10 Best Pedal Kayaks For Fishing – Our Favourite Models

If you love to fish, then you know that the best place to do it is on the water. While casting off from the shore can yield some excellent results (depending on your methods), it’s almost always better to go to where the fish are instead.

When it comes to watercraft that will help you get closer to your next catch, a kayak is probably one of the simplest and most efficient. Rather than having to worry about a bulky (and expensive) boat, you can navigate rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water with relative ease.

Today we’re going to be looking at the best kayaks for fishing. They have a variety of features and benefits that will make it much easier to find your next catch while also making the experience so much more enjoyable and relaxing. Let’s see what these models have to offer. 

Best Pedal Kayaks - Comparisons 

When picking out a regular kayak, one of the first considerations you have to think about is whether you’ll be sitting on top of it or inside of it. For those who want to explore the water and not much else, the latter option is ideal because it allows you to be sleek and nimble as you maneuver through various waterways.

However, for fishing purposes, you will want a sit-on-top model. The reason for this is that you have to have access to your gear and your poles, which will be almost impossible with the other kind of kayak. This version from Vibe Kayaks also provides some stability while fishing, although you have to do it from a sitting position. Some kayaks allow you to stand as you cast your line, but that will be challenging with this model.

What we like about this kayak is the abundant storage. There is a center console that will enable you to access most of your gear once you’re in position. Additionally, there are front and rear waterproof hatches that can store any valuables you will have on you (i.e., a cell phone). Finally, there is a webbed section on the back that can be customized to fit almost any bag or tackle box you may bring along.

The other cool thing about this kayak is that it comes with a rudder. When you’re out on rough waters, it can be exhausting to try and steer yourself while paddling forward. With a rudder, you can save a lot of time and energy. This setup won’t be as fast as other kayaks, but since your goal is to find fish, that shouldn’t be much of an issue.

Two features that make this model fantastic for angling are molded rod holders in the center and a mounting bracket for a fish finder. Many anglers love to bring these devices out on the water so that they can spend more time reeling in a catch rather than finding it, so it’s nice to know that you can set it up with relative ease. Also, being able to store your rods in the kayak itself ensures that you can be ready to go as soon as you find what you’re looking for out there.

Overall, this is a quality fishing kayak that provides excellent storage and maneuverability on the water.

For some anglers, they are serious about finding a catch from their kayak. For others, kayaking is a means of exploration as much as it is about getting fish, which means that they aren’t looking for something too intense. If that sounds like you, then you may prefer to get the Mirage.

Overall, this is a fishing kayak, but it’s not as high-concept as some of the other ones we’ll see on this list. One notable feature that it has is a rounded V-shaped hull, which provides extra stability while you’re on the water. When the hull is acutely pointed, it’s more maneuverable, but it can tip over much more easily. In this case, you don’t have to worry as much about capsizing.

With regards to fishing features, this kayak comes with four molded-in rod holders (two on each side). Although you will likely only have one or two rods on you at any given time, having four holders means that you can position them however you like to make sure that they’re not in the way.

Since this is a paddle-operated kayak, it’s nice to know that there is onboard storage for the paddle when you’re not using it. Also, it’s a two-piece model, meaning that transporting and storing it is even easier.

This kayak is designed to be compatible with Lowrance fish finders. There is a mounting bracket, and a wiring system inside that makes it easier for you to bring the device on your next trip. However, even if you don’t have this particular brand, you can probably rig the kayak to fit your needs.

Storage is also abundant with front and rear closing hatches that can keep your stuff within arm’s reach. They will also keep water out so that you can bring valuables along for the ride. Overall, this is a decent fishing kayak that will enable you to get the most out of each trip

For the most part, kayaks are powered by your ability to use a paddle. However, there are some downsides to paddling a kayak, especially when fishing. First, the disruption of the surface can scare fish away. Second, it can be difficult to paddle when you have fishing rods in your way. Finally, they can get lost while you’re out on the water.

Thus, if you want something more convenient and efficient, we suggest buying a pedal version like this one from Perception Kayak. This way you can maneuver around the water without disrupting the surface, and there’s nothing to get in the way of your fishing. In fact, you can move and fish at the same time.

When it comes to pedal-operated kayaks, there are two options available. In this case, we have a rotational pedal, which works just like a bike. The pedals rotate a propeller system on the bottom, which means that you can move forward and backward relatively easily. Also, there is a rudder system to ensure that you’re always headed in the right direction.

Overall, rotational pedals are going to require more effort to move because the propeller is only so big. If you want to save energy while out on the water, we suggest getting a push pedal model instead. Either way, though, this kind of kayak is perfect for both exploring and fishing.

With regards to angling from this kayak, you get an abundance of mounts and storage. There are two hatches in the front to keep valuables safe and protected from the water, and there are two storage spaces with webbing so that you can bring any amount of gear you need.

This kayak comes equipped with four rod mounts and two fish finder console brackets, so you can come fully prepared every time. Finally, there is additional storage underneath the ergonomic mesh seat in case you need it. 

Next, we have another pedal-operated kayak, but this one uses a push pedal design to help you save energy for fishing. Also, this is a two-person kayak, meaning that you can bring a friend along for the experience, or you can use the additional space for extra storage. Since the seats are removable, this is a lot easier than you might think.

As we mentioned, push pedal kayaks are easier to use and require a lot less effort than rotational models. There are two sets of paddles underneath the kayak that move in tandem with your feet, allowing you to push forward with relative ease. This model does come with paddles, but you will not need them. When it comes to fishing, pedals are by far the best option.

Storage is not a problem with this kayak. There are four hatches to keep all of your stuff at the ready, as well as a couple of customizable sections to hold larger items as necessary. There are two rod mounts for each seat, allowing you and your companion to have easy access to your gear at all times.

Overall, this kayak works well for exploration as well as fishing. Take your partner out on the water and make the most of your time out there.

As we mentioned, rotational pedals on a kayak are going to require a lot more effort on your part if you want to keep moving. This is especially true when you’re first getting started as it’s more challenging to build momentum from a stationary position. However, when you have two people working on it, it’s a lot easier.

This pedal-operated kayak from Brooklyn Kayak Company is designed to be stable and fast on the water. It’s a two-person unit, and both seats have their own pedals and propeller, meaning that you can go a lot faster than you may think, allowing you to tear down almost any waterway with impunity. A rear rudder system also ensures that you can maneuver effortlessly along the way.

What we like most about this kayak is the seating. Both of them are ergonomically molded, and they can be adjusted to fit your body type. In fact, this kayak can hold up to 660 pounds, making it one of the most robust models out there. This also means that almost anyone can use it without problems.

Like other models on this list, the UH-PK14 comes with molded fishing rod holders and ample storage for all of your gear. What’s also cool about it is that you can easily pilot it by yourself if necessary. Yes, it will be harder than if you had another person pedaling, but it’s not so tough that you can’t even get moving at all.

If you’re looking for a single-person push pedal kayak, then this model from Hobie Mirage is one of the best options out there. We’ve already seen how well Hobie can make a high-quality kayak, but this one will make your life so much easier when you’re fishing from it.

Overall, this is an excellent compact kayak that will enable you to explore almost any waterway with ease. As with all pedal-operated units, you want to avoid shallow water as the paddles underneath can get caught in vegetation. That being said, they are not as prone to snagging as a propeller, so you should be able to get out if that does happen.

There are two waterproof hatches - one in the front and one on the rear. The seat is adjustable and ergonomic to ensure that you’re comfortable all day. There is a side mesh pocket for easy access to your gear, as well as flush mounted rod holders to keep them handy at all times. This kayak does come with a paddle, but you won’t need it. The pedals and rudder are sufficient enough for most of your needs. 

Although we love the convenience and stability of pedal-driven kayaks, we know that they can be a little bit of a hassle to set up and tear down. Thus, if you’re looking for a quality sit on top model that uses a paddle, this is an excellent option from Vibe Kayaks.

What we like most about this unit is that it has a wide seat. The wider the shape, the easier it is to stand on it, and this kayak should be good enough for that (as long as you have sufficient balance). Also, while you’re paddling, there are adjustable footrests to keep you locked in place to reduce the amount of drag you may experience.

Storage is abundant on this model, with four capped molded rod mounts, rear shock cord stowage, and two waterproof hatches. There is even rigging on the side so that you can store your paddle when you’re not using it. 

We’ve seen single-person and dual-person kayaks, but what if you want to bring two people along for the ride? This model from Sun Dolphin is perfect for any threesome that wants to explore the water together. While this unit is not specially designed for fishing, the additional space and storage mean that it can be retrofitted with gear relatively easily.

We like the shape and ergonomics of this kayak. It’s easy to add a third seat in the middle, and each one comes with its own storage hatch, drink holder, and footrest. The front and rear seats have adjustable rests, while the center has molded footrests to allow for better stability while paddling.

Overall, this kayak is not necessarily built for fishing, but it’s a great way to bring extra people on the water for a fun experience.

As the name suggests, this is a kayak that is made for the experienced angler. Everything from the construction to the storage compartments is built with fishing in mind, making this a viable option for beginners and veterans alike.

What we appreciate about this kayak is that it’s built for stability. While you shouldn’t stand on it, it comes with a specialized hull that will keep you upright while you’re on the water. Some kayaks can capsize relatively quickly (especially when you’re fighting a fish), so it’s nice to know that you can cast off with impunity when sitting in this model.

Features that we like include molded footrests for different sized users, two watertight storage hatches, and three rod holders. One of them is a mounted holder that can be positioned as you like it, making it a great option for all kinds of anglers.

Our final kayak is another tandem model from Brooklyn Kayak Company. This is one of the slimmest units we’ve seen, which makes it an excellent option for shallow waters. That being said, the sides are not very high, so be careful if you’re out in rough conditions as water can get in relatively easily.

What’s nice about this particular kayak is that it comes with seven rod holders. Three of them are mounted for your convenience, while the other four are flush to provide additional stability. There are two storage hatches as well as sections with shock cord rigging to allow you to bring all of your gear.

The seats are ergonomic and come with thick padding for comfort, and this kayak has molded footrests so anyone can fit inside without any issues. Finally, you can store the paddles on the sides so that they don’t get in the way while casting. 

Final Verdict 

When it comes to fishing from a kayak, you want stability, maneuverability, and ample storage for all of your gear. The kayaks that we’ve seen that fit the bill perfectly are the Sea Ghost from Vibe Kayaks, the Pescador Pilot from Hobie, and the UH-PK14 from Brooklyn Kayak.

We like each of these models because they are perfect for anglers. They are designed with fishing in mind, which makes it easier to use when you’re out on the water. Rather than retrofitting a standard kayak with your gear, you can utilize these models to have a great time while searching for your next catch.

That being said, we do suggest that you find a pedal-operated version if you want to maximize your haul. Since you have less of a chance of spooking the fish and you can move while casting your line, it’s a lot easier to bring in the catch of the day.