Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks of 2023

A conversation about the best pedal-drive fishing kayak can't be had without mentioning the Hobie Mirage Outback. For over a decade, the Mirage has proven to be the fully-loaded fishing machine that is built for every conceivable fishing expedition, whether you’re prowling the ocean for monster gamefish or stalking bass in your favorite freshwater fishing hole.

Powered by the MirageDrive 180 with ARC Cranks + Kick-Up Turbo Fins – now standard on all Outbacks – this fine-tuned angling vessel is highly versatile, fast, quiet, and exceedingly nimble. Now featuring the Kick-Up Rudder system with dual steering capabilities, combating drift and navigating tight water has never been easier. While the classic Outback was a legend, the all-new Outback is truly legendary.

The Mako 10, or the Mako 12, all come with the new Impulse Drive pedal system, as well as in an angler version with Impulse Drive.

Dominate the water, fresh or salt. The Pro Angler 12 deploys all the big-boat fishing features of the ‘PA’ series on a 12-ft. long platform that fits neatly in the back of most any pickup truck. Or, for an even more spacious 14-foot platform, check out the Pro Angler 14.

The HOODOO Tempest 120P offers the same great kayaking experience as the HOODOO Tempest 120 Hybrid, but with the added convenience of a pedal drive and hand controlled rudder system. So place the paddle in the paddle keeper, sit back in the ultra comfortable aluminum frame seat and cast away while pedaling into that perfect fishing spot. Boasting a true hybrid experience between an angler and a fast track kayak. Cut through the water with its streamlined, hydro-dynamic hull, or throw out a line and just relax. This uniquely-designed hull features a recessed hand controlled rudder system for pedaling with accurate control, increasing speed and reducing fatigue! This boat is one of size AND comfort offering quick and easy maneuverability on the water.

With a Modified Catamaran Style Hull and a 12' total length this kayak is a great fit for any paddler. With it's fully interchangeable drive system, you can paddle, pedal, or power this total system gives you plenty of flexibility to choose how you want to spend your time on the water!

Considered a game-changer in hands-free kayak fishing, the Slayer Propel 13 is unmatched in its ability to maintain casting distance, pull away from structure or stop on a dime when trolling to relieve rod pressure. You’ll also enjoy rock- solid stability when sight casting– even for the XXL angler. Designed to easily customize/personalize, the Slayer Propel fishing kayak offers bow to stern rails that easily mount Scotty, Ram and Railblaza gear. Go as big as you want or keep it to a minimum; it’s your choice. The Slayer Propel 13’s open storage compartment combines space and easy-access. The boat offers unsurpassed versatility: take it out on your local lake and fish for bass one day, then leave the drive system at home and paddle it for a day of trout fishing on your local rocky river.

Simplicity defined, the Mirage Compass is powered by the forward and reversing MirageDrive 180 pedal system and Kick-Up Fins. Patented Kick-Up Fin Technology takes the worry out of kayaking in shallow, structure-filled waters by automatically retracting upon impact. Experience forward and reverse pedal propulsion with Hobie's Square Tip Fins. New for 2022 is an anodized aluminum alloy frame seat offering incredible comfort, durability and breathability with monomesh and ripstop nylon construction. The Compass offers maximum stability and an oversized cockpit and flat deck for standing. A sharp turning radius makes this fishing kayak nimble in tight quarters, yet able to speed over open water in stealthy fashion. Kayak fishing features include pre-installed rod holders, H-Track accessory mounts and a transducer cavity ready for you to install a Lowrance® fishfinder. For a stealthy look, upgrade to the Compass Camo package that is outfitted with Kick-Up Turbo Fins and comes in Camo color ($2,749 USD MSRP for Camo)

What’s the big deal with this little fishing kayak? Weight– or lack of to be more precise. Weighing in at 62 lbs (without the drive unit) the Slayer Propel 10 is the lightest 10′ pedal drive fishing kayak on the market. Light enough to lift car top or effortlessly slide into the back of a pickup, this little titan is the master of hands free fishing. Powered by Native Watercraft’s unique Propel Pedal Drive System which boasts forward and reverse, the Slayer Propel 10 keeps you on the fish and provides a major aid landing the catch of the day. Armchair-comfortable seat, rock-solid stability, clutter-free cockpit: the design empowers even the xxl angler to stand and sight-cast or to just relax and sip the beverage of the day. Propel speeds vary depending on currents and wind, but pedaling at 3.5 miles per hour all day long issmooth and easy. Bow to stern rail mount system means easy on-and-off for rod holders from major brands like Scotty, Ram, Railblaza, and purposely-positioned rails for mounting cameras to capture your trophy catch.

Kaku Zulu- The most versatile kayak ever designed. Paddle it - Pedal It or Power It. Extreme Stability and functionality.

The Titan is a Propel Pedal driven bass fishing kayak extraordinaire. The Titan Propel 12 and Propel 13.5 offer unsurpassed stability and ample room and flexibility to move around. Optimal for sight casting with plenty of leverage to reel in the catch, this is a angler’s fantasy fulfilled. This boat features easy-to-reach horizontal rod storage with rod tip protection. Elevated First Class Seating is designed for comfortable transitions between standing and sitting, and it can be moved out of the way in the 13.5’ model for a walk-around deck.

The Titan also contains Plastifoam technology which adds flotation for safety and increased stiffness for performance. Featuring easy mounting for Power-Pole Micro Anchor systems and offering a custom motor mount accessory (sold separately) that will accept trolling motors for a power-assisted ride, the Titan 12 and 13.5 are truly in a league of their own.

Introducing the most advanced pedal powered fishing machine of its kind. It gets you to the spot fast, and keeps you on the spot without paddling. With forward, reverse and agile maneuverability, you’ll experience precise boat control while your hands remain free to focus on fishing. The removable pedal drive installs in seconds and tips up instantly for shallow water docking. The Predator PDL’s specially-designed hull combines the perfect balance of smooth pedal stroke speed and stand-up stability.

The CATCH 130 HDII is made for the more advanced angler looking for a kayak packed with convenient and comfortable features for the ultimate fishing experience. By using the power of your legs, you’ll be able to go for long distances without getting tired. All of Pelican's boats have been thoughtfully designed with the most convenient and comfortable features to suit each paddler’s specific needs. The outdoors is now within your reach with the perfect boat waiting for you.

Introducing the Radar series – Wilderness Systems’ first tri-powered kayak with paddle, power and pedal capabilities. The Radar features S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology that combines Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness and Tracking throughout the entire design for ultimate performance in multiple water environments. In addition to a flat platform for standing and freedom of movement, the Radar boasts state-of-the-art outfitting including expansive SlideTrax™ rails, a multitude of storage opportunities, and scupper options to deploy the Helix MD™ Motor Drive, the Helix PD™ Pedal Drive* and even multiple electronics options including down-imaging, side-scanning or both. When utilizing the Helix PD™ (see video below), a built-in steering control system affords easy navigation and hands-free fishing, while the AirPro MAX complements the package with optimized positioning for any mode of travel.

Meet the newest member of Perception’s renowned Pescador family. The Pescador Pilot is an affordable sit-on-top kayak packed to the gills with fishing features and complete with the included Pilot Drive pedal drive system. The Pilot Drive is performance-engineered to achieve the perfect balance of simplicity and ingenuity, and is ergonomically optimized for all-day hands-free fishing. Outfitted with a Captain’s Chair with on-the-fly adjustable gear tracks and tension knobs, four molded-in rod holders, two YakAttack accessory tracks, a transducer scupper, and two storage consoles for mounting electronics. The best feature? A price that propels the Pescador Pilot into a class all its own.