10 Best Pedal Drive Kayak 2025 in the United States

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Pedal Fishing Kayak is designed for open water anglers and tournament fishing pros, boasting an easy-to-use forward/reverse pedal drive system that allows for hands-free navigation and fishing. This system is also removable, which makes transportation easier. Stability is a key strength with this model, given its 13-foot, 2-inch length and wide hull design, ensuring a steady platform even in choppy waters.

With a weight capacity of 500 pounds, it accommodates a large amount of gear and heavier users comfortably. The kayak’s comfort features are excellent, featuring a premium mesh seat with lumbar support and adjustable leg length, ensuring a comfortable experience during long days on the water. The cushioned floor pads add extra comfort and grip for standing. Storage is well-covered with a large stern tankwell for coolers or gear, a sealed bow hatch for dry storage, and multiple rod holders.

The universal transducer mounting system is a handy feature for those who want to use a fish finder, and the side-mounted hull paddle clip keeps a backup paddle secure. Durability is ensured with its polyethylene construction, though its weight of 122 pounds may pose some challenges in terms of portability, especially for solo transport. The kayak does come with a five-year warranty on the pedal drive and a limited warranty on the hull, offering some peace of mind. Convenient features like customizable accessory tracks and a custom tackle box enhance its usability. Although its bulk and weight might be a drawback for those looking for a highly portable kayak, this model is best suited for dedicated anglers who prioritize stability, storage, and comfort over portability.

The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 kayak is a versatile and comfortable sit-on-top fishing kayak well-suited for anglers. Its Phase 3 Air Pro seating system provides high comfort with temperature control, making it great for extended periods on the water. The kayak's 10' 6" length and 55-pound weight offer good portability and ease of transportation. It boasts a high weight capacity of 325 pounds, accommodating larger paddlers and gear efficiently.

The Tarpon 105 also features ample storage with a large rear well and front hatch for dry storage, along with a Dry Tec removable box for valuables. Its padded footrests and adjustable locking lever enhance comfort and customization for various heights. Despite not explicitly mentioning a pedal drive system, it is designed for efficient and straight tracking, which is beneficial for fishing and recreational use.

Additionally, its polyethylene material ensures durability but can make the kayak feel heavier for some users. This kayak provides a well-rounded package for those seeking comfort, stability, and ample storage in their fishing adventures.

The Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak, with its camouflage design, offers several strong features for pedal-drive kayak enthusiasts. Its pedal drive system, paired with paddle power, allows for swift and agile movement, making it an excellent choice for those who seek speed and precision on the water. The hand-operated rudder further enhances its maneuverability, ensuring sharp handling even in tricky conditions. At 75 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, yet it can support up to 440 pounds, accommodating adventurers of various sizes and their gear.

Stability is a key strength, thanks to the durable rotomolded plastic hull that withstands bumps and groundings, ensuring a secure ride in choppy waters. The kayak includes ample storage with front and rear cargo areas secured by elastic tie-downs and a watertight cargo hatch, which is beneficial for carrying all your essentials. Comfort is addressed with an adjustable aluminum upright seat featuring DRY MESH technology, built-in rod holders, and a cup holder, making it suitable for long fishing trips or recreational paddling.

At 144 inches long, portability might be a challenge for some users, especially when transporting or storing the kayak. Additionally, a paddle is not included, which may be an inconvenience for some buyers. With a 5-year warranty, this kayak proves to be a reliable and versatile option for solo adventurers.