10 Best Pedal kayak For Fishing – Buyer’s Guide

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Kayaks with pedal drives have become increasingly popular in recent years. This doesn’t mean you should leave the paddle on shore, but it has been wonderful for fishing. A pedal-powered boat gives an angler an advantage when fighting a fish, for example, because it can be maneuvered forward or reversed with the pedals.

In comparison to recreational kayaks or professional kayaks, pedal kayaks are entirely different. More and more brands are entering a crowded market with mostly sit-on-top designs. There are plenty of options to choose from. The right model for ocean kayaking isn’t as easy to find as the right model for lake and river kayaking. Below you will get the complete review also buying guide about the best pedal kayak for fishing.

10 Best Pedal Kayak for Fishing

1. Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak

A combination of stability and fishing comfort is provided by the Old Town Sportsman. For improved stability in varying water conditions, it has a DoubleU hull engineered for high performance.

Premium seating with breathable Textilene fabric and 3D mesh offers all-day comfort in this polyethylene fishing kayak, which is built to resist UV rays and last a long time. There is also a height-adjustable seat so you can find your ideal position. Featuring a propeller under the hull, the PDL drive is durable and comes with a five-year warranty. 

This boat has lots of storage space on deck, including a sealed bow hatch, a rod and tackle management system with horizontal rod storage, and an oversized stern tank well which can be used to store a cooler or crate.  The deck is also padded with EVA material that has non-slip properties for a safer standing experience.

Features

• Paddling performance and comfort are enhanced by the premium dual-layer Textilene mesh seat, and adjustable foot braces snap into place for a secure fit.
• There is a maximum capacity of 500 pounds for this 12-foot kayak, a usable capacity of 418 pounds for people and gear, and it weighs 82 pounds. Separate paddle is available.
• There are numerous convenience features included with Old Town Sportsman fishing kayaks, including customizable accessory tracks, cushioned floor pads, a tackle box, and rod holders.
• A compact, nimble fishing kayak with a quiet pontoon-style hull, the Old Town Sportsman 120 kayak provides stability and performance for casual anglers, tournament fishing pros, and hunters.
• Featuring an easy-to-mount universal transducer mount (sold separately), you can mount your favorite fish finder, and a paddle clip allows you to keep your paddle secure and out of the way.

2. Hobie 2020 Mirage Outback (Papaya Orange)

Personally, I consider Hobie pedal kayaks to be the kings of pedal kayaking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, the 2020 Mirage is a great choice. Although Hobies are heavier than some other options at over 100 pounds, their length of almost 13 feet makes them the most stable of the bunch. 

A kayak made in the USA with top quality materials and a built-in fish finder that is ready to start fishing right away. Additionally, there are 4 rod holders and 2 hatches included – this is truly a product for fishermen. If you are selecting this item, be sure to keep the larger dimensions in mind – will this fit in your garage, in your truck, etc.

Features

• The car comes equipped with H-Track storage pockets, a Guardian Transducer shield, dual steering handles, and 4 wheels.
• Vantage CTW chair with multi-adjustability
• A turbo-charged Mirage Drive 180 is included
• The boat is equipped with a kickup rudder system to facilitate shallow water navigation
• This capability is Lowrance-Ready.

3. Wilderness Systems Radar 115 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – 11′ 6″

With the Radar, you can conveniently use pedal or paddle power at your convenience thanks to the Helix PD pedal drive system. For added convenience, it comes with two storage consoles.

It boasts stand up stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness and tracking, all of which make it ideal for a range of water conditions. As a result, it should be able to handle water from a wide variety of sources and be easy to operate. As well as the standing platform, it has a handle for easier fishing from a standing position.

The kayak has high quality features and can be used with the Helix MD motor drive, which is available separately. It is easy to stow the pedal drive if you’re in very shallow water or entering the surf. Your kayak should be able to transport everything you need for a full day on the water thanks to its high weight capacity. A spacious tank well with bungees is located at the rear, and there’s also a bow hatch, a watertight center hatch, and a raised deck to give more space for movement and standing.

There is also an ergonomically designed AirPro Max seat with an adjustable backrest. It can be extremely comfortable to fish all day long. You can also mount additional fishing accessories on the built-in gear tracks. 

You may also like: 10 Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak – Buyer’s Guide

Features

• This kayak is a bestselling tri-powered kayak that can be powered by pedals, paddles, and power
• Featuring state-of-the-art outfitting along with a flat platform for standing and freedom of movement.
• You can mount your fish finder, battery, transducer, and cables on Flex Pod OS or use it with pedals or motors.
• A Motor Drive and Pedal Drive (both sold separately) are compatible with Helix MD Motor Drive.
• Angling features include SlideTrax rails for accessories, a front paddle park, multiple hatches, and ample storage in the tankwell; Also includes adjustable, large foot rests for paddling of different sizes;
• A maximum capacity of 450 pounds is available; the sport type is boating.
• 11’8″ is the length of the boat.
• Combining stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness, and tracking, this boat features the S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology.
• The boat weighs 85 pounds
• This seat features an ultra-comfy and adjustable design, with 3 adjustable positions as well as the ability to travel most of the boat’s length.

4. Perception Pescador Pilot 12 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive | Adjustable Lawn Chair Seat and Tackle Storage Areas | 12′

Pedal drive fishing kayaks are popular for their value, features, and ease of use, and the Pescador Pilot Drive is one of the best. It is somewhat narrower than some other fishing kayaks, but it can carry up to 475 pounds. Powered by a Pilot Drive rotational pedal system with glide technology, the propeller under the hull spins rapidly and without disturbance, allowing you to move through the water at maximum speed. Having a hand-operated rudder handle allows the yak to be easier to steer and doesn’t take up too much deck space.

In addition to weighing 85 pounds, it comes with a comfort grip carrying handle to make transporting it easy. In spite of the fact that it weighs a considerable amount, it may be necessary to use a trolley. There may be some of you who are put off by this. Kayaking is more comfortable in a Captain’s Chair seat, and tension knobs and gear tracks can be adjusted on the fly.

All your extra gear has enough room to be stored, including 4 rod holders that will suit kayak anglers of all levels. A mesh bow cover, tackle storage pods, bungees, and tackle storage trays are also available, as well as two areas to mount electronics like GPS units, transducers, and fish finders.

Features

• Featuring breathable mesh and 2-level seat adjustment, this mesh chair offers all-day comfort and no pain.
• This pedal-driven performance bike is made in the USA and comes at an unbelievable price
• Waters like lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, as well as calm coastal waters are perfect for this product
• An angler’s paradise with gear tracks, fishfinder consoles, and four rod holders
• Zero draft can be achieved by fully recessing the pilot drive pedal system into the hull
• Cooler, tackle, and other gear can be stored in the large front and rear open storage compartments
• Construction with a one-piece leak-proof design that is buoyant to enhance safety
• Rails for accessories such as fish finders, rod holders, and other accessories are integrated into each gunwale
• Boat length: 12’5” – width: 33. 75”
• The boat weighs 85 pounds. It has a maximum capacity of 475 pounds.

5. Old Town Topwater 106 PDL Angler Fishing Kayak

A kayak by Old Town can be easily maneuvered and stabilized in all weather conditions with its hands-free system. In order to enhance fishing performance, it utilizes the forward and reverse PDL Drive in conjunction with the easy-docking system. With a capacity of 450 pounds, the tank can accommodate a great deal of essentials without compromising.

In addition to feeling like you are sitting on your couch at home, the ElementAir seat is extremely adjustable and comfortable. In addition to providing additional support when standing, the EVA foam floor pads also provide cushioning. With two rod holders and tackle storage, you will never need to worry about keeping your belongings safe during the trip. You can catch fish of your choice using the transducer mounting system built into the craft.

Features

• Featuring the low maintenance forward/reverse pedal drive and a patent-pending easy-docking system, the Topwater PDL Angler is designed to give you hands-free fishing.
• A major manufacturer of kayaks and canoes, Old Town is the oldest and largest manufacturer in the world. Innovating boat after boat for more than a century while staying true to the company’s Northeast heritage and delivering quality products.
• Designed and constructed in a compact and nimble package, Old Town’s Topwater PDL Angler fishing kayak is stable, comfortable, easy to maneuver and hands-free.
• An abundance of features comes standard on the Topwater PDL Angler, including an adjustable element Air seat, an oversized tank well, three rod holders, and a rod and tackle storage area.
• A rugged, double-hull design gives the Topwater PDL Angler unrivaled stability and precision handling while being compact and easy to transport.
• You can easily install your favorite fish finder on the kayak thanks to its revolutionary universal transducer mounting system.
• With a maximum load capacity of 450 pounds, this kayak is designed for an extended lifetime. Paddles are sold separately.

6. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 12′

The Wilderness Systems pedal kayak is perfect for expert anglers as it’s entire design is designed for fishing. You can customize it with your own accessories and it comes with lots of features. This boat is very stable, and the traction pads on the deck protect the fish from being disturbed. 

In addition to its forward and reverse pedaling capabilities, the HD Helix PD Pedal Drive System also benefits from a lab-tested gear ratio that ensures maximum efficiency with minimum fatigue. One of the most comfortable seats in the AirPro ACE seating system is designed to provide all-day comfort. With one hand, it can be adjusted.

With plenty of storage space for rods, tackle trays, and cup holders, this kayak has enough room for you and all of your fishing gear. On the other hand, if you are carrying this kayak on your own without a cart, it may be awkward to carry.

The StowPro bow hatch organizes and stores your gear safely and conveniently. The motor-compatible stern can even be equipped with an aftermarket motor, giving you the ability to paddle your kayak in three directions.

Features

• Wind-shedding deck, open customizable platform, and unmatched stability make this boat a favorite.
• XL foot braces have large, padded footrests for maximum comfort and support. They are easy to adjust, with a locking lever that makes them simple to use.
• The tactical angling kayak (atak) is equipped with the Helix MD motor drive system.
• A patent-pending suspension-style seat provides all-day comfort and performance; It allows for great visibility and stability with high, low and recline positions.
• ATAK 140 is an award-winning design that comes in a compact package that makes it easier to manage

7. Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal Recreational Kayak

Featuring the same high-quality features as Old Town kayaks, Ocean Kayak’s brightly colored recreational watercraft will make a great addition to your home. When fishing stand-up, the PDL pedal mechanism makes it glide smoothly over water and stabilizes it to prevent it from tipping over.

Polyethylene, which is a rigid material and is robust in performance, is used to construct this device. Hand-controlled rudders are installed in the kayak to allow you to control its direction. This hull offers adequate leg room along with a tilting backrest for seating, regardless of its simple design. Both ends of the equipment feature bungee-cord storage areas to keep your inventory safe. Furthermore, the equipment has padded handles that make transportation easy.

Read More: 8 Best Ocean Fishing kayak- Buyer’s Guide

Features

• With its mesh pocket underneath for small items, the Element Beach seat from Malibu Pedals keeps you comfortable for hours.
• Take the plunge feet first! Pedaling rather than paddling can be a lot of fun when you have the Malibu Pedal, which uses the advanced PDL drive system. A fun and stable ride with turn-on-a-dime performance, the Malibu Pedal is the perfect choice for beginners.
• You can easily attach your gear to the removable bungee in the bow tank well to keep it secure.
• This boat comes equipped with features like a Click Seal hatch, a stern tank well jump seat, three cup holders, two eight-inch accessory tracks, bow and stern carrying handles, and more.
• The maximum load capacity of this twelve-foot kayak is 450 pounds, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Separate paddle is sold separately.

8. Hobie 2020 Mirage Pro Angler 12 with 360 Drive

It is even possible to buy the Hobie Mirage Pro, which is their premier model, from the kings of pedal kayaks, Hobie. In the beginning, let’s look at the negatives – this weighs 132 pounds. This is a heavy item. Hence, if you don’t unload your kayak at the boat ramp then a lighter kayak might be a better choice.

Fish finders are supported by a transducer shield and a tackle management system, and the kayak has a 360 degree rotating drive mechanism.It comes with 6 rod holders. Also, it can handle 500 lbs, so you can load up your cooler, tackle, and camping gear without worry. Kayaks like this are very stable and high-quality.

Features

• Large front hatch and under-seat tackle storage, as well as a rectangular hatch with a pivoting tackle management system.
• The Boa Lumbar Support and 4-way adjustability of Vantage Seating provide the ultimate in comfort control.
• ST Turbo Kick-Up Fins + Mirage 360 Drive Tech
• Retractable shield for transducers by Guardian
• There are 2 vertical rod holders and 4 horizontal rod holders as well as a paddle and T-handle.

9. Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal Recreational Kayak

The Ocean Kayak Malibu is the second last pedal kayak on our list. As an alternative product, it provides a different outlook on the products available. Featuring 450 pounds of carrying capacity, this kayak is manufactured in the USA. With a length of 12 feet and a weight of 100 pounds, it provides good stability. A downside is the lack of hatches, which means there isn’t as much storage capacity as you might want. The size and stability of this model are in the middle of the range, but it offers fewer accessories and modification possibilities than some of the more expensive, premium models.

Features

• You can keep small items in the mesh storage pockets underneath the Malibu Pedal Element Beach seat.
• A limited lifetime warranty protects this 12-foot kayak’s maximum load capacity of 450 pounds. Separate paddles are available.
• With many features, the Malibu Pedal comes with a Click Seal hatch under the seat, stern tank well jump seat, three cup holders, two accessory tracks, bow and stern carrying handles, etc.
• With the removable bungee, you can secure your gear on the pet-friendly bow tank well.
• Don’t be afraid to jump in! With the Malibu Pedal, you can paddle kayak instead of paddling – why paddle when you can pedal? With a turn-on-a-dime performance, the Malibu pedal delivers fun and stability.

10. BKC PK 13′ Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak W/Rudder System and Instant Reverse, Paddle, Upright Back Support Aluminum Frame Seat, 1 Person Foot Operated Kayak

Brooklyn Kayak Company’s slender pedal kayak is the ideal equipment for cruising at high speeds. With smooth pedals integrated into the gear, you’ll propel at lightning speed. The adjustable foot straps will keep your feet secure.

In order to give the boat’s direction full control without putting too much effort into it, the manufacturer included a hand-operated rudder. With a weight capacity of 550 pounds, this kayak is capable of storing enough essentials to last you until the end of your kayaking trip.

There are bungee cords in the rear cargo area for keeping your duffle bag, cooler, and other items secure. Your back muscles will not become sore from sitting in the aluminum-built chair with a padded backrest. Whether you’re pedaling or fishing, you can adjust your chair according to your preference.

Features

• Use the pedal-driven propeller system and hand-operated rudder to move your kayak faster with or without a paddle. You can stop on a dime or go backward by pedaling backward. You can customize your boat for effortless cruising with an optional trolling motor upgrade.
• The kayak comes equipped with a comfortable aluminum frame seat, an adjustable aluminum paddle, 2 water-resistant hatches, 3 built-in rod holders, 1 paddle park, and 1 bungee cargo tie-down. Take your next excursion to the next level with our accessories.
• BKC PK13 kayaks have been designed with outdoor fun in mind. You can tuck your paddle into the paddle keeper and go hands-free with the pedals turning a high-efficiency propeller. Hand-operated rudder controls allow you to make sharp and quick turns while underway, as well as maintain tracking while underway.
• FEATURED CATEGORY: 3 flush-mount rod holders will keep numerous baited lines in your boat at once, or you can just keep the rods out of your way while paddling or pedaling. With the front cover storage, which has bungee tie downs, you can double as an ice chest, and there is a drain hole with a plug. You can always choose convenience based on your preferences. 
• STRONG AND VERSATILE: Our Rota-Molded High-Density Polyethylene material provides better stability than inflatable kayaks, allowing you to take it on oceans, lakes, and rivers and support up to 550 lbs. Whether it is riding currents, slicing through chop, or gliding over still water, it glides effortlessly.

How to choose the best pedal kayak for fishing?

In order to make the best choice, we have gathered a few key features you should consider before choosing a kayak or pedal drive mechanism.

In addition to kayak length, weight, carrying capacity, storage, and rod holders, other specifications were taken into consideration. In addition to choosing the right kayak, you will need to consider the accessories you will need to complete your kayak.

Those of you who have experience with pedal kayaks are welcome to share any other pieces of wisdom you think should be considered before making such a purchase.

1. Kayak Length

It is often the case that the size of a kayak determines its stability. You will need a longer kayak than average if you want to be able to stand up and cast from a fishing kayak. It gets even longer when it comes to ocean kayaks. Kayaks with larger sizes will be more stable, so consider this when selecting one.

It is also important to consider how you will transport your kayak to the river or lake from your house. It is important to take into account the size and length of your vehicle when mounting it on the roof of your truck with roof racks.

2. Weight

In addition to its size, the kayak is also made of different materials, which determine its weight. The weight of your kayak becomes important if you intend to carry it from your truck to the river on your own. The extra 20 pounds you can save on the kayak can become extremely helpful if you also have to carry your cooler, camping gear, fishing equipment, etc.

A single person may have trouble carrying some of the kayaks on our list because they weigh well over 100 pounds. This may require you to ask for assistance when launching the boat and prevent you from going fishing alone. You may find this to be effective if you always have a fishing buddy, but if you don’t, the effectiveness may be limited.

3. Carrying Capacity

Kayak buoyancy is important for extended fishing or camping trips, so the carrying capacity depends on the design. It is easy to require more than 500 lbs (including your own body weight) of storage for all your fishing gear, camping tents, a large cooler, clothes, and food.

Fortunately, there are a variety of kayak coolers that can be towed along with your kayak. If you choose a model that has a low carrying capacity, these coolers will not add any weight to your kayak.

A few of these kayaks have a carrying capacity of 325 pounds or less, while others can carry up to 550 pounds. The number 1 trait you should look for if you are going to carry a lot of equipment is the ability to carry a lot of weight.

3. Storage (Number of Hatches)

It is important to keep in mind that the number of hatches directly relates to your carrying capacity, rather than the total weight, it highlights how much waterproof storage is available to you. It is important to note that some kayaks are provided with just one hatch, while others are provided with up to 4 hatches.

If you are looking for an alternative to using a hatch, you can purchase a dry bag that can be mounted to the outside of your kayak instead of using a hatch.

4. Number of Rod Holders

Its primary purpose is to be a resource for fishermen. A rod holder is one of the most important factors to consider. If you have more rods than rod holders, you will want to have at least as many rod holders as rods. In addition to storing hooks while traveling, you can use this to hold them if you want multiple hooks on the water at once.

Depending on where the rod holders are located, you might not be able to cast at both structures at the same time if you only have two rod holders.

Conclusion

In both our review and buyer’s guide, we have shared only that which we know about pedal kayaks. In order to improve your comparisons moving forward, please let us know your reasons for making a specific selection. 

“Old Town sportman120“ and “Hobie 2022 Mirage outback“ are top-rated products old town sportsman offers features like plenty of storage space, comfortable adjustable seats, durable construction, and stability also Hobie 2022 Mirage outback contains features like long kayak stable even swell,  fantastic pedal mechanisms and many more. 

The best editor’s choice is “Wilderness systems radar 115“ which offers features like a removable pedal system, easy maneuvering, comfortable seats, and many more. Please let us know in the comments below if you have any wisdom that might be helpful to other prospective anglers.

Enjoy your fishing!

Frequently Asked Questions Related to the best pedal kayak for fishing?