So, you are a sucker for angling. Great, because we have a bit of advice for you and it is as simple as getting yourself a kayak.
Generally, kayaks do not come cheap but you certainly want to invest in one, as it will come in handy when it comes to catching fish and maneuvering the water.
Now, you will be pleased to learn that you can get a decent kayak even on a limited budget and that is why we want to review some of the best fishing kayaks under 700.
Therefore, if you are looking to get value for your money as well as functionality from your kayak, you may want to keep it here.
Quality Fishing Kayak Options Under 700: Comparison Table
We are going to be thorough and comprehensive as far as this review and that should be a good thing right? While that may be the case, we understand that you may not have the time to read this entire review.
Because of that, we put together the following comparison table that summarizes our top choices. It should help you make a faster and informed choice.
Buying Guide for Fishing Kayaks Under 700
Honestly, most budget kayaks do not have much to offer but there are some out there that can deliver what you need to go about your angling seamlessly.
To that effect, you want to consider several significant factors before making your purchase. These factors include:
Kayak Size
You need to consider your weight and if you are going to have other people on board. The weight of your fishing gear is also something you want to factor in as you pick your kayak.
The last thing you want is to get a boat that will not accommodate your weight or whatever you intend to carry while in the water.
Available Space
After your angling sessions, you will have to store your boat away. In that regard, you want to think of how much space you have for that.
If you have limited space, you want to get something compact and lightweight like an inflatable kayak. On the other hand, you can get a non-inflatable and denser kayak if space is not an issue.
Still on that, you need to consider whether you will be carrying your kayak to and from the water frequently. If that is the case, you want something lightweight and compact to allow for portability.
Comfort Ability
Comfort is key while angling as it determines whether you will be able to have a fruitful session. As such, you want your boat to come with as many comfort features as possible.
For instance, the seat in your kayak should be adjustable and offer solid support. Other features you need to look out for include a storage area for your fishing gear and a cup holder for your beverages.
Functional Storage
Usually, you will need a higher capacity kayak whenever you intend to go for an angling trip or have much fishing gear to carry.
Now, some kayaks come with massive storage areas while others do not so what you want to do here is get a kayak with dry and sealed storage compartments where you can keep your essentials and equipment.
This helps keep your stuff organized and easy to reach out for.
Boat Warranty
Any product worth it’s salt should come with a warranty and it should not be any different with your kayak. You see, a warranty covers any malfunction that may occur within the given period.
This way you will not have to pay for replacements or repairs out of pocket soon after you purchase your kayak.
Top-Rated Best Fishing Kayaks Under 700
The following are some of the best-rated kayaks that cost less than 700. We are sure you will find something that works for you from the list.
1. SUNDOLPHIN Sit-on-top Kayak SS 10-Foot
On top of our list, we have this sit-on-top unit and it is could be the perfect companion for your angling adventure. It is built for recreational use and is therefore lightweight and comes with an open cockpit that allows for easy entry and exiting.
Besides, it also features an inbuilt storage area that you can use to keep your kayaking essentials.
What we liked about it
The first thing you will appreciate when you begin using this kayak is that it paddles and tracks with ease all while providing great flexibility.
Other than that, it features a spacious and comfortable seating area to ensure that you have an easier time while out in the water. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
As has been reported by some users, this kayak goes in every direction but not where you want it to. The manufacturer should have put more thought into its maneuverability and stability to counter the same.
Pros
Easy entry and exit
Storage compartment
Comfortable
Cons
Not as stable
2. Lifetime Angler 100 Tamarack Fishing Kayak
This kayak is made from high-density UV-protected Polyethylene and because of that, you can expect it to pass the test of time. It also has a stable flat bottom and different footrest positions to make maneuvering easy.
Another great thing about this kayak is that it features a padded seat to offer maximum comfort.
What we liked about it
This unit is among the most lightweight ones you will ever come across and what that means is that you are unlikely to experience any issues transporting it from one place to another.
However, what we loved most about it is that it comes with an adjustable seat that you can modify to gain more comfort.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this kayak’s exterior cracked on the first angling session. The manufacturer should have used better quality material in the construction of the hull to avoid this.
Pros
Stable
Adjustable seat
Lightweight
Cons
Not as durable
3. Lifetime Tamarack 120″ Sit-On-Top Kayak
This is yet another kayak that features a high-density, UV-Protected Polyethylene construction. Of course, this means that you do not have to worry about its durability.
Moreover, it comes with an adjustable padded seat and a stable flat bottom to guarantee your comfort while angling.
What we liked about it
You are not going to experience any issues as far as storage with this boat. This is because it comes with storage compartment s as well as fishing rod holders.
Another thing we like about this product is that it features stability chine rails to help ensure that the boat does not topple over whenever you are out fishing.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this unit arrived with dents and scratches, which could have been due to improper packaging. The manufacturer should have simply done a better job with that.
Pros
Thick
Stable
Durable
Cons
Poor packaging
4. Ocean Two Tandem Malibu Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
With this kayak, you get to enjoy the weather while angling since it comes with three seating positions that support paddling solo, and with a child or pet.
It also features a pair of comfortable seats that are not only comfortable but also because they provide better slip prevention compared to other kayak seats.
What we liked about it
As an angler, you can agree with us that the ability to get in and out of your kayak easily plays a crucial role and that is what you get with this one.
You will also realize that this kayak is extremely lightweight once you begin using it and that is a good thing because it makes transportation easy. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Regrettably, this kayak tends to leak which could then cause it to sink. We feel that the manufacturer should have used stronger waterproof material in the construction to avoid this.
Pros
Comfortable
Easy entry and exit
Lightweight
Cons
Questionable quality
5. BKC FK184 9′ Sit-On-Top Kayak
If you are the kind of person that enjoys outdoor time, this is the perfect kayak for you. How so? Simply because it comes with all the features, you need for angling.
Moving on swiftly, this boat comes with fitted rod holders, an adjustable aluminum paddle, and waterproof hatches among other accessories that you will find useful for your next kayaking excursion.
What we liked about it
One thing you need to know about this kayak is that it features a high-density polyethylene construction that works to prolong its lifespan.
Nevertheless, what we loved most about it is that it comes with in-built rod holders to offer convenience and organization.
There is also a waterproof storage area where you can keep your valuables and rest easy knowing that they will be safe and dry.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this product arrived damaged. We feel that the manufacturer could have done a better job with the packaging.
Pros
Storage area
Stable
Comfortable
Cons
Inadequate packaging
6. Pelican 100X Maxim Sit-in Recreational Kayak
You have to consider this kayak if you are looking for something that you can carry around because it is extremely lightweight.
It also comes with a storage hatch that makes organization of fishing gear as well as a mesh deck to cover them.
What we liked about it
Looking at the design of this unit, you will notice that it features a shallow V-shaped hull design that not only offers stability but maneuverability as well.
Moving on swiftly, this kayak comes with a bottle holder, cockpit table, and molded footrests among other things to guarantee your comfort.
What we loved most however is that this unit comes with an adjustable padded backrest to offer better support whenever you are angling.
What Could Have Been Better
Judging from reviews, this product appears to be extremely tippy. We feel that the manufacturer should have put in more work as far as stability to avoid the same.
Pros
Lightweight
Durable
Adjustable backrest
Cons
Not as stable
7. Perception Sit on Top Pescador 12 Fishing Kayak
You do not have to worry about getting wet with this unit, as it is a sit-on-top kayak. Other than that, it is made in the USA, which is known to manufacture great performing boats.
It also features an easy to open front hatch to make it easier for you to get in and out as well as load and offload your fishing gear.
What we liked about it
We can assure you that with this product, you will get superior support as it comes with a comfortable seating system with extra padding.
You do not have to worry about your safety either as this unit features a leak-proof construction with in-built buoyancy.
We love that it is lightweight hence easy to carry and that it comes with convenient accessories such as a drink holder to keep your beverages from spilling.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that they received used and damaged kayaks and we feel that the manufacturer should have been transparent about the same.
Pros
Leak-proof
Comfortable
Drink holder
Cons
Lack of manufacturer transparency
8. Pelican 100 Sit-on-top Prime Recreational Kayak
Carrying this recreational kayak into and out of the water will not be a problem because it is quite lightweight. That is not all though; it features an open cockpit that allows for easy entry and exiting.
Besides, this kayak comes with a rear tank well for storing all your fishing gear.
What we liked about it
Storage is not a problem when it comes to this kayak and by this, we mean that it comes with a paddle tie-down for storing your paddle when it is not in use as well as a bottle holder to keep your drinks.
We love that that it comes with an adjustable seat with extra padding to guarantee maximum comfort while you are out in the water angling.
What Could Have Been Better
Although the product description says that this kayak comes with extra support, some users have come out to complain about how uncomfortable the seat is and how it lacks support.
The manufacturer should have been transparent on the same.
Pros
Adjustable footrests
Lightweight
Thick construction
Cons
Misleading product description
How to Fish From a Kayak
Fishing from a kayak is a bit different compared to shore fishing. Perhaps you do not know how to do it so here are the steps.
Step 1
The first thing you want to do is get a wide-bottomed kayak for stability. Of course, the size of the kayak will depend on your weight and height.
That said; wide, short kayaks are the easiest to control.
Step 2
You then want to determine what kind of fish you want to catch as it will guide you in choosing lures. Since kayaks generally have limited space, you want to have such kind of information while packing.
It is important not to overload your kayak.
Step 3
Next, you want to slide into position using brief paddle strokes. Stealth is one of the greatest advantages of kayak fishing.
As soon as you discover a god spot where fish gather, paddle towards them without splashing as that would alert them of your arrival or scare them away.
Step 4
Now that you have spotted the fish, you want to catch, cast the anchor, and drop it into the water as you hold the line.
Ensure that the anchoring rope is securely tied to both your kayak and the anchor. Firmly grip on the rope as the anchor sinks slowly and wait for it to get to the bottom.
Step 5
Sit up straight and move your arm to cast the line while keeping the rod horizontally positioned in front of you and draw it back rapidly.
As the hook goes over your head, yank the rod forward to throw the line ahead of you. Hold the rod horizontally in front of you again and wait for the fish to bite.
Step 6
As soon as you feel the fish bite, hold the rod up almost in a vertical position to pull the fish in. Ensure that you leave some room in the line because if it is tense, it may snap.
Continue reeling and lowering the rod to reduce any tension. Use a landing net to trap the fish as soon as it gets close to the kayak. Ensure that the fish is in the net before lifting it out of the water.
Step 7
Now that you have your fish, pull the hook out of its mouth before tossing it into ice. You may want to have a pair of pliers with you to help unhook your fish without hurting it.
Get into the mouth and twist the hook until it is pointing at you. Gently pull it out and when you are finished release or store the fish.
Also Read
13 Best Pelican Kayaks
Quality Cheap Kayaks in Review
Why Use a Fishing Kayak?
There is shore fishing and then there is fishing with a kayak. So why should you opt for the latter? Here are a few reasons why.
Deep Waters Easy Access
A fishing kayak allows you as an angler to have better access to deep waters compared to shore fishing.
This also means that with a kayak, you have better chances to catch bigger fish that are found in the deeper parts of water bodies.
Therefore, if you are aiming for the bigger boys, a fishing kayak will come in handy.
Versatility in Use
One thing about fishing kayaks is that they can be used in virtually all kinds of water bodies to catch all kinds of fish species.
Thus, whether you prefer to fish in a pond river, lake, or ocean, you are certainly going to catch walleye, pike, bass, and the like.
However, you will only be limited to the fish available on the shoreline if you decide to do shore fishing.
Great Portability
Another great thing about kayaks is that they are usually lightweight and therefore easy to carry from one place to another.
This comes in handy as you search for different types of fish. As for shore fishing, you are limited to the fish on the shore.
You Get to Explore Water Bodies
Since you can paddle different areas of a water body with a kayak, you also get to enjoy the adventure that comes with that.
There will be no boundaries as to where you can reach or not. You get to explore water bodies and see what is out there.
Tips for Kayak Fishing
You now know what options are available to you when it comes to affordable fishing kayaks. It is now time to learn some basic tips that will make angling with a kayak a walk in the park.
Safety First
It is normal to get excited and want to go overboard when you gain experience as far as angling. However, before you get ahead of yourself, you want to get yourself a personal floatation device.
You want to prioritize safety irrespective of experience, age, or swimming ability. Ensure that you have your PFD on all the time while out in the water and while you are at it, make it a point to attend kayak safety courses offered by accredited personnel.
Purchase Local
Perhaps you do not know this but your local online fishing groups or clubs are the center of kayak fishing. This is where you get to meet like-minded people, engage with them, and learn more about the angling community.
Social media platforms like Facebook also offer a good place to begin learning what your community offers in regards to kayak fishing organizations and groups.
You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that others are willing to encourage, support, and help you through your kayak fishing journey.
Practice Makes Perfect
Everything and everyone has a starting point. Kayaks are not an exception and they have come a long way. Most are comfortable, stable, and even offer the option to stand while fishing.
That said; you will have to encounter Mother Nature, and she will not compromise. If you are new to kayaking and have no idea how to paddle or turn your kayak, it would be wise to practice as much as you can.
You see when you practice regularly, you get to better your skills and even if you do not turn out to be an expert, you will have learned the basics and accustomed to the water.
Know your Resources
There is tons of information out there about kayak fishing. As such, there is no reason why you should be out with your boat not knowing what to do.
Resources like Google Earth and YouTube offer invaluable information when it comes to advise, tactics, tips, and information. You can advance your kayak fishing knowledge simply by opening yourself up to learn new things and such resources can help you much.
It is Never That Serious
Finally, you want to keep in mind that it is easy to experience frustration on and off the water. It could be lost fish, unfavorable weather conditions, or even a rude angler.
Never let that get to you. Kayaking is supposed to be a fun activity where you can disengage and de-stress. You will get to enjoy the sport more by embracing its positive aspects so endeavor to have fun, encourage, and support others.
Frequently Asked Questions
We bet you have several questions when it comes to the best fishing kayak under 700. Sure, we cannot address all of them here but we have tackled a few commonly asked ones that could be of help.
What color should a fishing kayak be?
We tend to see most anglers with fluorescent orange or green kayaks and we believe they picked these colors because of their visibility.
Are kayaks any good for fishing?
Sure, they are. Sit-on-top kayaks in particular are easy to get in and out of and sturdy. This makes them user friendly and functional.
Which is the best fishing kayak?
There are numerous great products in the market so picking one as the best is not possible. Instead, you want to focus on features such as stability, capacity, and durability to help you make the right choice.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick from this list has to be the SUNDOLPHIN Sit-on-top Kayak SS 10-Foot. We chose this particular unit not only because it is the perfect tool for your angling escapades. This kayak is designed for recreational use and you will appreciate that it is lightweight and portable and that it comes with an open cockpit that facilitates easier entry.
Other than that, this boat comes with a built-in storage area where you can keep your angling gear. This kayak also tracks and paddles easily while offering great flexibility.
However, what we loved most about it is that it comes with a comfortable and spacious seating area that gives you enough room to do your thing while out in the water.
Final Thoughts
Fishing should not be a costly endeavor. Not when there are amazing kayaks in the market that can help, you maneuver the waters easily so that you can achieve your end goal hassle-free.
You certainly can get yourself a kayak for less than 700 and with this review at your disposal that should not be so hard.
