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August 03, 2022 21 min read

Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks

Woman kayaking yellow kayak with a pedal

Pedal drive kayaks have taken the fishing world by storm thanks to their pedal drive systems that allow anglers to have their hands on their rod at all times. These kayaks take the top spot when it comes to stealth, and today we’re going to get into 9 of the best pedal drive fishing kayaks on the market. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for your next kayak, or if you’re simply just interested in what these kayaks have to offer, keep on reading!

Pedal Kayak VS Paddle Kayak: What’s the Difference?

The difference between a pedal kayak and a paddle kayak is fairly obvious. One is powered by pedals, and the other, is a paddle

Pedal kayaks, which we are going to get into today, have a pedal drive system similar to a bicycle. Instead of tirelessly paddling with a kayak paddle, the kayaker can pedal with their feet, resulting in less fatigue and faster speeds. 

Overall, the ways in which these boats are powered are extremely different, but the remainder of the features and specifications are the same. Whether a pedal kayak or a paddle kayak is the superior boat option comes down to personal preference but we think it’s important to get into some of the pedal kayak’s advantages and disadvantages. 

The Benefits of a Pedal Drive Kayak for Fishing

Man pedal drive fishing kayaks

Pedal drive kayaks are now widely being used for fishing purposes, thanks to a few of their stand-out benefits.

Hands-Free

The first major benefit of pedal-powered kayaks is that they allow the kayaker to be hands-free at all times. This is a huge plus for fishermen as they now have the ability to pedal and fish at the exact same time.

The days of struggling with a rod in one hand and a paddle in the other are long gone, and now kayak anglers can simultaneously keep their boat on track while reeling in their catch of the day. 

Speed

Our legs are the strongest parts of our bodies, so it’s no surprise that pedaling comes out on top when it comes to speed. 

For your average recreational fisherman, speed might not be an issue, but for those competing in fishing competitions, speed is everything. 

Paddling over long distances can take time and a whole lot of upper body strength. And if you’re limited to a certain time frame and have large stretches of water to cover, the additional minutes you spend paddling can take away from your casting, reeling, and catching. 

This is why pedal kayaks have the upper hand when it comes to speed. They can get out to locations considerably faster than a standard paddle kayak and also use up less energy in the process. 

Easy to Use

Paddling is a lot more complex than most people think. Perfecting the correct technique and learning the ways to paddle more efficiently takes time and requires a lot of practice. 

Pedaling, however, is fairly simple to pick up. If you’ve ever ridden a bike, then you’ll know how easy it is to move your legs back and forth. This ease of use is why even new inexperienced kayakers can just jump in a pedal kayak and go.

Less Fatigue

Fatigue plays a huge role in kayaking and fishing. If you burn up all your energy just getting out to your fishing location, you more than likely will cut your fishing trip short. 

As our legs are stronger, it would take far longer for our bodies to become tired. Less fatigue means more time out on the water catching fish and enjoying the surrounding nature.

The Disadvantages of a Pedal Drive Kayak for Fishing

Man and a woman tandem kayak with a pedal

Although pedal drive kayaks have some huge benefits when it comes to fishing, they aren’t perfect, and they do have some downfalls too. 

Cost

Something that puts a lot of people off pedal kayaks is their cost because pedal drive kayaks are far more expensive than regular kayaks. 

For the casual kayak angler, the additional cost of a pedal power kayak may not be feasible. But if you regularly head out on the water and are extremely passionate about kayak fishing, then the price tag may not seem too unreasonable after all. 

Weight

Weight is another big disadvantage of the pedal kayak. Kayaks without pedal drive systems can be slightly challenging to transport and carry, let alone with the additional weight of a drive pedal system.

Not only does the weight affect the boat's ease of transportation, but it also means you’ll be able to carry less gear than if you were in a regular kayak. All kayaks have a maximum weight capacity, and if you like to pack your entire fishing gear collection for every kayak trip, then the additional onboard weight of the pedal drive might be an issue. 

Performance in Shallow Water

Yes, pedal drive kayaks are faster than regular kayaks, but their ability to enter shallow waters is compromised. 

As pedal drive kayaks are heavier than traditional kayaks, they understandably sit lower in the water. Add the fact that they have underneath protruding fins, and you’ve got yourself a disaster just waiting to happen. 

The pedal systems on pedal kayaks are susceptible to tangling on weeds and other objects in the water. With that being said, however, newer models feature pedal systems that you can easily remove in instances of shallow or weed-ridden waters. 

Noise

One huge advantage traditional kayaks have over their pedal drive rivals is the fact that they’re extremely quiet in the water. And when it comes to fishing, quiet is exactly what you need. 

Anglers in a paddle kayak can easily control how much or how little noise they make with their paddle. Slow, methodical movements can minimize the amount of water disturbance, and noise one has while moving through the water. 

Pedal kayaks, however, don’t have this ability. Minimizing noise with a pedal kayak means not pedaling at all, and in some instances, this can result in a loss of catch. 

Less Space

The final issue with a pedal kayak is the lack of deck space as the pedal system takes up a large majority of the front deck of the kayak. This space would usually hold crucial fishing gear or be an area to stand while practising fly fishing. 

The decreased amount of room in the kayak will mean you’d have to be picky with the gear you take out on your trip. Although for shorter trips, this may not be too much of an issue, longer fishing trips or even camping fishing trips where you need to carry lots of gear may not be possible on a pedal kayak. 

The Different Types of Pedal Drives

Man fishing on a green kayak with a pedal

Before we get into our top 9 best pedal drive fishing kayaks, we thought it was important to highlight the two most popular pedal drive systems. 

Rotational Pedals and Propellers

Rotational pedals work in the same way as your standard bicycle. They require the person kayaking to pedal a full rotation with both legs to drive the propeller underneath the kayak. These systems typically allow the user to pedal over longer distances as the motion in which they pedal is more natural than in other pedal systems. 

Push Pedals and Fins

Aswell as rotational pedal systems, there are also push pedal systems. These systems require the kayaker to push the pedals downward one at a time. The pedal motion then propels the kayak forward, similar to that of how a manatee swims through the water.

The Top 9 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks: Summary

Kayaks Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Price

1. Perception Crank 10 Pedal Kayak

Perception crank 10 adjustable lawn chair seat
10’ x 35” 87 lbs 350 lbs

Check Price

2. Perception Pescador Pilot Pedal Kayak

Perception Pescador Pilot 12
12’5” x 33.5” 85 lbs 475 lbs

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3. BKC 13’ Pedal Fishing Kayak

BKC PK13 13' Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak W/Rudder System and Instant Reverse

13’ x 33.25”

80 lbs

550 lbs

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4. Old Town Sportsman Pedal Fishing Kayak

Old town sportsman salty
12’ x 34.5” 85 lbs 450 lbs

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5. Riot Kayaks Mako 12’ Fishing Kayak

Riot Kayaks Mako Fishing Yak
12’3” x 34” 84.4 lbs 470 lbs

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6. Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Fishing Kayak

Hobie Mirage Outback
12’9” x 34” 85 lbs 425 lbs

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7. HooDoo Tempest 120P Pedal Drive Kayak

Hoodoo Tempest 120P Pedal drive kayak
12’ x 33” 80 lbs 350 lbs

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8. Hobie Mirage Compass Pedal Fishing Kayak

Hobie mirage compass

12’ x 34”

87 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

9. Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10

Native watercraft slater propel

10’ x 34”

81 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

The Top 9 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks in Detail

1. Perception Crank 10 Pedal Kayak

Perception crank 10 adjustable lawn chair seat

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

10’ x 35”

87 lbs

350 lbs

Check Price

The Crank 10’ Pedal Kayak by Perception is a sit on top kayak that was designed to effortlessly glide through lakes, ponds, and calm coastal waters. 

Perception kitted their Crank kayak out with their tried and tested removable Perception pedal drive that was created with speed and maneuverability in mind. The Perception pedal drive system is able to cover vast amounts of water while also allowing the kayak-er to pedal forward or in reverse. 

Just behind the kayak's pedal drive is a removable captain's chair that has full front to back adjustment. The full-back support of the chair is a godsend on long journeys, and the customizable fit makes it comfortable for any and all kayakers. 

For precise boat control, Perception added a retractable rudder on the back of the kayak that is hooked up to a rudder control button on the left side of the captain’s chair. This control button gives the kayaker full control of the boat's direction without having to move from a seating position. 

When the boat is out of the water, Perception added rigid carry handles on its bow and stern to aid in transportation whether that be getting the kayak onto a roof rack system, or simply carrying it to and from the water. Although the crank is probably too heavy for a singular person to carry, these handles make it far easier for two people to get it into the water. 

Something we particularly love about the Crank Pedal Drive Kayak is the amount of storage space on deck. Behind the seat of the kayak is an area large enough to hold a cooler or similar-sized fishing gear. And the front of the kayak also features a storage space area, both of which are fitted with bungee systems to secure your gear in place.

Along with the front and back bungee storage areas are cup holders and side trays that sit next to the kayak seat. These smaller storage areas are perfect for well-deserved beverages and essential fishing tackle. 

Specifications and Features

  • Retractable rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable and removable seat
  • Front and back bungee storage
  • Built-in cup holder
  • Front and back carry handles
  • Can travel up to 10 mph
  • Made from polyethylene
  • Available in three colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The Crank 10 has front and back storage space to hold all your fishing gear. 
  • Both the rudder and pedal drive system are removable.
  • You can pedal the Crank 10 in reverse.
  • The captain’s chair is adjustable, so you can move the chair forwards to backward to achieve the perfect position.
  • The rudder is controlled by a single-handed rudder control.
  • There are limited mounts for fishing accessories like rod holders.

2. Perception Pescador Pilot Pedal Kayak

Perception Pescador Pilot 12

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’5” x 33.5”

85 lbs

475 lbs

Check Price

Perception has another pedal drive kayak to make our list, and that’s the Pescador Pilot Pedal Kayak. This kayak, however, is  2’5” longer than the Crank and can hold 125 lbs of extra gear on board.

The Pescador Pilot is incredibly stable on the water, allowing anglers to cast their lines from a standing position. They even went the extra mile with the kayak and engineered it in a way to provide optimum buoyancy and stability on the water so both beginner and experienced kayakers can hop on board and pedal away. 

Similar to the Crank 10, Perception fitted their Pescador Pilot kayak with a removable pedal drive system that can pedal forward or in reverse and a removable rudder that can be controlled with one hand.

For comfort, the Pescador Pilot has an ergonomic mesh captain’s chair that can be removed or adjusted so you’re closer or farther away from the pedal system. This feature is great if you’re a fly fisherman as you can fully detach the seat to give yourself more deck room to cast from.

When it comes to their kayaks, Perception doesn’t hold back on storage space. The rear of the kayak has a large dug-out area for coolers, tackle, or even your dog, and at the front of the kayak, you’ll find an additional bungee storage area. Perception also added even more storage solutions under the kayak seat.

For a hands-free fishing experience, they added four molded-in rear rod holders, convenient drinks holders, and gear tracks for additional accessories.

Specifications and Features

  • Retractable rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable and removable seat
  • Front and back bungee storage
  • Built-in cup holder
  • Front and back carry handles
  • Four molded-in rear rod holders
  • Built-in gear tracks
  • Made from polyethylene
  • Available in three colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The Pescador Pilot can hold a large amount of gear.
  • Perception made the kayak incredibly stable so that anglers can fish standing up. 
  • Both the pedal drive and the rudder are removable.
  • The captain’s chair is made from a breathable mesh fabric and can also be adjusted to suit the user. 
  • The Pescador Pilot features large rear and front storage spaces as well as under-seat storage. 
  • Four rear rod holders and cup holders allow for hands-free fishing. 
  • It could feature D-rings or other mounts to attach additional gear.

3. BKC 13’ Pedal Fishing Kayak

BKC PK13 13' Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak W/Rudder System and Instant Reverse

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

13’ x 33.25”

80 lbs

550 lbs

Check Price

The Brooklyn Kayak Company, or BKC for short, created their 13’ Pedal Fishing Kayak from a single piece of high-density polyethylene to maximize stability when fishing. Along with being stable, the 13’ Pedal Fishing Kayak can hold a generous 550 lbs on board, making it an excellent option for those with a large fishing gear collection. 

BKC added a rotational pedal system and a hand-operated rudder control to their kayak to enhance steering, tracking, and pedaling capabilities. The pedal system, which is able to go forward, or backward, can also work as a break if you ever need to stop for any reason. 

The back of the kayak features a large bungee storage area, and at the front of the boat, you’ll find a storage space that can double up as an ice chest thanks to its integrated drain plug. 

BKC wanted to make their kayak perfect for fishing, so included three flush-mount rod holders and a paddle park. Now, you’re probably wondering why this kayak has a paddle park if it’s a pedal-powered kayak, and the answer to that is because BKC also includes an adjustable aluminum paddle. 

It may seem unnecessary to have an extra paddle included, but it really comes in handy during those times when you want to sneak up on fish or paddle through shallow waters. 

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Back bungee storage
  • Front watertight hatch
  • Front, back, and side carry handles
  • Four molded-in rear rod holders
  • Made from polyethylene
  • Available in five colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The 13’ Fishing Kayak can hold up to 550 lbs.
  • BKC included a pedal system that can go forward and backwards. 
  • The rudder is hand-operated and easy to control.
  • It comes in five highly visible colors, which can be spotted easily in the event of an emergency. 
  • The front storage area can be used as an ice box and features a drainage plug.
  • It comes with a paddle for those times you need to be extra quiet in the water. 
  • There are no rod holders or mounts to attach fishing poles.

4. Old Town Sportsman Pedal Fishing Kayak

Old town sportsman salty

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’ x 34.5”

85 lbs

450 lbs

Check Price

The Old Town Sportsman Pedal Fishing Kayak is 12 feet long and has a removable intuitive pedal drive system that can move the kayak forward or backward for hands-free navigation and fishing. 

Old Town packed their kayak with numerous fishing features such as horizontal rod storage, accessory tracks for additional gear, and cushioned floor pads. They also included front and back bungee storage areas to hold coolers, tackle boxes, or your furry friend. 

To improve the kayak’s comfort for those extra-long days on the water, Old Town added a premium mesh seat with lumbar support that can be adjusted to your specific leg length. Other features of the Sportsman Pedal Fishing Kayak include drainage holes throughout the cockpit, an adjustable rudder, and carry handles along the front, back, and sides of the kayak.

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Front and back bungee storage
  • Front, back, and side carry handles
  • Three molded-in rear rod holders
  • Available in an ember camo pattern

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The pedal drive system can move the kayak forward and backward.
  • There is one front-facing and two rear-facing rod holders for you to have three lines in the water at once. 
  • You can add additional gear onto the accessory tracks.
  • Front and back bungee systems improve storage options. 
  • The adjustable mesh seat improves comfort over long distances.
  • Drainage holes throughout the kayak will remove any unwanted water from the cockpit. 
  • The Old Town Sportsman Pedal Fishing Kayak is only available in one color. 

5. Riot Kayaks Mako 12’ Fishing Kayak

Riot Kayaks Mako Fishing Yak

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’3” x 34”

84.4 lbs

470 lbs

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The Riot Kayaks Mako 12’ Fishing Kayak was designed to perform well on flat water by the use of its impulse drive pedal unit. Riot Kayaks claim that their pedal unit is the lightest on the market and that it doesn’t need any special maintenance after purchasing. 

Included with their kayak is an adjustable high back seat that is comfortable and quick-drying if it happens to get wet. If you’re paddling over long distances, then it’s no surprise that a comfortable seat can make all the difference. 

A unique feature of the Riot Kayaks Mako 12’ Fishing Kayak is that the rudder steering box can be placed on either side of the kayak to suit your personal preferences. If you’re right-handed, you can place it on your right, and if you’re left-handed, vice versa. Not many other kayaks have this adaptable feature, so hats off to Riot Kayaks.

In addition to all of this, the Mako has integrated rod holders, front, back, and side carry handles and a front and back bungee storage area for all your fishing gear and belongings.

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated rudder with moveable steering box
  • Impulse pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Front and back bungee storage
  • Front, back, and side carry handles
  • Four integrated rod holders
  • Available in orange

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The kayak features a quick-drying high back seat for optimum comfort.
  • Riot Kayaks fitted the rudder steering box so it could be placed on either side of the kayak.
  • Four-rod holders mean you can fish hands-free with four rods at a time. 
  • Front and back bungees make an excellent storage place for all your belongings.
  • It is one of the more affordable pedal kayak options on our list.
  • Additional D-rings or mounts would be great to attach extra gear.

6. Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Fishing Kayak

Hobie Mirage Outback

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’9” x 34”

85 lbs

425 lbs

Check Price

The Hobie Mirage Outback Fishing Kayak was built for fishing expeditions in both the ocean and freshwater fishing holes.

Hobie kitted out the Mirage Outback with their very own MirageDrive 180 pedal system and also included kick-up fins that automatically retract if your kayak runs into any underwater objects. They even extended this kick-up feature to the kayak’s rudder, which is steered by dual steering capabilities next to the kayak seat. 

The Mirage Outback has a wide standing deck that acts as an excellent platform for sight fishing and fly fishing. If you prefer to remain seated while fishing, however, the adjustable vantage CTW seat gives you fantastic lumbar support and remains comfortable for long days on the water. 

When it comes to storage, Hobie went the extra mile. The front and center of the kayak feature vertical hatches to store fishing tackle and important belongings, while the back of the kayak has a large bungee area for more substantial gear like your cooler or tackle box.

Down both sides of the Mirage Outback seat are H-rails with accessory tracks, plier holders, knife slots, and retainers to organize your tackle and keep it within arm reach at all times. And if all that wasn’t enough, they even added four integrated fishing rod holders and included a two-piece paddle that clips onto the Mirage Outback hull when not in use.

Specifications and Features

  • Dual hand-operated retractable rudder
  • Removable and retractable pedal drive
  • Kick-up fins and rudders
  • Adjustable seat
  • Back bungee storage
  • Two front hatches
  • Four molded-in rod holders
  • Included paddle
  • Side H-rail organizers
  • Available in four colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The rudder and fins retract if you happen to collide with an object underwater. 
  • It has a wide standing deck for fly or sight fishing. 
  • The Mirage Outback has adequate storage, such as front hatches and a rear bungee area. 
  • The side H-rails allow you to organize your important fishing accessories while also keeping them within an arm's reach. 
  • The dual hand rudder controls work well if you’re either left or right-handed. 
  • Hobie included a paddle for navigating through shallow waters.
  • Hobie’s Mirage Outback comes with a high price tag. 

7. HooDoo Tempest 120P Pedal Drive Kayak

Hoodoo Tempest 120P Pedal drive kayak

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’ x 33”

80 lbs

350 lbs

Check Price

HooDoo’s Tempest 120P Pedal Drive Kayak comes with not only a removable pedal drive system but also an additional paddle for navigation in shallow waters. The back rudder system is controlled by hand and easily moves the kayak in whichever direction you desire..

The streamlined, hydrodynamic hull shape of the Tempest 120P gives you the best of both worlds. Whether you want to slice through the water at fast speeds or relax and cast out a line, you can do it from the deck of the Tempest. 

As comfort is so important when spending the entire day out on a kayak, HooDoo equipped the Tempest 120P with a supportive adjustable seat. Molded-in rod holders sit just behind the pedals for hands-free fishing, and you’ll also find gear tracks, a paddle keeper, anchor trolleys, and handles throughout the kayak’s deck.

You can even strap down your large fishing gear in the rear bungee area, and any important belongings can be placed in the front dry storage compartment.

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Back bungee storage
  • Front dry storage
  • Two molded-in rod holders
  • Included paddle
  • Available in five colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The HooDoo Tempest 120P is on the lower end of the price scale when it comes to pedal kayaks. 
  • It comes with an included paddle for shallower waters. 
  • The Tempest's hull shape was designed to elegantly cut through the water at fast speeds.
  • You can store important belongings in the front dry storage compartment.
  • It would be nice if the rudder and fins could retract upon impact. 

8. Hobie Mirage Compass Pedal Fishing Kayak

Hobie mirage compass

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

12’ x 34”

87 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

A second Hobie pedal kayak makes our list, and that is the Mirage Compass Pedal Kayak. The Compass shares some similarities with the Outback kayak we mentioned previously, but there are a few differentiating factors between the two. 

The similarities they share include the patented kick-up fin and rudder system that prevents breakage to these areas in the event of a collision with underwater objects. In both kayaks the fins and the rudder are removable, so if you happen to be paddling long distances in shallow water, you can simply take them out, and paddle along with the included Hobie paddle. 

Hobie added an aluminum alloy frame seat to the Compass kayak to improve comfort, durability, and breathability when paddling for long periods of time. If you prefer to stand when fishing, they designed the cockpit to be oversized and flat with ample amounts of standing space. 

The Compass’ fishing features include pre-installed rod holders, H-track accessory mounts, an 8” twist and seal hatch for personal belongings, a rear bungee storage area, and cup holders to allow you to be hands-free whenever you need to be.

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated retractable rudder
  • Removable and retractable pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Back bungee storage
  • Front twist and seal hatch
  • Two molded-in rod holders
  • Included paddle
  • Side H-track accessory mounts
  • Available in three colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • Thanks to the retracting mechanism on the rudder and fins, you’ll have peace of mind that they won’t damage in shallow or debris-ridden waters. 
  • The Compass kayak has a large area for standing. 
  • Hobie included a paddle so you can quietly creep up on your catch or paddle through shallow waters. 
  • The Compass has front and back storage areas as well as a twist and seal hatch for important belongings.
  • Similar to the Mirage Outback, the Mirage Compass has a higher price tag than other pedal kayaks on our list. 

9. Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10

Native watercraft slater propel

Dimensions Weight Weight Capacity Check Price

10’ x 34”

81 lbs

400 lbs

Check Price

The Slayer Propel 10’ Pedal Kayak is powered by Native Watercraft’s propel pedal drive system that can work in both a forward and reverse motion. The rudder, which is steered by a left-hand control system, is impact resistant and can take on bumps and scrapes against underwater objects.

Native Watercraft wanted their kayak to have adequate space in the cockpit, so designed their kayak in a way that even XXL anglers could stand and cast their line right from their kayak deck. 

Comfort was also carefully thought about and Native Watercraft added a comfortable armchair that is adjustable so you can position yourself closer or farther away from the pedal system.

At the front of the kayak, you’ll find a 17” dry hatch cover to protect your important belongings and at the back of the boat is an additional bungee storage area for larger gear like your tackle box. 

Native Watercraft also kitted their Slayer Propel kayak out with rod and cup holders, groove tracks for accessory mounting, deck padding, padded carry handles, and drain plugs.

Specifications and Features

  • Hand-operated impact-resistant rudder
  • Removable pedal drive
  • Adjustable seat
  • Back bungee storage
  • Front dry hatch storage
  • Integrated rod and cup holders
  • Groove tracks for accessory mounting
  • Available in three colors

Pros & Cons

 PROS CONS
  • The Slayer Propel has a fairly large deck area making it easy to stand and cast your line. 
  • The pedal system works both forwards and in reverse. 
  • Native Watercraft created their rudder to be impact resistant, meaning it can take on bumps and scratches from underwater objects. 
  • Dry hatch storage areas accompanied by bungee storage areas mean you have space for all your fishing gear and belongings. 
  • It would be nice if the pedal system was retractable to prevent damage. 

How to Choose a Pedal Kayak for Fishing: A Buyers Guide

If you’re now swayed towards buying a pedal drive fishing kayak, there are a few things you should look out for before you hit that checkout button. 

Weight

Pedal kayaks come in a range of different weights, some being considerably heavier than others. If you’re going to be kayaking solo, then you need to think about how much weight you can carry and also how you’ll get your kayak onto your car or onto a trailer

Weight Capacity

Another factor regarding weight is the amount of weight your kayak can carry. The best thing to do before looking at kayaks is to weigh yourself and all the gear you plan on taking out with you. This should give you a rough estimate of how much weight will be on the boat at any given time. 

From here, you can search for kayaks with a weight capacity over the total number you calculated. We highly recommend purchasing a kayak that can hold 10 - 20 lbs over your total estimate in case you upgrade any gear or add any in the future.

Fin Protection

If you regularly paddle in shallower waters, then you may need to look into kayaks with fin protection. Some companies have adapted their fin systems to retract upon impact. This means if you go over a rock or any other debris in the water, your fin system will fold into the kayak and won’t get damaged in the process. 

Price

As with any large purchase, the amount you’re willing to pay plays a huge role in your decision. More premium kayaks with additional accessories and features will come with a greater price tag, so it’s best to set a budget and stick to it. 

If you can’t afford the kayak you want right now, then it may be better to save up more money and purchase it in the future.

Deck Space

As you’ll be using your pedal kayak for fishing, you’ll need adequate deck space to hold yourself and all your fishing gear. We mentioned before that the pedal systems of these kayaks can take up a fair amount of room, so if you're an over-packer, then you would be better off buying a kayak with the most amount of deck space possible.

FAQ’S

🏆 What should I look for in a pedal fishing kayak?

Most features of a pedal fishing kayak are similar to those of regular kayaks, with the main difference being the way they’re powered through the water. When you’re looking to purchase a pedal fishing kayak, you need to pay close attention to the pedal and rudder systems. 

Ideally, you want the pedal and rudder systems to be retractable. This means that if you happen to drift over a rock or other debris under the water, then the parts that protrude underneath your kayak won’t damage or break. 

It is also good to look out for pedal systems that work in a forward and a reverse motion. This feature comes in especially handy if you’ve gotten yourself into a tight waterway.


👍 Are pedal fishing kayaks better than normal fishing kayaks?

The answer to this question comes down to personal preference. Both kayak types have their advantages and disadvantages making it a tough call to decide a winner. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of both pedal and paddle kayaks: 

Pedal kayaks advantages: Faster, less fatigue, hands-free fishing, and are easy to use.

Pedal kayak's disadvantages: Expensive, heavy, loud, limited deck space, and poor performance in shallow water.

Paddle kayak’s advantages: Cheap, quiet, more deck space, and easier to transport and carry.

Paddle kayak's disadvantages: Slower, requires more energy, and difficult to master the correct paddling technique.


🏝️ What are the benefits of a pedal fishing kayak?

When it comes to fishing, pedal kayaks have a range of benefits. These benefits include:

  • Speed -Pedal kayaks are considerably faster than a traditional kayak, meaning you can cover vast amounts of water in very little time. 
  • Less fatigue - As your legs are the strongest part of your body, using a pedal kayak requires less energy allowing you to stay out on the water longer. 
  • Hands-free fishing - With a traditional kayak, your hands are occupied paddling with the paddle. But, with a pedal kayak, you can move through the water while simultaneously casting your line. 

Easy to use -Paddling in a regular kayak takes practice, as perfecting the correct paddling technique isn’t as easy as it sounds. With a pedal kayak, however, you don’t need to master any special techniques, so even beginner kayakers can jump in a pedal kayak and get going.

Jay Regan
Jay Regan


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