Best Pedal Kayak Picks for Fishing in 2019

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To be able to cross the open waters and cut through the wind and waves with ease, you want a kayak that will give you freedom and stability.

You need to be in your top shape to be able to explore the water even during extreme weather conditions.

The best pedal kayak picks on our list do just that — you can use your leg power and pedal through the rough seas and rivers without overexerting yourself.

Even in calm waters using a pedal-powered kayak will allow you to enjoy your surrounding and nature.

With these types of kayaks, you can keep your hands free to do other things, like holding a fishing rod or binoculars for bird watching and going faster through the water.

Well, you can keep your hands busy and get tired quickly or get one of these best fishing kayaks with foot pedals to give you more benefit during kayak fishing.

What Is a Pedal Kayak?

For those of you who are kayak fishing, you may have never heard of a pedal kayak before. Naturally, this leads you to ask ‘what is a pedal kayak?’ More importantly, why do you need one? Let’s just say that if you’re the outdoorsy type, they make life a whole lot easier. It’s all in the name. A pedal kayak is engineered to be moved by foot pedals instead of a paddle. To move the boat, you are using the strength in your legs instead of your upper body.

How does a pedal kayak work? There are fins or a propeller located underneath the hull and there are also foot pedals on the deck. Pedal using your feet to power your movement across the water. One of the best things about this type of boat is that your hands are free to do other things. Paddling can be tiring. Having pedals on your boat also means that if you have an injury in your arm, back, or shoulders, you can still get out on the water and enjoy yourself. Your legs will do almost all of the work.

Most of the time, your pedal kayak will have convenient storage features. The top models on the market have tackle storage and work area. So, you can have easy access to your catch, prepare bait, and more. Depending on the style of the boat that you choose, you may also have more space for your gear.

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Why Do You Need a Pedal Kayak?

A good pedal kayak is specifically designed for fishing. They have extra features that a traditional kayak lacks. Do you want rod holders and extra storage space? You’ve got it. The seat is also positioned in a different way. You’re slightly elevated and the backrest is cushioned. Who doesn’t want that?

Furthermore, a pedal kayak is wider and thus more stable in the water. You don’t have to use your paddle or knees to stabilize yourself. You will find that you can even stand up in some pedal vessels. Some models have a larger deck and movable seats. Being able to stand in your kayak gives you greater mobility for fishing. You can’t always catch large game sitting down! In addition, standing allows you to cast your line more clearly and have better visibility.

Here’s one important thing to note. With a pedal kayak, you may find that you need a rudder. Most models come with the rudder already installed, which helps the boat to move along in a straight line. Double-check to make sure that the pedal kayak model you are interested in has a pre-installed rudder. Sail hands-free.

Pedal vs. Paddle Kayaks: What You Need to Know

One of the best things about kayaks is their ease of use and accessibility. With the growth of kayaks used for fishing, there has been a rise in pedal kayaks on the market. Hobie introduced the very first model with the Mirage Drive. This kayak uses pedals with fins that move back and forth and then sideways. Since then, many other leading manufacturers have released their new models on the market. So the question to be asked is what is better – a paddle or peddle kayak?

Pedal Kayak

Did you know that pedal kayaks provide a great deal of speed and accuracy? For many anglers out on the water, these are top concerns for fishing. With a pedal device, you will be able to move faster along large bodies of water without the need to paddle. Here’s another plus. When you get to the good fishing spots, your arms won’t be too tired to reel in the catch. We honestly don’t know how kayaking fishers do it sometimes. Hands-free control is always positive in our book.

Of course, there are always some cons. One of the most notable cons of using a pedal kayak is that you need underwater clearance. Yes, you read that correctly. Paddle kayaks require your legs to be in the water. You could easily push up your fins against the kayak. But this is just something you will need to learn how to work with.

Paddle Kayak

A paddle kayak offers sweet simplicity. Getting into the water doesn’t have complicated steps. Just wade into the water, push the boat out a little bit and climb in. Paddle yourself away from the shore and you are on your way to go catch some fish. Paddle kayaks are also much more affordable than pedal kayaks. If you are on a tight budget, this is something to consider when you are shopping around. 

Another pro of using a paddle kayak is that it is less disruptive. When you are paddling, your boat moves through the water more smoothly than a pedal kayak does. You don’t want to scare all the fish away! Having full visibility of how far and deep your paddle reaches down into the water makes all of the difference. You control your strokes and most of the time, you can see if you are disrupting branches, mud, sand, or other types of debris.

Just like using the best pedal kayak, a paddle kayak has its drawbacks too. One of the most obvious ones is that you have to juggle holding your paddle along with all of your fishing gear. Now add in trying to hold your fishing pole and reel in a good catch. It seems almost impossible. And for those of us who have knocked our paddle in the water, we all know the frustration. You would get much more endurance out of your arms if you decided to purchase one of the best pedal kayak choices.

Bestselling Pedal Kayak Picks

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Why Are the Best Pedal Kayak Choices Important?

Finding the right pedal kayak is important. It will provide you with stability and hands-free maneuverability.

Plus you don’t have to worry about losing your paddle out in the water.

However, as a safety issue, you should always keep an eye on the surface of the water so you don’t run into debris or rocks.

Pros of Using a Pedal Kayak

  • You are capable of faster speeds than with traditional paddling with the arms.
  • Once you are comfortable with the speed and are accustomed to your pedal powered kayak you can cast you line out and going fishing or relax with a drink in your hand as you take in the views.
  • Pedal kayaks have far more space for your gear so you are never cramped or enclosed.
  • Easier to go in reverse with pedal kayaks than paddles.

Cons of Using a Pedal Kayak

  • With Pedal kayaks you cannot switch positions or shift around much due to the location of the pedals.
  • You are stuck in an “L” position the whole time you are pedaling and can have serious issues quickly due to lack of circulation in the legs and back issues.
  • Balancing your kayak properly you need a paddle, not just the pedal drive system.
  • The placement of your feet which is higher off the kayak’s bottom can cause you to lose balance when pedaling. However, over time as you grow accustomed to your kayak, this balance issue will disappear.
  • You require a rudder to steer.

Sure, there are some issues with the pedal-powered kayaks, but that shouldn’t turn you off.

The best thing you can do is rent one for the day and experience it for yourself before you buy one.

Pedal kayaks utilize the power of your legs and as long as you are comfortable with pedaling the kayak like a bike, you shouldn’t have any issues with using them.

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Types of Pedal Kayaks

While all pedal kayaks are designed with the same principle, they do vary in practice. There are two primary types of pedal kayaks – push pedals and rotational pedals. Push pedals work exactly like they sound that they do. Use your feet to push down on each pedal in order to move your boat forward through the water. The power to move the boat comes from the strength in your feet and ankles instead of your entire legs. As you push down the pedal with each foot, you are powering the yak. As soon as you stop pedaling, the yak will slow down.

Rotational pedals, on the other hand, require you to use your whole legs. While this may sound strenuous, it is easier than you think. Some of the best pedal kayak picks on the market have rotational pedals. They often necessitate you have more room in your kayak’s cockpit. You will need the extra space for your legs to be able to move around. In addition, rotational pedal kayaks are often easier to move than a pedal kayak. Why? It is all of your legs that are doing the work – not just your feet and ankles. Therefore, you have greater control over the direction and pace that your boat moves. The rotational design allows you to pedal for longer than a push pedal would allow. Finally, even when you stop pedaling momentum from the rotations will carry you further.

Pros and Cons of Using a Pedal Kayak

In this section, we will list the pros and cons of using a pedal kayak. Read on to learn why they are worth the investment.

Advantages of the Best Pedal Kayak Picks

  • Speed
  • They’re quieter
  • Hands-free
  • Less energy expended
  • Stay drier
  • Not as much skill needed

Speed

One of the top advantages of using a pedal kayak is speed. Most of us have much more strength in our legs than in our upper body. This means that you will get across the water much faster if you decide to use a pedal kayak.

They’re Quieter

In addition, pedal kayaks are quieter. You won’t disturb nature around you as much. When you’re moving into a prime fishing spot, you want to be as stealthy as possible.

Hands-Free

It’s easy to get burnt out paddling with your arms. How are you supposed to reel the fish in when your shoulders and biceps are on fire from paddling? Don’t wear yourself out. By using the best pedal kayak, you won’t have to worry about holding a paddle all the time. Foot pedals allow you to stabilize your boat while fishing. This way, you can use both of your hands to cast a line or unhook a fish.

Less Energy Expended

Did we mention that you will expend less energy? This goes along with being hands-free. Using your feet, ankles, and legs to paddle is much less tiring than doing all of the work with your arms. In short, you will be using a lot less energy to paddle with your legs than you would with your arms.

Stay Drier

Since the device you are using to power the boat is located under the water, you may find this keeps you drier than a traditional kayak would. Sit-on-top kayaks usually mean you will get wet from the paddle splashing. When you take the paddle out of the picture, you will stay much drier.

Fewer Skills Needed

It’s easy to see. Pedaling a kayak requires much less skill than paddling it does. Is kayaking a sport that caters to all skill levels? Yes. However, it still takes plenty of time to hone in on some of the finer features. If you’re paddling, start out learning the simple techniques and don’t worry about speed just yet. Pedaling means you can get out on the water without mastering techniques. Since pedal kayaks are more stable models, there is less of a chance that you will tip over.

Disadvantages of Using a Pedal Kayak

With every pro, there have to be some cons. While we are big fans of using a pedal kayak, we have to admit there are some drawbacks. Read on to see if this type of kayak is the best fit for you.

  • Maneuverability
  • Weight
  • High upfront investment
  • Maintenance

Maneuverability

Yes, we told you that it is easier to move through the water in the best pedal kayak. However, while speed is easier, maneuverability is more difficult because of the boat’s propeller or fins. For example, you won’t be able to move through very shallow water as you would with a paddle kayak. If you try to, there is a high chance that the boat could get caught in underwater grass or seaweed. Some pedal kayaks have a mechanism that allows you to lift the hull or propeller and access more shallow areas. Make sure you do your research and read up on the kayak model’s features and reviews.

Weight

Kayaks with pedals often weigh more than standard kayaks. You may also find that they have a great storage capacity, designed for fishing use.

High Upfront Investment

Since the best pedal kayak models have extra equipment, they are more expensive than a traditional kayak.  In addition to the high upfront investment, a pedal kayak also requires a good deal of maintenance work. You will need a lubricant to keep the rudder and propellers working properly. This is an extra expense that you should take into consideration.

Maintenance

We mentioned using lubrication to ensure the rudder and propellers of the kayak work properly. Maintenance also requires keeping mechanical parts corrosion resistant, using protective coats to keep your boat from rusting, and frequently rinsing the drive system off in clean water after each use. Each of these methods helps to increase the longevity of your boat.

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Things to Consider When Purchasing a Pedal Kayak

There are a few things you should consider when you are buying a pedal kayak.

Understand things like: ​

  • The Mechanics of pedal-powered kayaks.
  • Different designs for foot pedal kayaks.
  • The different types of pedal power systems.
  • Stability and Control.
  • Ease of transportation.

Mechanics

The systems of pedal drive kayaks are fixed.

This only means that you can pedal, but as far as steering, it is tricky and nearly impossible without a rudder.

Many pedal power kayaks do come standard with a rudder for steering clear of rocks and debris while ultimately keeping your hands free to do what you will.

Because the pedal kayaks utilize the most powerful muscles in the human body, the legs, the amount of force generated is greater than what can be accomplished with the arms.

However, your back and spine are affected by the forced your legs use and should be taken into consideration when you decide to purchase a pedal kayak system.

Remember that the force you use to push the pedals also affects the lower back as you steady yourself in the seat.

This added pressure can build up and cause you harm if you have poor posture, back issues, spine problems and in worse case scenarios, lack of circulation in the legs and sciatica which is caused by the vertebrae in the spine compressing the sciatic nerve.

Design

Many kayaks that are pedal powered are hard-shell made of polyethylene or fiberglass.

However, there are a few inflatable pedal powered kayaks that are manufactured by Hobie that are lightweight and resilient.

You can be assured that no matter what kayak you chose, it will be reliable and sturdy.

As far as classification go, pedal kayaks are recreational kayaks and best used for fishing, sight-seeing, and other low impact trips.

They are not intended for use as racing kayaks as they take too much effort and stamina to keep up top speeds with pedal kayaks.

Types of pedal powered kayaks​

There are two different types of pedal-powered kayaks, and one is push pedals and the other rotational pedals.

The push pedal kayak deals with pushing your foot forward similar to a bicycle but instead of moving tires to gain momentum you are pushing the kayak forward.

Just like a bicycle pedals when you stop, it takes more effort to start again.

The push pedals don’t allow for much space and some will feel cramped with the repeated motions of a pedal kayak.

When you are out on long trips, you may find that your ankles and calves hurt due to the repetition of pedaling the same way over extended periods of time.

A rotational pedal kayak is more like walking and requires the use of the whole leg.

It is far less stressful than push pedals but requires more space as the whole leg is moving instead of just the calves and ankles.

With the rotational pedal kayaks, if you stop pedaling you will lose some momentum but it doesn’t require as much force or energy to start up again after a short rest.​

Stability and control​

It is difficult to keep your balance with pedal kayaks.

However, when you do get out on the water and are going at a comfortable pace, you won’t need your hands to keep the kayak stable.

As for controlling your kayak, you will find that you don’t have as much control over your kayak as you would when using a paddle, but to remedy this issue, you should use the rudder to help guide you where you want to go.

While this does mean that one hand will be steering, you can always use the other for holding onto your rod or drink while you are out on the open water.

When it comes to tipping the kayak, pedal power kayaks are made wider to accommodate for the pedals at your feet.

With wider kayaks, there is less chance of you finding yourself or your gear in the water.

Yet, you should realize that the wider the kayak the slower it will be and the more force you will have to crank out with your legs to get up to speed.​

Ease of transportation​

When you decide to purchase a pedal kayak you need to take into consideration that there are other parts to the kayak.

You will have to have enough space on the car rack to accommodate for flaps of the pedals that propel the kayak in the water as well as the rudder in the back of the kayak that can become damaged if you unload the kayak improperly.

Due to the extra weight from the pedaling system, the rudder and the width of the kayak, it would be nearly impossible to load the kayak on the top of your vehicle and should also take into account that extra weight when you are transporting the kayak.

Many people who own pedal powered kayaks have invested in a trailer in order to get the kayak safely to their favorite watering hole.

You will also notice that pedal powered kayaks are heavier than traditional kayaks and it would be wise to invest in a trolley or cart to transport it to the water and back to your vehicle.

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Reviews of The Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedals

Unlike paddle kayaking which offers tons of different manufacturers, pedal kayaking is only manufactured by two main companies, Native and Hobie.

While Hobie takes the lead as far as different kayaks available, Native was the first company to come up with the idea of pedal power kayaking and continues to create kayaks that are ahead of the game in many ways using different pedal systems.

1. Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 Fishing Kayak

The Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 is a fishing machine.

No other pedal powered kayak can stop on a dime, or maintain casting distance as this kayak does.

The Native Slayer can cover 4.2 miles per hour and up to 5.2 miles per hour when the winds pick up.

This kayak performs well under pressure from climate changes such as the wind and stormy weather.

The Slayer Propel drive unit is designed for 12-18″ minimum depth depending on how much gear you have loaded into the kayak.

You can go both forward and reverse and comes standard with a left-handed rudder control.

The Slayer Propel comes with 5″ dry storage hatch and padded carry handle. Unlike other kayaks, you can stand up in this kayak so you can cast out a further line than just sitting.

The kayak offers two flush mount rod holder and a right-handed forward facing rod holder that can be substituted as a cup holder. The stern rudder is impact resistant and the hull is modified for stability and tracking.

When it comes to how much weight you can load into this kayak, it can withstand up to 400 pounds and is 13-feet in length.

What sets Native Slayer Propel 13 apart from the rest of the pedal powered kayaks is that this sit-on-top kayak can carry even the bigger anglers with ample amount of space and easy to customize to suit all your water sports needs.

Features I like​

  • Great casting distance and amazing speed.
  • Both forward and reverse motion.
  • Flush mount rod holders and resistant rudder.
  • Great loading capacity, perfect for big anglers as well.

2. Native Watercraft Ultimate FX Propel 13

The Native Watercraft Ultimate FX Propel kayak is the lightest pedal kayak on the market coming in at 50 pounds.

It comes with the pedal drive that comes with a built-in battery box for all your electronic needs.

The Ultimate FX also has a built-in transducer mount underneath the hull with multiple rail mounts for personal customization.

The Ultimate FX from Native comes with an adjustable thwart box that can be used as a cooler so you can leave your bulky cooler at home.

It also comes with two vertical rod holder and tight line anchor trolleys on both sides of the kayak. The Ultimate also has a right-handed forward facing rod holder and padded deck so you can stand up.

There is extra storage space under the seat and a hard shell bow hatch with a bungee to secure your gear to the deck of the kayak.

The Ultimate is 13.6-feet in length and can hold up to 400 pounds. The depth is 12.5″ on this sit-on-top kayak.

With the Ultimate FX, it doesn’t matter if you are out for the fish or for the scenery, you will enjoy cruising around the lake with this kayak.

Although the seat is adjustable, you will need extra padding for long outings to make sure you are comfortable throughout.

It is a bit expensive, but for the serious angler who is looking for a reliable and steady kayak for all their fishing needs, the Ultimate is the way to go.

Features I like​

  • Lightest pedal kayak on the market.
  • Built-in battery box for electronic needs.
  • Adjustable thwart holders for cooling.
  • Enough storage and comfortable.
  • Adjustable seat.

3. Hobie Pro Angler 12

The Hobie Pro Angler is a 12-foot long kayak that can fit in the back of almost any pick-up truck so you can leave the trailer at home.

The hull is constructed of polyethylene and can hold up to 500 pounds.

With this kayak, if fishing is your thing, you can hold up to 6 rods as the kayak comes standard with four horizontal and two molded-in rod holders.

The seat is elevated giving you a full range of motion with this sit-on-top kayak.

The Hobie allows for you to customize your rigging with the H-Rail, so you can add on the mesh pockets or anything else you like to keep your gear close at hand.

The Pro Angler comes with replaceable mounting boards and dual steering. You don’t need to worry about your valuables as the Pro Angler features an 8″ twist and seal hatch.

If you would prefer to let the wind carry you this kayak comes with a sail mount and anchor trolley system.

There is no shortage of storage space with the Pro Angler. It comes with a large front hatch with a removable liner, large rectangular hatch with pivoting tackle management system and 8-gallon Livewell-Ready cargo area for your bait or fish you reel in.

You can easily add your lures to the 2 Plano Tackle boxes or store some gear under your comfortable seat that comes with Boa System lumbar support.

Fully rigged this kayak is a beast weighing 120 pounds. Stand alone with no rigging and you will still find it difficult to carry alone as it weighs 98 pounds. The Pro Angler uses a skeg instead of a rudder, but it still is manageable as far as steering goes.

Features I like​

  • Easy to carry and take to different places.
  • Strong and durable construction.
  • Elevated seat that provides full range of motion.
  • No shortage of space.
  • Good for windy conditions.

4. Hobie Mirage Oasis Tandem Kayak

The Hobie Mirage Oasis is just that, a simple design and elegance tandem kayak with foot pedals that will take you to your far off destinations.

The Oasis can hold up to 550 pounds and is 14.6-feet in length.

You don’t need to be a fisherman to utilize the space that comes with this kayak.

The Oasis offers four hatches as well as on deck storage area.

The Mirage Oasis from Hobie comes standard with two mesh-covered stowage pockets, three 8″ twist and seal hatches for all your camping gear.

Steering isn’t an issue with the twist and stow rudder or the two paddles that can be snapped and locked on the deck.

If you would like to catch the wind, the Mirage comes with a sail mount, and if fishing is your thing, there are two molded-in rod holders that can also be used for storing your drinks.

Just sit back and relax in the comfortable seats and see where the river or lake takes you with this 14.6-foot kayak.

The Mirage is stable as it is fast and pedals like a bicycle so you don’t have to worry about added stress to the ankles or calves. This kayak doesn’t limit the motion of your legs giving you the power you need to go where you want to go.

Being that this is a tandem kayak, the 93 pounds isn’t bad, and however, for someone using this as a fishing vessel, you might need a little help.

You won’t be able to strap the Oasis to the roof of your vehicle but may fit in larger trucks. Just be careful when transporting and make sure you have dismantled the pedaling system before transporting and loading it into your car.

While the seats are comfortable, for extended trips you may want ones that offer more padding. The seats support you lower back and don’t cause major issues like sciatica, but your rear-end may get a little numb if you are out for hours.

Features I like​

  • Simple and elegant design.
  • Good loading capacity and enough space.
  • Good for even windy weather conditions.
  • Stable and fast.
  • Lower back supporting comfortable seats.

5. Hobie Mirage Revolution 11

If you are looking for a lightweight pedal kayak, then Hobie Mirage Revolution is exactly what you are looking for.

The Revolution is 11.6-feet that only weighs 64 pounds, talk about light!

If you want to rig this kayak for fishing, that’s not a problem and only adds 17 more pounds.

The kayak can hold up to 275 pounds, which isn’t much compared to the other kayaks on this review, but it is enough for a great day out on the water.

The Revolution comes standard with a paddle, so if you don’t want to use the pedals, you don’t have to. Simply remove the pedal drive and paddle out to your favorite spot.

Just don’t forget to replace the closure.

The kayak does come with two molded-in rod holders to get some fishing in if you want.

Storage space is no issue with the large covered bow hatch and two 8″ twist and seal hatches along with a gear bucket that can be used as either a cooler or a place to store your live bait.

There is also a rear cargo area with bungee tie downs for your other supplies. Easily transport the Revolution on top of your vehicle or in the back of your truck, it makes no difference as this is by far one of the lighter pedal-powered kayaks available on the market today.

The Hobie Revolution is a small compact kayak and the weight it can handle is minimal for larger peddlers.

Take this into consideration when loading it with fishing gear as you don’t want to bog down the kayak making it harder to pedal out to where the fish are biting.

Features I like​

  • Rugged, hardcore and durable construction.
  • 100% waterproof and guarantees dryness.
  • Shoulder strap and storage webbing for quick setup.
  • Sturdy PVC material to hold a shape.
  • Good storage, can hold up to 20L of gear.

6. Hobie Sport Pedal Kayak

If you are looking for a kayak with a pedal-powered system that doesn’t weigh much and is great for a quick trip, the Hobie Sport is for you.

The Sport is only 9-feet making it super compact and easy to transport anywhere.

It is constructed of rotomolded polyethylene and weighs 61 pounds.

This stable little kayak can hold up to 225 pounds and comes standard with a paddle if you decide you don’t want to pedal.

The Hobie sport offers a 6″ and an 8″ twist and seal hatch as well as a rear cargo area with bungee tie downs for some of the gear you want to take with you on your trip.

As with all Hobie’s the Sport comes with a paddle so you can give your legs a break and get a full body workout.

If fishing is your thing, the Sport also comes standard with two molded-in Rod holders and a twist and stow rudder as well as a sail mount.

It is also very stable and dependable kayak for its size and the seat is comfortable even for long trips.

The size of this vessel is small, yet being a sit-on-top kayak you don’t feel cramped as you take in the scenery. You can’t load everything you need for a camping trip, but you can always take a fishing backpack along out on the water and have fun.

Features I like​

  • Lightweight, compact and easy to transport.
  • Stable and extremely durable.
  • Perfect for fishing.
  • Comfortable seat, even for long trips.

7. Hobie Mirage Revolution 13

What’s so special about the Revolution 13 compared to the Revolution 11?

Well, perhaps the extra 2 feet of space is one thing, but the fact that the Revolution 13 performs better in the open ocean is what really makes this standout.

The Revolution 13 weighs 70.5 pounds and can carry up to 350 pounds which makes it one of the best kayaks with foot pedals.

As a standard the Revolution 13 comes with rear cargo with bungee tie downs, two 8″ twist and seal hatches with gear bucket and a large covered bow hatch. These give you more than enough storage space for all your camping or fishing gear.

The seat is super comfortable and adjustable so you can lean back and enjoy the adventure ahead of you.

If you don’t want to pedal or paddle, you can option for the Hobie evolve electric motor kit or the sailing kit that will take you beyond your wildest dreams.

If a slower pace is what you crave, then pedal out along the shoreline a cast out a line.

The Revolution 13 comes with 2-rod holders and you can add on the Livewell 8-gallon live bait tank.

Strap the Revolution 13 to the top of your vehicle and get going, the water calls all you have to do is answer.

You might consider a few of the upgrades like the motor or sailing kit to save your energy while on longer trips.

And even though this kayak was built for open waters, pedaling in rivers or streams isn’t recommended as it doesn’t turn or maneuver very well in closed and tight spots.

Features I like​

  • Enough storage and space.
  • Comfortable and adjustable seat.
  • Electric motor or sailing kit.
  • Rod holders and bait tank installed.
  • Perfect for open waters.

8. Hobie Mirage i11S

The Hobie Mirage I11S is virtually one of a kind kayak with foot pedals.

This 11.3-foot kayak can hold up to 400 pounds. If you are looking for a kayak that will provide you with a quick work-out without the effort of lugging a large kayak out to the water then this is the one you want.

The I11S is very stable and has a low profile design getting you closer to the water than ever before.

The fin that is provided will assist you in tracking should you decide to take a few rods out on the water and has an adjustable Vantage CTi seating system that is comfortable.

The Hobie I11S is an inflatable kayak which provides you with optimal storage and transportation but lacks what hard-shell kayaks can provide.

There is hardly any storage space as everything needs to be strapped down to the deck.

This kayak looks more like a glorified paddle board with a seat and pedals which may turn off some people.

But it is reliable and do-able for a quick workout and easy storage as well as transportation. Just deflate and pack it up.

Features I like​

  • Inflatable kayak with foot pedals.
  • Best for quick workout and short trips in the water.
  • Comes with fin for tracking.
  • Optimal storage but comfortable.
  • Reliable and easy to transport.

9. Hobie Mirage Compass Pedal Kayak w/Reverse

The Hobie IMirage is 12 feet in length and can handle 400 pounds.

This cute little pedal powered kayak was designed for smaller areas like a lake or pond.

This is a perfect kayak for a day trip out to the lake, or for those who just want to have a few hours to themselves alone and relax on the water.

The kayak weighs 68 pounds. The seat is super comfy and provides lumbar support.

While you can’t go out on the ocean with this kayak, you can enjoy a gentle flowing stream as it maneuvers with the left or right-hand rudder system.

Like all Hobie kayaks, this one does come with a paddle that is easily stored on the side of the kayak.

The IMirage is A sharp turning radius makes it nimble in tight quarters, yet able to speed over open water in stealthy fashion.

Features I like​

  • Lightweight but enough loading.
  • Perfect for day trip in the lake.
  • Super comfy and good maneuverbility.
  • Inflatable and easy to transport.

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Final Review of the Best Pedal Kayak for Fishing

Now, you know what a pedal kayak is and how it works. It is time to begin your kayak fishing journey. Determine whether it would be better for you to paddle or peddle. With two different styles available for the best pedal kayak, you choose how you want to move on the water. If you’re traveling for longer distances or have a long day out on the water, a rotational pedal kayak is a right choice for you.

When you are choosing the best pedal kayak, keep in mind how you plan to transport it to and from the water, the size, mechanisms, and maintenance it will require, its features, and the warranty plan in place. Other important factors to consider include what type of water you are pedaling in (e.g. shallow, grassy, deep, etc.) and how much gear you plan to bring for one trip. Check the weight of the kayak, its storage capacity, and make sure it is designed to meet your needs.

If you are looking for a pedal-powered kayak, get one that you feel comfortable in that is fitted to your paddling experience. Some will say to shop for a kayak that you can grow into, but if you are a beginner, all kayaks will be similar.

When it comes to pedal vs. paddle, you can always add a paddle to your kayak until you get comfortable with the pedal. Just remember to be safe and have fun.

Last update on 2024-03-29 at 11:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

15 comments

    1. Prices fluctuate at times on Amazon. This is why I do not have prices listed for each of the kayaks on the list.

    2. Thanks for your posting. I also think laptop computers have grown to be more and more popular today, and now are often the only kind of computer utilized in a household. This is because at the same time that they’re becoming more and more economical, their working power is growing to the point where they may be as highly effective as desktop computers coming from just a few in years past.

  1. I’m assuming the only kayaks that can go forward and backwards are the ones that you have indicated as such, right? Is it safe to say that if it doesn’t say it can go forward and backwards then it can only go forwards?

    Thanks,
    Joe

  2. Searching for “the one”, hopefully you can help. 1) I am 55 yrs old and 5’2”- need one that will go short enough for me. 2) I will mainly be using it for pleasure/sight seeing/hands free photography and some fishing.. 3) I want to continue taking my two dachshunds like I do now on my paddle sit on to kayak- I put outdoor carpet on the bow and they ride there. I would like a better area for them to ride, maybe with more of a sunken in place as right now they are just on top with really only a small lip around the bow. I want the to ride in front of me so I can enjoy watching them too. 4) want and need it to be 13’ or shorter-no longer than 14’because we haul them in the back of our long bed Ram w a pull behind camper in tow-unless we could find a rack for the top of the truck like we have seen before. Still trying to decide on which pedal system I want-push or rotary. And as far as price- I wanted to stay around $2000.

  3. Great job James, it’s really amazing to go through your blog here. I found this blog so helpful for me and even wish to all the kayak beginners. Thanks once again for your outstanding effort, go ahead.

  4. Magnificent website. Plenty of helpful information here.
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  5. I waas curious if youu ever considered changing the structure of your site?

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