Fishing can be a really fun-filled activity, notwithstanding whether you’re a novice or an expert. If you’re a sucker for angling, then you need to get yourself a good fishing kayak. Usually, fishing kayaks do not come cheap, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t good ones within a budget. If you want to really invest in value-for-money craft, then consider the best fishing kayaks under 700. After all, spending as much as $1000 might not be the best idea, especially if you’re just starting out with fishing or if it’s a hobby you indulge in non-frequently. Budget fishing kayaks that cost no more than $700 allow you to indulge in a hobby, make it a frequent one, and get used to the craft as well.
Thus, if you’re looking to get functionality from your kayak as well as the best value for your money, then you might want to check out this list. To that end, here are the 13 best fishing kayaks under $700.
How To Choose The Best Fishing Kayaks Under 700?
To be very honest, most budget kayaks don’t have much to offer. However, there are a few hidden gems that that can deliver exactly what you need for a flawless fishing experience. It’s these options that we bring to you in this article, but not before considering many significant factors. So, what are these critical aspects? Read on.
Are you looking for a really budget craft? Then, you might also want to consider looking up the Best Inflatable Kayaks For Under $500.
Size and weight capacity
Kayaks need to be chosen for their size and carrying capacity, and so, you’ll need to consider both aspects with respect to you. If you’re looking for a tandem kayak, then you’ll need to consider the size and weight of all people who’re going to be onboard the boat. In addition, you’ll also need to consider the weight of your fishing and other gear. The last thing you want is a kayak that could possibly tip over in the water due to your weight.
Inflatable/hardshell
After you’ve had your multi-day vacation of water fun, you’ll need to store the kayak away. Hence, it’s important to think of how much space you have for that. If you’re an urban dweller and suffer from the banality of limited storage space, you’ll want an inflatable kayak that’s lightweight and compact. Moreover, inflatable kayaks can be folded up into a small, portable size that can also be stored easily. On the other hand, if you have a garage space where you can actually store your kayak, then maybe a hardshell is the one for you. Usually, the best fishing kayaks under 700 are inflatable ones, but this list has a hardshell one for less than $700 too.
Going further, you’ll also need to consider portability, that is how to get the kayak from the vehicle to the shore and back frequently. If that’s the case, then you’ll want something that’s lightweight – that means inflatable or origami kayaks. In that case, you might also want to check out Best Foldable Kayaks as well.
Comfort features
When it comes to angling for days out on the water, then comfort is key. Moreover, comfort also decided whether you get to have a possibly fruitful fishing season or not. Additionally, you’d also want your kayak to come equipped with all the possible comfort-ridden features as possible. For instance, you need to check whether your seats are padded, adjustable, and comes with foot paddles for legroom. Also look for other features such as a cup holders, rod holders for hands-free fishing, bungee for tying up your gear, etc.
Functional storage
Generally, you’ll need kayaks with a higher storage capacity, whether it’s to carry a ton of fishing gear or to enjoy those multi-day kayaking trips. While some kayaks come with massive storage areas, others come with really small ones that you don’t want to end up with. What’s more, many good kayaks come with sealed, watertight storage compartments that keep your gear bone dry. This is very important especially if you’re carrying clothes and sleeping bags.
Boat warranty
Finally, any kayak that’s worth its salt should come with a warranty that covers any malfunctions that might occur within the stipulated period. Thus, you won’t need to pay for unforeseen repairs or replacements out of your pocket at least immediately after purchasing your kayak. Even fishing kayaks that cost less than 700 come with warranties, so watch out for them.
Which is the best value-for-money fishing kayak under 700?
Each and every fishing kayak on this list of crafts costing less than $700 are on this list for their many excellent features for the price they’re available for. If we were to pick one, we’d go for the Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak. Costing all of $120, this kayak’s hull is resistant to UV rays, saltwater, and scratches and dents. It even comes with a repair kit for patching up scuffs during unforeseen incidents. What’s more, this kayak is ready to use and can be inflated and deflated within minutes. Finally, the craft sports a gorgeous design that makes it visible no matter what kind of waters you’re fishing in.
Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak
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Few fishing kayaks can fit three adults, and there are even fewer that also feature on the list of best fishing kayaks under 700. The Sevylor Big Basin 3-Person Kayak is one such craft, and also happens to be amongst the Best Family Inflatable Kayaks as well. Best suited for flatwater scenarios, this heavy-duty kayak features a rugged and tough PVC tarpaulin construction making it resistant to punctures, tears, and rips. What’s more, it’s very stable and tracks just as well as a traditional hardshell kayak. The three air chambers make it virtually unsinkable, while the integrated front and back airtight splash guards keep you all dry and comfortable. Finally, the kayak has a whopping weight capacity of 490 lbs, despite weighing just 35 lbs.
While it might best be suited for shorter adults, there’s no denying that this kayak which costs all of $400 is one worthy investment. Finally, thanks to the double-threaded Boston Valves, inflation and deflation is a mere 10-minute and rather painless and hassle-free task.
Specifications
- Capacity: 3
- Weight capacity: 490 lbs
- Weight: 35 lbs
Pros:
- Leak-proof and unsinkable.
- Easy to inflate and deflate.
- Perfect for the family.
- Integrated splash guards.
Cons:
- Not suited for whitewater.
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Sun Dolphin Aruba Sit-in Kayak (CU)
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Another best fishing kayak under $700 is also one of the Best Beginners’ Kayaks is the Sun Dolphin Aruba Sit-in-Kayak. This well-designed Sun Dolphin product is simple yet elegant, and that’s what makes it such an excellent beginner’s kayak. Besides that, there’s a lot to like about this craft, such as the excellent and expansive cockpit space with a well-cushioned, padded, and adjustable seat. Moreover, it even has a high backrest and adjustable foot braces, allowing you to be comfortable for even an all-day fishing jig. Designed from sturdy, UV-resistant, and high-density polyethylene Fortiflex material, the kayak is resistant to rips, tears, and whatnot.
Albeit it looks compact, the kayak even has a ton of storage space at both the rear and the front. What’s more, there’s even a shock cord rigging to attach all your gear, including even fishing gear. You’ll also find well-molded carrying ahndles to transport the boat ebtween the vehicle and the water and even a water-bottle holder.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Weight: 40 lbs
Pros
- Easy to transport and lightweight.
- Lots of storage.
- Adjustable foot braces and seat with back support.
- Spacious cockpit.
- Durable and stable.
Cons
- The kayak’s plastic edges are rather sharp.
Lifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle
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One of the best fishing kayaks under 700 is the Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-top Kayak with Paddle. The kayak addresses not one but two of the most essential features of good kayaks – tracking performance and safety. This one boasts a high-density polyethylene construction and is famed for both its UV resistance and durability. At the same time, it’s extremely stable and can track safely and in a straight line on the water, especially flatwater. Thanks to multiple footrest positions, you feel very comfortable when you sit in the kayak, or rather on it. What’s more, you’ll also find an adjustable seat, complete with a backrest for additional comfort.
The kayak does well with storage too, thanks to the bungee cord lacing on the front and the tank well storage for stashing all your additional gear. What’s more, the kayak is also very lightweight and has center carry handles, making it convenient to carry from your vehicle to the waterfront and back. At $365, this kayak is one bargain.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Weight: 38 lbs
Pros
- Comes with double-sided paddles.
- Has tons of storage.
- Adjustable seat with footrest and backrest.
- Durable and lightweight.
Cons
- The backrest isn’t padded.
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Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
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Another excellent fishing kayak under $700 is the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak, which costs just around $430-460. If this is your first time fishing from a kayak are you’re budget-conscious, then this kayak is rather perfect for you. public. That said, the kayak and its features are anything but budget ones. For one, it is the epitome of comfort thanks to the adjustable seat along with the padded back, allowing you to angle comfortably all day. Moreover, there’s also a ton of storage space in the form of two storage hatches, one at the front and one at the back.
Meanwhile, the kayak also features a nifty paddle cradle when you can stash your paddle while you’re grabbing a quick bite or you’re reeling in the fish. Plus, the two flush-mounted rod holders and top-mount rod holder allow securing the pole to the craft too.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs
- Weight: 52 lbs
Pros:
- Adjustable and padded seats.
- Two flush-mounted rod holders for hands-free fishing.
- Two storage compartments and paddle cradles with elastic cords for storing and tying gear.
Cons:
- Not designed for use in whitewater.
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Airhead Montana Kayak Two Person Inflatable Kayak
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Many of the best fishing kayaks under 700 that can take on Class III whitewater rapids cost a bomb, but not the Airhead Montana Tandem Inflatable Kayak. The nine-feet-long kayak costs all of $450 and features a semi-rigid PVC construction. What’s more, it even has a tubular I-beam floor that makes even standing up possible. It also makes the kayak extremely durable, which means it’ll last you years to come. Plus, it’s really easy to inflate and deflate, which means that it’s also very lightweight and extremely portable. Comfort-wise, the kayak also features a nice seat with adjustable footrests and back support that makes you comfortable out on the water.
The three air chambers of the Montana kayak make it virtually unsinkable in the face of rips, tears, and punctures. Other features include strong carrying handles at both ends, six D-rings for attaching gear. Finally, you’ll also find threaded drain hold and plug as well as spray covers at both ends to prevent water splashes.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Weight: 27.7 lbs
Pros:
- Affordable and reasonably priced.
- Drain hole.
- Good tracking and performance.
- Quick inflation and deflation.
- Comfortable, yet durable and strong.
Cons:
- Paddles and pump aren’t included.
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Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak
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It’s not surprising to see the Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak on this list of best fishing kayaks under $700; after all, it costs just $120! Ideally designed for flatwater, this ready-to-use kayak is as simple as it’s elegant. All you need to do is get the craft to the water and push off, and you’re off. The fun, sporty design of the kayak is highly visible, allowing you to even fish in waters with lots of powerboats crisscrossing. At the same time, the design is coated with a strong coating that’s resistant to both saltwater and the sun and UV rays.
Not only is the kayak easy to paddle but can also be inflated and deflated easily due to the presence of the Intex high-output pump. Plus, the kayak also comes with a repair kit and is easy to patch up in case of unfortunate rips, tears, or punctures. Rounding up the features are the two high-quality aluminum paddles that allow for easy paddling.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Weight: 33.5 lbs
Pros:
- Portable and maneuverable.
- Made from tough, UV-resistant material.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Not suited for whitewater.
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Lifetime Manta Tandem Fishing Kayak (CU)
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If you’re looking for the best tandem fishing kayak under 700, then look no further than the Lifetime Manta Tandem Fishing Kayak. This kayak offers a lot of bang for the buck, costing just below $500. To begin with, the tandem kayak has a whopping weight capacity of 500 lbs. Secondly, its unique tunnel hull design equips the craft with ultimate stability making it virtually impossible to tip over. Next, the kayak boasts elevated seats that keep the paddlers from getting sprayed on by water, complete with comfort due to adjustable footrests. Moreover, the scupper holes drain any water that enters the kayak.
However, that’s not all. The kayak boasts a ton of features that make it such a value-for-money cincher. These include push-button on paddles for adjustment, carry handles for transporting the craft, and bottle holder and ditty trays for holding odds and ends. Rounding up the features are the contoured seats, paddle cradle to secure the paddles, and backrests for comfort.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-3
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Weight: 66 lbs
Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight for a big craft.
- Stable and durable.
- Stable with excellent tracking performance.
- In-built paddle cradles for stowing paddles.
Cons:
- No dry storage area.
Sun Dolphin Excursion 10-Foot Sit-in Fishing Kayak
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One of the best hassle-free fishing kayaks under $700 is the Sun Dolphin Excursion Sit-in Fishing Kayak. It’s hassle-free because it’s packed with all features a beginner would ever want, making it one amazing all-around starting kayak. To begin with, you’ll find two flush-mounted holders at the back, one swivel-mounted holder, and three rod holders too. What’s more, the Excursion keeps you nice and steady and tracks equally nicely. Furthermore, you even have a few good options for storage space. You not only have a rear storage hatch, but also space behind and beneath the seat.
In case you want to take a break or grab a bite, then the three rod holders are a huge blessing. Handling and maneuvering the kayak is an absolute joy. Finally, what helps is that the kayak comes with a two-year warranty. All this is available for a price that’s less than $500. What more could you want?
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Weight: 40 lbs
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable, so very easy to carry.
- A ton of storage options.
- Very stable.
Cons:
- The seat bottom isn’t padded.
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Sun Dolphin Sportsman – 2 Man Fishing Boat (CU)
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One of the best solid fishing kayaks under 700 is the Sun Dolphin Sportsman, which features both front and rear motor mounts for excellent tracking. The boat comes pre-wired for electric trolling motors and meets both CE and US Coast Guard standards. Moreover, the deck and the hull of the boat is coated well for protection from saltwater and UV rays of the sun. Despite being a hard kayak, the craft sits easily in the back of any truck or can even be tied atop your car. The kayak even features a flat bottom for getting in and out of shallow water.
It features the swivel seats that are adjustable and removable and provide a great pleasure when you are fishing. If you don’t mind and are in fact looking for a hardshell kayak, then this is the one.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Weight: 100 lbs
Pros:
- Sturdy hull that’s UV-resistant and non-slippery.
- Removable and adjustable swivel seats.
- Front and back motor mounting system.
- Convenient handles for simple transport.
Cons:
- Larger and taller people might find the deck space inadequate.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak
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The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak is not only the best fishing kayak under $700 but also one of the Best Tandem Inflatable Kayaks as well. To begin with, the kayak boasts an excellent and rather robust three-layered build that’s both anti-ripping and anti-leaking. So, you can rest assured that this craft will get you safely to the shore. Secondly, the kayak has a whopping capacity of 550 lbs, which means it can easily seat two adults. Going further, it packs down in a super-small carry bag to just 52 lbs, making it one of the most portable kayaks ever. Plus, it comes all pre-assembled, which means all you need to do is unfold it, inflate it, and attach the two very comfortable padded adjustable seats.
In addition to the above, the kayak features in-built aluminum ribs both on the stern and the bow that improve tracking. What’s more, you’ll also find six chambers and a skeg tracking fin for stability, molded low-profile rubber handles, and even an integrated pressure relief valve. Finally, the deck lacing and D-ring tie-downs are perfect for both tying gear and carrying the kayak. And all this is available for a price of exactly $699.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2
- Weight capacity: 550 lbs
- Weight: 52 lbs
Pros:
- The seats are adjustable, removable, comfortable, and padded.
- Portable.
- Lightweight and durable.
Cons:
- Slightly time-consuming to clean and dry out.
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Perception Sit on Top Pescador 12 Fishing Kayak
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Your perception of the best fishing kayak under 700 will change with the Perception Sit-on-top Pescador Fishing Kayak – pun intended. Despite being one of the longest kayaks on this list, the Pescador can be packed and transported easily and has a minimum footprint. That said, there are a lot of things to like about this kayak. To begin with, it’s the only kayak that has a seat that’s not only removable but also adjustable on two levels. So, it can be raised for casting your rod and bait better and can be lowered for relaxed paddling as well. Furthermore, the seat boasts a breathable mesh, which allows you to stay cool when you’re out on a hot day on the water.
In addition to the above, the Pescador kayak has a bevy of comfort-providing features. For one, it has quick-to-adjust footrests as well as two integrated rod holders for fishing in a hands-free manner. What’s more, the front and rear storage can hold lots of gear, including your sleeping bag, clothes, and even fishing gear. Rounding up the features are the paddle park feature, fish finder console, and a molded-in cup holder.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs
- Weight: 57 lbs
Pros:
- Adjustable and comfortable seat.
- A ton of extras such as rod holders, paddle park, fishfinder console, and footrests.
- Expansive storage areas.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Heavy.
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BKC FK184 Sit-On-Top Kayak
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If you want the best fishing kayak under $700 for a solo fishing trip, then the BKC FK184 Sit-on-Top Kayak is for you. The kayak comes with a whopping seven rod holders! So, no matter whether you’re grabbing a bite or clicking pictures of the surrounding scenery, you can rest assured of a stupendous catch! Additionally, the kayak features four carrying handles, allowing you to easily transport it between the vehicle and the shore. Thanks to the waterproof storage hatches, all the gear you’ll carry, including your fishing gear, sleeping bags and even clothes will remain dry. What’s more, you’ll even find a bungee cord where you can tie some extra gear down.
One of the best parts about the craft is that the storage hatches are located right between your legs beneath the seat, making them very accessible for accessing or stashing stuff. Thanks to the high-quality memory foam seat, the adjustable aluminum paddle, and two paddle parks, you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable fishing trip on this kayak – all for an investment of less than $700.
Specifications
- Capacity: 1
- Weight capacity: 330 lbs
- Weight: 44 lbs
Pros:
- Features a bungee cord for tying gear.
- Has seven rod holders.
- Comes with tons of storage space.
Cons:
- Not suitable for whitewater.
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Ocean Tandem Malibu Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak (CU)
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Topping the list for the best fishing kayaks under 700 is the Ocean Tandem Malibu Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak. The reliable kayak boasts excellent stability with decent top speed and an expansive open deck with lots of room to sprawl out. Designed from durable and rugged polyethylene plastic, the craft is resistant to scratches, dents, saltwater, and UV rays. Despite not having a rudder, the kayak has a solid turn radius too. Moreover, the well-padded back and bottom of the seats make it easy to stay in the water all day long.
In addition to the above, the seats are fully and completely adjustable which, when combined with multiple footwells allow you to comfortably adjust yourself in the craft. Overall, the kayak tracks well, keeps you and your gear dry, and will last you for a long time.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2
- Weight capacity: 375-425 lbs
- Weight: 57 lbs
Pros:
- Seats are removable and adjustable.
- Excellent stability.
- Versatile, lightweight, and portable.
Cons:
- Not suited for whitewater.
