I've only been on kayaks a handfull of times, in my life and loved it. I love fishing. Naturally I'm looking into getting a fishing kayak. I'll spend the most time in galveston bay... So my question is, are there any decent kayaks for bay fishing that I sould look in to, or should I just save a little more and get something a little fancier?

For fishing the coast I would be looking at kayaks in the 14 foot range or longer (I use a 15 footer) since they're better suited at dealing with winds (they track better) and have more efficient hull for covering open water. So with that being said, in your price range for just a kayak I can't think of anything you could purchase new. Even used for $400 you're probably just going to afford a kayak with little or no accessories. I'd suggest taking your time and saving up some more money.

Thanks. I'm still researching and learning what all I'll need. I'm sure I'll have a few more noob questions after I read the FAQ post.

Save up and double the $400 and then add another couple of hundred and you will be able to get a quality kayak that you will be able to depend on in whatever the coast can dish out.
You can find some pretty good deals on used kayaks in the $800 dollar range.
A $400 dollar kayak will get you on the water though, but I'd be careful buying used at that price, and a new one in that range will probably leave you wishing you'd taken this advise.

Oh, and welcome to the forum!

Patience is a virtue. You don't want to blow a hard-earned $400 for some quick gratification that will prove to be unsatisfactory. Factor in the cost of a paddle and a PFD.

In your price range Craigslist is your best friend. You can certainly find decent kayaks in your price range, but timing is the key. The really good deals tend to go pretty quick, so if you run across something that fits your needs jump on it pretty quick. Since you are in Houston you might also want to check the Texas Kayak Fisherman Forum, for used kayaks as well. Good luck.

Problem with buying a $400 kayak is you'll get hooked and then have to buy something nicer and part with the $400 kayak. But you also need to pay attention to the paddle, a much neglected item for beginners. Actually 400 bucks is about right for the paddle.

I agree with everything everyone before me said, but will offer this: sometimes you can find a new Perception Pescador 12 on sale for around $400 (give or take a few duckets). I would classify the Pescador as a very 'decent' kayak.

I agree with brod. A pescador can be had for 400. Or you may find an ocean kayak scrambler for that price. Both are great for that price. I'd look for a pescador personally. Good luck and keep an eye on the yak classifieds at the top.

Patience is a virtue is right I picked up a OK 14'9 scupper pro for 400 on craigslist and it's been amazing I took it to port aransas for my birthday but I couldint fish bc there was a storm 4+ waves coming in and ddint want to lose gear or dunk it. But I still paddled out flipped and got back on and just had an amazing time. I used it for about a year and now I'm looking for something in the 12 range and more stable bc I mainly fish lakes not ocean

I agree that you should save up for one better suited to coastal fishing. If it eases your pain any, kayaks hold their value well and can last a long time. I'm still happily paddling my 2008 Tarpon. That's around 200 bucks a year (so far).

we hooked my buddy up with a 12 foot Pelican from Academy, with paddle & lifejacket it was a little more than $400
it has storage, seat, & 2 rod holders
seems fine to me