Kayak anglers, new and experienced, looking to up their game and become more hands-free likely look to pedal or powered kayak options. Both offer an enhanced experience on the water, allowing anglers to reach more fishing holes while keeping their hands ready for fishing.
Which type is better for you? With so many options and price ranges, we'll try to help you break down some of the best pedal and powered kayaks on the market. First, let's break down some of the key differences of the three different drive types.
Fishing Kayak Drive Types
Before we break down the 22 Best Pedal and Powered Fishing Kayaks, let's first talk about the three different propulsion types available. Each has different capabilities and operate a bit differently.
Pedal Drive System
Pedal drives allow anglers to propel the kayak with a pedaling system much like a bike. Pedal drives require full circular revolutions just like a bike that spin the prop. Most pedal drives allow for forward and reverse by pedaling in either direction. This can offer a big advantage when in tight spots.
Fin Drive System
Fin drives, like pedal drives, are propelled using pedals. Two fins attached to the pedal system flap sideways to propel the kayak. Fin drives only require minimal pedaling forwards and backwards, not circular revolutions like the pedal drive and can be put flush against the bottom of the hull. Fin drives are a good option for shallow water and for operators who may have limited joint mobility. Not all fin drives are capable of reverse movement.
Powered Drive System
Just like a fishing boat fitted with a trolling motor, a propeller-driven fishing kayak is fitted with a small 12-volt motor. This approach to kayak propulsion is both great for quickly covering long distances and also keeping quiet while closing in on a prime fishing spot. Powered kayaks require a battery.
Matching the Right Fishing Kayak to Your Demands
The optimal fishing kayak type is very much determined by local water conditions, physical abilities, and fishing preferences. For instance, a kayak used on the calm still water of a pond is going to look vastly different from what a kayak fisherman is going to need to navigate the fast-moving waters of a rapid-dominated river. Price point can vary a great deal which may sway many buyers in a certain direction.
Another thing to consider is what your physical abilities are. Someone with lower body joint issues may have a harder time using a pedal drive vs. a fin drive or powered kayak. If you are going to be on the water for a really long time or fishing in tournaments, powered kayaks allow anglers to save energy to focus on fishing for longer periods. Without further delay, here are our 22 Best Pedal and Powered Kayaks of 2022.
The Best Pedal Fishing Kayaks
Seastream Angler 120 PD Fishing Kayak
Length: 12'3" | Width: 35" | Weight: 97lbs (without drive) | Carrying Capacity: 400lbs
Specifically designed to accomodate the Rapid Pedal Drive system that features the smooth steer system to provide maximum propulsion, the Seastream Angler 120 is fast. Keeping your hands free and fresh for fishing, the Seastream 120 PD also includes the EZ Rider multi-position wide seat for long days on the water.
The Seastream Angler 120 PD includes the UNI-Track accessory system, flush mounted rod holders, rod tip protection for horizontal storage, and stability for stand-up fishing. Fishing features, a fast pedal system and the Beaver Tail Rudder make the Seastream 120 PD a great pedal kayak for fair starting price.
$1,599
Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R Fishing Kayak
Length: 10' 6" | Width: 34" | Weight: 65lbs (fitted) / 75lbs (rigged) | Carrying Capacity: 325lbs | Propulsion Type: Pedal (MirageDrive GT)
The Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R is the compact pedal kayak in the Passport line, 10.5’ long and 34” wide on a rotomolded polyethylene hull, with a 325lbs capacity and a 275lbs seat capacity. The MirageDrive with Glide Technology and Kick-Up Fins lets the fins collapse on impact and redeploy once the obstacle is clear, and the twist-and-stow rudder handles tight waterways.
It carries two rod holders, two accessory mounting tracks, a vertical accessory tube for a sail or bimini, and a suspended mesh aluminum frame seat. Fitted weight is 65lbs.
$1,649
Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 LTE Fishing Kayak
Length: 10' | Width: 34.5" | Weight: 65lbs (fitted) / 85lbs (rigged) | Carrying Capacity: 425lbs | Propulsion Type: Pedal; stern motor compatible
The Slayer Propel 10 LTE is a grab-and-go pedal fishing kayak built around portability, 10’ long and 34.5” wide, 65lbs fitted and 85lbs fully rigged, with a 425lbs capacity. The 701 Series Propel pedal drive gives instant forward and reverse, and the Springblade rudder system pairs tracking with quick turning.
It is set up for electronics with a built-in transducer pocket, cable routing, a Powerlink plate and quick-mount locations for monitors. Stern motor compatibility, foot steering and a perimeter groove track cover the rest of the rigging.
$2,349
Hobie Mirage Passport 12.0 R Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 34" | Weight: 73lbs (fitted) / 83lbs (rigged) | Carrying Capacity: 400lbs | Propulsion Type: Pedal (MirageDrive GT)
The Hobie Mirage Passport 12.0 R is a 12’ pedal fishing kayak driven by the MirageDrive GT with Kick-Up Fin technology, on a rotomolded hull 34” wide with a 400lbs capacity. A transducer cavity with mounting plate and a Power-Pole Micro bracket indent make it straightforward to add a fish finder and a shallow water anchor.
The deck carries an EVA padded standing platform, two accessory H-Tracks, two rod holders and an 8” Twist-n-Seal hatch. It weighs 73lbs fitted and 83lbs fully rigged, and comes with a two-piece aluminum paddle.
$1,849
3 Waters Big Fish 103 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak
Length: 10'6"| Width: 35" | Weight: 110lbs (without pedals) | Carrying Capacity: 397 lbs
Take in the sights and sounds of the water with the 3 Water Big Fish 103 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak. This stable, multi-purpose fishing kayak features a Trimaran hull design, flush-mounted rod holders, plus an EZ Rider Seat for supreme comfort on long and short paddles.
This kayak is perfect for pedalling around the lake, getting into tight spots, or making the most of ocean fishing. Forward and reverse capability allow this kayak user to cover great distance and get in and out of any jams by simply reversing their pedalling.
$1,999
3 Waters Big Fish 108 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak
Length: 11' | Width: 38" | Weight: 135 (without seat and drive) | Carrying Capacity: 450lbs
With a super-efficient hull design, the Big Fish 108 goes faster, tracks better, and has greater stability than many pedal kayaks on the market today. With a carrying capacity of over 450 lbs., this kayak can handle anglers over 6'6" tall or 350 pounds in weight and still has the capacity to move at speeds fast enough to keep pace with fast-moving water or elusive trophy fish.
Built with anglers in mind, the Big Fish 108 includes rod tip protectors, a reinforced standing platform, Uni-Track accessory rails, flush mounted rod holders, a Beaver Tail rudder, and a transducer mount. The Big Fish 108 is a big, stable kayak built for all sizes of anglers.
$2,099
Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Fishing Kayak
Length: 10' 6" | Width: 36" | Weight: 76lbs | Carrying Capacity: 450lbs
Quickly becoming one of the most popular fishing kayaks among enthusiasts, the Old Town Sportsman PDL (pedal) 106 is built for performance. At under 11 feet and less than 80 pounds, the Sportsman PDL 106 is easy to maneuver and load/unload than many larger kayaks.
Smaller and lighter does not always mean less durable or stable. With a DoubleU hull, the Sportsman PDL 106 has a comfortable stand-up platform. The included pedal drive is forward and reverse capable, helping anglers get in and out of their favorite fishing spots with ease. Other features of the Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 include rod and tackle management in an oversized tank well, dedicated horizontal rod storage, two 18" accessory tracks, universal transducer mounting system for a fish finder, and superior seating. Whether setting out for a quick fishing trip or hitting the water for an all-day tournament, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 is ready for whatever you can throw at it.
$2,449
Old Town Sportsman Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 34.5" | Weight: 85 lbs | Carrying Capacity: 450 lbs
Kayak anglers who frequent coastal waters will find the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 a more than capable vessel. The 12-foot, lightweight hull is designed to not only work on car-toppers, but also to be sturdy enough to handle tides, waves, and your surfside launches.
With fishing in the waves in mind, the Sportsman Salty PDL 120 boasts tons of great features. Equipped with a pedal drive for hands-free movement and a lumbar support and adjustable mesh seat, the Salty PDL is ready to keep you comfortable on long trips on calm or rough waters. Multiple flush mounted rod holders, a non-slip EVA stand-up pad, two accessory tracks and a universal transducer mounting system make the Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 a must-have for anglers looking to chase down trophies in open water.
$2,449
Feelfree Lure 11.5 Overdrive V2 Fishing Kayak
Length: 11'6" | Width: 34" | Weight: 87lbs (hull only) | Carrying Capacity: 425 lbs
Feelfree's Lure 11.5 V2 fishing kayak features a unique two-in-one propulsion system. The Overdrive unit is capable of forward/reverse pedaling OR can be upgraded to the Motordrive system (sold seperately) to become a powered drive. Both options keep the anglers hands free to focus on their targets.
Other fishing features of the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive kayak include the Uni-Track system for accessories, flush mounted rod holders, large storage space, a padded standing platform, and comfortable gravity seating.
$2,399
Feelfree Lure 13.5 Overdrive V2 Fishing Kayak
Length: 13'6" | Width: 34" | Weight: 107lbs (hull only) | Carrying Capacity: 500 lbs
Like the Feelfree Lure 11.5, the Feelfree's Lure 13.5 Overdrive kayak features the Overdrive unit – the only two-in-one system that offers forward and reverse pedaling OR power driven capabilities when paried with the Motordrive (sold seperately).
Long, fast, and stabile, the 13.5 Overdrive is the bigger version of the Lure 11.5 and designed for kayak anglers. Featuring a multi-use console, a "wheel-in-the-keel," a uni-track system, flush mounted rod holders, and a wide hull for standing, the 13.5 Overdrive is a unique, dual-capable entry on our list.
$2,599
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 36" | Weight: 85 lbs | Carrying Capacity: 500lbs
The Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL takes many of the beloved features of the Topwater 120 PDL and tweaks them slightly. The Sportsman 120 PDL has molded in stern handles vs. offset molded handles, a new seat design, a new premium floor non-slip floor, and an expanded, wider stern tank well.
The Sportsman 120 PDL features the ultra-stable DoubleU hull for stand-up fishing. Two 18-inch accessory tracks for mounting your favorite gear, an oversized tank well and under seat storage, as well as dry storage in the sealed bow hatch means anglers don't have to leave any gear behind on fishing trips. Also equipped with a universal transducer mount system, the forward/revers pedal drive and molded-in rod holders, the Sportsman 120 PDL and Topwater PDL are both great choices for a premiere fishing kayak.
$2,749
Hobie Mirage Compass Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 34" | Carrying Capacity: 400lbs
Hobie's Mirage Compass features the MirageDrive 180 pedal system. With this drive, users have the ability to flip the fins almost instantly to reverse paddle. Get yourself in and out of tight corners and attack hard to get to spots on the water without worrying about getting stuck.
The Mirage Compass has a newly designed hull to cut through wind, wake, and chops with ease. Also included is an oversized cockpit with enough flat deck for standing, molded in carrying handles, built-in transducer mount (through-hull cable plugs not included), power-pole integration, kick-up fins and rudder, and an adjustable seat.
$2,599
NuCanoe Unlimited MAX Fishing Kayak
Length: 13' 6" | Width: 42" | Weight: 115lbs (hull) / 130lbs (fitted) | Carrying Capacity: 750lbs | Propulsion Type: Paddle; motor ready up to 5 HP or 100lbs thrust
The NuCanoe Unlimited MAX is the largest hull in the Unlimited platform, 13’ 6” long and 42” wide, rated to 750lbs with a 500lbs self-bailing capacity. It seats one or two people plus a small buddy, and the wide-open customizable deck leaves room for electronics, gear and motor systems, with a Performance Scupper System handling drainage.
It is compatible with up to 5 HP or 100lbs of thrust and carries a Stern Motor Dock, a transducer pod and wiring access plates. The 360 Fusion Seat, deck and gunwale tracks and rod storage come standard.
$2,499
Feelfree Lure II Tandem Overdrive V2 Fishing Kayak
Length: 14'2" | Width: 36" | Weight: 105lbs (without seat & Overdrive) | Carrying Capacity: 500lbs
Located at the rear seat, the Overdrive unit is the only two-in-one system that offers forward and reverse pedaling, as well as power-driven capabalities when paired with the Motordrive (sold seperately). The Lure II Tandem features one-handed rudder control and gravity seats for all-day comfort.
Both cockpits feature removable sonar and electronic pod, standing platforms, wheel-in-the-keel, a Uni-Track system for accessories and flush mounted rod holders. The Lure II Tandem can also be modified by removing the front seat to accomodate solo trips. The Feelfree Lure II Tandem Fishing Kayak can be configured to suit any setup a solo or tandem kayakers adventure can throw at it.
Starting at $2,899
Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Fishing Kayak
Length: 13' 2” | Width: 36" | Weight: 96lbs | Carrying Capacity: 500lbs
An updated version of the former Old Town Predator PDL 132, the Sportsman PDL 132 is built on the same design. Also equipped with a forward/reverse pedal drive, an updated seat and newer color options, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 132 took the best elements of the Predator before it and made them better. The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Pedal Drive system also includes a patented easy-docking system to make launching and landing pain-free.
Measuring just over 13 feet, Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is ready to take on open water and still provide the necessary stability when standing. Accessory rails are located both in the front and the back for multiple mounting options. A new adjustable seat design with lumbar support, breathable mesh covering and adjustable leg length on a shuttle track provide all-day anglers the needed comfort for long fishing trips. Built for anglers, the Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 also includes molded-in rod holders, a universal transducer mounting system and tons of storage. If you hunt fish in large bodies of water, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 132 combines stability, space and agility for long days in waves.
Starting at $3,249
Jackson Coosa FD Fishing Kayak
Length: 12'7” | Width: 35" | Weight: 107lbs | Carrying Capacity: 450lbs
Jackson's Coosa FD boasts their innovative Flex Drive Mark IV System. Uniquely engineered to retract the propellar when beaching or hitting submerged obstructions, the Jackson Coosa FD is a fishing kayak built for anglers who brave tight spots and rough structures.
With a hull that was designed to perform in lakes, rivers, inshore, and even offshore saltwater, the Coosa FD is for all anglers. Other Coosa FD features include a huge rear tank well, molded-in rod tip protectors, gear tracks, standing platform, powerpole and torqeedo-ready, pass-through electronics for easy wiring, and many more.
Starting at $3,759
Jackson Knarr FD Fishing Kayak
Length: 13'9” | Width: 37" | Weight: 140lbs | Carrying Capacity: 475lbs
Jackson's Knarr FD was designed specficially to take on the challenges of large lakes and oceans. With a team of experts on on big water, big game, and big tournament anglers, the Jackson Knarr is built to take on the surf, currents, winds, tides, and any other elements you may encounter.
Featuring the new Flex Drive Mark IV that retracts when beaching or hitting underwater obstructions, the Knarr FD keeps the angler moving with speed and less effort. A fully-loaded with features kayak, the Jackson Knarr has to many to list. Some of the angler-motivated features include flush-mounted rod holders, up-to six rods storage, patented TriTrack for accessories, EZ HiLo seat system, livewell plumbing ready, and the JK Multibox featuring Quick Connect. A serious kayak for serious anglers!
Starting at $4,299
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 360XR Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 36" | Carrying Capacity: 500lbs
The Hobie Pro Angler 12 with 360 Drive Technology is made to cut through any water with ease. Move in any direction and in any depth with the patented Kick-Up fins to navigate through shallow waters, kelp or even over rocks and logs.
Avid anglers will find the Pro Angler 12 packed with features they love. Six rod holders, Vantage ST seating with lumbar support, a retractable transducer shield and an extra-wide hull give this fishing kayak everything a dedicated angler could want. Other features on the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 include an anchor trolley system, pivoting tackle system, large hatch with another pivoting tackle management system, and a molded in vertical rod holder.
Starting at $5,699
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 Fishing Kayak
Length: 13'8" | Width: 38" | Carrying Capacity: 600lbs
Everything elite anglers look for in a fishing kayak was meticulously thought out when building the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360. Complete control, power, stability, performance, comfort and loaded with features, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 has it all.
A wide standing platform includes noise reducing EVA traction pads to keep anglers concealed from their prey. Sneak up on your fish from any angle using the MirageDrive 360 with Kick-Up Fin Technology. With a weight capacity of 600 lbs, the Pro Angler 14 360 is capable of hauling tons of gear. Multiple large storage hatches with pivoting tackle management systems mean you don't have to make tough choices on what gear to leave behind. Two H-Rail horizontal rod racks, live-well ready rear cargo area, retractable transducer shield, and molded in vertical rod holders set the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 360 as one of best fishing kayaks for experienced anglers.
Starting at $5,499
The Best Powered Fishing Kayaks
Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota
Length: 10'6” | Width: 37" | Weight: 121lbs | Carrying Capacity: 525lbs
Simple, intuitive, powerful and built for the serious angler. Old Town's Sportsman 106 powered by Minn Kota is a must-have for anglers looking to up their fishing game or tournament anglers wanting to climb the leaderboards. One of the most popular motorized kayaks on the market, the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota is easy to operate and gets you on your fish faster.
Every part of the Sportsman 106 Minn Kota was built with fishing at heart. Saltwater ready, the Minn Kota motor has 45 pounds of thrust, forward/reverse capability, foot brace steering and a built-in battery meter. With tournament-ready channels securing your fish measuring board, multiple flush mounted rod holders, four 18" accessory tracks, three through-hull wiring kits and a universal transducer mount, the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota is a serious kayak for serious anglers.
$3,349
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Fishing Kayak
Length: 12' | Width: 37" | Weight: 119lbs | Carrying Capacity: 558lbs
Building upon the ultra-popular Old Town Sportsman Minn Kota line, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Fishing Kayak takes powered kayaks to the next level. The AutoPilot 120 leverages Minn Kota's Spot-Lock technology to get you to your fishing spot faster and holding your position on your favorite hole. With a touch of your thumb, the AutoPilot 120 uses the Bluetooth i-Pilot remote to make driving your kayak as easy as possible.
Hands-free fishing is made possible by combining the motor with a foot brace steering system. Premium adjustable seating using textilene keeps you comfortable, dry, and cool on long days on the water and in the sun. EVA foam deck for stand-up stability, lift assist deploy and stow motor for quick adjustment in shallow water or transport, four 18" accessory rails, three-hull wiring kits and a universal transducer mount are but a few of the features this fishing kayak offers. A culmination of all the Old Town kayaks that came before it, the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is the result of years of research, adaptation, and a drive to build the best fishing kayak possible.
Starting at $4,349
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Fishing Kayak
Length: 13'6" | Width: 37" | Weight: 124lbs | Carrying Capacity: 660lbs
All of the accomplishments of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 with a bigger hull designed to handle bigger water and even more stability. Old Town's AutoPilot 136 leverages Minn Kota's Spot-Lock technology, the Bluetooth i-Pilot remote to power yourself to your favorite hole and sit on top of it despite water conditions.
Hands-free fishing is made possible by combining the motor with a foot brace steering system. Premium adjustable seating using textilene keeps you comfortable, dry, and cool on long days on the water and in the sun. EVA foam deck for stand-up stability, lift assist deploy and stow motor for quick adjustment in shallow water or transport, four 18" accessory rails, three-hull wiring kits and a universal transducer mount are but a few of the features this fishing kayak offers. A culmination of all the Old Town kayaks that came before it, the Sportsman AutoPilot 136 is a high weight capacity fishing kayak built for the angler looking for every possible advantage to hunt down their trophies.
$4,849
When it comes to kayak fishing, there are really only three things that you need to be successful: A kayak that’s easy to maneuver, a kayak that’s easy to control, and a kayak that’s easy to use. In other words, pick a kayak that fits you, your body type, your needs, and your experience level. Once you've picked out a kayak that works for you, the only thing left to do is to head to your favorite fishing spot!
To check out our full range of the best pedal and powered fishing kayaks and accessories we have to offer, available to you via free and fast shipping, click HERE
Compare Old Town PDL, Hobie MirageDrive, Jackson Flex Drive, and Native Propel pedal systems to find the best shallow-water, reverse and durable drive for you. We break down some of the top pedal drive brands on the market and help you decide which may be best for the type of water and fishing you do most.
The NuCanoe U10 fishing kayak converts from solo to tandem in minutes, making it the ultimate versatile kayak for family fishing on rivers, ponds, and lakes. If you are a serious angler who also wants to take out family and friends, the U10 is the ultimate tournament-ready fishing kayak that converts to a family and friends tandem kayak in a matter of minutes.
Choosing a fishing kayak? Compare hull shapes, stability, length, paddle vs. pedal vs. motor options, and match your kayak to the water you fish. We also breakdown primary vs. secondary stability as well as which kayak lengths and hull shapes are best for which types of water.
