Best Pedal Fishing Kayaks of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Pedal fishing kayaks are innovative and efficient watercraft that are perfect for anglers who want to fish in lakes, rivers, and streams. These kayaks are propelled by a pedal system that allows the user to move forward or backward without using their hands. This frees up their hands for fishing, baiting, and reeling in their catch. Pedal fishing kayaks come in a variety of sizes and styles, with some offering additional features like comfortable seating, built-in rod holders, and storage compartments. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, a pedal fishing kayak is an excellent choice for your next fishing adventure.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pelican Catch 110 HDII Angler Kayak Cover #TOP 1
Pelican Catch 110 HDII Angler Kayak
ftb score rating icon 9.9
BKC Brooklyn 10.0 Pedal Kayak Cover #TOP 2
BKC Brooklyn 10.0 Pedal Kayak
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Kayak Cover #TOP 3
Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Kayak
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Pedal Fishing Kayaks

#TOP 1

Pelican Catch 110 HDII Angler Kayak

KRP11P104-00
Outback
Pelican Catch 110 HDII Angler Kayak Cover
Pelican Catch 110HDII - Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak - HyDryve Pedal System & Comfortable Ergocast seat - 10 ft - Outback

The Pelican Fishing Kayak comes with top-notch features that enhance your fishing experience. The HyDryve II pedal system enables easy maneuvering in shallow waters and around plants. The Ergocast G2 seat provides exceptional comfort for long hours on the water. With 4 gear rails, you can customize your kayak for various activities. Additionally, the 3 rod holders keep your fishing rods secure yet accessible. The rudder with hand controls allows effortless direction control with a simple wrist movement or improved tracking as a skeg.

What We Like
HyDryve II pedal system
Ergocast G2 seat
Customizable gear rails
#TOP 2

BKC Brooklyn 10.0 Pedal Kayak

BKC
PDL10
Blue Camo
10 feet
BKC Brooklyn 10.0 Pedal Kayak Cover
Brooklyn 10.0 Single Pedal Kayak Sit On Top Fishing Kayak (Blue Camo)

The BKC Pedal Kayak is a swift and agile watercraft that offers hands-free fishing with two rod holders, allowing you to keep your lines in the water effortlessly. It provides ample storage with a large hatch and cargo recesses for your gear, ensuring you have everything you need for a day on the water. The adjustable seat offers comfort for fishing, touring, or cruising, while the stable design and hand-operated rudder allow for precise turns, making your experience enjoyable and hassle-free.

What We Like
Hands-free fishing
Ample storage
Stable design
#TOP 3

Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Kayak

9751094153
Steel Grey
Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Kayak Cover
Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD - Sit on Top Fishing Kayak - 360 Degree ACES seat & Helix PD™ Pedal Drive System - 12 ft - Steel Grey

The Wilderness Systems Recon 120 offers an impressive array of features designed for fishing enthusiasts. The AirPro ACES seat provides exceptional comfort and adjustability, allowing you to easily find your ideal position for paddling or pedaling. With the Helix PD Pedal Drive system, you can enjoy smooth and efficient movement across the water, featuring instant forward and reverse options. The StowPro storage system ensures your gear is well-organized and protected, making it easy to access when needed. Additionally, the S.M.A.R.T. hull technology enhances stability and maneuverability, ensuring a responsive experience on various water conditions.

What We Like
Comfortable adjustable seat
Smooth pedal drive
Organized storage system
Stable and maneuverable
#TOP 4

BKC Brooklyn 13.5 Tandem Pedal Kayak

BKC
PDL13.5T
Grey Camo
BKC Brooklyn 13.5 Tandem Pedal Kayak Cover
Brooklyn 13.5 Tandem Pedal Kayak Sit On Top Fishing Kayak (Grey Camo)

The BKC Tandem Pedal Kayak is the ultimate tandem experience for two adults with a 680-pound weight capacity. Its high-density polyethylene construction ensures durability and a smooth ride. Designed for speed, the dual pedal drive systems allow effortless gliding through the water. With two watertight hatches and spacious cargo recesses, there's ample storage for all your kayaking essentials. Fishing enthusiasts will love the three built-in rod holders and stable hull, perfect for hands-free fishing and stand-up casting.

What We Like
Ultimate Tandem Experience
Speedy Dual Pedal Drive
Ample Storage Space
Angler's Delight
#TOP 5

Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak

01.4073.0103
Ember Camo
Length 12 Ft
Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak Cover
Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak (Ember Camo)

The Old Town Salty PDL 120 Kayak is the perfect choice for both fishing enthusiasts and those looking for a fun kayaking experience on coastal sea waters. Its easy-to-use forward/reverse pedal drive allows for comfortable and hands-free fishing and navigation. Packed with convenient features, this kayak offers customizable accessory tracks, cushioned floor pads for improved comfort and grip, a custom tackle box, and plenty of rod holders. The tank wells in the bow and stern provide ample storage space for coolers, tackle crates, dry bags, or even a furry companion. The premium mesh seat with great lumbar support ensures all-day comfort, and its adjustable design allows for a personalized fit. With a maximum capacity of 450 pounds, this 12-foot kayak is built to handle both people and gear with ease.

What We Like
Easy-to-use pedal drive
Customizable accessory tracks
Ample storage space
#TOP 6

Reel Yaks 11.5ft Propeller Kayak

Reel Yaks
Reel Yaks 11.5ft Propeller Kayak Cover
11.5ft Reactor Reel Yaks Propeller Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak | 550lbs Capacity for Adult Youths Kids| Ultrawide for Stability, Electronics Panel & Navigation Light mounts

The Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak is designed for stability and comfort, featuring a wide 36-inch frame that allows you to stand confidently while fishing. You’ll appreciate the advanced propeller drive system, which offers smooth paddling and a 10:1 ratio for quick access to your favorite spots. The kayak also includes an electronics panel for easy integration of switches and chargers, along with rod storage that protects your gear. For long days on the water, the stadium-style cushioned chair and adjustable backrest ensure you stay comfortable throughout your adventures.

What We Like
Exceptional stability
Advanced propeller drive
Comfortable cushioned seat
Electronics integration
#TOP 7

Reel Yaks 9.5ft Modular Fishing Kayak

Reel Yaks
Cyan Gray
Reel Yaks 9.5ft Modular Fishing Kayak Cover
9.5ft Raptor Fin Drive Modular Fishing Kayak | Super Lightweight, 380lbs Capacity | Easy to Store - Easy to Carry | Beats Inflatables | No roof Racks - no Wall Racks | Adults Youths Kids | Sit on top

Upgrade your angling adventure with the Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak. This lightweight kayak features an effortless pedal drive system that allows you to reach prime fishing spots or ride the surf with ease. The modular design allows for easy assembly in seconds, eliminating the need for wall racks, roof racks, straps, or trolleys. With its ultralight construction and side carry handles, this kayak is incredibly portable, making it perfect for fishing escapades. Additionally, the Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak offers ample storage space and a stable "W" hull shape for seated or standing action. Get ready to enjoy a convenient and comfortable fishing experience with this innovative kayak.

What We Like
Effortless pedal drive
Modular design
Lightweight and portable
#TOP 8

Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Kayak

01.4071.0109
Steel Camo
Length 12 Ft
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Kayak Cover
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak (Steel Camo)

The Old Town PDL 120 is designed for hands-free fishing and easy navigation, featuring a stable pontoon-style hull and a user-friendly pedal drive that moves forward and backward. You can enjoy a comfortable experience thanks to its premium mesh seat with excellent lumbar support, which adjusts to your leg length for all-day comfort. The kayak also includes customizable accessory tracks and cushioned floor pads to enhance grip and comfort while you fish. Plus, its universal transducer mounting system allows for quick installation of your favorite fish finder, making it easier to locate the best spots.

What We Like
Hands-free fishing
Comfortable adjustable seat
Easy fish finder installation
Stable pontoon-style hull
#TOP 9

Reel Yaks 10.8ft Rapido Fishing Kayak

Reel Yaks
Blue Black Camo
Reel Yaks 10.8ft Rapido Fishing Kayak Cover
10.8ft Rapido Modular Propeller Drive Fishing Kayak | Super Lightweight, 400lbs Capacity | Easy to Store - Easy to Carry | Beats Inflatables | No roof Racks - no Wall Racks

The Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak offers unmatched convenience for your fishing adventures. With its modular design, you can quickly assemble the kayak in seconds, eliminating the need for cumbersome storage solutions like roof racks or trolleys. The lightweight construction makes it easy to transport, while the innovative pedal drive system allows you to reach prime fishing spots effortlessly. This system is gentle on your knees and even lets you reverse when navigating tricky areas. Plus, the kayak's compact size means you can store it easily, whether in your apartment or car, so you're always ready to hit the water.

What We Like
Quick assembly
Lightweight and portable
Effortless pedal drive
Easy storage
#TOP 10

Reel Yaks 10.8ft Rapido Fishing Kayak

Reel Yaks
Rapi10FinBb
Gray
Reel Yaks 10.8ft Rapido Fishing Kayak Cover
10.8ft Rapido Modular Fin Drive Fishing Kayak | Super Lightweight, 400lbs Capacity | Easy to Store - Easy to Carry | Beats Inflatables | No roof Racks - no Wall Racks

The Reel Yaks Fishing Kayak is designed for ultimate convenience and ease of use. Its modular design allows you to quickly assemble two sections, so you can hit the water faster than ever. The efficient pedal drive system lets you navigate to prime fishing spots without straining your knees, ensuring a smooth ride. Weighing only 36 pounds, this kayak is incredibly lightweight, featuring side handles for easy transport. Plus, you can store it in small spaces, making it perfect for apartment dwellers. Enjoy fishing adventures without the hassle of traditional kayaks.

What We Like
Quick assembly
Effortless transport
Compact storage
Comfortable pedal drive
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are pedal kayaks good for fishing?

Most people have more strength and endurance in their legs than their arms and shoulders, so a pedal fishing kayak allows them to go further and stay out longer. And, any single item on the con list is far outweighed by the number-one benefit of pedal-powered kayaks: your hands are free for fishing.

2. Which pedal kayak is the fastest?

To power the Malibu Pedal, Ocean Kayak started with the proven design powering Old Town's Predator PDL. They cut the overall size of the system to fit in the smaller, lighter Malibu Pedal but the boat consistently put down the fastest times in our tests.

3. Is a Hobie kayak worth the money?

Hobies are expensive but worth it. There are many options that are available and easily installed. There are other good kayak brands but we like the Hobie due to its propulsion system, especially if open water kayak fishing. Plus they seem to maintain their resale value.

4. Who makes the lightest pedal kayak?

Lightest pedal kayak For anglers, the Slayer Propel 10 from Native Watercraft is the lightest 10-foot pedal drive fishing kayak on the market, weighing in at 62 pounds (without the drive unit).

Editor's Notes

During our pedal fishing kayak research, we found 24 pedal fishing kayak products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,292 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pedal fishing kayaks list. We found that most customers choose pedal fishing kayaks with an average price of $1,893.82.

The pedal fishing kayaks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pedal fishing kayaks, including Pelican, BKC, Wilderness Systems, Old Town, Reel Yaks. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.