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Best Fishing Kayaks Under $500 | Review 2024

Fishing Kayaks under 500
5/5 - (1 vote)

Looking for a fishing kayak that won’t break the bank? Check out our top picks for the best fishing kayaks under $500! From tandem kayaks to inflatable kayaks, we’ve got you covered.

Our reviews will help you to select the best fishing kayak under $500 in 2024. Every review comes with full details with highlighted points to realize the proper value of the product. To know which one and why you should buy the Kayak, read the entire content.

Modern people always like to find things to get a better experience. The Kayak is that kind of invention to enjoy your fishing career.

Day by day, the popularity of kayaking is rising. You have a lot of options to choose from any Kayak from a comprehensive price list.

Depending on the place you are going to paddle, you should select the types of kayaks. Budget is an important issue in choosing different types of Kayaks with desired features.

No worries, we have selected here the best fishing kayaks under $500 for 2024.

Best Fishing Kayaks Under $500

Name TypeRatingPrice
1Intex Excursion Pro (2P)Inflatable4.8View Price
2Intex Dakota K2 (Unavailable Now)Inflatable4.6View Price
3Intex Excursion Pro (1P) Inflatable4.7View Price
4Pelican Maxim 100X (Out Of Stock)Sit-in Recreational4.3View Price
5Sea Eagle 330 (Unavailable Now)Inflatable Sport 4.1View Price
6Lifetime Youth Wave with Paddle (Out Of Stock)Kids Wave Kayak4.7View Price
7Intex ChallengerInflatable4.4View Price
8Perception Sound 9.5 (Out Of Stock)Fishing and Fun kayak4.6View Price
9Sevylor Quikpak K1Inflatable4.3View Price
1OSevylor Quikpak K5Inflatable4.4View Price
11Pelican Sentinel 100X (Unavailable Now)Recreational4.5View Price
Comparison Table – Best Fishing Kayaks Under $500

Are you confused about which one you should pick? Well, it is going to be easy for you. This review will help you to select the perfect fishing kayak for you.

There you will get every detail of the product. We have spent a lot of time experiencing authentic reviews for every product.

#1 Intex Excursion Pro Series Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak (2P)

kayak-hinchable-intex-k2

Key Specs:

  • Seating Capacity: 2 people
  • Dimensions: Inflated 151 x 37 x 18 inches;
  • Material: Polypropylene
  • Weight: 39 lbs.
  • Max Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: Aluminum Oars, High Output Air Pump, Removable SKEG for directional stability.

Intex has been doing great for the last few years. Intex Excursion Professional is the top-class popular Kayak of this brand. It is manufactured with super-quality laminated PVC polyester.

The whole part came inside a backpack. So you can easily carry the bag from one place to another place. Abrasion and sunlight protection.

Inflation will provide you with extra stability and rigidity. It also has a pressure spring for fast deflation and inflation.

The additional features are a swivel fishing holder and rod carry bag and repairing patch. Materials are not affected by saltwater, gasoline, or oil. Bow and stainless steel Stern D rings for storage.

Pros

  • Easy setup process.
  • The maximum load capacity is 400Ibs.
  • A complete package of fishing Kayaks.
  • Maximum holders for bottle, paddle, and rod.
  • Lightweight and easy transportation.

Cons

  • No rail tracking.
  • Oars are low and not for choppy water.

Who Should Pick This Kayak and Why?

The last and most important question is, who is the targeted buyer of this product, and why should you buy the Intex Excursion Pro series Kayak?

Do you want to have a water tour for the next few months? Have a budget of nearly $300? Then the pro series Kayak is perfect for you.

Before purchasing any product, a buyer likes to check authentic customer reviews to know the user experience.

Among all of our above-listed Fishing Kayak models, you will get many customers’ positive reviews on the marketplace for Intex Excursion Pro.

#2 Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable Kayak

Intex Dakota K2 Inflatable

Intex Dakota K2

Key Specs:

  • Brand: Intex
  • Material: Vinyl
  • Style: Classic
  • Dimensions: 10.25 x 3 x 1.6 feet (L x W x H)
  • Seating Capacity: 2
  • Weight: 400 Pounds

As it is the perfect time for an outing, then you can go fishing. Kayak fishing is the best fishing option to enjoy the tour.

However, without a partner, long-time fishing can be boring sometimes. Dakota K2 will help you to enjoy your journey.

Intex 2-person Dakota K2 is a heavy-duty fishing Kayak that also helps you to maintain social distancing. The Kayak is different from any traditional Kayak.

It is not harder and easier to transfer from one place to another place. Two grown-up people can ride on this Kayak and can carry up to four hundred pounds.

So you can make the Kayak ready within ten to fifteen minutes. To exhale the air from the Kayak is also very easy.

If you are searching for an inflated Kayak, that means you want a lightweight Kayak. Then, you can carry the Kayak full package bag alone without any other help.

Pros

  • Special design for water speed and agility.
  • Super straight-line tracking quality.
  • Heavy-duty Kayak with puncture-resistant grade.
  • Adjustable and removable seats. 
  • 2 carry bags.
  • Double-speed quick hand pump.

Cons

  • You need to adjust the seats constantly.
  • Front end swings.
  • Regular uses can develop a tear/hole in the fabric.

Who should pick the Dakota K2 Kayak, and why?

Maximum does not have enough money to buy a non-essential item. But you may like to find a better option according to the budget. Dakota K2 is a budget-friendly kayak.

So the majority already have enjoyed kayaking. The Dakota k2 is lighter than any hard Kayak, affordable, and has a beautiful outline to enjoy the whole summer.

#3 Intex Excursion Pro Kayak Series

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak (1 P)

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak (1 P)

Key Specs:

  • Brand: Intex
  • Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
  • Style: Classic
  • Color: Red
  • Dimensions: 120″L x 36″W x 18″H
  • Seating Capacity: 1-Person
  • Weight: 31.15 Pounds

If you are looking for a good-value Kayak for one person, then the Intex Excursion Pro Series is for you. Though it is not completely perfect, the features can help you to enjoy a more adventurous journey.

As a kayaker, you may not like to overpay for any kayak. But the manufacturer makes it easy to buy this Kayak within your budget.

Excursion Pro is a durable kayak that you can compare with the best three-model kayaks. Sturdy materials will make you feel comfortable while kayaking.

So you can also enjoy paddling. If you want, you can inflate or deflate the Kayak within four minutes.

The materials are highly protected, but you should not use the Kayak in garbage water or shallow water.

That can decrease the lifetime of the Kayak. With the Kayak, you will get the paddle, carry bag, high output air pump, seat booster, and seat adjusting handle Grabber for both ends.

It takes a little more time to dry out the water from the inner channels. But you need to use the storage properly and take care to get long durability.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Lightweight.
  • Super tough.
  • Rigid and stable.
  • Stainless steel storage chambers.

Cons

  • Slow-moving speed.
  • Uncomfortable footrest.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

As a younger or older, you can use this Kayak to enjoy your fishing time. Lighter than any other highly featured kayak.

So people of any age can easily carry a kayak When others need help to transfer from one place to another. A perfect smooth bill will fit your fishing budget.

Impressive features without any hassle. The vessel is extremely stable in hazardless water.

As a kayaking beginner, you should buy this Kayak to get a smooth experience without any hassle.

#4 Pelican Maxim 100X Sit-in Kayak

Pelican Maxim 100X Sit-in Kayak

Pelican Maxim 100X

Key Specs:

  • Brand: Pelican
  • Material: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
  • Style: 2023 Version
  • Color: Yellow
  • Dimensions: 120″L x 36″W x 18″H
  • Seating Capacity: 1-Person
  • Weight: 36 Pounds

Pelican is a Canadian-based company. They started making kayaks before 1968. You may get a lot of options while finding the best model in Pelican.

Their primary concern is the durability of the product. To the beginner, the Pelican Kayak can be the ideal Kayak.

One thing you may not like is that the storage hatch is not waterproof. So you need to carry a waterproof bag with you while kayaking.

However, you can use this pedal boat as a canoe to enjoy the outdoor natural survival tour.

Pros

  • Large cockpit.
  • UV protected.
  • Highly impact resistance.
  • High performance.
  • Super stable.
  • Seat cushions are very comfortable.

Cons

  • No rod holders.
  • Accessories are not included.
  • No waterproof storage space.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

Beginners should pick this Kayak for its durability and stability because it is a sit-in fishing kayak. The maximum Kayak is made with a Twin sheet, which is a thermoforming technology.

As a result, it is better than Rotomolding. So the ultimate result is high performance.

No matter if you like to sit inside or sit on top. The model comes with both functionalities. Pelican Maxim can be your ideal recreational paddling.

For a slow-moving canal, river, or lake, Maxim 100X can be the best choice to enjoy the fishing experience.

#5 Sea Eagle 330 Sport Kayak

Sea Eagle 330 Sport Kayak

Sea Eagle 330 Sport Kayak

Key Specs:

  • Two-person kayaking design.
  • The holding capacity is 500 pounds.
  • Two moveable deluxe seats.
  • The total weight is 26 pounds.
  • Five one-way air valves.
  • 33 mil Polykrylar materials.

If you prefer comfort first, you should pick this Kayak. Inflated Kayak with high-grade construction materials. The series is extremely popular with the angler. Sea Eagle 330 is the smallest size of the series. It is designed for two-person kayaking.

As a beginner or an experienced person will like this series of The Sea Eagle 330. The total configuration of this series is four.

This one is a quick sail package. Comparing the comfort, Sea Eagle 330 Pro will throw back the others.

To improve the back support, the manufacturer uses deluxe seats. To know the amount of air is enough or not, you can also use the scale sign.

Once the scale design dimension matches the kayak diagram, no more air pumping is required.

For better transportation, the paddles come in four parts. Bottom skegs will help you to have a better experience of speed and tracking.

The carry bag also has a shoulder strap for a better transfer experience. So you can go in this bag for a long distance.

Pros

  • Aluminum shaft with an asymmetrical blade.
  • Durable beam tubes.
  • Packed up in a sturdy shoulder bag.
  • Easy clean up and break down.
  • NMMA certified.
  • Hull materials are saltwater and sun-resistant.
  • More comfortable seats.

Cons

  • Difficult to match the pump nozzle to the kayak valves.
  • Need to affix the valves by yourself.
  • No D ring.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

The person who likes to have a comfortable, stable stylish kayak within a medium budget should choose Sea Eagle 330.

In every way, the Kayak is excellent. Low cost with decent durability. Easy to manage, and everything you need to float the Kayak is included with the package.

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#6 Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle

Kayak is not only used for adults’ fishing purposes. Over time, we become more concerned about our kids water enjoyment and safety.

If you are also thinking about a kayak for your kids, then this one will be perfect.

Lifetime Youth is competent for 5 to 11 years old kids. Manufactured with no protruding things to bump you into the water.

Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle

Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak with Paddle

Key Specs:

  • Ergonomic cockpit design.
  • Weight capacity is 130Ibs.
  • Swim-up step.
  • 72L x 24W dimension.
  • Both sides have molded finger-allowing handles.
  • Total weight 18 Lbs.
  • HDPE construction.

As a beginner, the kids can easily develop the skill of paddling. A single kid can use this kayak for a long time.

Safety is the foremost demand of every parent. With the perfect selection of a kayak, you can feel safe when your kids are kayaking.

The best option for water tracking or riding is Lifetime Youth Kayak. It will meet all the requirements you need for your kids.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • Easy to re-enter.
  • Super durability.
  • Multiple footrests.
  • Twin fin design.

Cons

  • No commercial seat included.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

If you want a perfect piece of kayak for your kids within your budget and with proper safety, then Lifetime Youth Kayak is for you.

For kids kayaking, you can rate this kayak within the top five listed kayaks. 

Super durability, comforts, safety features, and perfect price make the kayak buy-worthy for your kids.

#7 Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak

Why not be surprised? If something good is found without any sacrifice. The Challenger kayak is such a kind of quality kayak.

Sturdy materials with all the needed features. The manufacturers used several patches to avoid a tear puncture or spring leak.

Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak

Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak

Key Specs:

  • Kayak dimension – 9′ long x 30′ wide.
  • Total weight – 27 Ibs.
  • Total capacity – 220 Ibs.
  • Separate air chamber (Two).

Honestly, if you want to use the kayak randomly, it will last at least more than one year. You can take the collapsible paddles as per your requirement.

Inflating the kayak is not a complicated task for anyone. The first time, it can take some extra time. The whole activity may take nearly 20 minutes to make it water-ready.

The second time you don’t need to find the air-filling holes. So it will save half the time.

To make it dry and fold it back into the travel bag, one should carry a towel. Like other quality kayaks, you can adjust the backrest and the paddle can make it fun to play it.

Pros

  • Inexpensive.
  • Including everything you need.
  • Stable.
  • It is constructed with durable welded materials.
  • Impressive graphics design.

Cons

  • Inefficient pump.
  • Average portability.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

When you are looking for a kayak with a full package of instruments you need on the water, you can pick Challenger Inflatable Kayak.

With decent tracking, the kayak will stay longer. Without a life jacket, everything is included.  The more attractive feature is the lower price of the kayak.

#8 Perception Sound 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak for Fishing

Searching for a beginner or intermediate-level user kayak? Perception Sound 9.5 is a cool thing for recreation or fishing.

All essential features are included with the kayak. The performance of the kayak will be more than your expectations.

Perception Sound 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak

Perception Sound 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak for Fishing

Key Specs:

  • The bow and stern have two molded comfortable handles.
  • Sit inside a recreational kayak.
  • Length: Width 9′ 6″ Height 28″
  • Boat weight 38Ibs.
  • Maximum capacity 300Ibs.

Short in size, easy to transport, and store anywhere. The load capacity is more than your expectation. 300Ibs capacity is enough to carry the necessary league for a person.

Manufactured with the technology of rotational molding by using specific high-density polythene.

Pros

  • Stable and smooth steering.
  • Extra cushy seat.
  • Adjustable backrest.
  • Quick-adjust footrest.
  • Lockable security.

Cons

  • The front deck has no bungees.
  • Slow-moving kayak.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

Those who like to get a perfect combo of padding, comfort, and other features, will like Perception Sound 9.5. Due to the very lightweight feature, Perception is much more portable to the maximum kayaker.

For best-class comfort with easy transportation, maximum storage, safety, durability, and stability one should pick this kayak.

#9 Sevylor Quikpak K1

If you like to pick a Sit-On-Top kayak, then Sevylor Quikpak K1 will be a great match for you. The full package comes with an outer side box and an inner side box.

No need to be worried about the kayak shipment damage. Manufactured with 21-gauge PVC materials. Tarpaulin will give you extra protection while scraping or bumping. 

Sevylor Quikpak K1

Sevylor Quikpak K1

Key Specs:

  • Most innovative design with fast and safest features.
  • Best 1-person kayak.
  • Combination of 19% kevlar, 80% carbon, and 6% glass fiber.
  • Length: width: weight – 103 x 36 x 30 inches; 18 Pounds.
  • Load capacity 400 pounds.
  • Valves with double lock.

The kayak comes with a stylish and durable backpack. As a fishing bag, you can also use the backpack. The inflatable raft included a life jacket, water, a food bag, and a paddle.

The kayak is well suited for any kind of outdoor activity like recreation or fishing. Before kayaking, you should also test the air pressure inside the chambers and the firmness of the kayak.

Pros

  • Lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable.
  • Easy assembling.
  • Durable.
  • Low center gravity.
  • Fully self-contained unit.
  • Multiple footrest positions.

Cons

  • Not much maneuverable.
  • Low storage space.
  • Poor tracking.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

Who like to have an innovative carrying system with basic features, will be impressed by the kayak features. You can convert the backpack into a kayak seat.

So you don’t have the pressure of carrying the bag on water.

Due to the flexibility and the user-friendly budget, beginners or an expert should pick the kayak. Fully equipped with all kinds of accessories you need for kayaking.

#10 Pelican Sentinel 100X

Pelican Sentinel 100X is a crazy-type kayak. All super awesome features will impress you. If you are searching for a super sturdy and easy setup kayak, then Pelican is for you.

As a beginner or an experienced kayaker, you would love to buy this kayak.

Pelican Sentinel 100X

Pelican Sentinel 100X

Key Specs:

  • 300 Ibs load capacity.
  • Additional hull floating capacity.
  • Dimensions – 114 X 30 X 11
  • Sit on top model.
  • Anti-slip carpet.
  • Hydrodynamics efficiency.
  • Weight 41 pounds.

Every portion of the kayak is manufactured skillfully with high-quality materials. Normal grass or garbage in shallow water will never be able to harm you.

Though the kayak is a paddle base, you never have to be stuck somewhere.

The best part of the kayak is the compact waterproof bag. In which you can carry different necessary things. The backpack also has an emergency open chamber.

So you can easily carry and secure your things with this kayak. Moreover, you can also check the hardness of the kayak on solid ground. An adult can easily stand on the kayak.

Pros

  • ABYC standard.
  • Multi-chine hulls for excellent stability.
  • Easy get-in and get-out system.
  • Easy transportation and storage system.
  • RAM-X resistance-proof materials.
  • ERGOFORM adjustable backrest.
  • Longer boat with multiple footrests.
  • Two flush rod holders and one water pot holder.

Cons

  • Not yet found.

Who should pick this Kayak and why?

The maximum kayak comes with a Vulnerable seat and backrest. But with this kayak, you will get a wide and high sturdy seatback. This will make sure your fishing is more smooth and more flexible.

The deck mats come with anti-slip padding. Which will be more comfortable for you and your pets too.

Overall comparison, if you want an amazingly durable and comfortable kayak then you should pick Pelican Sentinel 100X.

Check Out Our Video Reviews Too

Buying Guide: Things to Know Before Choosing a Fishing Kayak

Without having proper knowledge about the fishing Kayak’s features, you should not purchase one. There are some things to consider when choosing a fishing kayak. The first thing you have to do is to identify all the features you need.

For example, what type of water do you want to go fishing in?

Is it fresh pond water, a lake, or in the deep sea? Which category of fish do you like to catch? These all are the basic things you need to consider before purchasing a fishing Kayak.

So, follow the below features before buying the best fishing kayak under 500.

Purpose

Want to have this Kayak for family recreation or relaxation? For a serious fishing profession, you need more features.

Those are not necessary for an occasional fishing tour. Like a regular fishing Kayak, you have to carry some safety kits.

The next thing is the fishing area. What type of wet area are you going for? Make sure that the Kayak can carry the necessary things and equipment you need.

Length

The Length of a Fishing Kayak will have a dramatic impact. You will have the experience while performing in the weather. Depending on the type of open water area, you should compare the length.

According to the kayaking rule, you can cover up more speed with a Kayak longer than 12 feet. Less than 11 feet in length is shorter but maneuverable.

Small water ponds need more focus on maneuverability like backwater, creeks, and others rather than speed.

On the other hand, a bigger lake, river, or sea is perfect with a longer model. Due to the water flow, the equation of body size with weight capacity is a major fact.

Stability

When your mind is set to grab a lot of water or spread a net for bass fish, Kayak stability is a major factor.

You may prefer a standing mood rather than a sitting position. To continue kayaking for this prolonged period, you need to choose the best stable Kayak. No matter if it is wider or longer.

Storage

Without enough space, you can not carry the necessary tools or kits with you. Most of the kayaks have front space to store things.

But you must have some waterproof spaces which will give you some extra facilities. Like you can store fish baits, medicine, or others.

You must need a minimum one-rod holder. The rod holder should be adjustable and detachable as per your requirement.

To set up too much gear on your fishing kayak, you will not get enough free moving space. So visualize first the things you need where, and create a visual design Kayak.

Portability

Along with all the considerations, you have to think about the portability of the Kayak. If you do deep research on kayaks, you will know that kayaks are heavier.

If you plan to go pond water with shallow depth, you may need to drag it down or up it.

Less portable can be the reason for the uncertain loss. You can be stuck in different places. Sit-in models are lighter than sit-on-the-top models.

Functionality

Depending on the purpose of every Kayak, manufacturers create designs with the correct consistency of functionality. So that the effects will behave like you want to expand the fishing experience.

Different area fishing kayaks come with a lot of editions. For example, the ocean fishing Kayak has a lot of extra features than the inland kayaks.

A common tendency among all types of kayaks is slowly going.

FAQs: People Also Asked

What do you need on a fishing kayak?

Depending on your requirements, you can carry the items like a personal floating jacket or device, an extra paddle, a waterproof first-aid box, a whistle, and a compass are must-haves on the fishing Kayak.

What size Kayak should I buy?

Not to sacrifice the Kayak speed, you should buy a long and narrow Kayak. It will go straight faster than the shorter wide Kayak. As a newbie, you can also choose the wider Kayak to feel more flexible.

What size kayak is the best for beginners?

For beginners, a 10 feet long Kayak will be suitable. However, if you are more than 6 feet tall, you can also pick a 12 feet long fishing Kayak. Then it will be perfect in size to manage Kayak by sitting.

Is Kayak fishing dangerous for us?

You can use the Kayak as a recreational boat. But sometimes, it can be dangerous for us. In the water, you can meet different dangerous creatures. To avoid possible attacks, you should tame some tips and tricks.

Is fishing kayak worth it or not?

Yes, it is more affordable than any water vessel. A fishing Kayak will give you better access to any fish corner. In addition, you can customize the Kayak on your own. Easy transportation, repair, and portable.

How much should I spend on a fishing kayak?

Generally, fishing kayaks range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. If you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to start with a lower-priced kayak, but one that still meets your basic needs. You gain more experience and determine your preferences, you can invest in a higher-quality kayak that meets your specific requirements.

Conclusion

So, here we provided all authentic reviews of Best Fishing Kayaks Under 500. After taking a long-term experiment, we have to pick all listed product names.

All are highly rated by the customers with durability, materials, and holding capacity.

We consider here several factors in selecting the best quality fishing kayak. Follow our buyer’s guide before confirming any kayak.

The review part will help you to select the right Kayak according to your desire or requirements.

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak gets the best customer rating of the others. Therefore, if the features match your desire, you should pick the model.

Or you can compare it with our other listed Kayak models.

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