People of all ages and lifestyles prefer kayak fishing as an excellent way to spend time outside and stay connected with nature.
This activity has recently become very popular amongst anglers as it gives a little twist to their favorite hobby. You need a fishing kayak with pedals for this sport.
This vessel can get you to all those spots you can’t reach with a motor boat. Over time, the features, designs, and fit-outs of kayaks with pedals have evolved to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
- The Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedals
- 1. Perception Showdown-Fishing Kayak With Pedals
- 2. Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler-Fishing Kayak
- 3. Old Town Sportsman Big Water PLD 132-Fishing Kayak
- 4. Hobie Mirage Outback-Kayak
- 5. Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD-Fishing Kayak With Pedals
- 6. LONO Aero Verge Camo- Kayak With Pedals
- 7. Jackson Knarr FD-Kayak
- Wrap Up
The Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedals
Modern fishing kayaks with pedals have come a long way from traditional crafts. Here are seven models that will meet everyone’s needs and budget.
1. Perception Showdown-Fishing Kayak With Pedals
Specifications
- Price – $2,129
- Length – 11 ft 6 in (351 cm)
- Width – 36 in (91.4 cm)
- Weight – 85 lbs (38.5 kg)
- Weight capacity – 450 lbs (204 kg)
Pros
- Stability
- Comfortable seating
- Great storage space
- Silent traction pads
Cons
- Sharp turns possible with a paddle only
Perception Showdown features suit seasoned anglers who enjoy cruising and lurking for big prey. Its pedal system’s controllability makes maneuvering easy, even in shallow water. The wide platform has silent traction pads to keep the sounds down so fish won’t escape. READ MORE
This fishing kayak with pedals has an elevated frame seat, allowing a good line of sight. Also, it provides solid low-lumbar support for superior comfort. Carrying handles enable easy transport (although this fishing kayak with pedals isn’t one of the lightest models with its 85 lbs).
Many handles and gear tracks on this fishing kayak with pedals maximize space usage. With generous storage space (expandable with various add-ons), you won’t have to worry if any of your stuff has fallen into the water.
2. Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler-Fishing Kayak
Specifications
- Price – $1,662
- Length – 13 ft (396 cm)
- Width – 33.25 in (84.4 cm)
- Height – 15.75 in (40 cm)
- Weight – 80 lbs (36.2 kg)
- Weight capacity – 550 lbs (249.5 kg)
Pros
- Great control
- Stability under all water conditions
- Storage capacity
- Comfortable seating
- Impressive weight capacity (550 lbs)
Cons
- Turning around takes a lot of effort
- No scupper hole for transducer
Although on the low end of the price range for fishing kayaks with pedals, the Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler has everything the angler needs. It features a highly-responsive pedal system and a hand-operated rudder that makes moving on the water a breeze. READ MORE
This fishing kayak with pedals has an aluminum frame coated with high-density polyethylene, making it sturdy, bump-resistant, and stable. It achieves solid speed, but you can always use a paddle or a trolling motor for extra speed.
You can fish while standing still or in a cozy, well-padded seat. As for weight capacity, Brooklyn BKC PK13 Angler is by far the best fishing kayak with pedals you can get. It can take up to 550 lbs, more than most kayaks with pedals on the market.
Impressive storage space is a key feature of this fishing kayak with pedals. You can bring all your necessities for the whole day on the water. Bungee straps keep everything in place, and water-resistant compartments keep your stuff dry.
3. Old Town Sportsman Big Water PLD 132-Fishing Kayak
Specifications
- Price – $2,999
- Length – 13 ft 2.04 in (400 cm)
- Width – 36 in (91.4 cm)
- Weight (when assembled) – 122 lbs (55.34 kg)
- Weight capacity – 500 lbs (226.85 kg)
Pros
- Easy launching and maneuvering
- 5-year warranty
- Highly-responsive PDL drive system
- Lots of storage space
Cons
- Weight (122 lbs when fully assembled)
- Not too comfortable for tall people
If you need a reliable ally for casting in large and rowdy waters, this fishing kayak with pedals is a real deal. It has a sleek design and a sturdy hull to handle big waters.
Rudder control is also great and makes this vessel manageable, even against currents and crosswinds. A universal transducer mounting system makes fish finder installation hassle-free. READ MORE
The 36-inch platform on this fishing kayak with pedals suits anglers who like to stalk their prey from a height. Cushions made of EVA foam provide support, comfort, and silence while fishing.
Speaking of comfort, let’s not leave out the Sportsman Bigwater’s adjustable and super-cozy seat. Due to its ergonomic design and breathable cushions, sitting in it is a pleasure.
Old Town’s kayaks with pedals feature a reliable PDL drive system with a 5-year warranty. It enables an easy and fast launch-in and direction change. That comes in handy when you need both hands for casting a rod or reeling.
This fishing kayak with pedals has ample storage space. It has many compartments, accessory placements, and three flush-mounted rod holders to keep all your staff with you.
4. Hobie Mirage Outback-Kayak
Specifications
- Price – $3,499
- Length – 12 ft 9 in (389 cm)
- Width – 34 in (86 cm)
- Height – 12.5 in (31.75 cm)
- Weight – 103 lbs (46.72 kg)
- Weight capacity – 425 lbs (192.78 kg)
Pros
- Rock-solid stability
- Mighty pedal system
- Large storage
- Retractable sonar for easier prey spotting
Cons
- Reverse shifting can be tricky
- Not so fast
Those who have tried the Mirage Outback fishing kayak with pedals claim it’s perfect for the open sea and freshwaters. Its redesigned bow cuts waves and fights winds and currents effortlessly.
Features like the H-rail accessory system and the Guardian Retractable Sonar Shield on this fishing kayak with pedals will make any excursion enjoyable. READ MORE
The first enables maximum space usage, while the second allows side scanning for easier prey catching.
The Mirage Drive 180 pedal system distinguishes this fishing kayak with pedals from other models. It has flippers instead of propellers for extra moveability. Due to Kick Up Fins and Rudder, crossing obstacles is easy, and you’ll avoid damage to your kayak with pedals.
A 34-inch platform provides enough standing space with all gear placements within easy reach. EVA-foam cushions dampen sounds and feel good on your feet when you stand for a while.
The adjustable Vantage CTW seat is wider than usual for maximum comfort. A vertical warehouse is handy for keeping bait, line, and snacks. By removing it, you get even more storage space.
5. Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD-Fishing Kayak With Pedals
Specifications
- Price – $2,639
- Length – 12 ft 2 in (371 cm)
- Width – 38 in (96.5 cm)
- Height – 15 in (38 cm)
- Weight – 115 lbs (52 kg)
- Weight capacity – 450 lbs (204 kg)
Pros
- Helix Pedal Drive system
- S.M.A.R.T Hull Technology
- Plenty of storage space
- Adjustable seating
Cons
- Bulky vessel to transport alone
- Poor water drainage
This fishing kayak with pedals suits both experienced anglers and newbies. A basic model is well-rigged, but two handy rails allow you to customize this craft with matching factory accessories. READ MORE
You can pedal, paddle, or add an electric motor. Wilderness Systems have implemented S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology in their fishing kayaks with pedals for smooth and safe cruising.
Standard models come with Helix PD™ Pedal Drive, the peak of pedaling systems. It provides the highest speed with the least effort. Also, the instant forward/reverse allows easy turning and hands-free performance.
The 38-inch platform provides enough stability for new anglers to work on their fishing skills. Seasoned users appreciate horizontal rod holders that can hold three purpose-built rods on each side of the cockpit.
The Recon HD 120 fishing kayak with pedals has significant storage. A bulky hatch in a bow, midship trays, and a large tank with cross-lashing bungee will host all your essentials. So you can sit back in a cozy AirPro ACE (Adjustability, Comfort, and Ergonomics) seat, find the best position, cast the rod, and hope for some big catch.The adjustable Vantage CTW seat is wider than usual for maximum comfort. A vertical warehouse is handy for keeping bait, line, and snacks. By removing it, you get even more storage space.
6. LONO Aero Verge Camo- Kayak With Pedals
Specifications
- Price – $1,549
- Length – 12 ft 6 in (381 cm)
- Width – 35.5 in (90 cm)
- Height – 20 in (50 cm)
- Weight – 51lbs (23 kg)
- Weight capacity – 400 lbs (181.4 kg)
Pros
- Ease of transport and storage
- Stability
- Durable PVC hull
- Great weight capacity
Cons
- Maneuvering take some effort
- High price tag for inflatable kayaks
An inflatable fishing kayak like LONO Aero is known for its portability (travel bag included). It takes only a few minutes to inflate it with a high-powered manual pump or a suitable electric pump.READ MORE
In seconds, the LONO Aero transforms from a kayak with pedals to a SUP. Install the APEX Pedal Drive (sold separately) and get a speedy fishing kayak with pedals. Take the seat and the top out, and turn this craft into a stable SUP.
The seat is high, so this inflatable kayak with pedals sits deep in the water. Three fins (two built-in and one removable) enable easy tracking and flared bow cuts waves for smooth sailing.
The BOTE’s LONO Aero makes up for the lack of storage space with handy velcro stash pockets and straps. Install the Rocket Rac holder in the slide-in attachment behind the seat and get extra placements for rods.
Self-bailing cockpit allows for easy water drainage, so your stuff will remain dry (most of the time). And MAGNEPOD™ technology will keep your metal drinking cups in place.
7. Jackson Knarr FD-Kayak
Specifications
- Price – $4,199
- Length – 13 ft 9 in (419 cm)
- Width – 37 in (94 cm)
- Weight – 140 lbs (63.5 kg)
- Weight capacity – 475lbs (215.5 kg)
Pros
- Great for big waters
- Stability
- Upgraded Flex Drive IV system
- Customization
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
This fishing kayak with pedals comes with a certain price tag. Still, seasoned anglers who need a reliable, stable, and well-rigged kayak with pedals consider Jackson Knarr FD an excellent investment.READ MORE
Knarr FD fishing kayak with pedals remains stable in harsh conditions. Pedaling with the Flex Drive Mark IV system is easy, even in big surfs and crosswinds. Add a trolling motor and get a kayak with pedals to fight strong currents and winds.
Omega Rod Holder on this fishing kayak with pedals stages most rod models for easy access. The gunnels can store and secure up to six rods. The TriTrak system goes around the hull and allows for maximum gear customization with everything from Yakattack fish finders to electronics.
The high EZ Hi-Low seat allows a natural position of the legs and easy standing. Adjusting the seating position is doable with one hand.
Wrap Up
Considering many models of fishing kayaks on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. Know your needs and budget, and this review will help you find the best fishing kayak with pedals for your money.