Best Fishing Kayaks Under 600 in 2023 – Buying Guide

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Editor’s Choice
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎120 x 31 x 14.1
Weight (lbs): 52
Capacity (lbs): 275

8.8
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Best Overall
Sea Eagle SE330 Inflatable Sports Kayak
Sea Eagle SE330 Inflatable Sports Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎‎‎133.86 x 33.86 x 13.39
Weight (lbs): 44
Capacity (lbs): 500

8.8
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Budget-Friendly
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak
Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎30.1 x 11.6 x 19.2
Weight (lbs): 41
Capacity (lbs): 470

8.4
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Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-on top Kayak Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-on top Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎‎120 x 30 x 11
Weight (lbs): 44
Capacity (lbs): 250

8.8
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Ocean Kayak Malibu Kayak Ocean Kayak Malibu Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎‎‎‎144 x 34 x 20
Weight (lbs): 57
Capacity (lbs): 425

8.8
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Sun Dolphin Journey Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak Sun Dolphin Journey Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎120 x 30 x 11
Weight (lbs): 44
Capacity (lbs): 250

8
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BKC FK184 9' Solo Sit-On-Top Kayak BKC FK184 9′ Solo Sit-On-Top Kayak

Dimensions (in): ‎‎‎‎108 x 33 x 18
Weight (lbs): 44
Capacity (lbs): 330

8
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Wading a little into the water helps you reach more fish and consequently get more catches. So imagine how much more you’ll get if you go further using a kayak.

Whether you’re just starting on your journey of fishing deeper in the water or you’re on a strict budget but still want an affordable fishing kayak under $600, I’ll guide you through the process of choosing.

On this list, I’ve gathered all the best fishing kayaks under $600 that you’ll find on the market.

List of The Best Fishing Kayaks Under 600:

The 7 Best Fishing Kayaks Under $600 in 2023

1. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

The Lifetime Tamarack is a good choice for anglers who want a budget-friendly kayak. The Angler 100 is a kayak option that you ought to have a look at, particularly for its beautiful construction and excellent UV protection.

Moreover, it’s a perfect fit if your fishing spots of choice are lakes or rivers. Being a lightweight kayak, it gives you the speed boost you need, especially if you are a paddler.

The Lifetime Tamarack enables you to smoothly handle it by featuring front and rear T-handles that will allow you to convey your kayak easily.

Also, it comes with adjustable seats, featured with comfortable paddling support. So it is a great choice for a whole day trip for either fishing or paddling, maybe both.

The Angler 100 also provides you with a good amount of space so you can store all your goods as you please. You can hold bigger tools of your essentials in place safely, such as your gearbox.

Pros:

  • UV Protection Construction
  • Roomy Storage Compartment
  • Adjustable Padded Seats
  • Paddle Keeper
  • 2 Flush Mount Holders

Cons:

  • Not the best option for people looking for good deals exclusively

User Reviews on Amazon:

People that bought this item seem to have loved it. No one complained about anything regarding manufacturing or performance. Even the shipping and customer service were praised.

Bottom line:

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is a great choice for pro kayak riders, not much for only budget-friendly people. Still, it provides speed and mobility with roomy storage space enough to interest any kayak lover.

2. Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak

Unlike the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado Fishing Kayak is specially designed to be the ideal choice for kayakers who care about budget above all else, it’s a perfect match for kayakers who can’t really afford a high-end model.

What lures budget-friendly seeking people to the Sevylor Coleman is that it gracefully combines between a good price and high quality.

To make sure the kayak can withstand rugged lake paddling, the construction quality of the Coleman Colorado includes a strong PVC material. Moreover, to guarantee that there can be no chance of punctures while riding, a tarpaulin bottom that uses nylon cover is use, giving the whole design a super durable finish.

The kayak is ensured to stay inflated because it uses multiple chambers. So the kayak stays good to ride and inflated even if one chamber is punctured. By using Airtight Technology, there is also no chance of leakage.

Moreover, the Sevylor Coleman Colorado comes with rod holders so you can carry your fishing rods with you. It also features adjustments that make hands-free fishing really easy.

And for people who like to paddle in the river or in the lake, there are holders for the paddle as well. The Sevylor Coleman Colorado also comes with huge mesh storage, easy inflation, deflation, and secure performance.

Pros:

  • Best choice for budget
  • Safe Trolling Motor
  • No leakage guarantee
  • Tarpaulin Bottom and 18-gauge PVC Construction
  • D-Rings
  • Convenient Holders
  • Multiple Chambers

Cons:

  • Does not include a pump or a paddle
  • Seats can be uncomfortable, especially for tall people
  • Sidewalls can be bulky

User Reviews on Amazon:

Although the majority of reviews were positive, some people complained that this kayak doesn’t endure that long. As long as it runs well, there are no problems. However, if you face an issue and require customer care, you might be frustrated by what Coleman as to offer.

Bottom line:

This kayak comes with some disadvantages but makes up for it by offering the best price to value on the market.

3. Sun Dolphin Journey 10-Foot Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak

A ten inches kayak that is perfect for fishing activities and paddling in the lake or down a river, The Sun Dolphin Journey is a quality kayak that offers strong build and great usability for users of all ages.With Portable Accessory Carrier (PAC), the extra storage facility is also a huge plus.

If you are going for a long day of fishing, you can have all your tools with you. The Sun Dolphin Journey is capable of accommodating about 250 pounds.

Though due to its lightweight, the kayak’s stability is not really great. It simply doesn’t provide enough firmness to prevent tipping over the boat.

Admittedly, I loved the fact that you can get hands-free fishing by using the swivel fishing rod holder.

Pros:

  • Portable Accessory Carrier can be used for extra storage.
  • Carrying it is easy due to its lightweight.
  • Self-bailing
  • Budget-friendly
  • Rod holder and paddle holders both sides of the boat
  • Stable base to avoid capsizing
  • Plenty of room to allow flexibility and free movement.

Cons:

  • Has a 250 pounds weight limit
  • Keeps spinning while braking
  • Does not track well

User Reviews on Amazon:

People loved the value for money this kayak offers. However, some complained that it doesn’t glide that well over water, and it may store some water in its construction.

Bottom line:

If you are heading for fishing, the Sun Dolphin Journey Kayak can be really handy. It can be considered the perfect vessel for people going on the water on their own.

4. BKC UH-FK184 9’ Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

The BKC UH-FK184 has a really nice design that comes in two really beautiful shades, and a great design to suit nearly any water environment.

The BKC UH-FK184 also comes with convenient seats and paddles. This kayak allows its user to get the utmost quality of paddling with its five rod holders, which makes fishing using this model extremely fun and easy.

Furthermore, it comes with storage that is totally waterproof. So any gear or essentials that you choose to take with you on the kayak are safe from getting wet.

It also features a convenient paddle pack facility, which makes losing your paddle between your fishing sessions nearly impossible.

In the back, there is a cargo area that comes with easy bungee straps. You also have four carrying handles to make portability and transfer really easy.

The only problem that might face the BKC UH-FK184 users is its speed. Due to its high stability, the BKC UH-FK184 travels at a slower pace, which might not be a huge disadvantage since it is designed to be a fishing kayak.

Pros:

  • Water-resistant storage facility
  • Paddle packs are convenient
  • Four carry handles
  • 5 rod holders
  • Roomy rear cargo area
  • High stability

Cons:

  • Low speed

User Reviews on Amazon:

As for the product itself, there were no complaints about the UH-FK184. However, some buyers faced troubles with units that arrived with damage.

Bottom line:

the BKC UH-FK184 is a single fishing kayak that is a budget-friendly package. It comes with a convenient seat, a paddle bundle, and high stability, which makes it really good for fishing.

5. Sun Dolphin Bali SS Sit-on-top Kayak

The Sun Dolphin Bali SS is one inexpensive kayak model that can easily go with all water activities. It has a nice design with six beautiful color options and good construction quality as well.

The price you get will vary depending on what shade you choose to pick for your kayak. But the difference in price is not that much, so even if you choose a high-cost shade, you still get a budget-friendly kayak.

This kayak comes with supportive and huge seating, which is a great addition. It also comes with extra caring thigh pads for fishing in the water for a long time.

The Sun Dolphin Bali SS is a perfect fit for paddlers who chose to kayak in lakes or rivers. With its innovative design of paddling and ease of use, it delivers whole day support for its user.

Pros:

  • Friendly design for lakes and rivers
  • Easy to transport
  • Comfortable seating

Cons:

  • Low speed
  • Footrests are a bit uncomfortable
  • Polyethylene frame is susceptible to flexing and scratching

User Reviews on Amazon:

Although some users complained that this kayak is harder to control in water, despite being well-versed, most buyers were satisfied with its performance –especially considering its price point.

Bottom line:

Perfect for beginners, the Sun Dolphin Bali SS comes with an array of different colors that you can choose from to personalize your kayaking experience. This model is suitable for almost all water environments and activities, which makes it perfect for those who are looking to do more than just fishing with their kayak.

6. Ocean Kayak Malibu

Malibu is one of Ocean Kayak’s most well-known models. This model comes with a large multipurpose application on the water. It’s also equipped with really comfortable seats to make your whole day trip even more pleasant.

The Ocean Kayak Malibu comes with a weight capacity of 375 pounds and up to 425 pounds at one time. This means that it is space enough to accommodate two adults and a child inside easily, making it a great pick for family fishing trips.

The Ocean Kayak Malibu comes with some comfortable seating positions for fishing. The molded-in seat adds versatility to the model.

You can keep all your fishing gear in one place, thanks to the hull design that comes with a great storage facility. The Ocean Kayak Malibu is comfortable and spacey, no matter how long your legs are.

Pros:

  • Perfect for dual kayak fishing
  • Footwells
  • Two comfortable seating

Cons:

  • Heavy and not easy to lift
  • Slow to get up speed

User Reviews on Amazon:

Most people liked the performance of this kayak, especially in terms of tracking. However, there were some complaints about it leaking inside.

Bottom line:

The Ocean Kayak Malibu is designed to be the family kayak. With its spacey design and two comfortable seats, it gives its users a great and reliable experience. However, it’s not that easy to transport from one place to another.

7. Sea Eagle SE330 Fishing Kayak

The Sea Eagle 330 is a dual seat kayak that is known for its good price and ease of use. This model gives you perfect stability and performance on the water.

This kayak extremely lightweight, at only 26 pounds, which provides the user with better control for maneuvering it.

The weight capacity is about 500 pounds, so two adults can fit easily inside the inflatable kayak. The front and rear seats are comfortable as well.

Moreover, the Sea Eagle 330 also comes with a foot pump, spray skirts, two oars, and a portable bag.

Its construction, materials, and design make it appropriate for professional use as well and not just for recreational purposes.

Pros:

  • Ready to go in 6 minutes
  • Lightweight and portable
  • All accessories required are included
  • Durable

Cons:

  • The lightweight frame is vulnerable to strong wind

User Reviews on Amazon:

Despite some complaints about the kayak being easily punctured, most reviews on this product were positive and proved that it’s a great buy.

Bottom line:

The Sea Eagle 330 is big enough to accommodate two adults and a child, easily and rapidly inflated to be ready for use, and easily transported and carried. All of these make the perfect combination for a kayak that a family going for a trip to a lake or a river would want.

How Far Will a $600 Kayak Go?

Although you may think that a budget kayak won’t last that long, the truth is that price doesn’t have that major of an effect on durability. The difference between a budget kayak and a more expensive one is that the latter tends to be lighter in weight.

So you shouldn’t worry too much about the durability of your kayak when you’re buying a cheaper option but focus on the material used in its construction.

How to Choose a Fishing Kayak Under 600?

When you’re choosing the best fishing kayak to suit your needs, there are some features you should consider. Here are the things that will help you draw your comparisons and reach the best possible choice.

Loading Capacity

When you’re thinking about the loading capacity, you should also consider the fact that you’ll be packing lots of catches on your way back as well as baits and equipment on your way there. That’s why it’s always better to get a kayak with a capacity that exceeds the mere number of people going on the trip.

Most fishing kayaks under $600 can accommodate between 200 pounds and up to 400 pounds. Bear in mind, however, that the bigger the loading capacity of the kayak, the heavier it’ll be to carry and transport.

Seat Quality

Make sure you get a kayak with a comfortable, padded seat. You’re probably going to spend a lot of time fishing, as any dedicated angler does. So you should make sure that your fishing session is as comfortable and enjoyable as can be.

Keel vs. No Keel

A keel is a fin-shaped piece of plastic that extends from the hull of the kayak and stick down to the surface of the water. It works on making your ride smoother and steadier by enhancing speed and tracking.

Some kayaks come with integrated keels, some have retractable ones, and some have no keel at all.

If you’re going to fish in open water, a keel would probably make a difference in your experience. However, in hard and shallow water, a keel is rather obsolete.

Portability

As I’ve mentioned before, most budget kayaks won’t be that easy to transport from one place to another. But this hassle won’t be too much to handle if you don’t go on kayak fishing trips that frequently. If you do, however, I’d recommend investing in a more portable model, despite the difference in price.

Storage

Make sure that your kayak has enough storage compartments and space to pack all the tools and equipment you need. This may also include a tank and a place where you can store a smartphone securely and safely.

Final Thoughts

Although all seven kayaks listed above can easily be considered the best fishing kayaks under $600, there are some that combine a bunch of features in a way that makes them superior.

Take, for example, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100. This kayak is durable, adequately portable, delivers reliable performance, and gives you a great return on your investment.

However, if budget is a real concern to you, you may want to go for the Sevylor Coleman Colorado.

If you’re looking for a very lightweight model with large capacity, none can beat the combination that the Sea Eagle 330 has to offer.

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