Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks 2023

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

As a fisherman, you know that having the right equipment can be the difference between a successful fishing trip and coming home empty-handed. If you’re looking for a kayak that gives you the best chance of landing fish, then you’ll want to consider one of the top-rated pedal drive fishing kayaks. These boats are designed specifically for anglers, and they offer many features that make it easier to catch fish.

Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks Review

In this post, we’ll introduce you to some of the best pedal drive fishing kayaks on the market, and we’ll help you decide which one is right for you. So, whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just getting started, read on to discover why a pedal drive fishing kayak should be your go-to choice!

1# Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Sit-on-Top Kayak

Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak

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Specification

Length: 12′
Width: 36″
Weight: 87 lbs.
Max Wt. Cap.: 500 lbs.

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Sit-on-Top Kayak is a highly engineered kayak with proven craftsmanship. The ultra-stable DoubleU Hull provides great stability and comfort, while the adjustable seating system with lumbar support ensures a perfect fit. The low-maintenance PDL Drive with a patented easy-docking system makes for easy navigation, and the dual accessory tracks provide plenty of space to stow your gear. This kayak also comes equipped with 1 forward-facing, 2 rear-facing flush-mount rod holders, a cup holder, non-slip EVA foam deck pads, and a large open cockpit.

Pros
  • It is designed for fishermen, so it offers many features that make it easier to catch fish.

  • It has a pedal drive system that makes it easy to move around and gives you more control over your boat.

  • It’s stable and tracks well in the water, which makes it perfect for fishing in difficult conditions.

  • It comes with a variety of accessories that are perfect for anglers, including tackle storage, a paddle holder, and a built-in rod holder.

  • It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for take-along trips.

Cons
  • It can also be a bit challenging to learn how to use.

  • It is difficult to turn or manoeuvre in tight spaces.

2# Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive

Perception Pescador Pilot Fishing Kayak Pedal Drive

View on Amazon

Specification

Length: 12’ 5”
Width: 33.5”
Boat Weight: 95 lbs.
Max Capacity: 475 lbs.

The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 is the perfect kayak for anglers looking for pedal-driven performance at an unbeatable price. This USA-made kayak is constructed of leak-proof one-piece construction with built-in buoyancy, making it safe and easy to use on lakes and ponds, as well as slow-moving rivers. The large front and rear open storage spaces provide plenty of room for cooler, tackle, and other gear, while the integrated accessory rails on each gunwale make it easy to add fish finders or Rod holders. The comfortable lawn chair style mesh seat can be adjusted to two different levels, ensuring that you’ll be able to stay comfortable all day long.

Pros
  • It is a high-quality kayak that is perfect for fishing.

  • This kayak is designed with anglers in mind, and it comes packed with features that make fishing a breeze.

  • The pedal drive system makes it easy to get around, even in areas where motorized boats are not allowed.

  • It is stable and tracks well, making it a great choice for those who want to fish in open water.

Cons
  • It is not the cheapest kayak on the market.

  • It is a large kayak, and it may be too big for some anglers.

3# Reel Yaks Fishing pedal kayak for anglers

Reel Yaks Fishing pedal kayaks

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Specification

Dimensions 133 x 35 x 16-inch
Hull weight 62 lbs. with accessories 85 lbs.
Capacity: 500 lbs.

Looking for a pedal kayak that’s perfect for anglers? Look no further than the Reel Yaks Fishing pedal kayak! This kayak features a powerful flap pedal drive system that makes it easy to get to your favourite fishing spot, plus the flaps make it quieter and less likely to get stuck in grass or pads. The stable “W” hull shape is perfect for both seated and standing fishing, and there’s plenty of room in the cockpit for all your gear. Plus, at only 11lbs, this kayak is super easy to transport. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate fishing experience with the Reel Yaks Fishing pedal kayak!

Pros
  • Affordable

  • Stable

  • Well Built

Cons
  • Slight wobble at high speeds

4# Perception Crank 10 Sit on Top Pedal Kayak

Perception Crank 10 Pedal Kayak

View on Amazon

Specification

Length: 10’
Width: 35”
Deck Height: 12.5″
Boat Weight: 87 lbs.
Max Capacity: 350 lbs.

The Perception Crank 10 Sit on Top Pedal Kayak is perfect for lakes, ponds and calm coastal waters. This kayak is efficient and easy to use with a pedal drive system that allows you to go forward and reverse without removing the drive from the boat. The captain’s chair is folding, adjustable, and removable for your convenience. You’ll love the one-handed rudder control which makes steering easy and fun.

Pros
  • The Perception Crank 10 is stable, making it great for fishing

  • It’s easy to pedal, so you can save energy for when it counts

  • The kayak is roomy and has a lot of storage space, perfect for a day on the water

  • It comes with a built-in rudder system, so you can easily steer and navigate

  • The Perception Crank 10 is affordable and well worth the price

Cons
  • It is not as fast as some of the other pedal drives kayaks

  • It can be difficult to get back in the kayak if you fall out

5# Pelican Fishing Sit-on-Top Kayak Getaway 110 HDII Pedal System

Pelican Fishing Kayak Getaway Pedal System

View on Amazon

Specification

Weight: 59 lb/27kg
Capacity: 300 lb/136kg
Length: 10 ft 5 in/319cm
Beam: 33 in/84cm
Depth: 11.25 in/29cm
Material: RAM-X Premium

The Pelican – Getaway 110 HDII Recreational Kayak is perfect for long-distance adventures. The HyDryve II pedal system makes manoeuvring in shallow water or around aquatic plants easy, and the rudder can be controlled from the seat for easy navigation. The tunnel hull offers maximum stability and makes getting in and out of the kayak a breeze. The ERGOCAST XP seating system is comfortable and can be easily removed for transport. This kayak is perfect for anyone looking for an adventure on the water.

Pros
  • Affordable

  • Lightweight

  • Compact

Cons
  • The seat is not very comfortable

6# BKC PK13 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak W/Rudder System

BKC PK13 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak

View on Amazon

Specification

Paddlers: 1
Length: 13′
Width: 33.25″
Weight: 80 lbs.
Capacity: 550 lbs.
Water Type: Lakes, Rivers, Ocean

The BKC PK13 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak is perfect for anglers who want a stable, durable kayak with a pedal drive system. The included rudder system makes it easy to navigate in any condition, while the high-density polyethene material provides strength and stability.

Pros
  • It is a lightweight and portable kayak that is perfect for fishing trips.

  • This kayak comes with a rudder system that makes it easy to navigate through tight spaces and windy conditions.

  • It has a large storage capacity, making it the perfect choice for long fishing trips.

  • This kayak is also very affordable, making it the perfect option for budget-minded fishermen.

Cons
  • It is not ideal for serious fishermen.

  • This kayak does not come with a motor, making it difficult to navigate through windy conditions.

FAQ

What should I look for in a pedal kayak?
When looking for a pedal kayak, there are a few things you should consider. First, it’s important to decide what type of fishing you plan to do. If you’re mainly fishing for smaller fish in calm waters, then a recreational kayak may be a good option. But if you’re targeting larger fish in more treacherous waters, then you’ll need a specialized fishing kayak that can handle the challenge. Next, consider the size and weight of the kayak. It’s important to choose a model that is lightweight and easy to transport, especially if you plan to paddle long distances. And finally, make sure to check the dimensions of the kayak before making your purchase.
How shallow can a pedal kayak go?
A pedal kayak can go much shallower than a regular kayak. In fact, many of them can be paddled in just a few inches of water. This makes them ideal for fishing in small creeks and streams, where regular kayaks would be unable to go.
Can pedal kayaks reverse?
Yes, pedal kayaks can reverse. This makes them easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces, and it also allows you to quickly get out of trouble if you encounter a difficult situation.
How fast can a pedal kayak go?
A pedal kayak can go up to speeds of 5 mph, which is faster than most regular kayaks. This makes them a great option for fishing in larger waterways where you need to cover a lot of ground quickly.

Conclusion

Pedal drive fishing kayaks are becoming more and more popular for good reason. They offer a great experience on the water, whether you’re looking to fish or just enjoy a day out. In this article, we’ve looked at some of the best pedal drive fishing kayaks on the market and given you our thoughts on each one. We hope that this information will help you choose the right pedal drive fishing kayak for your needs.

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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Ricardo A. Gonzalez
Ricardo A. Gonzalez
4 months ago

Based on the information provided in this article, it seems that pedal-drive fishing kayaks can offer a number of advantages over traditional paddle-powered kayaks. These include increased speed and efficiency, as well as the ability to cover more water and access harder-to-reach fishing spots. Overall, it seems that pedal drive kayaks can be a great option for anglers looking to expand their fishing opportunities and improve their chances of success on the water.

Product Name
pedal drive fishing kayaks
Justin Vogel
Justin Vogel
4 months ago

It appears that the best pedal-drive fishing kayaks offer a range of features and benefits for anglers. These kayaks provide hands-free propulsion, allowing the user to focus on fishing and navigating the water. They also tend to be more efficient and faster than traditional paddle-powered kayaks. Ultimately, the best pedal-drive kayak for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider the type of water you will be fishing in, your budget, and the features that are most important to you before making a decision.

Product Name
pedal drive fishing kayaks
Reginald Blackmon
Reginald Blackmon
4 months ago

I recently purchased the Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 and have been extremely satisfied with its performance. The pedal drive system makes it a breeze to maneuver and the adjustable seating is comfortable for all-day fishing trips. Highly recommend!

Product Name
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145
Thomas Johnson
Thomas Johnson
4 months ago

The Perception Pescador Pro 12 has been a reliable choice for me. The stability and speed of the pedal drive system make it a top performer on the water. Plus, the ample storage and tackle management options are a major plus for serious anglers.

Product Name
Perception Pescador Pro 12
Auriville Boisvert
Auriville Boisvert
4 months ago

I’ve had the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 for a couple of years now and it has exceeded my expectations. The hands-free pedal drive system allows me to focus on my casting and the optional sailing kit adds an extra element of fun on the water. Definitely worth the investment.

Product Name
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14
Armand Lefèbvre
Armand Lefèbvre
4 months ago

I recently purchased the Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145 and have been extremely happy with it. The pedal drive system makes long-distance paddling a breeze and allows me to focus on fishing. It’s also been great for covering large areas and getting to spots that might be otherwise difficult to access with a traditional paddle.

Product Name
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145
Kyle Mason
Kyle Mason
4 months ago

I’ve had the Hobie Outback for a few seasons now and it’s definitely one of the best pedal-drive kayaks on the market. The MirageDrive system is smooth and efficient, and the kayak itself is very stable and comfortable to fish from. Highly recommend it!

Product Name
Hobie Outback
Christopher Nicholls
Christopher Nicholls
4 months ago

I’ve tried a few different pedal-drive kayaks and my favorite so far has been the Perception Pescador Pro. It’s a bit more affordable than some of the other options out there but still has a solid build and performs well on the water. The pedal drive system is reliable and easy to use, and the kayak itself is spacious and well-suited for a full day on the water.

Product Name
pedal drive kayaks