Fishing is a pastime as old as some civilizations, and older than others. The world as a whole has poured enormous resources into creating the best possible gear for catching anything that swims, from miniature rods for children to the massive factory ships that meet the world’s demand for pelagic fish.
Sport fishing may not be on that scale, but there is no denying that it has been given considerable thought over the years. Not least of the many pieces of gear created for recreational fishers is the fishing kayak, intended to be the compact and lightweight answer to how to get into deeper water for better access to the largest catches.
Everyone wants to be sure they have a good boat under them, especially when it will have to withstand the rigors of large, struggling fish. A large rowboat or canoe is the answer for most people, with considerable space for gear and plenty of stability to go around
Some anglers, though, want a more personal time on the water, and opt for specially made fishing kayaks. These might be more modern, but there is no need to break the bank on a sturdy craft for your hobby. Here are five good fishing kayaks for less than $600 each.
Our Best Product Reviews and Comparisons
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EDITOR’S CHOICE  |
1. Sevylor Coleman Colorado
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RUNNER UP  |
2. Sun Dolphin Journey
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3. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
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4. Emotion 90259 Renegade XT
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5. Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
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1.Sevylor Coleman Colorado
Product Highlights
Use this budget kayak to go fishing either by yourself or with a partner.
Features
- Two seats allow buddying up – a sound practice on the water
- 840D nylon covering
- 1000D tarpaulin bottom
- 18-gauge PVC construction
What We Like About Sevylor Coleman Colorado
With two seats, this kayak can safely hold an effective team of two or pack extra gear and bait buckets.
What We Don’t Like About Sevylor Coleman Colorado
The nylon cover can deteriorate quickly when not properly stored and maintained.
PROS
- Extra seat
- Offset rod holders
- Integrated paddle brackets
- Multiple air chambers prevent sinking from puncture
- Heavy materials withstand wear from mud and rocks
CONS
- Nylon elements are not resilient in long term use
- Instructions are unclear and badly illustrated
2.Sun Dolphin Journey
Product Highlights
This compact kayak is made for convenience off the water as well as speed while afloat.
Features
- 10 feet long
- 250 lb capacity
- Weighs 44 lbs
- High density polyethylene construction
What We Like About Sun Dolphin Journey
Open cockpit and adjustable pads and straps allow for maximum user comfort and convenience on the water.
What We Don’t Like About Sun Dolphin Journey
The cross section is only 29 inches, rendering it somewhat unstable in rough conditions.
PROS
- Portable accessory carrier for extra storage
- Thigh pads and foot braces
- Three rod holders – two flush mounted, one swivel
- Self-bailing mechanism
- Water bottle holder
CONS
- Narrow cross-section is unstable for entry, exit, or rough conditions
- Self-bailing system occasionally takes on water as well. This will not sink the boat, but it is a nuisance.
3.Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
Product Highlights
This kayak is made to keep steady even when fighting your hardest catches.
Features
- Weighs 52lb
- Five-year warranty
- 275lb capacity
- Two 6” storage compartments
What We Like About Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
A careful redesign of the keel makes this kayak both more stable and a better tracker.
What We Don’t Like About Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
Although stable and easy to track, the flattened bottom slows this boat down on the water.
PROS
- Swivel and flush rod mounts
- Extra storage compartments
- Paddle keeper with shock cords
- Padded seat back
- High-density hull ressists impact and abrasion
CONS
- Slower than similar models
- Multiple reports of missing parts or minor defects in the product upon arrival
4.Emotion 90259 Renegade XT
Product Highlights
Taller paddlers will appreciate the extra room afforded by padded foot wells and the 10-foot length.
Features
- Three year warranty
- 325 lb weight capacity
- Weighs 49 lbs
- 120” prow to stern
What We Like About Emotion 90259 Renegade XT
This kayak comes with an accessory compartment for a bucket, crate, or even another passenger, and internal storage for bait or gear.
What We Don’t Like About Emotion 90259 Renegade XT
The cockpit is smaller than that of other models, a feature that can be troublesome even with the footwells.
PROS
- Accessory section
- Good stability
- Two flush-mount rod holders
- Adjustable height
- Below-deck storage hatch
CONS
- Feature1
- Feature2
5.Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
Product Highlights
This is a smaller kayak built for speed and agility while still carrying everything you need for a fishing trip.
Features
- Nine feet from prow to stern
- 42 lbs
- 300 lb capacity
- 32” wide
What We Like About Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
This kayak has a number of storage elements, including integrated bungee cords and a waterproof cargo bay.
What We Don’t Like About Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90
As it is somewhat more compact than other models, this kayak may not be suitable for taller individuals.
PROS
- Faster than similar models
- Six scupper holes, with plugs
- Four flush-mounted pole mounts
- Built-in cup holder
- 6” waterproof cargo bag
CONS
- Can get cramped for taller users
- Relatively low weight capacity
Final Verdict
Grabbing any of these kayaks can let you enjoy a full day of fishing, carry everything you might need and leave the frills behind. You can keep the strain on your line instead of your budget, as all of them are available for under $600.
Even though they share many excellent qualities, certain points need to be emphasized when buying these or any other boat. Above all, make sure you know what kind of water the kayak is suitable for, and take care not to move into anything beyond either the boat’s capabilities or your own.
Many of these crafts also come with a weight capacity; remember that this is not only the user’s weight, but also that of everything else on the boat. Check carefully to make sure that the gross weight being loaded for a trip does not exceed specifications, even if it means leaving something behind.