If there is any fun activity that helps people to relax both the mind and the body much better, it is fishing on a kayak at a river, lagoon, or lake. Fun fishing on a kayak will offer you the much-needed rest from the hustle and bustle that is characteristic of our often busy work lifestyle. Opting to use a kayak for fishing is great because it doesn’t cost you more to get started. Fishing boats are usually quite expensive and cumbersome to maintain while kayaks are affordable and easy to carry around from one place to another.

There are just so many reasons for you to opt for a fishing kayak than a boat. Kayaks come in different shapes and sizes and can be used for a variety of activities including; sports, fishing, water transport, etc. The kayaks that are designed for fishing purposes usually come fitted with fishing rods complete with other necessary fishing gear.

So with the several varieties of fishing kayaks available out there in the markets, which one will you choose? Well, this is one question that people looking to buy a fishing kayak for the first time usually ponder. Fortunately, we got you covered because we are going to help you in your journey of choosing the best fishing kayak under $500. We are going to specifically focus on the best fishing kayak under the five hundred dollar mark in this article.

You should be able to find some of the best fishing kayaks below the five hundred dollar mark that will help you enjoy your kayak fishing quite well. While kayaks below the 500 dollar mark may not offer you the advanced features that those priced above this price range will offer you, they are still a great option for someone beginning.

Top 5 Fishing Kayaks Under 500$

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1. Intex Excursion Pro Fishing Kayak

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The Intex excursion pro fishing kayak is one of the great kayaks to buy if you are looking for an inflatable kayak having all necessary and important features at a reasonable price. The kayak is long-lasting as it is strongly constructed. Also, the construction is not at all affected by saltwater which means you can take it anywhere and wherever you want.

The kayak has the floor which is very rigid and well-stable, and the fishing rods that are very perfectly placed. The inflatable boat comes with a bag in which it can be folded and packed quite well after deflating.

The weight capacity of the kayak is another feature that impels the buyer. The removable seats and the adjustable footrests are made keeping in mind the comfort of the passengers. Coming to the comfort of kids, the seat booster is a great additional feature that lifts up your child’s seat.

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Extra rigidity and stability due to high-pressure inflation
Easy inflation and fast deflation by high-pressure spring-loaded valves
High strength, impact, and durability
Resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight
Permits more air pressure for rigidity

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Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Material: Laminate with Polyester
Components: 2 specially designed removable skews, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable
bucket seats

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Lightweight
Easy to carry
Adjustable footrests
Removable and inflatable seats
Removable and adjustable bracket
Storage spaces at the front and the back
Easy-grab handles

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The boat sometimes deflates after a few hours of inflation.

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2. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

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The Intex Explorer K2 kayak is one of the fantastic kayaks to buy if you are the beginner or the one looking for a portable option to take out on smaller water bodies such as lakes and rivers. These kayaks are a perfect substitute for traditional boats as they are compact, easy to transport and also available at an affordable price.

It is a two-person touring kayak for a perfect day out on the water that comes with all the necessary accessories including an air pump and paddles, thus making you all set to take it out and start paddling immediately. This kayak has a high-quality puncture-resistant vinyl construction which makes it withstand different objects. Also, it has two separate air chambers which means if one chamber is punctured, you would still reach shore safely. Additionally, it contains a removable skeg which improves its tracking in choppy water.

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Comfortable for anyone
Directional stability
Increased visibility
Suitable for smaller water bodies

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Dimensions: Inflated size 10 feet 3 X 3 feet X 1 feet 8 Inch
Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Material: Polypropylene
Components: Two 86”aluminum oars and an Intex high-output pump

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Budget friendly
Easy to carry and transport
Easy to store
Beginner friendly
Quick inflation and deflation

The oars it comes with are not good.
The carry bag is not good.
Little cramped leg space in the backpack.
It only comes with repair patches and no glue, so you will have to buy glue separately.

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3. Perception Sound 10.5 Kayak

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The perception sound 10.5 kayak is not only the kayak which is pocket-friendly but it also performs very well on the water. It is a perfect kayak for you if you are willing to learn how to paddle around the local lake while catching some fishes in the process.

This kayak is great for paddling with your dog as well. The hull design makes the kayak paddle so well even with the additional weight in the back. The kayak is so light weight that you can easily carry it by yourself. It is a super stable and great kayak for flat water.

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Feature-rich sit-inside kayak
Rear tankwell with bungee rigging
Zone seating and thigh pads
Molded in dashboard and 2 molded in rod holders

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Length: 10’ 6”
Width: 29.5”
Boat Weight: 46 lbs
Max Capacity: 335 lbs
Material: Polyethylene

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Budget friendly
High stability
Comfortable
Easy to carry, load and launch

Very little storage space
No paddle keepers are included
In case of adequate tracking, strong winds can blow the boat around
Only two handles are provided for carrying the kayak
No skid plate is included to protect the hull

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4. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak

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The Intex Challenger K1 kayak is one of the best-valued kayaks available today with all the necessary features and accessories that are needed to get out and have some fun in the water. It is a perfect kayak for you if you want to try kayaking with the family.

This latest kayak of Intex is a great looking option, which is the perfect boat for beginners, easy to use and super fun. The kayak is not only cheap, but is also durable and easy to transport and would be good for occasional use and not serious kayaking.

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One-person kayak with low profile design
Cargo net to store extra gear
Grab line on both ends of kayak
Inflatable floor for comfort and rigidity
Inflatable seat with backrest
Comes with 84-inch aluminum oar, high-output hand pump, and repair patch

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Measurement: 30-by-15-by-108 inches (W x H x D)
Weight: 27.2 pounds
Max Capacity: 220 pounds
Material: Plastic

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Fast and easy to set up
Lightweight and portable
Stylish colour scheme
Paddle and pump included for convenience
Removable skeg ideal to aid tracking and stability

Not suitable for open waters
Designed for recreational use and not performance

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5. Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak

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This kayak is very affordable and as lightweight and portable as it gets, yet still remarkably stable and durable. Sea Eagle Sport Kayaks pack to a fraction of their inflatable size and can be carried almost anywhere in water and set up in less than 10 minutes.
These kayaks are great fun for beginners and experienced paddlers. With a lightweight design and efficient hull shape, the Sport Kayaks are swift paddling boats and easy to handle for young or old.

This is an entry level kayak that is not only pocket friendly but surprisingly comfortable and easy to paddle.

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Lightweight and portable
NMMA Certified
Self-bailing drain valve
3 deluxe one-way valves
Lashed-down inflatable spray skirts
I-beam construction floor
2 skegs on the bottom for better tracking and speed
Pressure gauge and repair kit
Bow and stern grab line

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Interior: 10 feet, 8 inches by 1 foot, 1 inch
Exterior: 12 feet, 6 inches by 2 feet, 10inches
Deflated: 31 by 19 by 8 inches
Tube Diameter: 9 inches
Capacity: 3 Persons or 650 pounds
Weight: 32 pounds
Chambers: 3 (port, starboard,floor)
Material: 38 mil PolyKrylar (K80 PVC)
Seam: High-frequency welded
Floor: Inflatable I-beam construction
Air Valves: 5 deluxe one-way
Inflation and Assembly time: 8 minutes

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Stable
Rugged
Easy to lift
Comfortable
Great maneuverability
Compact
Decent tracking
Easy entry and exit

Susceptible to swaying in the wind if paddling in windy/choppy water

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Fishing Kayaks Buying Guide

Kayak fishing is one hobby that has recently taken the fishing industry by storm for obvious reasons. Kayaks, unlike fishing boats, are quite easy to transport, store, and even maintain. Compared to powerboats, fishing kayaks are quite easy to maintain and also very affordable. You will also find various fishing kayak models with different price ranges that are perfectly suited for experienced fishers and even beginners. It should be easy for you to find so many options of fishing kayaks that are below the $500 mark that will just perfectly meet your unique needs.

In this guide, you will learn about all the important things that you should know before buying a fishing kayak that is priced below 500. It is important for you to note that buying a fishing kayak that is within this price range doesn’t mean that you are going to get something without good features. It only means that you are going to get something that perfectly suited for your low budget. Besides highlighting the various good features of the best budget fishing kayaks, you are also going to learn about more information with regard to the types of fishing kayaks and related accessories.

Factors to consider before buying a Fishing Kayak

The kayak fishing hobby has experienced a big surge of enthusiasts perhaps due to the fact that kayaks are cheaper than fishing boats. People who like to fish and take it as a hobby find them a better option for boats.

The kayak manufacturing industry has also recently exploded due to the increased demand for the small water vessels. Today, there are various models of fishing kayaks available in the markets to choose from. You will find so many brands and manufacturers of fishing kayaks that produce quality products. There are various types of fishing kayaks that are designed for a variety of fishing purposes. You will find those that are designed to be used even in the smallest fishing creeks and also those designed for the large oceans.

With so much variety available in the markets to choose from, first time or a beginner kayak fisher may find it a little confusing as to which model of the brand to buy. This is where this guide is coming in – to help you check through the varied options available in the market and buy only the best fishing kayak under $500.

The length of the fishing kayak

Still wondering the perfect length is that you should buy? You ought to find out why the length of a fishing kayak is an important factor. The length of the kayak affects its performance when on the surface of the water. A general rule goes that ‘the longer the kayak, the harder it is for it to be maneuvered on the surface of the water.’ What this means is that the shorter it is, the better for you. Of course, length is a good factor if you are looking for a kayak with high speed.

Yet again, the length of the kayak that you will go for will also be dependent on your overall height. If you got a height that is above the average of 6´3´, it would be best for you to buy a fishing kayak that is about 11 feet long. The other thing that you will have to bear in mind that will definitely affect the length of the kayak to buy is where it will be used. If you are going to be fishing in areas frequented with strong currents, choose a kayak that is longer.

The stability

This is yet another very important factor for you to look into when selecting a fishing kayak. The traditional kayaks that used to be carved out of wood lacked stability and were prone to accidents in the water. Fortunately, modern manufacturers are now designing and producing kayaks that are focused on stability as an important feature. While stability is an important factor to consider, you need to realize excess stability can also compromise maneuverability.

That said, it is recommended that you choose a wider and steadier fishing kayak model especially if you got a stout body and more length. Note that fishing kayak models that are narrower are usually less steady but can offer the best maneuverability in the water.

The storage space

The modern kayaks that are manufactured by various brands can accommodate added equipment and accessories which enhance the fishing experience. Now, the more accessories and equipment you buy, the more space you will accommodate them in your kayak. Some manufacturers have realized the need for including a space where such added accessories and equipment can be kept.

It is therefore important for you to first decide which of such added accessories and equipment you will need on your fishing kayak. After determining this, you can then go on and buy the best fishing kayak under 500 with sufficient storage space.

One with the keel or no keel

In a kayak, a keel is a plastic piece that is fin-shaped that sticks down into the water from the hull of the kayak. The function of the keel is to help enhance the kayak’s tracking and speed. There are certain models of kayaks that come with keels that are retractable while there are those don’t come with a keel at all.

If your fishing activities will be mostly in open waters such as oceans that are deep, it is good for you to opt for a keeled kayak as this will help you experience better paddling. If your activities in the water will be in shallow water bodies like rivers, lakes, creeks, you should go for a kayak without a keel.

Portability

The modern kayaks are becoming heavier than they used to be as users seek to have better features and equipment incorporated in them. This leads to demand for more storage space which then makes the kayaks weigh even more. If you are looking for a kayak that you will be using on different water bodies in varied locations, you will want something that is easy to carry and move around with. This only means buying a kayak that is lighter and more portable. Sit-in types of kayaks usually weigh less compared to sit-on-top models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a fishing kayak under 500 offer me all the good features that I want?

Definitely, the fishing kayak manufacturing technology has advanced greatly and now even low budget fishing kayaks come with great features.

What are the different types of fishing kayaks under 500 available?

There are different types of fishing kayaks below the $500 mark. There are a sit-in kayak and the sit-on-top types of fishing kayaks. There are also kayaks that come with a keel and those that don’t feature a keel at all. The choice is usually dependent on the unique needs of the user.

What are some important factors for me to consider when buying a fishing kayak?

As already discussed above, the important factors that you need to consider before buying the best fishing kayak under 500 are; length, stability, storage space, portability, etc.

Table of Contents

Best Fishing Kayak Under $500 2020 Reviews – Top Kayaks Under 500

Top 5 Fishing Kayaks Under 500$

1. Intex Excursion Pro Fishing Kayak

2. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

3. Perception Sound 10.5 Kayak

4. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak

5. Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Sport Kayak

Fishing Kayaks Buying Guide

Factors to consider before buying a Fishing Kayak

The length of the fishing kayak

The stability

The storage space

One with the keel or no keel

Portability

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a fishing kayak under 500 offer me all the good features that I want?

What are the different types of fishing kayaks under 500 available?

What are some important factors for me to consider when buying a fishing kayak?

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