the feet and thigh pads for ultimate comfort and security.
Pros
- Spacious kayak, in a compact format
- Sturdy and efficient
- Comfort Flex Seat for utmost comfort
- Click Seal Hatch stern
- Well-suited for diverse applications
Cons
- Awkwardly placed drain in the boat
- Unstable in high rapids
Tip: The boat can comfortably seat a large person and a dog.
Info alert: It can be used regularly in salt water, however, it should be rinsed out thoroughly each time after use.
#7. Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayak
Study and stable, the Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayak is one of the top-rated kayaks, used by beginners and professionals alike. It has been build with superior quality materials and is built for speed and stability at the same time, something that not all kayaks can do. It is extremely spacious and can accommodate plenty of gear. Although it is on the higher side, it is completely worth the money.
Product Specs
- Toe-controlled rudder operation
- Premium Vibe Hero Seat
- Construction material: Rotomolded single piece high-density polyethylene
- Color: Galaxy
- Hatch: Stern
- Maximum load capacity: 550 pounds
- Weight: 75 pounds
- Length: 13 feet
- Width: 33 inches
- Warranty: Limited warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
The Sea Ghost 130 by Vibe Kayak is a sturdy and stable option for serious buyers. It comes with a toe-controlled rudder that makes kayaking a breeze during windy conditions. It comes with ample integrated storage space for fishing gear and 2 fishing rod holders. The seat is comfortable even during long kayaking sessions.
Pros
- Breathable Hero seat comes with adjustable foot braces
- The deck of the kayak is slip-resistant
- Extremely stable and sleek hull for easy and efficient tracking
- Very spacious and ample space to hold gear and other belongings
- 2 Rod holders
Cons
- Round bottomed and prone to rocking
- Not watertight
Tip: The kayak comes with a pre-installed toe-controlled rudder for efficient paddling during high current, windy conditions and long journeys, saving energy and effort.
Info alert: The limited warranty only covers manufacturing defects in new kayaks; it also has one-year warranty on parts when bought from an authorized dealer.
#8. Skipjack 90 by Vibe Kayak
The Skipjack 90 by Vibe Kayak is easily one of the most well-balanced and sturdy kayaks in the market. It is large enough to hold all gear and equipment with ease, while improved waterproof gasket and with the bag insert ensure that there is no condensation and moisture accumulation inside. This kayak is a good purchase due to its prices and Vibe Kayak offers great customer support, making it one of the best fishing kayaks under 1000.
Product Specs
- Premium Vibe Hero Seat
- Construction material: Rotomolded single piece high-density polyethylene
- Color: Caribbean Blue, wildfire, Moss Camo, and Jamberry
- Flush mount rod holders
- Maximum load capacity: 300 pounds
- Weight: 46 pounds
- Length: 9 feet
- Width: 33 inches
- Warranty: Limited warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
The Skipjack by Vibe Kayak is another sturdy and stable option from Vibe Kayak, also suited for serious buyers. It has numerous advantages over many of the other similarly rated products and offers superior performance even in difficult conditions. It has two hatches that are sealed and come with bag inserts. Also, there is a bungeed tank in the rear to store accessories that you need for kayaking.
Pros
- Breathable deluxe in-built seat, with breathable and waterproof material
- Paddle park for convenience and to secure when not in use
- Extensive and multiple storage options
- Very spacious and ample space to hold gear and other belongings
- Easy to stably maneuver
Cons
- Cannot stand and fish
- Does not fit a standard carrier and requires a cradle carrier
Tip: The kayak comes with along with Vibe Journey Paddle for easy maneuverings.
Info alert: The flush mount rod holders make this sleek kayak a perfect fishing machine.
#9. Inflatable Advanced Frame Kayak by Advanced Elements
The Inflatable Advanced Frame Kayak by Advanced Elements is inflatable and convertible; the double-deck conversion can easily turn it into a closed deck tandem kayak. The single deck conversion can make it a solo kayak and standard open deck option can make it either a solo or a tandem. This versatile kayak has built-in aluminum ribs that allow it to cut through the water efficiently and smoothly, improving tracking, for optimal performance.
Product Specs
- Construction material: Durable 3-layer materials for puncture resistance
- Color: Red
- Folded size: 30″ x 17″ x 10
- Maximum load capacity: 550 pounds
- Weight: 36 pounds
- Length: 10 feet 5 inches
- Width: 32 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This fantastic product is great for beginners, extremely sturdy and durable. The material is puncture resistant with three-layers, and it needs to be inflated and with seats attached, which is then ready for use. You can use it for solo or tandem paddling.
Pros
- Optional single or double deck
- Superior highly cushioned, well-padded adjustable seat for long hours
- Puncture resistance with durable 3-layer material
- Very spacious and ample space to hold gear and other belongings
- The bow and stern are well-defined with built-in aluminum rods
Cons
- Heavy kayak, hard to carry
- It is not easy to fold back in
Tip: This is a convertible inflatable kayak that can easily be turned into a tandem.
Info alert: The in-built aluminum frame allows it to slice through the water, improving the tracking, more than the hard-shelled kayak.
#10. Tandem Fishing Kayak by the Brooklyn Kayak Company
The Tandem Fishing Kayak by the Brooklyn Kayak Company is a superbly crafted tandem, comfortable for two to three people. It comes with spacious storage options that are waterproofed; the fast and efficient tandem slices through the water, and offers efficient tracking, for the best experience. This is a good purchase for beginners as well as professionals.
Product Specs
- Construction material: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Color: Camo, Gray Camo, Army Green, Desert Sand, Red, Yellow, Blue, Blue Camo
- Maximum load capacity: 440 pounds
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Length: 146 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Height: 14 inches
- Warranty: 5 years
Why We Recommend This Product
Fast, efficient and sleek design, the Tandem Fishing Kayak is tailor-made to ensure comfort and productive time on the water. It comes with a seat for ultimate comfort and paddle parks, making it easy to keep the paddles in place. This tandem can hold well in choppy water due to the wide 34-inch beam, although it is not advisable. The rod holders are nicely thought into the design.
Pros
- Paddle parks with elastic bungee cords to keep in place
- In-built flush mount rod holder, allows you to keep multiple baited lines
- Has ample waterproof storage to keep all your belongings safe
- The kayak is equipped with two soft and comfortable seats
- Easy to use and maneuver, and suitable for novices and professionals alike
Cons
- Advisable not to use in very rough waters
- Requires an additional skeg for efficient tracking
Tip: This product may require additional back support, for people with back trouble
Info alert: Accessories and parts have a 1-year warranty; the hull and deck have a 5-years warranty on manufacturing defect or materials. It can be extended to for the original owner, although not transferrable.
#11. Malibu Tandem Recreational Kayak by Ocean Kayak
The Malibu Tandem Recreational Kayak by Ocean Kayak is a superbly crafted tandem, comfortable for two people and a child or a dog. This popular sit-on-top tandem is equipped with adjustable Comfort Plus seats with an additional foam padding for extra comfort for long hours. The central paddler is assured of a comfortable leg resting with overlapping footwells.
Product Specs
- Construction material: Single Layer Polyethylene
- Color: Ahi,
- Maximum load capacity: 425 pounds
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Bow seat width: 18.5 inches
- Stern seat width: 20.25 inches
- Center seat width: 16.25 inches
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 34 inches
- Height: 14 inches
- Warranty: Lifetime
Why We Recommend This Product
This is a great product if you are looking to combine affordability with good performance. Although it is not considered to be the best available in the market, it tracks moderately well and is a great product for a small family. The tandem is resilient and offers decent tracking, without hassle. One of the most attractive features is that this kayak has a lifetime warranty for the hull.
Pros
- The open-top design, making it very accessible, with molded-in handles and anti-skid plates
- Comfort Plus seat offers four-way adjustability
- Ample seating for two people and a child or a pet
- Patented overlapping for rest for central paddlers for optimal comfort
- Easy to use and maneuver, and suitable for novices and professionals alike
Cons
- Heavy kayak with not very reliable handles for carrying
- May crack near the front drains
Tip: This kayak can be used with solo or tandem paddlers.
Info alert: Adding an extra hatch mount is a great modification for this kayak.
#12. Pescador Pro by Perception Kayaks
The Pescador Pro by Perception Kayaks is an open-top design, and rather spacious, for one person with a lot of gear. This kayak offers comfortable lawn style seats, made from mesh, which makes fishing the day through a comfortable and activity. The seat is adjustable in height for casting or relaxed and enjoyable paddling.
Product Specs
- Construction material: High-Density Polyethylene
- Color: Dapper, Sonic Camo. Salsa, Red Tiger, Moss Camo, Grasshopper
- Maximum load capacity: 375 pounds
- Weight: 64 pounds
- Length: 12 feet
- Width: 32.5 inches
- Height: 14.5 inches
- Warranty: 5 years
Why We Recommend This Product
This kayak is a great one for its price. It has ample space and all the essentials features to make this a good investment. It is stable and fast, and comes with a leak-proof design, with durable colors. It has storage in the front and rear so that you can store your cooler, fishing and kayaking gear, and tackle. There are even rails to secure your fishing rod and other fishing and kayaking accessories, as well as functional rod holders.
Pros
- Each gunwale has integrated rails for fishing rods, fish finders, and other fishing and kayaking accessories
- Mesh lawn-style seat with two adjustable height for optimum casting or relaxed paddling
- Leak-proof design with as a single piece construction with in-built buoyancy for extra security
- Extra-long, and built for speed and stability
- Durable a wear-proof colors
- Smart and good fishing rod holders
Cons
- Seat buckles and straps are of poor quality, although the seat itself is quite comfortable.
Tip: Offer the best ergonomic support for all-day activities.
Info alert: Easy to replace skid plates ensure there is no fear of damage.
#13. Tandem Kayak by Sun Dolphin
The Sun Dolphin Tandem Kayak is an open-top design, and rather spacious, for one person one two or three people. It comes with a deluxe seat that is adjustable and with proper support for the back. It is an extremely sturdy design but requires two people to attach to the car.
Product Specs
- Construction material: High-Density Polyethylene
- Maximum load capacity: 500 pounds
- Weight: 70 pounds
- Length: 161.5 feet
- Width: 32.5 inches
- Height: 15 inches
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Why We Recommend This Product
The Sun Dolphin Tandem Kayak is a good kayak for fishing enthusiasts. It is stable and sturdy and performs well in the ocean. It has ample storage compartments for your kayaking and fishing gear and accessories. You can adjust the seat based on your needs and the back support allows you to stay comfortable even during long kayaking trips.
Pros
- Adjustable padded and cushioned seats with high backrest
- Self-bailing for easy handling
- Adjustable foot braces
- Durable body with paddle holders
- Great for rivers and lakes or excluded fishing sports
Cons
- Uncomfortable seats
- Very heavy for a single person
Tip: Suitable for ocean kayaking and very stable.
Info alert: Does not come with paddles; they have to be bought separately.
#14. Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak by Perception Kayak
With the aid of a good propeller, this kayak is one of the top-rated ones available in the market. The Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak by Perception Kayak is pricey but offers great performance. It has the options of one-handed rudder control, plenty of room for storage, 4 fishing rod holders, comfortable seat for long hours, making it a great investment for the fishing enthusiast.
Product Specs
- Construction material: High-Density Polyethylene
- Maximum load capacity: 475 pounds
- Weight: 95 pounds
- Length: 12.5 feet
- Width: 33.5 inches
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Why We Recommend This Product
Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak by Perception Kayak is one of a kind propeller kayak with fantastic performance. It is made for solo kayaking and with the hands, free is possible to have the best fishing experience in calm waters. It has open storage space in the front and rear so that you can store your cooler, fishing gear, and tackle.
Pros
- Removable Pilot Drive pedal system
- Single hand rudder control
- Cupholder for added convenience
- Extra under-seat storage
- Comfortable mesh captain’s seat.
Cons
- The propeller cannot be replaced in case of damage
Tip: Suitable for ocean kayaking and very stable, with comfort and safety.
Info alert: It is possible to paddle in reverse and forward in lakes, slow-moving water bodies, streams, and ponds.
#15. 11.5-foot Riptide Angler by Brooklyn Kayak Company
This is a great entry-level kayak at a reasonable price. The 11.5-foot Riptide Angler by Brooklyn Kayak Company comes with UV protection on the body that lasts for eight years. Also, the rudder is controlled with a foot-pedal, enabling you to have a comfortable experience while fishing.
Product Specs
- Construction material: Rotomolded Single Piece High-Density Polyethylene with UV protection (HDPE)
- Maximum load capacity: 450 pounds
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Length: 11. feet
- Width: 34 inches
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Why We Recommend This Product
The 11.5 foot Riptide Angler by Brooklyn Kayak Company is a great kayak for beginners. It has an extremely comfortable seat and has a sleek with high performance for the price. It has a platform that you can stand on for long casts. The kayak also storage space that is waterproof along with cargo space. It is extremely stable and relatively fast, making it a great investment.
Pros
- UV protection
- Large cargo space with watertight storage
- Cup holder for added convenience
- Stable for standing
- 2 Fishing rod holders
Cons
- Design flaw with the downward slope, which makes standing difficult, despite it being one of the features
Tip: Foot pedal-controlled rudder for hands-free kayaking.
Info alert: It is possible to paddles in reverse and forward.
Related article: Our 10 best tips for kayak fishing
Buying Guide for the Best Fishing Kayaks Under 1000
When you are looking for the best fishing kayaks under 1000, you should pay close attention to the following features.
Type of hull
Try and opt for a fiberglass hull that comes with a warranty. That way, you will be protected if there is an issue with the hull. Also, such a kayak is easy to carry to the water body.
Length of the paddle
The length of the paddle is crucial for optimal performance. If the length is too short, it is difficult and trying to paddle, and will require a lot of effort; it is also possible to hit the knuckles each time against the side of the boat. For longer paddles, it can cause the kayak to zig-zag and does not move in a straight line without a lot of effort.
Weight of the paddle
Heavy paddles are difficult to maneuver and therefore, not the ideal choice. The general rule is that for wide kayaks the paddles should belong; for narrows widths, it is prudent to opt for a shorter length of the paddle.
The material of the paddle
Fiberglass paddles are the most cost-effective option and also lightweight, which is ideal for effortless paddling for the best fishing experience. Alternatively, it is possible to opt for carbon fiber paddle, although these come with a hefty price. Although it is more expensive an option, it assures you of durable and high-quality options for your kayaking requires.
Seating option
Ensure that the seat in the kayak is comfortable and adjustable. If you intend to kayak for a long duration, it is best to have a seat that offers support to your back and buttocks. Also, if the seat is adjustable, you can adjust it to your height.
See also: Best fishing paddle boards
Our Verdict
These are the top 10 options for the best fishing kayaks under 1000. Researching thoroughly and understanding your requirements is crucial for making the best choice. However, we feel that the Vapor 10XT Kayak by Sunrise is the best out of these 10. Its seat is large and padded while the kayak is spacious so you will not feel cramped. It has feet braces, paddle holder, thigh pads and cupholder. This fishing kayak comes with a lifetime warranty. It is one of the best kayaks for people who want to enjoy undisturbed kayaking and fishing experience. You can use this kayak in saltwater or freshwater.
Updated: October 27, 2022
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