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Pedal kayaks are an excellent way to get exercise and glide through the water with convenience.

The best pedal kayaks are famous for providing a hands-free option on the water, good speed, great legroom, and a pocket-friendly price range. Although they are relatively bigger and heavier than traditional kayaks.

Some are sit-on-top or sit-in pedal kayaks that let the pedaling of your feet do all the work!

Personal preference and style will affect your final decision when choosing the right ocean kayak for you! When picking a pedal kayak, you want to look for a comfortable seat, a controllable rudder, an efficient pedal drive system, and aerodynamic features to ensure stability and optimize tracking.

Product

Details

Top Pick

Hobie 2019 Mirage

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 103 Pounds

User-friendly

Pelican – Getaway

  • Material:
    Plastic
  • Item Weight: 59 Pounds

Premium Choice

Hobie Mirage Compass

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene plastic
  • Item Weight: 92 Pounds

Value for Money

Perception Crank 10

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 87 Pounds

Affordable Option

Wilderness Systems

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 82 Pounds

Amazing Design

Perception Pescador

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 85 Pounds

Stability & Style

Brooklyn PK13

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 80 Pounds

Best Splurge

Native Watercraft Slayer

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 76 Pounds

Complete Package

Old Town Predator

  • Material:
    ‎Polyethylene
  • Item Weight: 56 Pounds

9 Best Pedal Kayaks

This next section is dedicated to a wide selection of pedal kayaks that will suit your needs. There are a variety of pedal kayaks for all experience levels and lifestyles.

This helpful guide will help you decide what watercraft is best for your adventuring needs.

1. Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback

This is a state-of-the-art pedal kayak for someone who is an avid fisher. Whether you are a fly fishing rookie or looking to catch a monster salmon, this is the pedal kayak for you.

It is equipt for all water types and comes with a kick-up rudder system to navigate shallow water. The kick-up fins immediately retract upon impact, making your job kayaking even easier.

This watercraft is carefully curated to make your fishing experience as seamless as possible. Navigating open water can be tricky, but the smooth rudder system will make your kayak glide with ease.

The Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback comes with an extra wide standing deck so you can maximize visibility and casting range on your fishing expedition. It also comes equipped with multiple high-capacity storage compartments to keep all your gear in one place.

This extremely nimble pedal kayak is for someone who is looking to add a luxury piece of equipment to their repertoire. The Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback is not a beginner kayak and is specifically designed for the sport of fishing.

fishing kayak with pedals

This is my personal favorite of the pedal kayaks because of its sleek design and beautiful structure. Pedal kayaks offer a swift and nimble way to get around the water.

You can cover larger bodies of water with a pedal kayak as opposed to a sit-in paddle kayak. You can gain a good amount of speed with pedal kayaks and cover distance with less energy.

Stats:

  • Length: 12 ft 9″
  • Brand Name: Hobie
  • Width: 34″
  • Weight: 103 pounds
  • Capacity: 425 lbs
  • Construction: Polyethylene

Pros:

Navigating open water can be tricky, but the smooth rudder system will make your kayak glide with ease.

Cons:

This kayak is amazing, but it’s designed for someone who knows what they’re doing. Try out some of these next options before you break out the big bucks for this kayak.

This is the kayak for you if you’re ready to fork up the cash for the best kayak of your life.

Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback

The Price of “Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback” varies, so check the latest price at

2. Pelican – Getaway 110 Recreational Kayak

Pelican - Getaway

The Pelican Getaway 110 is a recreational sit-on-top kayak that is among the more user-friendly on this list. This kayak is built for a joyride around a lake or pond, and it is not built for rougher waters.

Kick back, relax and enjoy the ride with this easy-to-pedal kayak. With the foot pedal system, it is up to you to determine the speed of your kayak. Stern storage is offered on this kayak, holding in your accessories by a webbing of strong bungee cord.

pedal drive fishing kayak

This kayak comes with a controllable rudder that you can easily access from the side of your seat. Scupper holes are secured in the bottom of the kayak to drain any excess water that may get into your watercraft.

This pedal kayak is also very stable and easy to operate. An excellent way to get some cardio in, while also relaxing. Who thought working out could be this fun and easy? Also, it is among the lightest pedal kayaks available.

Stats:

  • Length: 10ft 5″
  • Brand: Pelican
  • Material: Plastic
  • Weight: 59 lbs
  • Weight Capacity: 300lb

Pros:

Very easy to deploy and among the most lightweight options, making it easy and enjoyable to transport your kayak.

Cons:

This kayak is built for casual cruising, and it won’t get you through the Bermuda Triangle.

Pelican – Getaway 110 HDII Recreational Kayak

The Price of “Pelican – Getaway 110 HDII Recreational Kayak” varies, so check the latest price at

3. Hobie Mirage Compass Duo Tandem

Hobie Mirage Compass

Imagine you and your best friend are out on the river and you both reel in a monster fish. This is the kind of watercraft you want to be in when you’re reeling in a big fish. This kayak is similar to the Hobie 2019 Mirage Outback, but this one is meant for two people.

This kayak is for river fishing dream team, and it is extremely responsive. It comes with an oversized cockpit for balanced, flat deck standing. Drag is minimized with the sleek hull and polyethylene plastic. The spring-loaded rudder helps illuminate drag from plants and floating objects, doing the debris in the water.

kayak with pedal drive

The seats are comfortable and offer incredible support for your back as well as a breathable mesh material. Pick this kayak if you are an intermediate kayaker and looking to paddle around on slow-moving water.

The tandem Hobie Mirage is definitely an investment piece, as it is priced at $3,849 and it is an excellent pedal fishing kayak. The positive online reviews for this kayak are endless!

Stats:

  • Length: 13 ft 5″
  • Brand: Hobie
  • Material: Polyethylene plastic
  • Weight: 92 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 475 lbs.

Pros:

You’re getting what you pay for with this model. It’s the Mona Lisa of pedal kayaks, and it will stand the test of time with its durable shell. Who knows, maybe you can even pass it on to your grandchildren.

Cons:

Just a heads up, this is one of the heavier models listed here. Keep your strength up if you’re going to be lugging this pedal fishing kayak around! Good thing it’s meant for two people, have your friend help you carry it to the water!

Hobie Mirage Compass Duo Tandem

The Price of “Hobie Mirage Compass Duo Tandem” varies, so check the latest price at

4. Perception Crank 10

Perception Crank

The Perception Crank 10 is a more affordable option for a pedal kayak. This is a best sit-on-top kayak designed for easy cruising through mellow waters. Perfect for enjoying a beautiful sunny day out on the water.

There is an easily accessible hand rudder at the side of the kayak. The rudder is easy to install and can be finished within a matter of minutes. The Perception Crank 10 is very simple and easy to deploy, and it comes with a user-friendly instruction manual and guide with purchase.

There is a convenient cup holder on the right side, side storage trays, rigid carry handles, as well as a skid plate. This is not the best pedal kayak for moving water, and it is best suited for lakes and ponds.

pedal fishing kayak

This kayak is budget-friendly, priced at $1,699. It has an easy-to-use pedal drive system and comes with a five-year warranty.

Stats:

  • Brand: Perception Kayaks
  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Weight: 87 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs

Pros:

A step up from the beginner kayak, but not quite as advanced. This is the kayak for someone who’s well on their way to the rapids. An excellent kayak for the price point!

Cons:

You’ll have an excellent view from where you’re seated, but you won’t have a standing deck on this kayak.

Perception Crank 10

The Price of “Perception Crank 10” varies, so check the latest price at

5. Wilderness Systems

Wilderness Systems Radar

This Wilderness Systems pedal kayak is among the most affordable kayaks on this list. Wilderness Systems makes incredible products, and the reviews for all of the products are quite positive.

This budget kayak is lightweight and features a comfortable sit-on-top AirPro seat. Unfortunately, the Helix MD Motor Drive and Helix PD Pedal Drive systems are sold separately and are not included in this package.

It comes with hatch cubbies that can fit all your accessories and belongings. Features S.M.A.R.T technology, to optimize stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness, and tracking.

The Flex Pod 0S is a fully removable compartment for your battery, cables, and fish finder, as well as making room for a small kayak trolling motor or pedal drive system. Speaking of pedals, they are adjustable and made to accommodate kayakers of all sizes. The possibilities for customization are endless.

pedal kayak fishing

You can upgrade your pedal system, and there are numerous places to mount a motor if you choose. This amazing, lightweight pedal kayak comes with a lifetime warranty.

Stats:

  • Brand: Wilderness Systems
  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Weight: 82 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 400lbs
  • Length: 11’6″

Pros:

The possibilities are endless with the extra space to mount a motor and attach accessories. I love that this kayak can be customizable for every trip or experience level. Its versatility is what makes it one of the best pedal kayaks on the market.

Cons:

Be mindful of your speed in swift rivers, the hull is designed to carry you quickly through fast-moving water.

Wilderness Systems

The Price of “Wilderness Systems” varies, so check the latest price at

6. Perception Pescador

Perception Pescador

This is the perfect pedal kayak for someone who is intermediate to experienced in this sport. The lawn chair style is built with two adjustable settings for maximum comfort. This is a major bonus for a kayak because the last thing you want while paddling around for hours is to get a cramp or a backache.

It comes equipped with two storage areas, one in the front and one in the rear. There is excellent storage space to fit all your fishing kit in this leak-proof fishing kayak. It also comes with built-in rod holders.

I would recommend this pedal-powered kayak for someone who is looking to fish in calm streams and ponds. This is not the kayak for you if you are looking to fish out on rougher waters.

best pedal kayak

There are four colorway options for your preference, blue being the most attractive in my opinion. This is an excellent kayak for someone specifically looking for a fishing kayak, as it comes with all the bells and whistles to house your fishing gear.

Stats:

  • Brand: Perception Kayaks
  • Weight capacity: 475 lbs
  • Weight: 85lbs
  • Length: 12’5″

Pros:

This is a moderately priced kayak for an intermediate to experienced kayaker.

Cons:

Unfortunately, there is no standing deck for this specific kayak. You’ll have to cast from the comfort of your mesh seat!

Perception Pescador

The Price of “Perception Pescador” varies, so check the latest price at

7. Brooklyn PK13

Brooklyn PK13

This kayak was created to cruise. It isn’t extremely detailed in structure, and it is designed for a beginner. Unfortunately, there is no deck to stand on this kayak, but the seating position is relaxed and adjustable.

The pedal footsteps are also adjustable for this sit-on-top kayak. You could absolutely go cast a line out on this kayak, but I wouldn’t expect to reel in a monster salmon in the open ocean with this kayak. Optimal stable kayak for a beginner.

It is possible to customize this kayak with a trolling motor. This would more the perfect gift for someone who is interested in kayaking recreationally. There is a bungee cord tie-down area for your accessories as well as three fishing rod holders.

best pedal kayak

The Brooklyn PK13 is conveniently lightweight as opposed to the more heavy-duty kayaks that can weigh up to two hundred pounds. Very easy to transport and clean with its draining system. The hand-operated rudder helps maximize steering control as well.

The Brooklyn PK13 comes in a variety of fun colors, which you normally don’t see. Most pedal kayaks are earthy, natural colors. But bright blue, yellow, and red are options for you as well!

Stats:

  • Brand: BKC
  • Weight: 80 lbs
  • Material: Polyethylene
  • Weight limit: 550
  • Length: 13 feet

Pros:

User-friendly, beginner kayak. Easily transportable and comes with a draining system, which not all kayaks have.

Cons:

This isn’t a heavy-duty kayak and won’t get you through the roughest waters. This one is meant for cruising. Be mindful of the experience level when looking for pedal system kayaks, you want to find one that will suit your needs perfectly.

Brooklyn PK13

The Price of “Brooklyn PK13” varies, so check the latest price at

8. Native Watercraft Slayer 12.5 Propel MAX

Native Watercraft Slayer

This might just be the holy grail of fishing kayaks. The Native Watercraft brand is committed to providing the highest quality kayaks. These pedal kayaks are top-of-the-line and have the most compact full design on the market.

There are multiple storage areas, stable standing deck, and there is an area for kayak battery storage. Featured a very convenient under-the-seat storage drawer to hold accessories.

This watercraft will carry you through the water with ease, and you will stand with confidence on the no-slip mat the standing deck comes with.

I would highly recommend this pedal drive fishing kayak for an experienced fisherman who is looking to upgrade their watercraft.

best pedal kayak for fishing

Everything with this stand-up fishing kayak is built with intention, down to its hand-sewn seat cushions. The possibilities are endless, and just think of the fish you could catch with this kayak!

Stats:

  • Brand: Native Watercraft
  • Weight capacity: 500 lbs
  • Weight: 95lbs
  • Length: 12’6″

Pros:

You don’t have to drill into your kayak to mount your transducer, it comes with a built-in mountain plate on the hull!

Cons:

Because these kayaks are the best of the best, so they tend to sell out fast. Try adding yourself to the waiting list online or searching for and sporting outfitter near you. Just a heads up, this kayak is among the pricier on this list.

However, it is money well spent because of what a perfect investment it is for your outdoor water hobbies.

Native Watercraft Slayer 12.5 Propel MAX 2020

The Price of “Native Watercraft Slayer 12.5 Propel MAX 2020 ” varies, so check the latest price at

9. Old Town Predator

Old Town Predator

Last on our list, we have the Old Town Predator. This is another top-of-the-line pedal kayak perfect for any avid hunter or fisher. Fully equipped with a tri-hull design, cupholders, flush mount rod holders, non-slip deck, and premium seating.

This fishing kayak has built-in carry handles so you can stress less while making your way down to the water. An award-winning, easy docking kayak that moves with both speed and agility through the water.

I personally love the camouflage design, it makes fishing and hunting on the water feel more stealthy. It also comes with a whopping six removable mounting plates, which makes your experience so much easier and you won’t have to drill into the hull.

kayaks pedal drive

Purchasing a pedal drive kayak like this one makes the sport more enjoyable because it’s more fun for you, and less maintenance and work. This kayak is hassle-free and the positive reviews online are endless.

Stats:

  • Weight capacity: 500 lbs
  • Length: 13 feet
  • Weight: 117 lbs
  • Width: 36″
  • Material: Single-layer polyethylene

Pros:

The Old Town Predator comes with a lifetime hull warranty! That’s a quality you can count on.

Cons:

This is another top-tier kayak, so they can be hard to find online and in stores. However, they are worth the wait.

Old Town Predator

The Price of “Old Town Predator” varies, so check the latest price at

Conclusion

Finding the best pedal kayaks is exciting because there are so many options for all different levels of experience. Pedal kayaking is an excellent workout and is a great way for people of all ages to explore the open water, fish, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker, there is something on this pedal system kayak list for everyone.

We hope this guide helped you get a better idea of what kind of pedal drive kayak will suit your needs best. Enjoy the ride!

Categories: Kayaking

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