Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

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for Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

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Camden Wright - 5 years ago

What kayak is that in the video

Jon Patterson - 5 years ago

I just bought my first kayak ... I researched the hell out of it before I did ... and ended up with a feelfree moken 10 for about 650 ... awesome boat .. could it use a better seat YES but all in all you're right there is a boat for every skill level and good boats for every financial level

Mr Tight Lines - 5 years ago

Wonderfully said!
Thank you sir!

wrath231 - 5 years ago

I spent 250$ Cdn on a Pelican boost at Play it Again Sports. Booyah.

sean flesch - 5 years ago

I almost agree with all you are saying, but capitalism does have holes. I.e. small affordable trucks. I would love a tacoma, they last forever but they are out of my range, but everyone wants a truck these days so all the manufacturers are making premium small trucks with premium prices. We have to create new loans at 84months just to afford them.
My point is that the innovation is fueled by the margins on kayaks because everyone wants them. And for the most part, I'm ok to pay to play. I take issue with the accessory up charges to outfit the boats. If the yak is 1100, people will scoff at a single accessory that is 25% of the total cost of the boat. This is why the DIY community around yaks are so strong. They are overpricing accessories and that will not build brand loyalty.

Jacob Wynn - 5 years ago

Chad explaining capitalism and economics better than most college professors with PhDs. Well done Chad

Joe Brancato - 5 years ago

I'm digging the wrap on that yak. Looks sharp.

Kevin Sandells - 5 years ago

I think any thing to do with any sport is expensive.

DrMarlboro - 5 years ago

You need to look at the big picture? Excuse me? It's not an issue of the big picture, it's an issue of profit margins. The big picture means nothing if inflated profit margin prices something out of range of the average consumer. And paying for innovation? No. You are literally selling someone a product and saying "its only worth 1/3 of what you are paying, but that extra two thirds pays for the next over priced product you purchase from us."

The fact of the matter is, most consumer products are over priced, and that certainly extends to luxury items, which are already over priced, like kayaks.

10. comment for Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

mike Deisher - 5 years ago

Great lesson in capitalism! Expensive is relative to buyer.

MonsterChuck - 5 years ago

I started with a bass boat and just went to a kayak last year. I have had more fun fishing out of my kayak than I ever did out of my boat.

Steven Palomar - 5 years ago

Preach Chad preach,

Dirk White - 5 years ago

The old saying build and they will come. Well build it and they will also buy it.

Jason Beck Fishing - 5 years ago

I have decided I want to do more Fishing in a Kayak and co-angler in a boat. But I'm super intimidated in getting my first boat. Hoping to keep it around the $1000.00 Price point but with so many potions out there I never know where to start.

John Sini - 5 years ago

Try old town top water and Jackson bite if you want to stand

Larry Moffatt - 5 years ago

Hey Chad: In 2010, I chose wisely for my size and needs and bought my first sit-on-top (WS Tarpon 100) and I have used it and enjoyed it ever since. That's 10 years for under $700. My advice to anyone buying new today is: choose wisely and keep using for 10 years.

T J Ingram - 5 years ago

Right on Chad! Hey I need you to deliver that wrapped KBF SS127 to my house please !!

T J Ingram - 5 years ago

And 45 mins to Tim’s ford !!

T J Ingram - 5 years ago

Chad Hoover 30 mins form Guntersville brother !

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

T J Ingram do you have any giant bass nearby?

Robbie Hampton - 5 years ago

I was a kayak guide for a few years and had what I thought were expensive "sea" kayaks.
My first fishing kayak was a BPS sit in 10 footer, I HATED IT!!!!
I upgraded to a NW FX-13, and I LOVE it. It was two and a half times expensive as my most expensive sea kayak. It was worth every cent!
I get asked about it a lot, I tell everyone paddle BEFORE you buy it, paddle different boats, list pros and cons of what you want, I don't like my kayaks rudder system, but it's other features far out weigh that. Great video Chad!!!

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Robbie Hampton thank you Robbie

Doug Shelton - 5 years ago

Kayaks are way more affordable. Even the higher end model kayaks compared to most other boat options. Like you said it only gets more pricey when you factor in the add on equipment. Even then you can control either how cheap/basic or expensive/fully loaded.

Anthony hux - 5 years ago

i agree 100%

20. comment for Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

Adam Stewart - 5 years ago

Let's face it, you're paying for the engineering of these boats. The materials aren't expensive to make or mold. When people say they are too expensive, those people are the ones that probably already have a <$1000 boat. Most people don't think about getting in to kayaking and go out and buy a hobie. They will go get a 500 to 800 dollar kayak and then want to upgrade. That's when it gets too expensive. So the low to mid range boats have nothing to do with this topic being you can get on the water in a cheap kayak. It's hard to drop 2500-3500 on a kayak. Esp when you do your research you still have to add on to those kayaks. Like the native titian, they say the rutter is crap and u need to upgrade. Old town pdl you the boondocks wheels coz its stupid heavy. The hobie cant even go in reverse without following a checklist to dos before going backwards. Even the paddle it self, They say you need a $200 paddle. Lol with all the stuff you peddle to your viewer from the black box to poles and flags and the special nets you can easy spend 6k when youre all said and done. Thats when you need to ask yourself is it worth it.

Arturo Serna - 5 years ago

I feel like people are complaining more about pedal driven kayaks. They don't realize though, that it's still relatively new. Those units have to be made exact specifications. Somewhere along the way there will be more innovation and price will come down. For now though. It's still a great buy because I sure can't afford a boat or a truck to haul it.

AJ Hillbilly Mr.Hillbilly - 5 years ago

BEING RETIRED AND NO BIG BUDGET , USED IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO , EVEN IF I WAS STILL WORKING MAKING BIGGER BANK I WOULD LOOK FOR USED . NO REASON TO BLOW THE FAMILY BUDGET , BUY USED ESPECIALLY TO START . BUY AT THE END OF SEASON OR WINTER TIME - BE PATIENT .HAY U CAN FISH FROM THE BANK AND HAVE FUN . ENJOY THE BITE ALL.

vtxrudy - 5 years ago

yes!

Thomas Codding - 5 years ago

I got into Kayak fishing 2 years ago and I love it. Just ask yourself that kind of fisherman are you. Buy the kayak that fits your needs and what you want to do on the water.

California Bassin TV - 5 years ago

Haven’t even finished the vid yet but the answer is HELL YA

California Bassin TV - 5 years ago

Chad Hoover okay I watched it. So how about you provide me with your recommendations that fits my criteria. I’m 6’ 1 230lbs. I bass fish and need to be able to stand and be stable (obviously). I’d like a pedal drive but my buddy is around $1500. What do you recommend? Thanks

Jeremy Sturm - 5 years ago

I agree but right now it's bad time now because I didn't get approval from CEO of the house to purchase kayak today and I'm quite mad about it but it is what it is you do a good job Chad thanks

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Jeremy Sturm thank you!!

Old Lady Angler - 5 years ago

I totally agree. My first yak was a Sam's Club special $350 and it served me well. I made the step up to my Native Slayer Propel 10 kayak and it was the best thing I could have done. It was a little bit expensive (to me), but SO worth the INVESTMENT. Here it is 3 years later and I'm still LOVING this investment!!! Even more so!! I'm one happy angler! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Mitch Heil - 5 years ago

I would say there are more cheaper fishing kayaks available now than even 5 years ago when I got my first kayak. There are expensive ones yes but there are also inexpensive boats available.

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Mitch Heil Amen. And the expensive kayaks are the reason that cheaper kayaks get better

Todd Smith - 5 years ago

Expensive???? What about Fluro and Braid vs Mono, you get what you pay for. I choose to add things to my boat. (SS127) the base boat is still cheap when compared to others but it is still a top end boat. some of my accessories Like a HDS 9Carbon and a Torqeedo cost more than the Kayak.. still my choice, I fish St. Croix Legend Series rods and Lews Reels more expense and still my choice. WELL WORTH the cost for the one time expense and pleasure it gives. Keep up the great videos

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Todd Smith Amen!

Gman Adventurer - 5 years ago

Nailed it, the competition has brought so many options, More brands, more models and more options. So many choices and the whole spectrum of the price point range. If the demand is there, someone will create a kayak at specific price point with the key features people want. Plus, if you want something that costs more than you have, you will find a way to get the money to spend. I know cause I did, when I went from a bigbox store sit in to a upgraded sit on top.

30. comment for Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

MCBASSIN - 5 years ago

Bill Sherk hell yeah I have the mako 12 and love it!!

Joshua Magaw - 5 years ago

100% ...even just five years ago it was tough to find a kayak for a big guy. It would be interesting to hear your take on the direction fishing kayak design is likely heading i.e. lighter weight, retractable skegs, “hatch Wells”, integrated coolers...

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Joshua Magaw this is my next video to shoot! Thanks for commenting

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Zee Bait Co yessir! Thanks brother and looking forward to hooking up with you and your team this year.

Joseph - 5 years ago

I bought a 17 foot Old Town Canoe for a little over 700$ new around 1997. Other than some guna, I don't have anything I still use from then.

Kate Fishing - 5 years ago

The hard thing for me was that there was no dealer in my state to look at the kayak I was interested in. I wanted a mid range boat that met certain features I wanted. You cant see them in real life, or even test them out in Utah without driving to another state or two. I had to buy online and it's a hard entry point for new kayak fisherman who are learning from scratch and forced to buy sight unseen. Thanks to your channel and others, I can at least learn online. Wish there were more dealers out here in the mountain west.

Greg Menniges - 5 years ago

My Sundolphin Boss 12 SS was only $500

edwin ross - 5 years ago

I am looking now for sit on top kayak I am very budget minded but as they say you get what you pay for

lpettiford3 - 5 years ago

I’m putting in extra hours now saving to get the 107 or 127. Haven’t decided on which one yet.

Greg Lane - 5 years ago

Chad breakin it down....so many offering...and same as cash financing from dealers! TRUTH! Get one and get on the water I’m a Vibe owner but the Bonafide’s are awesome! Heck even Pelican is stepping up their game...a top 10 yak fisher in the kBF tournament has a Pelican Catch!! Get on the water! Thanks for everything you do Chad! Was a pleasure meeting you at BMC 2019! Just as nice in person!!

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Greg Lane thank you sir

Randy Vining - 5 years ago

I fought the changes to pedals and power but I now see how it is improving the experience for many and I can still paddle. I never would have thought we would be where we are 20 years ago. I can't imagine what they next 20 years will bring........but I wont be here to see it. It has been a heck of a ride.

7slot_adventures - 5 years ago

You hit the nail on the head !

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

7slot_adventures thanks! I appreciate that

Eric Nelson - 5 years ago

I find some are “expensive” for me, but there’s a market for them obviously. I had to jump out of my comfort zone to get my new kayak, but it feels worth the money so far. I too started years ago with a “cheap” kayak and there isn’t even a fair comparison of that one and the one I have now, other than same brand and quality plastic. I still have my original kayak, it was handed down to the kids.

Scott Jones - 5 years ago

You're the man Chad! Bonafide is lucky to have you as a partner and spokesman!! Can't wait to finally own my first Bonafide Yak one day! Thanks for everything you do for us Chad!!! Cheers!!!

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Scott Jones thanks brother and I’m lucky to be with them.

chris dolan - 5 years ago

Another solid spot on video!

Mike Dew - 5 years ago

love your channel and Cristie . I bet a yak at Walmart for 280 I put a fish finder upgraded the seat anchor system 3 more rod holders still using a paddle I may add a trolling motor under 700 hundred . I'm in Dallas GA. very near Flukemaster

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Mike Dew that’s cool and as long as you love it and fish from it that’s all that matters

Jonathan Llamas - 5 years ago

Totally agree chad !

Marvin Forte - 5 years ago

Hell yeah! Couldn't say it better, Chad. Thank you!

Marvin Forte - 5 years ago

I see a lot of people comment that kayaks are "overpriced," which is even worse than "expensive" IMO. If someone could make the same thing for half the money, they would. And they'd make a killing. Like you said, "You get what you pay for and you pay for what you get."

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Marvin Forte thank you

Thomas Minarik - 5 years ago

Quality at the right price point is key beneficial to all parties

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Thomas Minarik Amen!

The Grizzly Yaker - 5 years ago

Right on point my friend!

Jacob Harrington - 5 years ago

Side note- how the hell ain't this channel at 100k subs?

Jacob Harrington - 5 years ago

+Chad Hoover you will soon! I show all my fishing buddies your series. coming!

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Jacob Harrington I’m trying... LOL

50. comment for Are Fishing Kayaks Too Expensive?

Jeremy Newhouse - 5 years ago

We always want the best stuff and to get that it takes research and development. That stuff is not cheap. With that said if ya do your homework and work your tail off you can find good boats in your price range. For some people that may be $500 for others it may be 5k. Don't try to compete with the next guy, find a boat that does what you need, new or used and work or save for it. You don't always have to have a brand new shiney boat to go out and have a good time or compete in a tournament. Just because I can't afford something doesn't mean it shouldn't be available to the person that can.

Jacob Harrington - 5 years ago

Gana make a video at the rock quarries near here.. I'm not defending it, but some one illegally stocked one with smallies. And the other with large mouth. I go there and land about 200 fish in a day. It's about 200' deep. Were gana get the kyacks out there second open water hits. Should make for an epic video. Crystal clear water. And literal schools of 5 pounders haha. Its crazyness

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Nice, looking forward to seeing that video. What state?

rob s - 5 years ago

This hits it on the nail. People don't also realize, you buy even a Jon boat you have to register, either trolling motor(needs battery and a charger) or gas motor(needs gas obviously and regular maintenance), trailer( maintenance, insurance if needed, and registration). Kayak for the most part is a one time fee. Not much maintenance needs done(except clean it), no registration, don't need a trailer. I'm not knocking on Jon boats or big bass boats. If you can afford it, go for it. But kayaks just make more sense to me.

rob s - 5 years ago

+Special Ed where are you that you had to register a yak? Must be extremely heavy to have to get a trailer. I just car top mine. Even my old Hobie pa 12 I car topped..... A Toyota Corolla will pull a small trailer holding a kayak.

Special Ed - 5 years ago

I paid 3k for my yak, and did about 2k in upgrades. Had to register it, buy a trailer, and now i'm looking to buy something to pull it whenever my bank account recovers from 0.

Ryan Miller - 5 years ago

Well put!!! I love America.

Jacob Harrington - 5 years ago

Just picked up a gopro the other night!! Its coming buddy. Yack fishing videos soon

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Jacob Harrington cool deal, looking forward to it

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

Jacob Harrington True Dat!

Hunter Nixon - 5 years ago

It’s still more affordable and not near as rediculous as fully loaded down bass boats costing $85,000. Kayak fishing is still the way to go for anglers who want to be more stealthy and not break the bank

Chad Hoover - 5 years ago

GC Bassin thanks! I will check yours out too.