10 Best Fishing Kayaks Under $500 To Buy In 2024
Fishing is more fun when done on the water than offshore fishing. It feels totally different and brings you closer to nature. It brings a whole different level of experience to your adventure.
Many anglers want to go a step further from offshore fishing but the cost of fishing boats gives them a pause. If you want to enjoy fishing without breaking the bank, then this article is for you.
A very good alternative to fishing boats is fishing kayaks. Fishing kayaks offer you the stability you need to stay afloat while fishing comfortably. In the market today, there are various types of fishing kayaks spanning across various price ranges.
The high-end fishing kayaks usually offer more features than those on the lower end of the price spectrum. However, there are a couple of kayaks under the 500 dollars benchmark that provides all the basics you need to have a great fishing time out on the water.
In this article, we have gone to town and put together useful information that would guarantee that you get the best available options within your budget. Keep an open mind as you go through our best 10 fishing kayaks under $500.
1. Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
The Intex Challenger K2 is a sports series kayak with a streamlined design for easy paddling. It is lightweight, compact, and easy to assemble, so it can be taken everywhere you go.
The contrast that its bright color and sporty graphics make with the water gives it easy visibility. One unique feature of this kayak is its ability to comfortably accommodate 2 people.
The space provided by this kayak makes it an excellent choice for a fishing kayak. It comes in a light transport bag, making it easy to carry around. Its Boston valve makes inflation and deflation seamless.
This kayak is specially made of vinyl material making it sturdy. It comes with two 86 inches (2.2 meters) long aluminum paddles and an Intex high-output pump for easy inflation and deflation of the kayak. In comparison with other kayaks, it reacts slowly to directional changes.
Components
- Sporty graphics for high visibility
- Cockpit designed for comfort and space
- Rugged vinyl construction
- Grab line on both ends
- Cargo net for extra storage
- High capacity pump
- Adjustable inflatable seat with backrest
- Inflatable I-beam floor for comfort and rigidity
- Removable skeg for directional stability
- Repair patch
Properties
- Material: The Intex Challenger K2 is made of rugged super tough vinyl that is resistant to UV radiation as well as puncture resistant, making it durable.
- Safety: the streamlined design of the kayak and its accessory paddle makes paddling easier and safe for two paddlers.
- Stability: Unlike the other fishing kayaks that would be mentioned in this article, the Intex Challenger K2 has the ability to comfortably accommodate two people.
- Design: the kayak is visually appealing and sleek. This is largely due to the bright green color and sporty graphics making the kayak highly visible in the water. Its streamlined shape cannot also be over-emphasized.
- Portability: It requires fewer materials for each boat making it weigh just 38.24 pounds (17.3 kg) and has a carrying capacity of up to 400 pounds (181.4 kg).
Specifications
- Length: 11 feet 5 inches (3.5 meters)
- Width: 30 inches (0.76 meter)
- Height: 15 inches (0.38 meter)
- Weight:24 pounds (17.3 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds (181.4 kg)
2. Intex Excursion Inflatable Boat
Though not designed primarily for fishing, the Intex Excursion Inflatable Boat is suitable for a relaxing time on the water with friends. It can accommodate as many as 4 people, making it ideal for adventure with friends and family.
It is useful for camping and cruising. The boat is lightweight and easy to assemble with seamless inflation or deflation using a Boston valve on two main hull chambers.
It is made from a rugged vinyl construction which is puncture resistant with an inflatable I-Beam floor for your comfort and its durability. It comes with two inflatable seats with backrests for comfort.
Components
- High-output hand pump
- 2 54-inches aluminum oars
- 2 inflatable seats with backrests
- 2 pairs (4) of welded oar locks
- 2 pairs (4) of oar holders
- Gear Pouch
- Repair patch kit
- Boston valves with a quick-fill on the 2 major hull chambers
- Inside the main hull are 3 air chambers, one of which is an inner auxiliary chamber.
- 2 fishing rod holders
Properties
- Material: It is made from a rugged vinyl construction that is puncture resistant with an inflatable I-Beam floor for your comfort and durability.
- Storage Capacity: The boat is very spacious and as a result, it has a larger storage capacity than some of the other fishing kayaks.
- Comfort: The boat comes with two inflatable seats with backrests for comfort and seating stability
- Portability: It requires fewer materials for each boat making it weigh 48.22 pounds (21.87 kg) and can carry up to 1100 pounds (498.95 kg) weight comfortably.
- Safety: The boat contains three air chambers including an inner auxiliary chamber inside the main hull for extra buoyancy and safety. The boat can safely carry a weight of 1100 pounds (498.95 kg).
Specifications
- Length: 10 feet 3 inches (3.15 meters)
- Width: 65 inches (1.65 meters)
- Height: 17 inches (0.43 meter)
- Weight:22 pounds (21.87 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 1100 pounds (498.95 kg)
3. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
The Intex Excursion Pro is a convertible tandem fishing kayak that is dedicated to carrying two adults but can be adjusted to carry just one person.
It is made from vinyl material with a polyester core conferring high strength and durability making it puncture and abrasion resistant while retaining its light weight and portability.
It comes with fishing rod holders on both sides for a hands-free fishing experience. It is a low-cost inflatable sit-on-top kayak that comes with all you need to get on the water.
Components
- 2 detachable skegs for shallow and deep water
- 2 floor mounted footrests
- 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders
- 2 adjustable bucket seats
- Removable and adjustable mounting bracket
- Grab handles on both ends
- Inflatable booster pad for elevated seating
- Carry bag and repair patch
- High output pump
- 86 inches (2.18 meters) Aluminum Oars
Properties
- Material: It is made from vinyl material with a polyester core conferring high strength and durability making it puncture and abrasion resistant. Its 3-ply super tough makeup has a high molecular vinyl that is unaffected by gasoline or salt water. It is highly resistant to damage from the impact of sunlight. All these properties make the Intex Excursion Pro a highly durable kayak.
- Comfort: The sides of the kayak are low so they are out of the way when paddling. The kayak’s 37 inches (0.94 meters) width provides stability for entry and movement on moderately choppy waters while being streamlined enough to make paddling enjoyable. It can comfortably carry up to 400 pounds (181.44kg) of weight.
- Portability: This kayak weighs 46.73 pounds (21.2 kg), making it less weighty compared to the other boats on the market. It can be stored in a big duffel bag with long straps that can be carried over your shoulder when transporting it from your car to the water bank. Transporting the Intex Excursion Pro is a walk in the park! Due to its portability, you don’t need much space to store this kayak conveniently since it is inflatable. After use, simply deflate and pack it up nicely. You don’t need large garage space, all you need is a corner.
- Easy to set up: It comes with its own pump. The pump is small and its dual action mechanism helps to cut down the inflation time. The Intex Excursion Prohas simple valves that have double lids. The outer cap of the lids opens to a one-way valve for inflation while the inner cap unthreads the whole valve, leaving a gaping hole for easy deflation.
Specifications
- Length: 12 feet 7 inches (3.84 meters)
- Width: 37 inches (0.94 meter)
- Height: 18 inches (0.46 meter)
- Weight:73 pounds (21.2 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds (181.44kg)
- Manufacturer’s warranty: 90-day limited warranty.
4. Sevylor QuikPak K1
The Sevylor QuickPak K1 is an inflatable sit-on-top fishing kayak. Unlike the other sit-on-top kayaks that have been mentioned in this article, when you are ready to pack up this kayak, it folds up into its seat turned backpack with padded shoulder straps – amazing.
It takes less than 5 five minutes to set up the Sevylor QuickPak K1 kayak. The kayak can just accommodate one adult.
Components
- Double lock valves
- Multi-position foot rest
- Paddle
- High output pump
- Secure Storage Area
Properties
- Material: It is made from vinyl material with a polyester core conferring high strength and durability making it puncture and abrasion resistant. Its tarpaulin bottom provides durable protection from punctures.
- Portable: The portability of the Sevylor QuickPak K1 Kayak is one of its huge advantages. Also, the backpack becomes part of your seat when you inflate it making it less cumbersome. The bungee portion of the backpack secures a spot in the front of the kayak for shoes or a small cooler. It is lightweight with a weight of 20.28 pounds (9.2 kg).
- Easy to setup: It is quick to assemble and easy to inflate or deflate.
- Comfortable: It is really comfortable for an inflatable kayak. You can stretch your legs out and the backrest gives added support and comfort. The comfort provided by the seat is one of the best features of the Sevylor QuikPak K1.
Specifications
- Length: 31 inches (0.79 meter)
- Width:5 inches (0.44 meter)
- Height:25 inches (0.23 meter)
- Weight:28 pounds (9.2 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 400 pounds (181.44 kg)
5. Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak
The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak is designed for extreme safety and ultra-stability, crafted with blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Learn more about our top picks of the best fishing chairs on the market.
This makes it highly durable, impact-resistant and UV-protected. It is a sit-on-top kayak with an adjustable padded seat backrest that makes long trip paddling and fishing a comfortable adventure.
This portable kayak has a flat bottom hull for greater stability and comes with a tracking skeg that allows easy maneuvering of fishing spots that are not easily accessible by bigger boats. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak comes with a lot of “extras” that makes the paddling and fishing experience enjoyable.
The lightweight kayak features multiple footrest positions, 2 storage hatches, front and rear T-handles for easy transportation, a paddle cradle with shock cord, top mount fishing rod holder, 2 water bottle holders, 2 flush rod holders, adjustable padded seat (back and seat pad) and 2 side luggage handles.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Weight: 54 lbs. (24.5 kg)
- Length: 10 ft (304.8 cm)
- Width: 31″ (78.7 cm)
- Max Weight: 275 lbs. (125 kg)
- Constructed of uv-protected high-density Polyethylene. Multiple footrest positions for different size riders. Stable flat bottom
- Adjustable padded seat back and seat pad for comfort. Two flush mounted fishing rod holders. One top mount fishing rod Holder
- Front and rear shock cord straps. Two 6″ storage compartments in rear and center. One paddlekeeper, one adult black paddle
- Front and rear t-handles for easy transport. Deep hull tracking channels
- Stability chine rails. Durable high-density Polyethylene (HDPE) construction
6. Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler
The Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler is a fishing kayak designed for experienced anglers and can be used to explore the least charted fishing spots. It has an open cockpit for adequate storage and transport of all equipment that would be required onboard.
It is also equipped with accessories essential for fishing like a center console with compartments molded into the cover, 2 clips for paddles or fishing rods, 2 accessory eyelets, and 2 recessed rod holders. It comes with 2 vertical rod holders.
There are scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak which help to drain excess water that might get into the kayak and if you do not want your legs to get wet, you can use a few scupper plugs to plug the holes nearest to where you sit.
It has an EXOPAK removable storage compartment that can accommodate all your gear.
Components
- Adjustable foot braces for your comfort
- 2 clips for paddles or fishing rods
- 2 accessory eyelets
- 2 recessed rod holders
- Twin-arched multi-chine hull
- A smartphone holder
- Removable EXOPAK storage compartment
- Center console
- Mesh deck cover
- Anti-slip carpet
Properties
- Material: The Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler is made of The polyethylene material used confers enhanced protection on the kayak. The material is leakproof which means it is impenetrable to water.
- Safety: The unique way the kayak is manufactured allows for the inclusion of more floatation materials inside the hull. It can carry up to 275 pounds (124.74 kg) of weight safely. There are scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak which help to drain excess water that might get into the kayak, thereby enhancing safety.
- Stability: The kayak is very stable due to the presence of the twin-arched multi-chine hull, giving you a secure and steady ride. It affords you the balance needed when casting fishing lines and reeling in fish. It is designed such that getting in and out of the kayak is easy.
- Comfort: This kayak is very comfortable as it comes with an adjustable ERGOLOUNGE seating system. It has extra-thick padding and a cushioned backrest that is extra-high and broad.
- Portability: The kayak is a great choice for easy storage and transport of your fishing gears. It is made with highly durable molecular density polyethylene. It weighs just 44 pounds (19.96 kg) and can carry up to 275 pounds (124.74 kg) weight comfortably.
Specifications
- Length: 9 feet 5 inches (2.9 meters)
- Width: 30 inches (0.76 meter)
- Height:25 inches (0.34 meter)
- Weight: 44 pounds (19.96 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 275 pounds (124.74 kg)
7. Sevylor Coleman Colorado
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is an inflatable sit-on-top kayak two-person fishing kayak. The kayak is made from 18-gauge PVC, a thick tarpaulin bottom, and a tough nylon cover.
These materials make it puncture-resistant. This kayak has a broad, flat bottom hull that gives it the needed stability. Its air-filled chambers also contribute to its stability.
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is very portable with a weight of just about 40.4 pounds. The kayak comes with one-way Boston valves which makes inflation by foot or electric pump easy.
Inflation normally takes less than 15 minutes and should be done with a maximum pressure of 1.5 PSI. It comes with a convenient manometer gauge to determine the correct pressure.
Components
- Multiple Air Chambers
- Puncture-Resistant, Airtight System
- 2 movable Rod Holders and Paddle Holders
- Adjustable Seats
- Mesh Storage Pockets
- D-Rings
- Boston Valve
- Manometer Guage
Properties
- Material: The kayak is made from 18-gauge PVC, a thick tarpaulin bottom, and a tough nylon cover. These materials make it puncture-resistant.
- Easy to Setup: The kayak comes with one-way Boston valves which makes inflation by foot or electric pump easy. Inflation normally takes less than 15 minutes and should be done with a maximum pressure of 1.5 PSI. It comes with a convenient manometer gauge to determine the correct pressure.
- Stability: the kayak has a broad, flat bottom hull that gives it the needed stability. Its air-filled chambers also contribute to its stability.
- Comfort: Kayaking with the Sevylor Coleman Colorado usually feels like you are paddling on air. It has air-chamber seats that are very comfortable for some paddlers. Its backrest is large and rigid, providing solid support into the middle of the back.
- Portability: The Sevylor Coleman Colorado is very portable with a weight of just about 40.4 pounds.
Specifications
- Length: 10 feet 7 inches (3.28 meters)
- Width: 39 inches (0.99 meter)
- Weight:4 pounds (18.33 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 470 pounds (213.19 kg)
8. Pelican Argo 100XR
The Pelican Argo 100XR is a sit-in kayak and is best for slow recreational kayaking. It is ideal for a calm and relaxing kayaking experience in the winter or summer season, especially on slow-moving waters.
It is very comfortable as it comes with padded seats, adjustable footrest, and knee pads in its premium quality ERGOCAST seating system. This seating system is easily removable.
The Argo 100XR has a sleek design and weighs 43 pounds. Its twin-arched multi-chine hull gives stability making you secure during the steady ride. In addition to the steady ride experience, the hull design makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak.
Components
- Adjustable footrests
- Bottle cage
- Cockpit table
- Padded seat
- Drain plug
- ERGOCAST portable seating system
- Twin-arched multi-chine hull
- Ergonomic carrying handles
- Paddle tie-down
- Premium knee pads
- Quick Lock hatches with storage bag
- Rigging tracks
- Storage platform with bungee cords
Properties
- Material: The Argo 100XR is made up of The polyethylene material used confers enhanced protection on the kayak. It is also leakproof.
- Safety: It comes with floating blocks on both sides and also a flatter hull type, ensuring safety and a wholesome experience during the ride. It can carry up to 300 pounds (136.1 kg) of weight safely.
- Stability: The Argo 100XR kayak is very stable due to the presence of the twin-arched multi-chine hull, giving you a secure and steady ride. Additionally, entering and exiting the kayak is stress free.
- Portability: The kayak is the perfect choice for easy storage and transport of goods. It is made with highly durable molecular density polyethylene. Despite its many features and adjustable carrying handles. The Argo 100XR weighs a little over 40 pounds (43 pounds) and has a carrying capacity of 300 pounds.
- Exclusive features: The kayak has a front storage tank and a rear netted storage for easy storage of gear. It contains a padded seat, adjustable footrests, and knee pads for comfort. It has a bottle cage, bottle holder, and smartphone or depth finder holder in strategic positions within reach. It also has front and back carries handles that makes transporting the kayak to shore less tedious.
Specifications
- Length: 10 feet (3.05 meters)
- Width: 29 inches (0.74 meters)
- Height:75 inches (0.3 meter)
- Weight: 43 pounds (19.5 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds (136.1 kg)
9. Sevylor Big Basin
The Sevylor Big Basin is an inflatable kayak that is designed uniquely to accommodate 3 paddlers. Therefore, it can be used when fishing with friends or family. Setting it up is very easy as it takes just about five minutes to do that.
It is made of heavy-duty PVC construction which confers abrasion resistance on the kayak. It has a rugged tarpaulin bottom and spray covers that help keep you dry during your trip.
Components
- Three adjustable and removable back seats
- Three air chambers
- Bungee cords
- Carry handles
- Removable rear skeg
- Welded directional strakes
- Splash cover
- Leak-free Airtight system
- Tarpaulin bottom
- Polyester coating
- Double-threaded Boston valve
- Heavy-duty PVC construction
- Bungee storage
- Carry handle
- Carry bag
- Pressure gauge
Properties
- Materials: It is made of heavy-duty PVC construction making the Big Basin resistant to abrasion. It has a rugged tarpaulin bottom for improved ruggedness and spray covers to keep paddlers dry when kayaking.
- Easy to Setup: Setting up the Sevylor Big Bason is a very simple process, taking just about 5 minutes to inflate all three air chambers to their recommended PSI.
- Stability: it is a very stable kayak as it hardly wobbles when trying to get in or out of the kayak.
Specifications
- Length: 12 feet 2 inches (3.73 meters)
- Width: 37 inches (0.94 meter)
- Weight: 33 pounds (14.97 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 490 pounds (222.26 kg)
10. Advanced Elements Lagoon 1
The Advanced Element Lagoon 1 is an inflatable recreational sit-in kayak that can be used for fishing. It can accommodate just one adult at a time.
The bow and stern have fixed rigid forms that help cut through the waves and keep you on course. This kayak is best used in slow-moving waters.
This kayak has an inner tube cover for more stiffness, protects from abrasion, and gives durability. Its inflatable seat rest and foam floor make kayaking in it comfortable.
It comes with TWISTLOK valves and high-flow spring valves that make inflating the Advanced Element Lagoon 1 a breeze.
Components
- Rubber molded handle
- Bungee deck lacing
- Inflatable Coaming for
- Spray Skirt Attachment
- Paddle holder
- Mesh pocket
- Advanced Elements Spring Valve
- Folding seat
- Tracking fin
- Durable fabric cover
- Electronically welded seams
- Rigid bow and stern
- Inner tube cover
- Rip-stop fabric
Properties
- Material: It is made up of double-coated PVC-coated nylon with ripstop tarpaulin fabric for toughness.
- Easy to set up: The kayak has inbuilt TWISTLOK valves and high flow spring valves that are responsible for its short inflation time.
- Comfortable: Its inflatable seat rest and foam floor, make kayaking in it painless.
- Durability: This kayak has an inner tube cover for more stiffness, protects from abrasion, and gives durability.
- Lightweight: The Lagoon 1 is one of the very lightweight kayaks available on the market. It weighs just 23 pounds (10 kg).
Specifications
- Length: 8 feet (2.54 meters)
- Width: 34 inches (0.86 meter)
- Weight: 23 pounds (10 kg)
- Maximum Paddler Height: 74 inches (1.88 meters)
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds (113 kg)
Another Worthy Mention
11. Aquaglide Noyo 90
The Aquaglide Novo 90 is a short-length inflatable recreational kayak that is designed for a single paddler. It has an enclosed cockpit that keeps the kayaker dry and can be used by paddlers of varying skill levels.
It is made from polyester material making it robust, strong, and resistant to scratches and punctures. It has a 250-pound (113 kg) maximum weight capacity.
Components
- Boston valves
- Carrying handles
- Over-sized carrying bag with back straps
- Zip open storage compartments
- Bungee storage straps
- Drain plugs
- Removable quick-release tracking fin
Properties
- Material: The Aquaglide Novo 90 is made from polyester material. It is fairly rugged, durable, and can take a beating.
- Comfort: the enclosed cockpit keeps paddlers dry and comfortable. The kayak can easily be maneuvered by both a novice and experienced kayaker. The padded seats make paddling for extended periods comfortable.
- Portability: the Aquaglide Novo 90 is compact and lightweight. It weighs 21 pounds and has a maximum capacity of 250 pounds.
Specifications
- Length: 9 feet (2.74 meters)
- Width: 35 inches (0.89 meter)
- Weight: 21 pounds (9.5 kg)
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds (113 kg)
In this article, we have been able to give you an objective review of our best ten ‘11’ fishing kayaks costing under five hundred dollars ($500).
Now you know that with less than five hundred dollars ($500) you can buy comfort, durability, safety, and stability, all in one kayak while having a memorable fishing experience as a bonus.
You now know the right choice of the fishing kayak if you want to enjoy the experience with family and friends. For more information on kayaks, you can subscribe to our newsletter.
