Top 7 Best Fishing Kayak Under 700 In 2021

Looking for a spare kayak you can use for casual purposes? Maybe a friend convinced you to go kayaking, but you’re not ready to spend a thousand bucks on a new hobby.

Whatever the case, you’re in good hands.

We’re kayaking enthusiasts too, and we prefer to use high-quality kayaks on our fishing expeditions. That’s why we’ve rounded up 7 of the best fishing kayaks under $700!

As a bonus, we’ll help you choose the best kayak based on factors such as its balance, comfort, and more!

7 Best Fishing Kayaks Under $700 For Determined Angler

1. Perception Pescador 12.0 Kayak: Best Overall

As you may know pescador is the spanish word for fisherman or fisherwoman

What We Like

Where does it even begin? Exceptional stability. High-density polyethylene for enhanced strength. Great tracking abilities. And an adjustable stadium-style mesh seat you can easily adjust so you can sit comfortably for hours.

The Perception Pescador 12.0 has it all, and it covers all the necessary functions a fishing kayak should do: stability, protection, maneuverability, and versatility.

This all-around sit-on-top kayak is ideal for anyone who needs a fishing kayak for multipurpose uses. You can even use the Perception Pescador fishing kayak as a recreational vessel, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Perception is also a leading manufacturer of plastic kayaks, so you’re assured, trusted and reliable quality with this fishing kayak.

It also comes with footrest positions to increase your comfort levels up a notch.

Combined with its mesh seat back, you can choose between an upright position or a relaxed reclined position, so you don’t get tired sitting for hours on end.

What We Didn’t Like

However, it lacks a few characteristics that we felt could’ve made the Pescador Perception even better. For one, its dry storage space is limited, so you can only store a small number of valuables. The rod holders are also unsteady.

On the bright side, the bungee cords are useful if you want to secure larger items, and the built-in skid plate makes it easy to drag this fishing kayak too.

Perception Pescador Series

2. Vibe Skipjack 120 Tandem Kayak: Best Value

What We Like

The Vibe Skipjack 120 Tandem or 120t fishing kayak favors those who want a kayak that can be used for solo fishing purposes or if you enjoy fishing with company.

With a massive weight capacity of 500 lbs, the Vibe 120t fishing kayak can easily hold the weight of two people and any items you want to bring along.

It even comes with a center seat if you want to bring a child along for the ride. Like the Perception Pescador fishing kayak, its construction also features high-density polyethylene, making it durable and long-lasting.

As for its tracking abilities and navigation through water, the Vibe 120t fishing kayak performs fairly well. It’s not the fastest fishing kayak on the water, but it’s still a solid performer overall.

It’s also worth noting that navigating through water isn’t all about speed and your kayak’s ability to maneuver. Storage and comfort are key elements that complement navigation.

In the case of comfort, the Vibe 120t fishing kayak offers plenty of comfort and room for two people to enjoy their fishing experience. Even if you go solo fishing, the added space is an added benefit.

Storage-wise, you have nothing to worry about. You even have cup holders and 4 mounting points for mounting any accessories.

All in all, with 2 flush-mounted rod holders, 2 paddle rests, and 2 bungee paddle parks, there’s no question why the Vibe Skipjack 120t is an excellent value pick among fishing kayaks.

What We Don’t Like

A tandem kayak isn’t for everyone. If you prefer to fish solo, a tandem kayak might not be the best pick for you. Since it also has an occupancy of two people, this makes it a heavy fishing kayak for a single person.

2019 Video But Still A Good Overview Of The Vibe Skipjack 120 Tandem

3. Lifetime Tamarack Muskie 100 Angler Kayak: Best Budget Pick

What We Like

Not only is the Lifetime Tamarack Muskie one of the best fishing kayaks under $700, but it’s even far more affordable than you’d expect! For $399.99, it’s amazingly cheap!

Of course, price isn’t the only appealing quality of the Lifetime Tamarack fishing kayak. Stability and comfort are qualities where the Lifetime Tamarack truly shines.

Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, being a 10-foot fishing kayak and weighing in at only 52 lbs. The lightweight design also gives you the speed you need in water if you prefer to paddle.

Comfort-wise, you have access to multiple footrest positions, an adjustable seat, and paddling support.

The multiple footrest positions are especially beneficial if you get tired after a long fishing expedition or simply want to relax for a bit in open water.

The adjustable seat features a quick-release function, allowing you to fold and hook the seat easily compared to clip-in seats.

Despite being a shorter and lighter fishing kayak, its storage capacity is more than sufficient. Apart from storing valuables, you can ever store larger-sized items like a gearbox, for example.

Furthermore, the integrated skeg attached to its hull design significantly aids the kayak’s tracking abilities and control when navigating through strong winds or currents.

What We Don’t Like

Being a budget-friendly choice, the Lifetime Tamarack has a lot to offer, but it comes with a few downsides, though. The only downside to this sit-on-top fishing kayak is mostly speed-related.

It’s not the fastest, and compared to our top 2 picks mentioned, it lags slightly behind. Nevertheless, the design, quality, and performance of the Lifetime Tamarack Muskie make it worth every penny.

Stability is ok for the price, but don’t standup even if it’s possible and a good exercise, see a demonstration below.

4. Perception Swifty Deluxe 9.5 Kayak

What We Like

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned kayaker, the Perception Swiftly 9.5 fishing kayak provides a decent experience for a reasonable price.

If you’re planning to use your fishing kayak for casual purposes and enjoy fishing in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and calm coastal environments in general, this kayak just might be exactly what you need.

Most of the fishing kayaks we mentioned so far are sit-on-top kayaks; however, the Perception Swiftly classifies itself as a sit-inside kayak.

You might be worried that this differing classification will affect the stability and performance of your fishing kayak.

Actually, sit-inside fishing kayaks will usually come with a large cockpit design. This allows you to enter and exit your kayak with ease. Even better, you’ll be able to make stronger and more efficient paddle strokes.

Now, what about performance? The Perception Swiftly 9.5 fishing kayak offers quick maneuverability, decent tracking abilities, and a stable hull design that makes it perfect for the casual kayaker.

Finally, the oval dry storage hatch and deck rigging also provide additional storage when going on any fishing trip; however, it’s not the best fishing kayak to use if you plan to do an overnight trip and want to bring a lot of fishing gear.

What We Don’t Like

While the Perception Swiftly fishing kayak offers great performance, it’s best suited for casual anglers who prefer to keep their fishing trips simple.

The seat and padding might also be an issue for some. You won’t find any padding to protect your thighs or knees, while the seat back is only fixed in place by an adjustment strap, which can pose a problem for some.

Drawbacks aside, it’s still one of the best fishing kayaks under $700 for beginners.

5. Feelfree Moken 10 Lite Kayak

What We Like

While the Feelfree Moken 10 Lite fishing kayak doesn’t exactly fall as the first pick, it’s features and qualities are enough to make most kayakers happy.

From the name itself “Lite,” the Feelfree Moken 10 features a minimalist, lightweight design that comes with decent storage capacity, comfort, and stability.

Let’s start with its build quality. Made of durable polyethylene, the Feelfree Moken 10 fishing kayak is a solid choice for daily fishing.

As for the essential design elements, the cockpit isn’t very large, so any user with an average height and size should fit in the Feelfree Moken comfortably.

However, the cockpit floor features multiple foot wells allowing users to adjust to several leg-positions, which improves comfort by a slight notch.

Storage-wise, it’s more than what we would have expected considering the Feelfree Moken’s small frame.

What’s more is you can easily access the storage compartments from a seated position, making it more convenient for users to grab ahold of any fishing gear they might need.

Furthermore, the Feelfree Moken fishing kayak allows you to paddle with confidence and ease; however, it’s not as stable if you decide to stand or take it on rough water terrain.

Essentially, the Feelfree Moken is a fishing kayak generally suited to small-water anglers.

With its comfortable ride, great storage capacity, and lightweight design, it’s a decent choice for beginners and those who prefer to fish in calmer, smaller water environments.

What We Don’t Like

Feelfree falls short on its tracking abilities, and due to its small design, it’s quite nimble in water. Although, its keep prevents the Feelfree Moken fishing kayak from wandering way off course.

As mentioned earlier, its stability is also an issue for users who prefer to stand on their kayak. While this may not be an issue for some, if this isn’t your first time buying a fishing kayak, you might want to consider other options.

6. Pelican Mustang 100X Kayak

What We Like

The Pelican Mustang is the only fishing kayak on this list that uses eco-friendly materials in its construction; specifically, 50% of post-consumer recycled materials were used in building this beautifully aesthetic fishing kayak.

A quality that took us by surprise was how light the Pelican Mustang fishing kayak was. Weighing in at only 39 lbs, it’s the lightest fishing kayak under $700 you’ll find.

It’s worth noting, though, that the Pelican Mustang is not a sit-on-top kayak. Instead, it’s quite similar to the Perception Swiftly, which is a sit-inside fishing kayak too.

One thing to say about the Pelican Mustang 100X is how it’s an excellent balance of maneuverability, stability, speed, and tracking. Even with post-recycled materials used, the Pelican Mustang also proved to be quite durable.

Now, what about stability? Being a sit-inside fishing kayak, it provides decent stability; however, standing on this kayak can be challenging. Although, the twin-arched multi-chine hull makes up for most of the lacking stability.

As for the Pelican’s storage compartments, its capacity is fairly adequate, although lacking if you want to go on an overnight fishing trip.

We appreciated the addition of knee padding and a generous cockpit size, making it quite comfortable to sit in for hours. Last but not least, it also comes with 2 fishing rod holders located behind the cockpit.

What We Don’t Like

The only drawback we found was the limited storage capacity. In addition, the Exo pod and back compartment tend to fill up with water, which can be a hassle at times.

Needless to say, considering the Pelican Mustang fishing kayak can hold up to 300 lbs only, it’s perfect if you want a lightweight fishing kayak you can easily carry and transport.

This is also the best fishing kayak under $700 for beginners who enjoy taking casual strolls in the water, meaning it’s an excellent choice as a recreational kayak too!

Quick Visual Review

7. Lifetime Kokanee Tandem Angler Kayak

What We Like

Apart from its reasonable price tag, the Lifetime Kokanee is one of the few fishing kayaks that provides versatility for solo or tandem paddling.

This sit-on-top fishing kayak stands out in regards to stability and the 2 adjustable backrests. First, let’s go over the 2 adjustable backrests.

To the untrained eye, this may seem like any other feature in a tandem kayak. However, you can move the backrest to the center position if you prefer to go on a solo fishing trip. Not many kayaks offer this feature.

Additionally, the comfortable backrests come with multiple footrest positions, giving you the comfort you need, whether you’re paddling alone or alongside someone.

Stability-wise, the Lifetime Kokanee provides exceptional stability. Paired with its UV-protected high-grade polyethylene frame, it’s also sturdy and durable.

As for its storage, you have access to 2 bungee cords, and 2 extra storage hatches to store any additional gear. This makes it even more useful if you plan to go fishing with company.

Overall, the Lifetime Kokanee is a versatile fishing kayak with a build quality and stability performance that provides higher value than expected for its price.

What We Don’t Like

Our primary concern with the Lifetime Kokanee fishing kayak is how heavy it weighs. At 76 lbs, it can be challenging if you decide to carry this kayak on your own.

Do you think you can put more gear than this one ?!

https://youtu.be/c2DkgPtrqNI

How to Shop for the Best Fishing Kayak Under $700

Even with 7 of the best fishing kayaks under $700 for you to choose, there can only be one fishing kayak that stands above the rest.

In this case, we’ve compiled a whole list of features and factors to watch out for when choosing the best fishing kayak under $700.

Type of Kayak

Throughout this review, you’ve heard us mention the terms “sit-on-top” and “sit-inside.” However, there is one more type we haven’t mentioned: inflatable kayak.

Each kayak type serves its respective functions and benefits. Most of all, these kayaks carry differing designs that influence the performance and selection process.

Sit-on-Top Kayak

Being first on the list of kayak types, the sit-on-top kayak is by far the best choice for anglers and delivers superior performance and stability, including when standing atop the kayak.

Sit-on-top kayaks are not only stable but also allow you to move around freely compared to other kayaks. In addition, it’s more beneficial if you have rod holders.

Sit-Inside Kayak

Sit-inside kayaks are less stable than sit-on-top kayaks and are not ideal for users who prefer to stand on top of their kayak when fishing.

However, the advantage of sit-inside kayaks is the drier riding experience. If you frequently paddle in ocean water, we recommend getting a sit-inside kayak.

Furthermore, sit-inside kayaks are more ideal for one person and are useful if you plan to bring large items like a camera.

Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable fishing kayaks are much cheaper than both kayak types. An inflatable kayak is the least recommended option for fishing.

Purchasing an inflatable kayak is ideal if you want to use your kayak casually on the weekends or need a backup kayak when traveling for easier convenience and portability.

Fishing Location

Choosing the best fishing kayak also depends on the location of where you plan to paddle or fish.

Rough water or terrain will require a more durable and stable kayak. Fishing kayaks with poor maneuverability or use low-grade materials are suited for calmer environments or smaller areas like ponds or lakes.

The majority of the fishing kayaks mentioned in this review are made of high-grade polyethylene, ensuring durability and sturdiness against any rocks, strong currents, etc.

We don’t advise using fishing kayaks in whitewater terrain. Although some of the kayaks we mentioned can withstand strong currents, we don’t recommend using a fishing kayak for whitewater kayaking.

Generally speaking, a kayak with a larger and wider frame will offer more buoyancy, durability, and safety than a lightweight and compact kayak.

Depending on your fishing location, a calmer environment should allow lightweight and compact kayaks. For more aggressive environments, choose kayaks with a stable hull design, larger frame, and strong material design.

Tracking Abilities

Kayaks characterized as long and thin will provide better tracking abilities than kayaks with a compact frame.

Longer and thinner kayaks also make it easier to maneuver and pick up more speed. Look for kayaks that include a rudder or keel in their design if you want better tracking abilities.

However, don’t be too focused on tracking that you compromise the sturdiness of your kayak. You wouldn’t want to tip over in the middle of your fishing game, would you?

Size & Weight

Size and weight are often underlooked factors when choosing kayaks. We recommend going for 12 or 14-foot kayaks so that it’s easy for you to steer and control your kayak, along with having additional storage hatches.

Longer kayaks will have more built-in features since manufacturers would want to maximize the usability of the kayak.

More often than not, longer kayaks will have more accessories like fishing rod holders, additional storage hatches, and even cup holders.

As for weight, if you plan to buy a single-person kayak, we recommend the kayak should at least have a 250 lbs weight capacity. In the event, you prefer a kayak that can support two people, go for a weighted capacity of 500 lbs.

Storage

Two accessories you should look out for are hatches and rod holders.
Another one optional but mandatory especially that it cost nothing but can preserve you paddle is a paddle leash.

Hatches are vital to storing any valuables, personal belongings, and your catch of the day. If you plan to fish overnight, for example, you’ll need a good number of hatches to store your gear and all the fish you catch throughout the trip.

We recommend going for kayaks with waterproof hatches for the best storage.

As for rod holders, these may not serve the same functionality as hatches do; however, they’re just as vital in keeping your fishing rod safe. Leaving them on your kayak absent a designated storage place only makes it harder for you and inconvenient.

Comfort

Don’t ever forget comfort! One of the most significant qualities of a great kayak is the seat. Adjustable backrests, good padding, and footrest options are key design elements.

Fishing is a hobby or sport that requires sitting for long hours, and when you have an uncomfortable seat or no footrest option, it’s easy to get frustrated and come home empty-handed.

Kayaks that offer features designed to enhance or improve your comfort level is always a great choice, especially if you want to stand on your kayak from time to time.

This added comfort also makes your kayak versatile, which you’ll undoubtedly need when you’re catching a big game.

Add-ons

Deck mounts, cup holders, carry handles, and anchor systems are some of the few add-ons each kayak uniquely provides.

While kayak add-ons are not as essential as the 6 other factors we mentioned, bonus value is always a great quality to look for.

For example, carry handles add convenience when transporting your kayak.

Imagine dragging a heavy kayak along the shoreline with no handle to grip on. In a sense, a carry handle is one example of what a kayak add-on can do for the kayak’s overall usability.

Our Top Picks For The Best Fishing Kayak Under 700

Our Choice : Perception Pescador 12.0 Kayak

The Perception Pescador is the fishing kayak you always wanted, only now it’s much more affordable and within your budget.

At under $700, the Perception Pescador checks all our boxes from being a sit-on-top kayak down with excellent stability down to great comfort levels.

We only wished it had better storage capacity. Seeing as how it has a weighted capacity of 375 lbs, it’s the best fishing kayak for a single person.

Best Value For Money : Vibe Skipjack 120 Tandem Kayak

The Vibe Skipjack 120 Tandem is your kind of kayak if you’re looking for a larger weight and storage capacity and additional add-ons or features that make it perfect for two people to share.

It’s also very reasonably priced, and considering the features and performance you get, it’s an excellent value pick you can’t go wrong with.

The Best Fishing Kayak Under 500 : Lifetime Tamarack Muskie 100 Angler Kayak

The Lifetime Tamarack may lag slightly behind our other two top picks, but it’s still one of the best fishing kayaks under $700 – no wait, scratch that – under $500 you can get today!

What we love most about the Lifetime Tamarack is its lightweight frame and excellent comfortability, making this ideally suitable for beginners and casual kayakers.

Overall, this 10-foot kayak fulfills most of our expectations and is one of the best fishing kayaks you can opt for if you’re on a tight budget.

Conclusion

We hope our review on the best fishing kayaks was able to help you choose your preferred pick! Before you go, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below!

See Also :
– Anglers Only : 5 Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak Reviews
– Life Jacket : Ultimate Guide