Best Pedal Fishing Kayak

How We Chose the Best Fishing Kayak with Pedals?

Top 5 Best Pedal Fishing Kayaks

What to Look For When Choosing the Best Fishing Pedal Kayaks?

With so many brands and models of pedal fishing kayaks, all with different features and prices, choosing which one to buy can be a daunting task. So to help you find the right one that best matches your needs and fishing style, here’s a list of all the things you need to look out for in a fishing kayak pedal drive:

Type

There are two types of fishing kayaks with pedals: propeller drives and fin drives. Here’s a quick rundown of the two to help you choose the right one for your needs:

• Propeller Drives: These types of kayaks are similar to standard bicycles. They have a circular pedal stroke that spins the propeller, which is underneath the vessel. You’ll need to use both of your legs to make a full rotation to start moving. These systems are more natural and will allow you to go over longer distances. Plus, their mechanisms are sealed, thus, making them more resistant to damage and dirt. 

The biggest benefit of a prop drive is its instant reverse. You can just turn the pedals backward and you can immediately drive reverse. This gives you a truly hands-free experience since you don’t have to stop and make some adjustments with your hands to switch between forward and reverse. So this makes it ideal if you’re fighting a fish. 

Now, the propeller is installed in the kayak and then lowered when you’re in the water. You don’t have to remove it and put it back again whenever you go fishing. This makes it a little bit quicker to take from the land to the water. You need, however, to pull it out before you hit the bottom or other underwater hazards. 

• Fin Drives: These types of pedal-drive fishing kayaks have pedals that move back and forth for pushing and pulling the fins below the vessel. So instead of doing a circular or rotational motion, you have to push the pedals with your feet to be able to move. Compared to a prop drive foot paddle fishing kayak, a fin drive is lighter. Its exposed parts, however, are subject to damage and dirt. 

Fin drive pedal fishing kayaks can also go in reverse. However, they require a few more extra steps to do so. For instance, some models have cables that you need to pull to shift into reverse. For others, you can spin a dial to make a 360-degree turn with the fins.

While a prop drive is installed, a fin drive has to be taken out before you launch and return to land. So it requires a couple more minutes to set up and put away. It is, however, easier to use in shallow water as you can simply flatten the fins against the hull.

Stability

When it comes to fishing, stability is the key. With a more stable kayak, you’re able to cast farther and stand with more confidence. You will also need all the stability you can get for your vessel to stay upright even when you’re getting pulled in all directions while in the water. 

For stability, the width of the peddle fishing kayak plays an important role. See, the wider it is, the more stable it will be. The tradeoff, however, is that it will be slower. 

Length

The length is another important feature to look out for as it will give you an idea of the kayak’s performance as well as the type of water it is best suited for. 

For instance, longer kayaks or those that are 12ft and above are faster, more efficient, and cruises better. This makes them better if you’re fishing in open and large bodies of water. Meanwhile, shorter kayaks or those less than 11ft are easier to maneuver. This makes them a great choice if you’re going to small bodies of water. 

Weight

When choosing which pedal kayak fishing model to buy, make sure to check the weight. Then, consider how you’ll transport it from your home to the water and vice versa. 

For instance, do you have an SUV and planning to hoist the kayak on top of it? If you do, then you may want a model that you can carry. See, while a longer and larger kayak may be better for your open-water fishing plans, it may be harder for you to transport with your vehicle. But if you own a truck or kayak trailer, then you’ll have no trouble dealing with a heavier one. 

If you’re new to kayak with pedals for fishing, keep in mind that it will always be heavier than traditional paddle kayaks. 

Weight Capacity

Speaking of weight, you should also check the weight capacity. You need something that can carry your weight as well as the amount of gear you’re planning to haul. If you’re fishing with another person, then look for a tandem fishing kayak with pedals as it has a bigger weight capacity. 

On a side note, the performance of a kayak will decline as you get closer to the weight limit. So make sure never to max it out. 

Comfort

You also want a kayak that you’re able to fish and stay in for a long time. For that to happen, you’ll need the most comfortable seats you can get. They should provide ample support for your tush and back. You should also look for those that are well-ventilated and can stay dry. If you can, try to find adjustable seats. 

Fishing-Specific Features and Storage Options

For the best fishing experience, look for a kayak that can accommodate all your gear. Does it have holders for your fishing rods? Is there anywhere you can store your tackles or drinks? Is there any room to add your accessories like a fish finder or GPS? See, the more spaces where you can keep your gear and belongings safe and dry, the better. 

Maintenance

Try to look for a foot paddle fishing kayak that’s easy to use and maintain. Meaning, the installation, removal, and cleaning of the pedals should be fast and simple. For some models, for example, all you need to do is clear out any sediment and vegetation and rinse away the salt water. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it worth getting a pedal kayak?

A: Yes, it is worth getting a pedal kayak, especially when it comes to fishing. While pedal kayak fishing models can be quite expensive, they offer plenty of benefits. You can cover more areas with less effort and reach your favorite fishing spots faster. You will also cause less disturbance to the water and fish below. More importantly, you can stay put while baiting a line.

Q: Are pedal kayaks easier?

A: Yes, pedal kayaks are easier, especially for fishing. Since you don’t have to pick up or put down your paddle, your hands are completely free to troll, cast, and fight a fish. Furthermore, most people have stronger legs than arms and shoulders. So it’s easier to go further with less effort and stay fishing for longer.

Q: Are pedal kayaks more stable?

A: Yes, pedal kayaks are more stable than traditional paddle fishing kayaks. This is because they have heavier and wider hulls, which are designed to accommodate their drive mechanisms.