Warm weather and fishing season are just about here and with them so is the need for a new fishing ‘yak.  They give the freedom to move around, are easy to get in and out of, and are super stable for casting and landing fish.  In this article we’ll be looking at our list of the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000, what’s makes them good and why you should consider them.

If you’re considering a new boat it might be time to upgrade some other parts of your kit too.  Check out our list of the Best Fishing Kayak for the Money and our Best Inflatable PFD for Fishing posts too for more information.

Click on any of the kayaks below to jump to their review

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Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

FeelFree Lure 10

Ready for a heck of a boat?  Take a look at the FeelFree Lure 10.  This thing has bells and whistles on it normally reserved for kayaks double the money.  The pinnacle of fishing kayaks in this price range the Lure 10 is capable of going anywhere and catching anything you throw your line at.

The super wide hull (36 inches) and standing platform are just the beginner of the awesome features.  This smaller brother to the 11.5 Lure gives you the perfect option for all types of water without sacrificing any of the things you want in a fishing kayak.

Boutique Components

The Lure comes equipped for any day on the water and the challenges that come with.  Features include FeelFree’s removable multi-level Gravity Seat, a patented wheel in the keel transport aid and Uni-Track system.

The Gravity Seat is a feature that truly sets this boat apart from others.  Multiple height settings let you set the seat to the perfect height whether you’re paddling out or want a higher vantage to fish from.  Simply stand and lift the seat to desired height and pull the draw cord under the seat to return to a lower position.  This one feature alone is a game changer for us.

“Probably the best kayak in its price range.”

The Uni-Track system from Feelfree is an awesome components system that allows you to add your favorite accessories without needing to drill holes in your boat.  Adjustable to wherever you need them and really easy to customize this simple feature makes a heck of a lot of difference.

Wheel in the keel transport system dramatically enhances how you move your boat to and from vehicle to launch.  The wheel sits low on the rear of the keel and allows you to pick up the front of your boat and simply pull it to where you need it to be.  Moving a fishing kayak has never been so easy.

Stability Where it Counts

The Lure 10 is truly a fishing kayak.  It’s super wide hull at 36 inches allows you to stand and fish with ease and the standing platform is perfect for getting higher up to sight cast and is covered with a foam pad to ensure you have casting confidence.

Get more information and buy now at Amazon.com

With more features that can be listed in a single highlight article we’ll let the people at FeelFree fill you in on a little more.

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 10′
  • Width: 36″
  • Weight : 69 lbs
  • Max Capacity: 375 lbs
  • The Lure’s Gravity Seat is a really nice feature but does add a bit of weight to an already heavy boat
  • A front hatch locks in gear and locks out water
  • The quarter turn hatch keeps smaller items close at hand
  • The Lure’s center console holds all your essentials right where you need them
  • The front Uni Track rail lets you customize and add accessories
  • A rear Uni Track rail adds another level of customization
  • A molded-in crate recess gives you a great option for stashing your gear
  • Side pockets give you even more storage
  • 2 flush mounted fishing rod holders for transport
  • Stand up leash aids with standing while you’re on the water
  • Standing pad provides traction for casting or landing fish

For more details and to buy now visit Amazon.com

This is one of the best fishing kayaks we’ve come across at this price and we’re still drooling over it.  The FeelFree Lure 10 is our favorite on the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000 list.

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Best Fishing Kayaks Under 1000

FeelFree Moken 12.5

Another stellar product from FeelFree is the Moken 12.5.  This ultimate fishing kayak is going to be your best friend when you’re headed out looking for your next lunker.  With many of the same features as the Lure the Moken is set for your next bigger water adventure and some of the differnces include the King fisher seat and the option to mount a rudder for windier or rougher conditions.

Get more information and buy now on Amazon.com

Comfort For Paddling

The King fisher seat is probably the biggest change from the FeelFree Lure.  While it doesn’t ratchet up and down like the Gravity seat it does provide unparalleled comfort for longer travel.  The seat itself is shaped in a wedge, wider at the front and narrow toward the rear, and is stuffed with comfort giving foam.

A standing platform allows the paddler to either sight cast or paddle while standing up.  The platform is covered with a foam layer that provides the confidence you need if you’re going to be standing up.  The Moken is 32 inches wide which is plenty wide enough to provide superior stability while still maintaining quickness through the water.

Rudder Capable

The Moken 12.5 comes ready to accept a rudder system should you decide to install one.  The ability to attach a rudder gives you the freedom to explore further out or in more inclement conditions where you need the added tracking.

Get more details on Amazon.com

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 12′ 8″
  • Width: 32″
  • Weight : 72 lbs
  • Max Capacity: 419 lbs
  • King fisher seat provides great comfort for longer days on the water
  • Front oval hinge hatch gives you tons of room for storage for gear you want to keep dry
  • Quarter turn hatch located behind the seat gives you added storage for items you want to have quicker access to
  • center console gives you tons of room for keeping the essentials close by for easy access
  • Front Uni Track rail lets you customize and add options with the ability to remove and change layouts
  • Rear Uni Track rail with tie down system gives the same benefits as the front and adds tie downs to secure gear for the paddle out
  • Molded-in crate recess like the Lure gives you the freedom to bring your crate of gear and safely secure it in your boat
  • Side pockets for storage
  • Fishing rod holders like every good fishing kayak should have
  • Stand up leash to aid in raising from seated to standing and the reverse
  • Standing pad for secure sight casting and paddling

Customer Reviews

Reviewers really like the Moken as an all-in-one fishing vessel.  Those who reviewed mentioned that they liked the layout in the cockpit and that provided ample storage for essential items.  People also mentioned that the Moken surpassed other fishing kayaks in speed, stability and quality.

With people raving about it, FeelFree attention to details and it being an outright cool boat we’re proud to include the Moken on our Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000 list.

Buy Now On Amazon.com

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Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

Ocean Kayaks Prowler 13

The Prowler from Ocean Kayak is a fishing machine.  This is one of the original kayaks designed specifically for fishing and it’s built to handle any water conditions you can find.  The hull is designed to be quiet, efficient and very stable which are the foundations of any great fishing kayak.  The Prowler will have no trouble storing your bigger items like coolers and tackle boxes with it’s large tankwell and cam locked hatches.

Paddler comfort also plays a big role with boat as well.  A Comfort Plus seat provides all day comfort and is 4-way adjustable so you can dial in your comfort level.  The seat also has reflective logos that show up well after dark and with exposure to sunlight will glow to give added visibility.

Fishing Capabilities

The Ocean Kayak Prowler is ready for your next fishing adventure and it’s list of fishing-ready features is pretty great.  2 rod holders, 2 cup holders, huge storage in the bow and stern, transducer compatible scupper, 2 paddle keepers and optional rudder system means the Prowler is ready to tackle anything so you can think about landing the next fish.

All-Day Storage (and then some)

The Prowler is ready to be loaded up and pointed at some fish.  There is TONS of storage on this thing and finding a place for all of your gear will be no problem.  The large tankwell is designed to take anything from your cooler to scuba tanks and everything in between.

The click seal bow hatch is watertight and features locking device that easily closes it up securely with one turn and allows you to store the stuff you need dry up front for when you break for lunch.

The 6 inch cam lock hatch located right in front of the seat makes getting to your essentials super easy and it’s toggle opening makes getting in and out hassle free.

Grab More Details and Buy Now on Amazon.com

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 13′ 4″
  • Width: 28″
  • Weight: 56 lbs
  • Seat Width: 17″
  • Leg Length: 52″
  • Bow Hatch: 16.5″ x 10″
  • Max Capacity: 400-450 lbs
  • Comfort Plus seat back makes sure that you’re comfortable all day when you’re out fishing
  • Molded-in seat well lets you keep stuff like pliers, sunglasses and other essentials close at hand
  • Click Seal bow hatch lets you store the gear that you want to keep more protected safe and secure
  • 6″ Cam Lock Hatch with storage bucket means you can store the gear you need more often right at arms reach
  • Kitchen sink?  Why not with the oversized tank well.  This huge area allows for all sorts of gear that you might need to bring
  • Deck bungee for securing all other items that you want to keep on the hull
  • Side mounted carrying handles makes transporting the kayak simple and efficient
  • A skid plate makes sure that your boat is protected when you’re in the shallows
  • 2 paddle keepers get your paddles out of the way and keep them their so you can focus on fishing
  • You can stay hydrated with 2 molded-in cup holders
  • 2 flush mounted rod holders make carrying extra rigs no problem
  • Transducer compatible scupper means there’s no place for fish to hide
  • Angler graphics make the boat go faster (okay, maybe not but they look cool)
Get More Specs and Features on Amazon.com


Customer Reviews

People are really liking the Prowler and with it’s history it’s no surprise.  Something that makes the Prowler stand out is it’s ability to handle all sorts of water types.   A customer reviewed the boat and mentioned that he had out on choppy water in 25-30 mph wind and it handled great, those are pretty gnarly conditions for a kayak.

“Love this kayak”

Another feature that people were enjoy was the sleek design.  The Prowler is designed to get you there fast and quietly.  “Hull slap” is common on wider boats and one reviewer mentioned that he didn’t have any when paddling, list can be a game changer if you’re trying to sneak up on fish.

One reviewed said he wished the rod holders where moved up a bit more as turning to put rods or nets away got a little awkward.  But even he said that this was a pretty minor thing and that overall he was happy with the boat.

For a fishing kayak it’s hard to beat the Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 and we’re stoked to feature it as one of our top picks for the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000.

Buy Now on Amazon.com

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sunset fish

Future Beach Angler 160

Best Fishing Kayaks Under 1000 - Future Beach SOT

Future Beach Angler 160

The Angler 160 from Future Beach comes in next on the list for Best Fishing Kayak Under $1000.  This awesome fishing kayak is a lot of boat for the money at only $849.  Measuring in at 13′ 4″ this is a pretty long boat and it comes with a lot of fishing specific features.

A dihedral hull makes for the ultimate in stability and tracking and makes sure you get to your spot fast and dry.  3 storage compartments make bringing everything along super easy and the rear tankwell has an indentation that fits a five-gallon bucket (something we really like).  Paddle keepers, cup holders, and adjustable seat back means the the Angler 160 is ready to take it on!

Dihedral Hull

This specific hull design is perfect for those looking for even more stability and tracking out of their fishing kayaks.  The sharp chine adds to the stability but maintains the boat’s maneuverability so you can switch tactics on the fly.  As one reviewer put it the Angler’s hull isn’t designed with speed in mind but when you’re fishing rarely are you in a hurry.

“I LOVE my 160!”

Storage Is King

The Angler doesn’t skimp on storage.  Much like the Prowler above the Angler has loads of storage for all of your gear and is perfectly suited to be loaded down with it’s 420 pound capacity.

One thing that stands out with this kayak is the 5-gallon bucket reservoir in the rear tankwell.  This one simple feature adds tons of versatility to the boat.  Bait bucket, live well, pony keg (okay, maybe not) all sit in perfectly and with the integrated bungee system what’s there will stay there.

Get More Details and Buy Now on Amazon.com

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 13′ 4″
  • Width: 30″
  • Weight:  74 lbs
  • Bow Hatch: 12″ x 20″
  • Max Capacity:  420 lbs
  • Dihedral hull adds great tracking and stability and limits hull slap that can scare fish
  • Adjustable seat back allows you to customize your comfort level
  • With two flush mount rod holders bringing extra rigs is no problem
  • Graduated foot wells for all types of leg length
  • Large stern well with bungees lets you bring all of your gear and stow it safely
  • Two 6″ round storage hatches in the center and stern of the kayak will let you stow your essentials close by
  • 4 carrying handles makes transport and control really easy
  • Paddle tie-downs let you stow your paddle out of the way while things are getting fishy
  • Molded-in cup holders and a center console makes sure you’re hydrated and have your conveniences close at hand

Customer Reviews

People really like the ruggedness of the Angler.  Being confident that your boat can handle what Mother Nature throws at it is a really great feeling.  The thought of being stranded or worse watching you boat fill up with water is a scenario that we all want to avoid.

Another feature that reviewers like is the overall good design of the Angler.  Being someone who wants to fish from their kayak you need the right appointments if you’re going head out on the water.  This oat has all the right accessories in all the right places

Check out all the customer reviews on Amazon.com

Great reviews, good prices, fishing specifics and others make us stoked to have the Future Beach Angler 160 on our list of the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000 and recommend it to anyone who’s looking at getting a reasonably priced fishing specific kayak.

Buy Now on Amazon.com

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Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

Wilderness Systems Ride 115

Yet another great boat on our list of the best fishing kayaks under $1000 is the Ride 115 from Wilderness Systems.  This boat comes standard with tons of fishing ready features that you’re going dig when you’re out on your next fishing expedition.

Built around the other Ride kayaks, the 115 is purpose built to be super nimble and stable for fishing in tight spaces.  The introduction of the sharp chines really boosts the Ride’s stability when you’re stand up fishing and with the seat being able to adjust fore and aft you’re all set for a fun day on the water.

AirPro Freedom Elite Seating System

The Ride 115 features WS’s proprietary AirPro Freedom Elite seat.  This seat is revolutionary in the kayak fishing world and sets the bar pretty high when it comes to seating comfort and fish-ability.  One feature that makes the AirPro seat really stand out is it’s ability to adjust fore and aft which gives you the option to center out your load and stabilize your kayak even further.

Another feature that makes the AirPro even better is that it’s form can customized with integrated leg lifters, adjustable backrest and it’s ability to breath and vent warm air.

Get more information and buy now on Amazon.com

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 11′ 6″
  • Width: 33″
  • Weight : 76 lbs
  • Max Capacity: 500 lbs
  • AirPro Freedom Elite seat gives you all day comfort while you’re out paddling
  • Removable and sliding Seat makes for easy cleaning and centering your load
  • Keepers XL foot brace system are featured in the Ride and give you all the ergonomic support you need to make paddling effecietn
  • Orbix bow and midship hatches give you tons of room to store all your needed gear for when you head out
  • A tankwell provides more storage in the stern of the boat and with integrated bungees once it’s there it’ll stay there
  • Bungee deck system lets you secure down and miscellaneous items that you want to bring on board
  • Comfort Carry Handles make transportation simple and effective
  • A paddle groove lets you get your paddle out of the way when you’re casting or landing fish
  • The Ride is rudder ready should you want to integrate one for bigger water or stronger currents
  • Cupholders are canted to let water escape and will keep you hydrated on the water
  • Slidetrax on the bow let you customize the Ride with tons of different accessories

Get more details and buy now on Amazon.com

Customer Reviews

People who bought the Ride 115 really liked what it can do.  One reviewer said it was well made and comfortable, that it tracks well, is very stable and has plenty of storage.  As a fishing kayak there’s not a lot more you could ask for in a boat.

“I have this kayak and my dad has a Coosa I prefer the [R]ide just because of its it stability and the fact everything is vented to there is never any standing water”

Solid fishing capabilities, superior stability and ready to take on any aquatic challenge the Ride 115 from Wilderness Systems is just another example of the great boats on our list of the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000.

Buy Now on Amazon.com

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Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000

Eddy Gear Stingray XL

The Stingray from Eddy Gear is a fishing powerhouse.  This ultra-stable fishing kayak comes with a metal rudder, paddle, gear leash, rod holders, storage for days and is able to carry 670 pounds.  It has super fishy features that allow the more avid anglers to bring all their gear and then some making this an ideal kayak for our list of the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000.

“One awesome kayak at a great price!”

At 13 feet 4 inches the Stingray is well equipped to take on longer tours and larger bodies of water.  It’s integrated, foot operated rudder system allows for easy and worry free control while you’re out paddling.  The hull shape is designed for a multitude of different water but paddlers really saw the Stingray excel when breaking through ocean surf and rough water.

Get more information and buy now on Amazon.com

Fishing Kayak All The Way

The Stingray comes ready to fish.  From the bow to the stern this kayak is decked in fish-ready features like 3 rod holders, storage inside the seat, paddle keepers, tons of storage and rudder.  This is a purpose built boat with one thing on it’s mind, fishing.

It’s 32 inch deck is really stable and standing up for sight casting is no problem.  This is something that we found really beneficial as the stability matters no just for sight casting but for landing fish, paddling and breaking rough water.

Storage For All Your Gear

The Stingray comes ready to haul all of your gear out on your next fishing adventure.  2 cam locked storage areas are the perfect size for hauling tackle and other items that you won’t need immediate access to.  These dry storage areas are perfect for larger gear that you want to keep protected from the elements as you’re paddling.

Twin paddle keepers allow you to stow your paddle and keep it there with incorporated bungees.  This is a really nice feature when you decide to start fishing.  Keeping your gear where it needs to be, especially when you’re on the water, can mean the difference between losing your stuff or worse, going for a swim.

Get More Information and Buy Now on Amazon.com

Features and Specifications

Specs Features
  • Length: 13′ 4”
  • Width: 31″
  • Max Capacity: 670 pounds
  • Boat Weight: 69 pounds
  • Material: Rotomolded single piece polyethylene
  • 2 sealed storage hatches that lock for extra gear storage
  • 2 flush mount fishing rod holders with caps so you can bring a couple extra rods
  • 4 carrying handles makes transport to the launch a lot easier
  • Front and Rear cargo storage area provide tons of on-deck storage and with bungee tie down system it’ll stay there for the paddle out
  • 2 paddle parks so you can get them out of the way while you’re fishing
  • The Prowler has 8 scupper holes (Plugs included) so if any water does get in it will drain fast
  • Center console has a cover to protect more delicate gear and has a center-mounted rod holder
  • The console has multiple accessory attachment points so you can customize the layout
  • Steering is super easy with a foot controlled metal rudder and adjustable foot braces

Get More Details and Buy Now on Amazon.com

Built to fish and coming in at $798 make this kayak pretty hard to beat.  The Stingray is the least expensive boat on the list and coupled with all of it’s great features means we’re stoked to highlight this on our list for the Best Fishing Kayak Under 1000.

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Well there you have it, 6 of the best fishing kayaks under $1000.  Hopefully you learned something and this helped you figure out which fishing kayak is right for you.  Although, it would be tough to find a kayak on this list that you wouldn’t be happy with.  We were impressed with the quality of boat out there in this price range.  Happy fishing and we’ll see you out there!

 

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