Remember the affordable fishing kayak scene from 2017? It was a time of solid, budget-friendly options that opened up the sport to countless anglers. Many of those classic models and their core principles have evolved, proving that great value doesn’t have an expiration date. We’re taking a nostalgic look back at that era to see which types of kayaks have stood the test of time.
Today’s market is filled with successors and modern interpretations of those beloved 2017 designs. From innovative modular systems to stable, feature-packed sit-on-tops, the spirit of affordability and functionality is stronger than ever. This revisit highlights kayaks that embody that legacy, offering today’s angler proven performance without a hefty investment.
The Best Affordable Fishing Kayaks Revisited
- Reel Yaks 9.5ft Raptor Fin Drive Fishing Kayak
- Reel Yaks Recon Modular Fishing Kayak
- Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket
- Reel Yaks 9.5ft Raider Propeller Drive Fishing Kayak
- Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak
- Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS Fishing Kayak
- Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Sit on top Fishing Kayak
- Pelican Poseidon Angler Fishing Lightweight Kayak Paddle
- Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Set
Reel Yaks 9.5ft Raptor Fin Drive Fishing Kayak
The Reel Yaks Raptor brings hands-free fishing to a compact and portable package. Its smooth fin drive system is designed for quiet operation, allowing you to glide through shallow waters without spooking fish. Weighing only 11 pounds, the drive is knee-friendly and resists snagging on weeds, making it a practical choice for dedicated anglers.
This kayak’s modular design is a major benefit for those with limited storage space or who need an easy transport solution. It snaps together in just four steps, and each 31-pound section features built-in handles. This means you can carry it in a car trunk without the need for roof racks, making your fishing trip setup quick and straightforward.
Reel Yaks Recon Modular Fishing Kayak
For anglers seeking a bit more space and capacity, the Reel Yaks Recon offers a 10.5-foot platform with a 430-pound weight capacity. It utilizes the same efficient and quiet fin drive system as the Raptor, providing reliable, hands-free propulsion. This design is ideal for covering more water while keeping your focus on casting and reeling.
The Recon maintains the user-friendly, modular construction that makes the Reel Yaks line so accessible. While its sections are slightly heavier at 44 pounds each, the built-in handles still facilitate manageable transport. This kayak successfully balances a larger, more stable fishing platform with the convenience of easy disassembly and storage.
Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket
Safety is a non-negotiable part of any fishing trip, and the Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket is built specifically for anglers. It is a U.S. Coast Guard Approved PFD, providing the reliable flotation required for paddle sports. Beyond basic safety, its design incorporates multiple pockets and tool holders to keep pliers, line, and lures within easy reach.
Comfort is key for long days on the water, and this life jacket delivers with a high-back design that works seamlessly with kayak seats. The adjustable straps ensure a secure and personalized fit, preventing chafing and allowing for freedom of movement while casting. It’s a piece of gear that enhances both your safety and your fishing efficiency.
Reel Yaks 9.5ft Raider Propeller Drive Fishing Kayak
The Reel Yaks Raider offers a different approach to hands-free power with its responsive propeller drive system. This system provides strong acceleration and the distinct advantage of effortless reverse maneuvering. This feature is particularly useful for navigating tight spaces around docks, mangrove thickets, or for quickly backing away from a structure.
Sharing the same modular and portable DNA as its fin-driven siblings, the Raider breaks down into 31-pound sections for simple transport and storage. The quick four-step assembly means you can go from car to water in minutes. It’s an excellent option for anglers who prioritize power and precise boat control in their fishing strategy.
Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak
The Pelican Catch Mode 110 is a premium angler kayak designed with stability as its core principle. Its tunnel hull provides a secure and steady ride, which is crucial for standing up to cast or when reeling in a energetic fish. The wide, flat deck platform offers a safe and clear area to move around without tripping over your gear.
Comfort is a highlight with the ERGOBOOST seating system, which acts like a supportive lawn chair on the water. It’s adjustable for a higher seating position, improving your line of sight. This kayak is also equipped with multiple storage options, including front and rear tank wells, two rigging tracks, and three flush mount rod holders, making it a fully-featured fishing platform.
Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS Fishing Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Boss 10 SS features a catamaran hull design that creates an exceptionally stable and flat platform. This stability gives anglers the confidence to stand and fish, a valuable advantage for sight fishing and casting accuracy. The inclusion of a stand-up assist strap provides extra security when changing positions.
This kayak is built with practical angling needs in mind. It comes with three fishing rod holders and gear tracks for customizing your accessory setup. The front and rear storage wells are spacious enough to hold a standard milk crate, allowing you to bring a significant amount of gear on your fishing adventures.
Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler Sit on top Fishing Kayak
The Pelican Sentinel 100X focuses heavily on angler comfort with its Ergolounge seating system. The seat features extra-thick cushioning and a high, wide padded backrest for support during long hours on the water. This thoughtful design helps reduce fatigue, allowing you to stay out longer and focus on fishing.
A standout feature is the ExoPak removable storage compartment, which lets you pre-pack your gear at home and simply drop it into the kayak when you arrive. This compartment also includes two vertical rod holders. With two additional flush-mount rod holders, this kayak offers a total of four, providing excellent versatility for storing and accessing your rods.
Pelican Poseidon Angler Fishing Lightweight Kayak Paddle
A reliable paddle is an essential tool, and the Pelican Poseidon Angler is designed with the fisherman in mind. Its 98.5-inch length is well-suited for wider fishing kayaks and for anglers taller than 5’5″. The construction includes a two-piece anti-slip grip aluminum shaft and durable fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene blades.
This paddle incorporates clever features that add functionality. An integrated hook retrieval system is built directly into the blade, perfect for grabbing lines or snagged lures. Additionally, a high-visibility measurement tape along the shaft provides a convenient way to measure your catch immediately after landing it.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak Set
For those who need maximum portability and storage convenience, the Intex Excursion Pro is a practical inflatable solution. This two-person kayak is ideal for anglers who lack the space for a hard-shell kayak or who want a craft that can be easily taken on trips. Despite being inflatable, it is designed with fishing in mind.
The set includes everything needed to get on the water, making it a great value for beginners or casual anglers. Its inflatable nature does not sacrifice all features, as it often includes rod holders and secure mounting points for gear. It represents the ultimate in transportability for fishermen on the go.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Affordable Fishing Kayak
Looking back at the best affordable fishing kayaks from 2017, it’s interesting to see which features have stood the test of time. Back then, the market was already booming with great budget-friendly options, and many of the core principles for choosing one remain the same today. If I were shopping for one of these used or new-old-stock models, or even just using the 2017 lineup as a benchmark, here’s what I would focus on.
First, I always consider stability above all else. A fishing kayak needs to be a stable platform for casting, reeling, and maybe even standing up. Wider kayaks, typically over 30 inches, generally offer more primary stability, which is that initial feeling of not tipping over. This is crucial for a beginner or anyone who wants to feel secure on the water. Many of the popular 2017 models, like the Perception Pescador Pro 12, were hits precisely because they nailed this stable, angler-friendly design.
Next, I look at the angling-specific features. A bare-bones recreational kayak just won’t cut it. I need built-in rod holders, and not just one. A flush-mount rod holder is great for trolling, while an adjustable, swiveling holder is perfect for active fishing. I also check for a clear, open deck with plenty of accessible gear tracks. These tracks let me customize my setup, adding everything from fish finders to cup holders. Storage is another big one. A sealed hatch is ideal for keeping my phone and keys dry, while a large, open tankwell in the back can handle a crate for all my tackle and gear.
Finally, I think about the kayak’s weight and how I’m going to transport it. A 12-foot kayak can easily weigh 60-80 pounds, and that’s before adding any gear. If I’m loading it onto a car roof by myself, a lighter model is a huge advantage. Material matters here, too. Most affordable kayaks are made from polyethylene, which is durable but can be heavy. The type of kayak is also key. Sit-on-top models are the standard for fishing because they’re self-bailing, easier to get in and out of, and offer more freedom of movement. Sit-inside kayaks can feel more secure in cold weather but are generally less versatile for the average angler. Revisiting the 9 Best Affordable Fishing Kayaks from 2017 Revisited shows that the best models balanced all these factors without breaking the bank.
FAQ
Are kayaks from 2017 still a good buy today?
Absolutely, if they’ve been well cared for. The core technology in fishing kayaks hasn’t changed dramatically. A well-maintained 2017 model from a reputable brand will still perform its job perfectly. The main things to check for are sun damage (brittleness or warping), hull scratches (deep gouges can be a problem), and the condition of any accessories. The value proposition can be very strong on the used market.
What is the main difference between a cheap and an affordable fishing kayak?
This is a great question. For me, “cheap” often means cutting corners on crucial features or build quality. You might get a kayak with poor stability, flimsy hatches that leak, or uncomfortable seating. An “affordable” or budget-friendly kayak, like many celebrated in the 2017 roundups, smartly prioritizes essential features. It will have a stable hull, decent seating, and necessary angling attachments like rod holders and gear tracks, just without the high-end materials or complex features of a $3000 model.
Is a longer or shorter kayak better for fishing?
It depends on your water. Longer kayaks (12 feet and up) track straighter and are generally faster, which is great for covering large lakes or slow-moving rivers. Shorter kayaks (under 10 feet) are more maneuverable, making them ideal for small, winding creeks. They’re also easier to transport and store. For a all-around first fishing kayak, I usually recommend something in the 10 to 12-foot range as a good compromise.
How important is a comfortable seat?
It’s more important than you might think. You could be sitting for hours, and a bad seat will cut your trip short and make you miserable. The best affordable fishing kayaks from 2017 started a trend of including much better, elevated stadium-style seats. A good seat lifts you off the deck for better drainage and comfort, offers lumbar support, and is adjustable. Don’t underestimate it; it’s a feature worth paying a little extra for.
Can I stand up in an affordable fishing kayak?
You can, but you need to pick the right model. Standing requires excellent stability. Look for kayaks that are specifically designed for standing, often labeled as such. They are typically wider (34 inches or more) and have a flat, stable hull. Even then, it takes some practice and good balance. Always try it in calm, shallow water first. Many of the top picks from the 2017 era were praised for their stand-up capability, which was a big step for budget models at the time.