So my budget just increase to $800 for my first kayak. I found a 2016 Jackson cuda 14 in my budget. Just trying to find out if this is the best i can get for my money. The cuda is not something I thought I could get before.

I will mostly be fishing lakes and reservoirs. Thanks

A Cuda 14 for that price is probably one of the better deals you will find.

Leave room in your budget for a good PFD and paddle.

It comes with a carlisle paddle.

PFD! - or make that a separate budget.

I personally love the neoprene sports ones - inflatables cost to much over time, the cheaper ones that are covered in canvas rub a paddler raw. The fishing exclusive ones are nice... but not as flexible if your paddling with others and/or planning a paddle where you'll get out and swim a bit.

Buy u a paddlers life vest.
https://offerupnow.com/item/detail/210864544/oryx-movevent-life-vest
$50-$100 most places & much Less used.
Cuda is a nice yak. If u buy used take someone that knows yaks and paddle it if u can. U need to make sure it's not leaking. Paddling it then opening the hat he's n looking inside is the best way to tell if someone giving u a deal or dumping their a used yak on u. Some folks have really regretted not doing this. A 240 minimum length paddle is what u will want 4 for the cuda. Good luck.

I would think $800 for a kayak that retails for $1400 should be a good deal. Just give it a good look over, I would think anything wrong would be easy to see. Just demo it to make sure you like it.

Just FYI: new it comes with 3 rod holders (2 tube type for behind the seat, and one for up front) , waterproof pouch that mounts behind seat, a thermarest lumbar support.

I have a 2016 cuda 14, I got it for lakes and bigger water. You can live without a rudder, but I did eventually put one on. I love the center hatch, I can put four large plano 3700 thin tackle boxes in the center hatch, my battery and still have room for other stuff down there. It keeps my weight low and centered and I am not twisting around behind me for anything.

Like any 14' kayak loading and unloading is a chore, which I am solving by building a trailer.

Good Luck.

I once paddled what looked like a good used kayak that was warped. It pulled hard to the left whenever you tried to glide. A friend had bought it cheap thinking had gotten a great deal. He got a fair deal, but not great. Paddle before you buy if at all possible.