Best Fishing Kayak Under 300

In this article I will talk about what I think are the top kayaks under 300 you can buy on the market today.

This research is based on my personal experience and testing of different kayaks that I bought for myself and my family over the last 3 years.

 

Intex Excursion Pro

The Best Fishing kayak Under 300.

This mini boat is perfect for those competing for productive fishing areas.

You can safely fish in most secluded places. It can also be used for recreational fishing trips with a partner.

Kayak fishing is on the rise. It is one of those hobbies that offers everything from physical exercise to fun and entertainment.

You will be glad to know that it is now possible to own a decent quality fishing kayak for $300 or less.

A lot of people are turning away from affordable ones due to their lack of efficiency on long-distance trips.

While this may be the case with some brands, the ones I have discussed below in this post are developed in coordination with leading experts in the field of nautical science.

My Top Fishing Kayak Under $300

1. Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

Intex Excursion Pro is designed for those who wish to go far out in the water. Most paddlers are skeptical about kayaking in unexplored fishing spots, especially with an inflatable vessel.

The Intex Excursion Pro is inflatable, but it is made from high-impact and damage-resistant material. The three-ply tough construction guarantees personal safety.

This ultimate fishing kayak is equipped with a directional and a short skeg. The directional one can be employed when threading through deep waters, whereas the short skeg keeps the vessel steady in shallow waters.

Furthermore, the Intex Excursion Pro also comes with stainless steel D-rings. You can attach your large-sized backpack, purse, or fishing equipment on it.

Most inflatable kayaks come with loose and shaly footrests. The adjustable footrest in Excursion Pro is floor-mounted for additional stability and comfort.

Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is Suitable for:

With this product, Intex Excursion has sparked a wave of innovation in the fish equipment industry. This is one of the top kayaks for those who seek new and advanced features at an affordable price.

Pros

• Comes with a hand pump, storage bag, and two oars

   
• Rugged and sturdy structure
• Lightweight (weighs just 35 lbs)
• The front seat is comfortable for a plus-sized person

Cons

• Needs better customer service
• Repair kit does not come with adhesive

2. Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak

Sea Eagle is a Port Jefferson, New York-based fish equipment manufacturer. The company has 40+ years of experience designing, selling, and servicing the customers. Sea Eagle 330 is a two-person fill-in kayak.

The mini boat can easily accommodate a kid or a pet, in addition to the two regular-sized adults.

The parts/components of the Sea Eagle 330 kayak are detachable. Hence it is easy to disassemble it. Further, the entire package weighs just 26 lbs, which makes it portable and easy-to-carry.

You will also be glad to know that this product comes with two skegs. These retractable blades assist the paddler in maintaining the forward direction of the vessel. They are located at the hull of the kayak.

Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak is Suitable for:

Sea Eagle 330 is one of the best kayaks under $300 and is suitable for up to Class III whitewater. It can withstand water waves under four feet.

This kayak is meant for those looking for short-term excitement and fun in the water. It comes with a spacious seating area, but there is no storage compartment.

Pros

• Open cockpit design
• NMMA certified
• Two retractable skegs for better tracking
• Comes with a repair kit

Cons

• Lacks organized space for dry storage

3. Sun Dolphin Excursion SS

Sun Dolphin Excursion SS is one of the best fishing kayaks under $300 for rivers and lakes. This open cockpit kayak is 10-feet long and has a sit-in design.

Although this vessel appears compact from outside, the cockpit space is large enough to accommodate a bigger sized man or a woman (weight capacity up to 280 lbs).

For additional comfort for your lower body, it comes with an adjustable padded seat and adjustable foot braces.

Further, anglers who stay far from the water body can easily carry this kayak on top of their car or a truck.

The lightweight design (44 lbs) allows you to lift and carry this kayak effortlessly. This is key for those with back problems and other lower-body injuries. This kayak comes with one swivel and two flush mount rod holders. You can hook in multiple fishing rods. It makes fishing effortless and fun.

Sun Dolphin Excursion SS is Suitable for:

This is one of the best kayaks under $300 for those looking for a new hobby on the weekends.

Whether you stay close to a water body or not, it is important that you continue to learn paddling without missing a single session.

This is where the Sun Dolphin Excursion SS comes in the picture. It is lightweight and easy-to-carry.

Pros

• Comes with all necessary accessories
• Adjustable footrest
• Comes with two-rod holders

Cons

• The bowline hole could be bigger

   

• The cover over the rear hatchet is loose. It makes noise in windy condition

4. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

Are you looking for a reliable puncture-resistant kayak under $300? Intex Explorer K2 is a heavy-duty fishing vessel for those who do not wish to compromise portability for material strength.

This inflatable fishing kayak comes with three separate air chambers. If things do go wrong, and one of the chambers ruptures, the other two can keep the kayak afloat until you get to the shore.

Moreover, it also comes with an adjustable inflatable seat with backrest. The kayak is 10-feet long and 3-feet wide.

It has a weight capacity of 400 lbs, and it can accommodate two regular-sized people. Also, just like the Sea Eagle 330, this product is equipped with two removable skegs. The skegs help the paddler keep the boat stable when ascending forward.

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak is Suitable for:

This kayak is made for those who wish to paddle in smaller water bodies, including lakes and mild rivers.

According to the instructional manual, the weight capacity of this vessel is 400 lbs, but it can easily hold up to 550 lbs. Including two adults, the kayak can accommodate a kid or a pet. To see the Intex Explorer K2 Kayak in action, search on youtube.

Pros

• The seats are adjustable and removable
• Made with heavy-duty puncture-resistant material
• The vessel is designed to stay afloat in water. It does not flip

Cons

• The package might not include a hand pump

5. Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10

When it comes to affordable fishing equipment, Sun Dolphin is one of America’s leading brands. The

Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 is designed and molded in their manufacturing unit located in Muskegon, Michigan.

This open cockpit kayak is available in blue and lime.

This kayak offers good balance and tracking as long as you don’t make any jerky movements, which is quite common during aggressive fishing. So, this may not be the right product for you if you fish for a living.

Having said that, the scupper holes are positioned thoughtfully. If water gets into the cockpit, it quickly drains out via the scupper holes.

Apart from that, the kayak offers maximum stability in rivers and lakes with medium to high waves.

Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 is Suitable for:

Sun Dolphin Bali SS is one of the best kayaks under 0 for recreational fishing. The open cockpit design makes it easy for a well-built person to get in and out of the vessel.

Do you have a muscular injury and, as a result, are not able to exercise? This kayak can help you get your body moving with minimal impact on your muscles.

Pros

• Excellent packaging
• Designed for recreational fishing
• Can accommodate a well-built paddler (weight capacity is 250lbs)
• Ample storage space

Cons

• Does not come with a rod holder

6. Lifetime Tamarack Angler

Are you looking for a fishing kayak stable enough to catch fish in a standing position?

Lifetime Tamarack Angler can let you do that but only after some practice in shallow water. This is a perfect one-person kayak for those who like to go on longer fishing trips. It comes with two hatchets (one at the front and another at rear).

The design might seem unusual for someone used to paddle a conventional kayak, but the new additions do offer more safety, comfort, and convenience.

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler is made with UV-protected high-density polyethylene. During extended trips, the multiple footrest positions promote better blood flow in your lower body.

Lifetime Tamarack Angler with Paddle is Suitable for:

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler is equipped with a flat-bottom hull— they offer excellent primary stability.

Meaning, it is easier to get in and out of the vessel. Plus, the structure stays stable during quick turns.

Pros

• Two storage compartments
• Front and rear bungee
• Offers better primary stability
• Comes with one-rod holder

Cons

• The seat could be more comfortable. It needs extra cushion

7. Sevylor Tahiti Hunt and Fish Kayak

Sevylor Tahiti is one of the most affordable 3-person fishing kayaks on the market. This mini fishing boat is equipped with multiple air chambers.

In addition to this, this kayak boasts several other advanced safety features. The manufacturer has made sure that the entire system remains airtight. There is no chance of leakage.

Furthermore, this product can last longer than others on the market. It can easily get through 6-8 years if you use it in flat water and a slow river. Having said that, this mini boat does not come with skegs or rudders.

As a result, you might struggle in crosswinds (in large and open water bodies). However, the lack of skeg does not affect its performance on slow and quiet waters.

Sevylor Tahiti Hunt and Fish Kayak is Suitable for:

The Sevylor Tahiti is made from a thin PVC material.

Although the material is puncture-resistant, it is not strong enough to withstand the force of Class III: Intermediate or Class IV: Advanced water grade. This kayak works best for Class II: Novice water grade.

Pros

• Large and comfortable seating area
• NMMA certified
• The package includes a carry bag
• Equipped with spray covers. Reduced water splashing

Cons

• The package does not include a hand pump
• Is not equipped with a skeg

8. Sevylor Quikpak K1

Are you looking for the best kayak under 0 for a bigger or plus-sized person?

Finding the right open cockpit kayak for a plus-sized person is not easy. In most models, you are likely to struggle to get in and out of the vessel.

In addition to that, the lower body also suffers from reduced blood circulation. This is where the Sevylor Quikpak K1 comes into the picture.

It comes with a comfortable backrest that lets you lean back and enjoy the ride. The multi-position footrest lets your legs breathe freely. Based on the length of your legs, you can find the right position.

Further, this Kayak has a weight capacity of 400 lbs. If you are not a heavy person, you can easily take a 50-60 lbs dog out on a ride.

The mini boat is made with durable PVC material, so you don’t have to worry about your pet damaging it with bites and scratches.

Sevylor Quikpak K1 is Suitable for:

This kayak is perfect for a plus-sized or well-built person interested in recreational fishing.

It comes with an open storage area where you can keep fish finders, GPS navigation devices, and other fishing equipment. The same space can also be used to store water bottles or snack bars.

Pros

• Setup takes merely five minutes
• Portable kayak
• Equipped with an airtight system

Cons

• Does not comes with rod holders
• Wide-open storage compartment

9. Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Tear Resistant Kayak

Are you looking for the best kayak under $300 for professional anglers?

This kayak is equipped with a total of six rod holders. You can simultaneously set six fishing rods without having to manually monitor each one of them. The outcome of your fishing season is entirely based on the fishing technique you employ.

The Elkton Outdoors is a two-person kayak, which makes it an excellent choice for recreational fishing with your partner, a family member, a pet, or a friend.

It is equipped with two adjustable seats. The package also includes a foot pump and a carry bag.

Although the 18-gauge PVC is puncture-resistant and it would take a lot for it to rupture, Elkton has equipped this kayak with three air chambers.

The bottom portion of this kayak is a one-piece construction airbag.

Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Tear Resistant Kayak is Suitable for:

The inflatable kayak from Elkton can be an excellent choice for those wanting to replace their old polyethylene kayak with a new portable one.

The Elkton outdoors kayak is lightweight. The entire package weighs around 50 lbs. Also, the manufacturer has ensured that the performance stays satisfactory.

Pros

• Comes with a skeg
• Portable and lightweight
• 18-gauge PVC material is puncture-resistant
• Comes with a foot pump. It is much efficient than a hand pump

Cons

• The quality of paddles could be improved

10. Best Choice Products Kids Kayak

Do you wish to introduce your kids to kayaking?

This kayak from Best Choice Products is designed and manufactured just for kids younger than 10. It is easy to track and offers great balance.

This vessel is a lot smaller in size than regular kayaks. It is 72 inches long, 26 inches wide, and 7 inches deep. Also, it has a weight capacity of 121 lbs.

When coming up with the design of this product, Best Choice Products has paid more attention to the safety and security of the paddler.

This kayak does come with an open cockpit, but the molded-in footwells assist the paddler in keeping their body stabilized throughout the ride.

Furthermore, the hull base has a flat-design. Hence, the kayak offers better primary stability. It is easy for a kid to get in and out of the vessel in shallow water.

Best Choice Products Kids Kayak with Paddle is Suitable for:

This is one of the top kayaks for kids under 10. Apart from being easy to control, it also offers optimal comfort for the paddler.

This mini boat is equipped with a foldable padded backrest. There is a provision to place the feet on one of the three molded-in footwells.

Also, this kayak is suitable for water bodies such as lakes, beaches, or rivers. With the built-in side handles, you can attach the kayak on a bike.

Pros

• Designed for kids under 10
• Offers excellent primary stability
• Safe and secure
• Easy to track
• Lightweight design

Cons

• The boat is meant strictly for kids under 10. And older well-built paddler can easily damage the paddles

Suggested Read:

• Best Fishing Kayak under 0
• Best Fishing Kayak under 00
• Best Tandem Fishing Kayaks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Cheap Kayak for Fishing?

Elkton Outdoors is one of the best cheap kayaks for fishing.

It is not uncommon for cheap knock-off kayak makers to compromise on the comfort level or safety of the paddler. Such is not the case with Elkton Outdoors.

It is equipped with all the necessary accessories required for professional fishing. Rod holders are one of the first things an angler looks for in a kayak.

This product comes with a total of six holders (two vertical and four trolling).

You can have rods of several sizes and types, hooked-up, all at the same time. The availability of multiple rod holders opens up the possibility of catching fish of varying sizes and species. Further, this two-seater kayak has cushioned seats.

What Type of Kayak is Best for Fishing?

There is no one answer to this question. To find the best kayak for fishing, you need to take certain factors into consideration. Kindly go through the points mentioned below.

Type of Water: There is a massive difference between a freshwater and saltwater kayak. River kayaks are generally compact in size.

On the other hand, saltwater kayaks are long, slim, and sleek. Also, the storage space in a saltwater kayak is much larger than in a freshwater kayak. Before choosing a kayak, make sure to check the type of water it is meant for.

Application: Are you a professional angler? For someone catching fish for a living or for food, it is always a good idea to go for a kayak with accessories like holding rods, and oars. Recreational kayaks are portable, lightweight, and do not come with a lot of accessories.

Fishing Method: Choosing the kayak most suitable for the fishing method you employ is also essential.

You don’t need a particular type of kayak for bait fishing, baitcasting, and fly fishing. But for spinning and trolling, you must go for a spacious and open cockpit kayak.

Number of Passengers: A professional angler is less likely to take their family member on the trip. But some prefer taking a helper along with them.

A two-seater kayak would work great for such arrangements. Three-seater kayaks are good for recreational fishing with family.

Type of Seat and Footrest: Lastly, make sure the seat and the footrest are comfortable enough for your body type.

There are two types of seats: 1) Sit-on-top 2) Sit-inside.  Sit-on-top kayaks are designed specifically for recreational/professional fishing. Sit-inside kayaks are preferred by water sports enthusiasts.

Are Cheap Kayaks Worth It?

Investing in a cheap kayak is worth your money, effort, and time if you do your research before buying it. Manufacturers like Intex, Elkton, Sevylor, and Sun Dolphin have introduced the best affordable kayaks for fishing.

For the past few years, there has been a rise in the cheap fishing kayak in the fishing equipment industry.

While this is good news for those who cannot afford the premium ones or aren’t keen enough to invest more money, a buyer needs to be careful.

Take note of the manufacturers who import the raw materials (or also the entire product) from other countries.

They are more likely to have minor issues like lack of primary/secondary stability and weak puncture-prone material.

The majority of the products mentioned in this post are made in America. The imported ones are tried and tested by thousands of experienced paddlers.

Also, it is completely understandable to be skeptical about buying a kayak under $300. There are some genuine concerns about safety.

Not everyone would want to invest big bucks on fishing equipment. Some wouldn’t mind trying their luck with an affordable product. If this sounds like you, you can ease your worry by testing the brand new kayak in shallow water. Once you are sure of the quality, you can take it out in deep water.

What is the Best Beginner Kayak for Fishing?

Intex Explorer K2 is the best beginner kayak on the market. For a newbie paddler, it is important that the kayak is easy to track, safe to ride, and comfortable.

Explorer K2 checks all the boxes on the list. The majority of the parts of this kayak are inflatable, so it is easy to carry on a fishing trip or even on vacation.

It is not wise to take your expensive kayak on a long fishing trip or a vacation with family. There is always a possibility of losing the kayak.

Also, carrying a bulky polyethylene kayak on vacation can be bothersome. Explorer K2 is perfect for such occasions.

You can have fun with your loved ones without worrying about protecting your investment.

Kayaks under 300 my Conclusion

An affordable kayak is good enough when you are starting out as a paddler. Just make sure it comes with the necessary features.

Once you become proficient, you might think about upgrading to a more expensive and outfitter fishing vessel.

From the products discussed in this post, I would pick Intex Excursion Pro over other kayaks. This mini boat is perfect for those competing for productive fishing areas.

You can safely fish in most secluded places. It can also be used for recreational fishing trips with a partner.