10 Best Fishing Kayaks Under 400

If you’re on the lookout for the best fishing kayaks under 400, you may find yourself wondering –  “Are fishing kayaks worth it?” 

Well, it depends. If you are simply a casual kayaker, you may not need to get yourself a fishing kayak. 

But if you are an experienced angler (i.e.someone who fishes recreationally with a rod & fishing line) and would like to experience a new thrilling fishing experience (like a real fisherman) in open water then I highly recommend that you invest in a well-built fishing kayak!

DISCLOSURE: The links on this page may be affiliate links, from which I earn a small commission if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. I hope you find the information here useful. Thanks!

Here in this article, I will share my 10 best fishing kayaks under 400:

1. Sevylor Quikpak K1

2. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

3. Classic Cumberland 

4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

5. Intex Excursion Inflatable Boat Series

6. Wistar Fishing Inflatable Kayak Float

7. LAZZO Inflatable Kayak Float

8. LOBOTOU Inflatable Boat

9. Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat Series

10. Hydro-Force Koracle Inflatable Kayak

Related Posts:

What’s The Difference Between A Traditional Kayak And A Fishing Kayak?

Best Fishing Kayak Under 400

A fishing kayak is often built with more features than a standard kayak to provide a better fishing experience for its users.

One of the essential elements when looking for the best fishing kayak is to make sure that the kayak’s design is very stable.

But are fishing kayaks more stable than actual kayaks?

Generally, a stable fishing kayak should have a wider design (ideally more than 3 ft wide) and have enough space so that you can even stand on your kayak when fishing.

Check out this video here (see it for yourself) if you want to know how stable fishing kayaks are. 

AT A GLANCE: KAYAK COMPARISON

Standard KayakFishing Kayak
Width Dimension10-13 feet long
& 2 -3 ft  wide
Ideally below 10 feet long & more than 3 ft wide
Paddle SystemUse your hand to paddle.Traditional Fishing Kayak: Use your hand to paddle (like a regular kayak).
Modern Fishing Kayak:  Use a pedal-powered system using feet.

Rule of thumb: The shorter & wider your kayak = more stability on the water surface (better fishing experience).

Top 10 Best Fishing Kayaks Under 400 

Who said fun has to be expensive?

Fishing kayaks do not have to be that expensive if you know where to find the best deals. 

If you are just starting this new hobby, fear not! I have listed the top 10 best fishing kayaks under 400 for beginners. 

I have even listed down some of the best fishing kayaks under $300!  (this is great for new beginners on a tight budget!) so keep reading through the list below to find these gems!

For Beginner Kayakers: Best Fishing Kayak Under $400

1. Sevylor Quikpak K1

best sit-on-top kayaks under $400

This kayak is one of the best sit-on-top kayaks under $400 that is inflatable and is excellent for fishing because it is very stable and can hold a maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs / 181kg.

Plus, this kayak is travel-friendly as you can set up and use its backseat as a backpack. This kayak is also one of the best fishing kayaks under 400 for big guys as it can accommodate a maximum weight of 400 lbs / 181kg for an individual.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 265 cm (8.7 ft) 
  • Width : 92 cm (3 ft)
  • Weight: 18 lbs / 8.1kg
  • Weight capacity: 400 lbs / 181kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-on-top Kayak

What We Like:

  • Quick 5-minute setup
  • Travel-friendly as they have backpack set-up & light material
  • Has drink holder and rod holder
  • Affordable price

What We Don’t Like:

  • It can get drifted away (light material)

2. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

 best fishing kayaks for big guys

Consider getting this kayak if you’d like to enjoy fishing and kayaking with a friend or partner. This kayak is very stable and is great for lakes and mild rivers.

I personally like this kayak, thanks to its cute color scheme (it kind of looks like a banana! Comment if you agree!)

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 313 cm (10.3 ft) 
  • Width : 92 cm (3 ft)
  • Weight: 30.6 lbs / 13.8 kg
  • Weight capacity: 400 lbs / 181kg
  • Seat Capacity : 2 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What We Like:

  • Spacious & comfortable for 2 person
  • Bright color = higher visibility (in case of emergency)
  • Removable skeg (a tool like ‘fin,’ used for direction in water)

What We Don’t Like:

  • It may take a longer time to inflate & deflate
  • It can be hard to control when paddling (light material)

3. Classic Cumberland 

best fishing kayaks under $300

This float isn’t your typical kayak, but it can still be considered one of the practical & fun float kayaks to try, especially for beginners in fishing. The features are pretty decent, and the pricing is fairly reasonable.

It is highly recommended that you use this float at lakes or shallow rivers.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 142 cm ( 4.6 ft ) 
  • Width* : 46 cm ( 1.5 ft) (seating measurement*)
  • Weight: 14 lbs / 6.3 kg
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs / 113 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Kayak Tube

What We Like:

  • Has 2 fishing rod holders & 2 drink holders
  • Has thick padded seats with an adjustable backrest
  • Has additional storage
  • Has fish ruler so you can measure your prized fish

What We Don’t Like:

  • No paddle in the set (have to buy separately)
  • Limited space to move around

4. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

best fishing kayaks under $300

Now, if you and your partner or friends are very serious about getting yourselves into fishing and kayaking, then consider this Excursion Pro kayak.

It’s slightly more expensive than Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, but it is one of the best fishing kayaks under 400 for a 2-person inflatable kayak.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 387 cm (12.7 ft) 
  • Width : 94 cm (3.1 ft)
  • Weight: 39 lbs / 17.6 kg
  • Weight capacity: 400 lbs / 180 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 2 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What We Like:

  • Has 2 integrated fishing rod holders
  • Has removable skeg
  • Has booster pad (for elevated seating)
  • Better quality material
  • Listed as Amazon’s best choice

What We Don’t Like:

  • It may take a while to inflate/deflate
  • Very long and may take up a lot of storage space

5. Intex Excursion Inflatable Boat Series

 best fishing kayaks for big guys

If you want to bring your pals for fishing while kayaking (I’m talking about more than 2 people), then you certainly can’t miss out on this amazing kayak! 

This enormous inflatable kayak can accommodate up to 5 persons, and some people would even customize this piece. You can even mount a motor (recommended to install an engine with a maximum of 1.5 horsepower). 

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 366 cm (12 ft) 
  • Width : 168 cm (5.6 ft)
  • Weight: 55 lbs / 25 kg
  • Weight capacity: 1320 lbs / 600 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 5 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What We Like:

  • Have 4 Fishing Rod Holder
  • Customizable
  • Very spacious and comfortable

What We Don’t Like:

  • It may take a while to inflate/deflate
  • It can be harder to paddle due to its size and occupancy
  • It comes with a hand pump (best that you get a battery-operated pump)

6. Wistar Fishing Inflatable Kayak Float

 best fishing kayaks for big guys

If you’re looking for something similar to a Cumberland float but with more features, then check out this Wistar Fishing Inflatable Kayak Float! (It’s basically an upgraded version)

This robust-looking kayak float is great for those already experienced in kayaking and fishing. 

Consider this as one of the best fishing kayaks for big guys as it can hold up to a maximum weight capacity of 350 lbs / 158.7 kg for an individual user.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 170 cm (5.5 ft) 
  • Width : 100 cm (3.2 ft)
  • Weight: 27.75 lbs / 12.59 kg
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs / 158.7 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Float Kayak

What We Like:

  • Has 2 paddles
  • Has thick padded seats with an adjustable backrest
  • Has additional storage with 2 cargo pockets
  • Has fish ruler so you can measure your prized fish

What We Don’t Like:

  • Limited space

7. LAZZO Inflatable Kayak Float

best fishing kayaks under $300

Ultimately, if you are looking for the best deal for fishing kayak floats, then this kayak could be the one for you.

For its price, you will get: 

  • 1 kayak float
  • 2 paddle sticks
  • 1 pair of flippers 
  • 1 rod holder, 
  • 1 waterproof storage bag
  • 1 air hand pump. 

Now that’s a bargain!

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 130 cm ( 4.2 ft) 
  • Width : 42 cm (1.3 ft)
  • Weight: 19.75 lbs / 8.96 kg
  • Weight capacity: 286 lbs / 130 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Kayak Tube

What We Like:

  • A lot of free items are included in this purchase 
  • Easy to carry with shoulder strap
  • has fish ruler so you can measure your prized fish

What We Don’t Like:

  • The free air hand pump (this can be physically exhausting. As such it is best that you get an automatic air pump)
  • Limited space to move around

8. LOBOTOU Inflatable Boat

best fishing kayaks under 400

You should consider this inflatable kayak boat, especially if you plan to use a kayak on a quick trip with your friends or family.

However, do note that it’s pretty heavy to bring out these inflatable kayak boats due to their size.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 230 cm (7.5 ft) 
  • Width : 128 cm (4.2 ft)
  • Weight: 41 lbs / 18.5 kg
  • Weight capacity: 512 lbs / 235 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 2-3 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Boat Kayak

What We Like:

  • Very spacious and comfortable
  • Include patches (in case of emergency)
  • Great for a small family

What We Don’t Like:

  • Takes a while to inflate/deflate due to its size

9. Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat Series

fishing kayaks you can stand on

Here’s an affordable option for those who are interested in looking for fishing kayak boats. The Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat Series may be just the right choice for you. 

Spanning over 11.5 feet long, this kayak boat can accommodate up to 4 persons in one session, which is great for camping or casual water activities with friends/family.

I suppose this might be one of the best fishing kayaks under 400 you can stand on as it has a wide dimension (more than 3 ft long), and you can even customize it as a standing fishing deck.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 350 cm ( 11.5 ft ) 
  • Width : 144.7 cm (4.7 ft)
  • Weight:  46 .2 lbs / 21 kg
  • Weight capacity: 1050 lbs / 476 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 4 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What We Like:

  • Has 2 fishing rod holders
  • Can mount a motor (recommended to install an engine with a maximum of 1.5 horsepower). 
  • It comes with a repair pouch, 2 aluminum paddle sticks, hi-output pump
  • Customizable into a makeshift fishing boat

What We Don’t Like:

  • Takes a while to inflate/deflate due to its size
  • Quite heavy to carry

10. Hydro-Force Koracle Inflatable Kayak

Best Fishing Kayak Under 400

Lastly, if you’re looking for an affordable inflatable sit-on-top kayak, then look no further, as this may be the right kayak for you!

This bright neon green kayak is a great choice, especially for beginners (thanks to its compact size and affordable pricing) and big guys (as it has a heavy maximum weight capacity: 331 lbs / 150 kg).

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 270 cm ( 8.8 ft) 
  • Width : 99 cm ( 3.2 ft)
  • Weight: 19.9 lbs / 9 kg
  • Weight capacity: 331 lbs / 150 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-on-top Kayak

What We Like:

  • Affordable price
  • You get additional items (air pump, removable fins, aluminum paddle oars)
  • Built-in rod holder and backrest
  • Bright color = better visibility (in case of emergency)

What We Don’t Like:

  • No storage bag
  • Thinner Material 

For Advanced User: Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000

Now, if you can consider yourself as an experienced angler and you would like to have a bit more fun with your gear, then you should consider these fishing kayaks:

Best Fishing Kayak Under 500

Well, there’s certainly a lot of kayaks in the market, but if you want to get the best deal under $500, then you should check out this kayak: Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak.

Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 332 cm (10.9 ft) 
  • Width : 100 cm (3.2 ft)
  • Weight: 41 lbs / 19 kg
  • Weight capacity: 470 lbs / 213 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 2 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What We Like:

  • Has 4-rod holders with an additional pocket for storage
  • Very spacious and comfortable
  • It comes with a removable skeg
  • Has room to mount trolling motor

What We Don’t Like:

  • Take a while to inflate/deflate due to its size
  • Quite heavy to carry

Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

If you have a slightly bigger budget for the best deals for fishing kayaks that are under $1000, then I’m happy to share this amazing deal with you.

This kayak is undoubtedly one of the best fishing kayaks you can find: Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak.

Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000

This kayak is great for any fishing style and suitable for shallow water.

Kayak Detail Specification:

  • Size Length : 307 cm ( 10.1 ft) 
  • Width : 100 cm ( 3.3 ft)
  • Weight: 40 lbs / 17.7 kg
  • Weight capacity: 400 lbs / 181 kg
  • Seat Capacity : 1 person
  • Type of Kayak : Inflatable Sit-In Kayak

What we like:

  • Has 2-rod holders with an additional pocket for storage
  • Very spacious and comfortable
  • Has adjustable EVA seats and footrests
  • Highly durable material

What we don’t like:

  • Requires proper storage

Essential Accessories When Fishing On A Kayak

Best Fishing Kayak Under 400

Now that you have a fishing kayak, you certainly need to get these essential accessories so that you can immediately start fishing while kayaking!

Some of the best fishing kayak accessories out there include:

Fishing Rods

If you are looking for the best kayak fishing rod, check out this Magreel fishing rod set.

best kayak fishing rod

I genuinely believe that this is the best fishing rod (especially for beginners) because you will also receive a complete fishing kit which consists of:

This fishing rod is great because it offers multiple length sizes as well

Trolling Motors

A trolling motor is one of the essential tools amongst fellow long-distance anglers. 

It is a small yet quiet motor that can be attached to your fishing boats/kayaks and can help you move from one location to another discreetly. 

If you use a standard outboard engine, it will be very loud, and you will risk scaring nearby fish.

Hence, getting a good fishing kayak trolling motor is highly recommended. 

fishing kayak trolling motor

You can check out this kayak trolling motor if you wish to go long-distance for your kayak fishing experience.

FAQs

Best Fishing Kayak Under 400

What Is The Most Stable Kayak For Fishing?

The Lifetime Kayak Fishing brand is regarded as the most stable on the market since it is lighter in weight and has a long hull than any other kayak available on the market. Malibu kayaks and vibe kayaks are also well-known for being among the most stable kayaks available on the market.

What Type Of Kayak Is Best For A Fisherman?

A sit-on-top kayak is an ideal option for fishermen since any water caught in the kayak will be drained swiftly out of the scupper holes at the bottom of the kayak. Their open design enables easy access as well as provides space to place extra items; such as a kayak fish finder, fishing rod, and etc.

Conclusion 

As you can see from this article, fishing while kayaking doesn’t have to be expensive.

I hope you may have found the kayak that you’d like to buy based on my list of best fishing kayaks under $400 here.

So, go ahead and get that dream fishing kayak of yours! 

Don’t forget, always be mindful of your natural surroundings and never compromise safety features.

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