23 Best Fishing Kayaks Under $1000

Fishing from a kayak is as easy as catching fish from a boat, as long as:

• You have the right fishing kayak
• You have mastered paddling (gained experience and confidence on the water)
• You have your moisture-wicking clothes on
• Your kayak comes with a paddle leash

With all of these in place, you are set for a smoother experience. To begin with fishing from a kayak, properly plan out your route before setting out to get your catch for the day. Using an oval or circle pattern for your route can prevent you from losing track of how far you've paddled.

Next, paddle with a single arm, position the oar handle along your forearm and steer your kayak using your paddle. By doing this, you can easily steer your kayak away from any form of obstacles.

Thirdly, remember to stay as close as possible to the shoreline most especially in areas of stronger current (safety first). You can also head towards a smaller water body, since kayaks have little draft, navigation becomes pretty easier this way.

Lastly, ensure that your head is kept centered while you're paddling inside your kayak. By doing this, you are following the general rule of thumb which says "where your head goes, your body follows suit". Some other features that might come in handy are:

• Multiple Rod Holders
• Fish Finder/GPS Mount
• Elevated Kayak Seats (better comfort coupled with good vision of your surroundings)
• Dry Hatch (enclosed storage)

Fishing kayaks can weigh anywhere from 35 pounds up to 120 pounds and above on the budget-end of the spectrum. However, some kayaks get up to 225 pounds, they are more expensive, more feature-rich and way too heavy. You will need a kayak cart to transport any fishing kayak that weighs around and above 60 pounds.

Having the right fishing kayak is just something to start with, no kayak can paddle itself. Every angler needs to possess vital fishing accessories as kayak fishing requires more accessories than touring, Whitewater or recreational kayaking. Some must have kayak fishing accessories include:

• Fishing PFD
• Lightweight paddle
• Fish finder
• Dry bag(s)
• Rod holders
• Landing net
• Fishing pliers
• Rod and paddle leashes
• Fillet knife
• Fish grips
• Anchor system
• Tackle crate

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing or selecting the best fishing kayak. While some see size and width as the most important factors to look out for, others prefer a sit-on-top kayak that would make them easily spot fish as they navigate through water.

The most important thing to do before purchasing a kayak is to identify your needs:

• Do you plan to use the kayak for fishing only?
• Do you plan to go fishing in saltwater harbors and estuaries for bluefish?
• Do you just want to go poking around freshwater ponds for largemouth bass?
• Will you be using the kayak for other purposes like relaxation and recreation?
• Will you just do your thing in nearby streams and rivers or you will also like to fish in the open ocean?

The simple answer is yes, they're worth it, but "worth it" is a term that's specific to different individuals.

There are several ways to launch fishing kayaks but here is a simple method:

• Move into the shallow part of the water: enter the shallow part of the water with your kayak perpendicular to the shore, this comes easier if you have a longer kayak.
• Secure your paddle: settle your paddle in the deck line and afterwards, stand in a straddling position over the cockpit.
• Get a hold on yourself: put one leg on either side of the kayak, then grab the sides of the vessel with your hands while you settle into the cockpit. Ensure that you keep your weight evenly distributed while settling into the cockpit.
• Make yourself comfortable: now that you are seated, adjust your legs by placing them in the cockpit and allowing them to rest against the pegs. Once you are comfortable, you can now attach your skirt.
• Time to launch: take your paddle out and use fast and propelling strokes to move your kayak away from the shore and further into the deeper water.