kayak recommendation

[mojojojo]

Im thinking of getting a fishing kayak but am a complete newbie when it comes to this. Id like one that I can stand up in every now and then and make some casts.

Any recommendations that will keep me under a grand? Preferably under $800?

[Bluebasser86]

Keep your eyes open for something used. I bought my lightly used Ocean Kayak Big Game Prowler II for $400 ($1,300 new). You have to be quick though, the good deals don't last long. 

[Tracker22]

Comfort is key. If you get something your not comfortable in you'll be cursing the day you got it and talking about all those idiots in kayaks. The good thing about kayaks is that the initial cost is the biggest hit. Most mods and add ons are DIY or cheap. If you can get something you can stand in you will appreciate it. Three hours in a boat without standing can be difficult. If you need to wait and save money you may be happier.

[MikeJames]

What kind of waters do you fish? Lakes, rivers, both?

I have an Ascend FS12T from Bass Pro ($550 new) that I love and use in lakes. Seat is comfortable and I am able to stand easily. They had a few issues when they first came out but they really listened to reviews and complaints and fixed all the issues. 

I have a Wilderness Commander 120 that I just bought used for $400 ($1000 new) to use in rivers. It should track better then my Ascend and be able to stand if I want.

 

[Ohio Yakker]

Although I've never used one, the Pelican Catch 120 looks decent for that price range. You should be able to stand comfortably on it.The seat looks really good for the price of the kayak, which is just $750. It does seem to have kind of a "boxy" shape to it so it might not be the easiest paddling kayak. 

Good luck. I'm sure you'll love fishing from a kayak, it's a blast

[mojojojo]

1 hour ago, MikeJames said:

What kind of waters do you fish? Lakes, rivers, both?

I have an Ascend FS12T from Bass Pro ($550 new) that I love and use in lakes. Seat is comfortable and I am able to stand easily. They had a few issues when they first came out but they really listened to reviews and complaints and fixed all the issues. 

I have a Wilderness Commander 120 that I just bought used for $400 ($1000 new) to use in rivers. It should track better then my Ascend and be able to stand if I want.

 

It would be for lake fishing only.  Ill look into the Ascend

Thanks for all the replies. Ill keep an eye out on craigslist for a good used one

[buzzed bait]

whatever you do, see if you can paddle one before you buy it and see if it's right for you.  not sure where you live, but there may be some outfitters around that have "demo days" and you can try a few of them out and then shop for one that's in your budget.  make sure you budget out enough for a decent paddle and a good PFD (lifejacket) that you will actually wear ALL THE TIME.  there's plenty of good ones out there, just have to be patient and then jump when you see one on craigslist!

[nhpleasantlakebass]

im look at the feelfree lure. you can find a used 11.5 for around your price.  the 10s are 1000$ new.   but its a super stable kayak I love my 11.5.

[Turtle135]

While you are searching Craigslist, add a Wilderness Systems Ride 115 to your list, stable enough to stand and fish and I would suspect you could find a used one in your price range. They are built to last so even one with heavy use still has years and years of life left in her. Good luck!

[Dcats55]

I own Wilderness The Ride. 13.5 foot, its cost was about $1000 new, but have seen some on craigslist for $800 and less. Very stable for standing, and paddles well.

[buzzed bait]

4 hours ago, Dcats55 said:

I own Wilderness The Ride. 13.5 foot, its cost was about $1000 new, but have seen some on craigslist for $800 and less. Very stable for standing, and paddles well.

i can walk from the front hatch to the back compartment on my ride 135 it's so stable.... HEAVY but stable!