10 Best Budget Kayaks 2025 in the United States

The Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a budget-friendly angler fishing kayak that offers a balance of stability, comfort, and practicality. With a length of 10.5 ft and a width of 34.5 inches, it provides a stable tunnel hull design that makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak. It also offers a wide deck platform for safe standing and can hold a weight capacity of up to 375 pounds, making it suitable for most adult users along with their fishing gear.

The kayak is made from durable polyethylene, ensuring that it remains lightweight at 67 pounds, which is handy for transportation and handling. The ERGOBOOST seating system enhances comfort by allowing an adjustable, higher seating position with an EVA seat pad, adding to the enhanced fishing experience.

Additional features like under-seat storage and three flush-mount rod holders further add to its practicality for fishing enthusiasts. It may not be ideal for those seeking high-end features or larger, more spacious designs. For users who prioritize stability, ease of use, and comfort within a budget, the Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a reliable choice.

The Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable, single-person fishing kayak. At 10.5 feet long, it is compact enough for easy transport and storage, yet still offers good stability thanks to its polyethylene construction and built-in traction pads. This material is durable and resistant to scratches, which is great for beginners or casual anglers. The kayak supports typical weight capacities for its size, making it suitable for most adult users.

One of the strongest points is its Ergoboost seating system, which is designed for comfort during long days on the water, providing an adjustable, elevated seat for better visibility and convenience with under-seat storage. The inclusion of gear rails and three flush rod holders means you can customize your setup with fishing accessories, which is often missing in budget models. A unique addition is the stern transom allowing a small outboard motor, giving flexibility if you want to upgrade from paddling.

On the downside, the kayak is a bit heavier at 36 kg, which might make it less easy to carry solo. Also, while the kayak is well-equipped for fishing, its narrower width may feel a little less stable if you're new to kayaking or plan to stand frequently. The Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR delivers a good balance of features, comfort, and durability for budget-conscious anglers, especially those focused on fishing rather than casual touring.

The Intex Excursion Pro K1 is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable, single-person inflatable kayak. Its super-tough 3-ply PVC material offers good durability and resistance to abrasion and sunlight, which is great for beginners or casual paddlers who want a low-maintenance boat. The kayak measures 10 feet long and 3 feet wide, providing decent stability without being too bulky. It supports up to 220 pounds, which fits most average users comfortably. The adjustable bucket seat adds to comfort, and the included accessories like paddles, a pump, and rod holders make it ready for fishing or simple adventures right out of the box.

The kayak is reasonably light at around 31 pounds and folds into a compact carry bag, so transportation and storage are manageable. On the downside, the weight capacity is on the lower side compared to some models, limiting use for heavier riders or gear-heavy trips. Also, while inflatable kayaks offer portability, they generally don’t perform as well as hard-shell kayaks in rough water or for speed. The skegs help with tracking but may not satisfy more experienced paddlers looking for high maneuverability.

This kayak is well suited for casual users wanting an easy-to-handle, budget-friendly option for calm lakes or slow rivers, especially if fishing or light recreational paddling is the goal.