Kayak under $1300

[spencerdella]

I want to start fishing kayak, and I can only spend $1500.



Interested:-  Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Fishing Kayak
 

Any recommendations, personal experiences, etc., would be welcome.



Thanks for any input!

[greywalls]

I have several buddies that are hard-core into kayak fishing, and I've been thinking of picking up one, myself (although hard for me to justify diverting $ away from my boat)...

At your budget, there are many great options -- like you've probably heard before, you really need to see them in person and sit in them. Seat configuration and your reach in the boat makes a huge difference, and is mostly a matter of personal preference. Also, you should budget for a quality, comfortable MFD and an upgraded paddle.

The Vibe Sea Ghost 130 is definitely a well-reviewed boat. I checked out its smaller version and really liked it.

Others that I like, that might be worth checking out:
- Jackson Liska
- Old Town Topwater 120 Angler
- Ocean Kayak Trident
- FeelFree Lure 11.5

[kneedeep]

My suggestion if you want to "start" kayaking, is to by a used one that is set up sorta, or buy an inexpensive one, and give it a go. too many of my friends have been bit by the bug, dropped $3k on a rig, only to sell it on craigs list the next winter.

While it is a invigorating experience, many find them selves trying to put a motor on a kayak for distance, and at that point, just go buy a dang boat.

Biggest kayak issue I have is boat wake. I don't like feeling like a cork in the ocean. I would sell you mine, but I have 8 and 3 YO boys.....

Good Luck.

[flintster55]

I agree with Kneedeep for sure. I would try as many as you can before you buy or drop a lot on a really nice rig. I started in a $150 sit in from Dicks Sportinggoods and have slowly upgraded over the years as my passion for the sport has grown. There are definitely good deals to be had on craigslist, especially this time of year and as we move into the winter.

Are you looking to do mostly lakes or rivers or both? Any saltwater?

I'm slightly biased because I've had such good luck with them, but I really like Wilderness Systems kayaks. I bought a used Tarpon 120 off of craigslist a few years ago and ended up with a hole in the hull after a few years of use near one of the scupper holes (a known defect with that model). I took it to the nearest dealer and they replaced the entire boat with a brand new one no questions asked because they have a lifetime hull warranty. Did not even ask for paperwork or anything which was great since I was not the original owner. I still have this replacement Tarpon for my lady friend when she wants to tag along and I have an ATAK 120 for my rig and really love it. Super stable (can paddle standing up like a paddleboard) and tons of useful features.

If you are located in the area, i'd be glad to let you try either of mine. I don't think you could go wrong with the Sea Ghost either, it has some really good reviews. The 110 version is also very popular as it is a little easier to transport in a pickup and store.