10 Best Budget Kayaks 2026 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 PWR 100 is a sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for solo use, measuring 10 feet long and about 15.75 inches wide. It’s made from durable polyethylene, which makes it sturdy yet relatively lightweight at 75 pounds, making it easier to carry compared to heavier kayaks. With a weight capacity of 450 pounds, it comfortably supports most users along with their fishing gear.

One of the kayak’s standout features is the Ergo360 seating system: the seat is very comfortable, swivels a full 360 degrees, and slides on tracks to help you adjust your position while fishing, which adds a lot of convenience. This kayak is also ready for a small motor, as it comes with a pre-installed transom and is pre-wired for a battery, which is great if you want to use a gas or electric motor up to 2.5 hp to move faster or save energy. It includes thoughtful details like gear tracks to attach accessories and anti-slip traction pads that help you stand safely and quietly, which can be helpful when fishing.

The kayak’s light kaki color and modern design are appealing, but at 75 pounds, it might still be a bit heavy for some users to launch alone or transport without help. While it’s not the cheapest option, it offers a good mix of comfort, versatility, and fishing-specific features at a budget-friendly price. This kayak is best for beginner to intermediate anglers who want a reliable, easy-to-use fishing kayak with room for accessories and the option to add a motor down the line.

The Perception Kayaks Conduit 13 is a sit-inside recreational kayak designed to offer a good balance of comfort, storage, and performance for larger paddlers. At 13 feet long and 26.5 inches wide, it provides a spacious cockpit that fits most users comfortably, with an adjustable seatback that can be moved in multiple directions for personalized support. Weighing 51 pounds, it is light enough to transport for a kayak of its size but may still require some effort to carry. Made from durable polyethylene, it’s built to handle typical outdoor use without easily getting damaged.

The kayak can hold up to 295 pounds, making it suitable for most adult users, though heavier paddlers might find its capacity limiting. Useful storage options include corded front and rear deck areas for quick access to essentials, plus a large rear dry storage compartment with a watertight cover—great for keeping your gear safe and dry during outings.

Regarded as a budget kayak, the Conduit 13 delivers quality features without extra frills, making it ideal for beginners or casual paddlers who want a reliable, comfortable boat for lakes, calm rivers, or mild conditions. Its weight could be a drawback for solo transport, and paddlers seeking high-performance speed or maneuverability might prefer narrower or lighter models. This kayak is well suited for recreational paddlers prioritizing comfort, storage, and stability at an affordable price.