Yes, you do get what you pay for. You are probably looking for a "Recreational Kayak" .......not a whitewater or touring or other type. These have a wider, flatter bottom and are a good choice for fishing as well. Next you must choose whether you want a traditional kayak with a "cockpit" and sides.......or a sit-on top. I have the traditional type, but sit-on tops are becoming very popular and are "self-bailing". (water runs right on out).
Some good brands you might want to check out are Wilderness Systems, Jackson, Perception and Old Town.....just to name a few of my favorites that might be within your budget.
Here's a site that might also assist you: http://www.kayakreview.org/