6 Best Fishing Kayaks Under 400

Best Fishing Kayaks Under 400 in 2025

BESTSELLER NO. 1 in 2025

• STABLE: The tunnel hull offers maximum stability for a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak. Its wide and flat deck platform allows you to safely stand up to cast lines and reel in fish without tripping over your gear.
• COMFORTABLE: The ERGOBOOST seating system is one of our most comfortable fishing chairs. It's adjustable to allow a higher seating position and better angle of vision while also outfitted with a comfortable EVA seat pad and convenient under seat storage.
• PREMIUM FISHING FEATURES: This fishing kayak comes equipped with two 4" rigging tracks to set up your accessories. Bring all your essential fishing gear on board thanks to this kayak's multiple storage features, such as front and rear tank wells and two bottle holders. Additional premium features in this fishing kayak include three flush mount rod holders, and an anti-slip deck carpet. This kayak comes with two paddle/rod tie-downs for when you need to free your hands.
• SAFE: Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards. The CATCH MODE 110 holds a maximum weight capacity of 375 lb. The kayak's hull design also provides exceptional stability to ensure peace of mind during your ride.
• LIGHTWEIGHT: Our kayaks are made of an exceptionally durable high molecular weight polyethylene, requiring less materials to be built. Weighing 63 lb, this kayak is lighter than our competitors and easy to transport. At 10 ft 8 in, you won’t need any help to load this kayak as you head to your preferred fishing spot.
• Key Specifications Max Weight Capacity: 375 lb - 170.1 kg Length: 128 in - 325.12 cm Height: 16.5 in - 41.91 cm Width: 34.5 in - 87.63 cm Weight: 83 lb - 37.65 kg.

BESTSELLER NO. 2 in 2025

• SMOOTH & EFFICIENT FIN DRIVE: Designed for quiet, hands-free propulsion, our fin pedal system glides smoothly through shallow waters while minimizing snags on weeds and reeds. Weighing just 11 lbs, it’s lightweight, knee-friendly, and built for efficient movement.
• EASY ASSEMBLY & PORTABILITY: Our modular fishing kayak snaps together in seconds using only four steps. Once you're done on the water, simply disassemble our multi-piece angler kayak for a hassle-free experience. Enjoy an effortless kayaking solution so you can focus on the adventure.
• LIGHTWEIGHT & TRANSPORTABLE: Each 31-lb section has built-in handles for easy carrying. Even those with back troubles can easily transport our fishing kayak with pedals to their favorite fishing spots. No roof racks or trailers needed. Despite its lightweight build, Reel Yaks are sturdy and stable!, COMPACT STORAGE SOLUTION: No truck? No garage? No problem. Our space-saving kayaks for fishing fit in small apartments, closets, or car trunks. Crafted for convenience, our compact pedal drive kayak is a great option for anglers and kayak enthusiasts with limited storage space.
• SECURE & CUSTOMIZABLE FISHING PLATFORM: Built by a US Coast Guard-registered manufacturer, our W-hull sit-on-top kayak provides balance in rough waters. Each feature-packed stand-up fishing kayak allows users to customize their ride to suit different needs, water conditions, and personal preferences!.

BESTSELLER NO. 3 in 2025

• Big on the water, small on the road: Our modular fishing kayak means you can enjoy a full-size boat on the water, but it disassembles to fit in the trunk of your car, and takes up very little space at home for travel and storage.
• Four-step assembly, no tools required: It only takes four steps to quickly assemble in seconds before you hit the water. Once you're done with your water recreation, simply disassemble our modular fishing kayak and you're ready to store. Enjoy our kayaking solutions with ease so you can focus on your adventure.
• Lightweight and easy to carry: Each 38-pound section has a built-in handle that can be carried in one hand for easy carrying. Even if you have a back injury, you can easily transport our fishing kayak with seat to your favorite fishing spot without a roof rack or trailer. Despite its light weight, it is sturdy to ensure your safety.
• Easier pedal system: We use a new propeller pedal drive, which is quieter and easier to pedal than the penguin pedal system. It also has a reverse function. If you are about to hit the shore when moving forward on the lake, you can reverse in the opposite direction, which is safer and can be driven smoothly and efficiently with a capacity of 500 pounds.
• Safety is our primary responsibility:Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass standards. Nautanixa holds a maximum weight capacity of 500 lb. The kayak's hull design also provides exceptional stability to ensure peace of mind during your ride.

BESTSELLER NO. 4 in 2025

• STABLE: The tunnel hull offers amazing stability for a secure and steady ride. It also makes it incredibly easy to get in and out of the kayak. There is also plenty of deck space aboard this fishing kayak to prevent you from tripping on gear as you stand up to cast lines and reel in fish.
• COMFORTABLE: The ERGOCAST CLASSIC dual position seating system is one of our most comfortable fishing chairs. It's adjustable to a high or low position and offers different levels of support.
• PREMIUM FISHING FEATURES: Bring all your essential gear aboard this fishing kayak thanks to its multiple storage options, including a front quick-lock hatch and a rear tank well with bungee cords. Additional premium features include two flush mount rod holders, two accessory eyelets, and two 4" rigging tracks to set up your accessories. Finally, we added paddle tie-downs for when you need to free your hands, adjustable footrests and a bottle holder for your convenience.
• SAFE: Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our sit-on-tops in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards. This fishing kayak holds a maximum weight capacity of 350 lb. The kayak's flatter hull design also provides exceptional stability to ensure peace of mind during your ride.
• LIGHTWEIGHT: Made of an exceptionally durable high molecular weight polyethylene, our kayaks require less materials to be built. At 10 ft and 58 lb with ergonomic carrying handles, this fishing kayak is easy to transport and store.

BESTSELLER NO. 5 in 2025

• Ergocast XP seating system: Paddle in comfort with the premium quality Ergocast XP seating system. This seat can easily be removed from your kayak, which also makes it a great beach chair!, Spacious: Storage in this kayak will ensure you have enough room to bring along all your essential gear. It includes a front storage platform and a tank well both equipped with bungee cords. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the addition of 4" rigging tracks to install your favorite accessories and 2 flush-mount rod holders.
• Gear tracks: Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the addition of 4" rigging tracks to install your favorite accessories.
• Rod holders: 2 flush-mount rod holders. Additional features in this kayak include molded footrests for your comfort, a smartphone holder with a bungee cord, and paddle tie-downs to keep your hands free when necessary. This kayak is compatible with our convenient and resistant Exocrate fishing crate bag, perfect to make the most out of your milk crate or to organize your fishing tools.
• Twin-arched multi-chine hull: The twin-arched multi-chine hull offers excellent stability giving you a secure and steady ride.

BESTSELLER NO. 6 in 2025

• SMOOTH & EFFICIENT FIN DRIVE: Designed for quiet, hands-free propulsion, our fin pedal system glides smoothly through shallow waters while minimizing snags on weeds and reeds. Weighing just 11 lbs, it’s lightweight, knee-friendly, and built for efficient movement.
• EASY ASSEMBLY & PORTABILITY: Our modular fishing kayak snaps together in seconds using only four steps. Once you're done on the water, simply disassemble our multi-piece angler kayak for a hassle-free experience. Enjoy an effortless kayaking solution so you can focus on the adventure.
• LIGHTWEIGHT & TRANSPORTABLE: Each 44-lb section has built-in handles for easy carrying. Even those with back troubles can easily transport our fishing kayak with pedals to their favorite fishing spots. No roof racks or trailers needed. Despite its lightweight build, Reel Yaks are sturdy and stable!, COMPACT STORAGE SOLUTION: No truck? No garage? No problem. Our space-saving kayaks for fishing fit in small apartments, closets, or car trunks. Crafted for convenience, our compact pedal drive kayak is a great option for anglers and kayak enthusiasts with limited storage space.
• SECURE & CUSTOMIZABLE FISHING PLATFORM: Built by a US Coast Guard-registered manufacturer, our W-hull sit-on-top kayak is made from durable High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) for strength and stability in rough waters. Customize your kayak to match your needs, water conditions, and preferences!.

Best Fishing Kayaks Under $400 – Rocky’s Picks

Yo, champ! Get the low‑down on stable, light‑weight kayaks that won’t punch your wallet. Rocky’s guide shows what to hunt for and the top budget picks.

What a Fighter Looks for in a Budget Kayak

Stability – the foundation of your fight

Just like a solid stance on the ropes, a kayak needs a tunnel hull that won’t wobble. Look for a wide, flat deck that lets you stand, cast, and reel without tripping over your gear. A stable boat lets you focus on the catch, not on staying upright.

Weight & Portability – move like a boxer

When you need to carry the kayak to the water, every pound counts. A lightweight frame (under 40 lb) with built‑in handles means you can lift it solo, just like loading a sack of sandbags. Snap‑together modules make loading and unloading a quick jab, not a marathon.

Storage & Fishing Features – bring your arsenal

Every angler needs rod holders, rigging tracks, and tank wells for bait and gear. Look for 4‑inch tracks, flush‑mount rod slots, and bottle or gear bungee loops. These features let you set up shop fast, like a quick combo on the canvas.

Durability – built to take hits

High‑density polyethylene (HDPE) or high‑molecular weight polyethylene gives you a hull that can absorb knocks from rocks and waves. Extra flotation inside the hull adds safety, so you can keep pushing forward when the water gets rough.

Top Picks Under $400

Pelican Catch Classic 100 Angler – 10 ft, 58 lb

Why it wins

• Tunnel hull delivers rock‑steady stability for standing casts.
• Ergocast dual‑position seat gives you a high view or low comfort.
• Front quick‑lock hatch and rear tank well keep gear secure.
• Two 4″ rigging tracks and flush‑mount rod holders for full accessorizing.
• Lightweight poly build makes transport a single‑hand lift.

Reel Yaks Raptor Modular – 9.5 ft, 31 lb per section

Why it wins

• Fin pedal drive glides silently, perfect for sneaking up on fish.
• Four‑step snap‑together design – assemble faster than a jab‑cross.
• Each 31 lb piece has built‑in handles; backpack‑ready for city dwellers.
• W‑hull gives balance in choppy water, like a seasoned fighter keeping his footing.
• Customizable platform lets you add tracks, rod holders, or a cup holder.

Nautanixa Pedal Drive – 10 ft, 38 lb per section

Why it wins

• Propeller pedal system with reverse – retreat fast when you hit a snag.
• Four‑step tool‑free assembly, then break it down to fit in a car trunk.
• 500 lb capacity for big‑game trips; sturdy HDPE hull stands up to the grind.
• Extra flotation gives peace of mind, like a coach watching your form.

Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler – 9.6 ft, removable seat

Why it wins

• Ergocast XP seat drops off to become a beach chair – double the utility.
• Twin‑arched multi‑chine hull offers rock‑steady ride on calm or wind‑tossed water.
• Front storage platform and tank well with bungee cords keep everything in place.
• 4″ rigging tracks and two flush‑mount rod holders for quick set‑up.

Reel Yaks Recon Modular – 10.5 ft, 44 lb per section

Why it wins

• Fin drive runs smooth and quiet, ideal for stealthy approaches.
• Four‑step modular build fits in a closet, perfect for apartment fighters.
• HDPE hull built to US Coast Guard standards – strong enough for rough water rounds.
• Customizable fishing platform lets you attach tracks, rod holders, or a smartphone cradle.

How to Choose Your Champion

Match the kayak to your terrain: shallow bays need a fin drive, deep lakes thrive on storage capacity. Keep your budget tight—under $400—and focus on the core features: stability, light weight, and enough gear hooks to keep the fight going. Test the seat, lift the hull, and imagine yourself casting a line while the crowd cheers. If it feels right, you’ve found your contender.