Best Pedal Kayak: Complete Reviews With Comparisons
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In the United States and across the world, kayaking is one of the most popular water activities.
It’s a convenient means to embrace the adventurist in you as you try to catch fish, explore nearby rivers, or take on an adrenaline-filled whitewater ride.
In short, kayaks are arguably the top option for many when exploring different bodies of water.
Pedal kayaks are one of the most preferred types used by enthusiasts due to their multiple qualities.
If you’re on the market for the best pedal kayaks, let these reviews of our top five picks help you out.
Comparison Chart
Pedal Kayak Reviews
1. Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12
Since 1950, Hobie has been one of the market leaders in the kayaking industry. Their goal is to produce high-quality kayaks that focus on enjoyment, safety, and durability.
Together with their global subsidiaries, this California-based company manufactures an outstanding array of watercrafts available worldwide.
Besides boats, Hobie also offers paddleboards, kayaks, and sailboats made for fishing and recreation.
One of their notable releases is the Mirage Pro Angler 12.
Review
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 promises to carry you to places that power-boating anglers can only imagine.
Let’s check the exemplary qualities of this pedal kayak and see if it’s worth the hype.
- Kick-Up Fin Technology
Before the development of this technology, pedal kayakers had to be cautious of shallow waters.
Obstructions such as stumps, pebbles, and other underwater dangers are known to ruin the propelling system of many standard pedal kayaks.
All of that changed in 2020 with the introduction of the Kick-Up Fin technology, which eliminated the stress of kayaking in shallow, debris-filled waters.
It works by retracting upon impact and redeploying automatically as soon as the kayak is free of the obstruction underneath.
As such, you can take the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 wherever you want and fish however you want with better control and confidence.
- Dual Rudder
A rudder is a long, narrow fin-like blade that reaches down into the water from a kayak’s stern end.
Capable of moving from side to side, this component influences water flow along the blade via foot pedals.
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 uses dual rudder steering, which allows for enhanced speed and controls.
- MirageDrive 360
With the MirageDrive 360, you’re able to rotate 360 degrees using a dial on the rudder control.
This means you’d be able to maneuver forward, backward, and sideways effortlessly.
As such, the Mirage PA 12 allows you to move into the narrowest of spaces or spin into any direction you desire.
This level of maneuverability is highly convenient if you’re traversing in creeks or rocky rivers that restrict freedom of movement.
- Comfortable Seat
This pedal kayak is equipped with Vantage Seat ST, which has BOA lumbar support to ensure lasting comfort while on the water.
Even better, the backrest, bottom, height, and lumbar support are all adjustable.
Its ergonomic design and customization options offer a degree of adjustability and breathability that others couldn’t match.
- Transducer Shield
The innovative Guardian Retractable Transducer Shield incorporates a bigger chamber and cover.
It can hold larger transducers from Hobie as well as from other manufacturers.
This suspension mechanism offers high-quality safety by allowing below-deck transducers to retract upon impact securely or during transit.
Overall, the protection it provides will significantly protect the transducer from impact.
- Pivoting Tackle Management System
You will find a rectangular hatch directly in front of the seat.
It has a mesh pocket and rotating storage big enough for two medium-sized FlambeauTM tackle boxes.
Thanks to these add-ons, your inventory is more accessible than usual.
Also, the storage compartment beneath the tackle boxes is easily within your reach.
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CONS
2. Perception Pescador Pilot 12
Perception is a group of passionate kayakers who design and produce their products in their native Greenville, South Carolina base.
For kayak enthusiasts, the brand is one of the more recognizable companies in the industry because of its impressive kayaks.
With comfort, adaptability, durability, and safety as the priorities, Perception built itself a reputation among new and veteran users.
Review
The sit-on-top Pescador Pilot 12 is one of Perception’s most recommended releases for pedal kayaks.
Marketed as the ultimate kayak for users regardless of skill level, it is packed with distinct features you’ll want to take advantage of.
- Durable Build
Like other Perception releases, the Pescador Pilot 12 boasts a proprietary high-density polyethylene material.
While it’s generally a standard material, the brand’s use of its one-piece rotational molding tech makes this kayak special.
To ensure airtight construction, beads of polyethylene poured into the mold are heated and gently rotated.
With this process, the material spreads and fills every corner.
Then, after the mold cools, you’ll have a one-piece, leak-proof kayak that is very tough and robust.
For this reason, you can expect the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 to withstand more wear and tear than others.
Even its exterior colors and graphics are specially-made to have wear-proof properties.
- Pilot Drive
The detachable Pilot Drive pedal mechanism of the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 provides exceptional efficiency and an almost noiseless performance.
You can expect effortless boat acceleration, even in reverse.
On the surface, the pedal system sounds alright, but you can’t expect cutting-edge, unique features from it like the other kayaks.
- Storage Options
If you’re looking for a kayak with ample storage, the Perception Pescador Pilot 12 has it covered.
You can use the allotted space in the front and rear for your coolers, bait boxes, and other gear.
If you’re traversing rapid waters, the bungee lashings mounted on the kayak ensures a secure grip on your stuff.
Plus, you’ll find a great spot to keep your fishfinder in an indent on the coaming.
You’d then be able to secure the wires if you place them in the front or back compartment.
The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 is YakAttack gear-ready, as there are two gear tracks placed on its side gunnels.
With this, you can quickly install any equipment without having to bore holes manually.
Considering these storage design elements, you can ensure that many of your tools are safe and ready to use while on water.
- Measurement Advantage
The Pescador Pilot 12 is easy to steer because it is shorter (12 feet and five inches long) and lighter (85 pounds) than other kayaks.
Not only do these numbers make the kayak easily maneuverable, but they also reduce the amount of effort required to pedal and paddle.
When not in use, this kayak requires less energy for storing, loading, unloading, and mounting into the vehicle for transport.
- Enhanced Stability
Stability is one of the highlights of the Perception Pescador Pilot 12, even when not seated.
In fact, the level of stability it provides should keep you drier than other comparable-priced sit-on-top models.
You can trust that its efficient hull tracks will stay on course and cover a large amount of water with little effort.
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3. Old Town Topwater 106 PDL
The canoe and kayak company Old Town has been in operation for more than a century, making it one of the most respected brands in the industry.
With Old Town’s penchant for innovation and Northeast heritage, you can guarantee premium quality from its releases.
One of Old Town’s most featured pedal-driven kayaks is the Topwater 106 PDL, which offers a comfortable, hands-free experience.
Review
The Old Town Topwater 106 PDL is sure to please amateur and seasoned water enthusiasts in terms of overall features.
- Stable Hull Design
To provide exceptional stability and precision, this kayak exhibits a DoubleU™ pattern on its hull.
Its stable and quiet performance lets you glide through the water without causing too much disturbance to the fishes underneath.
Furthermore, standing while fishing or getting something from storage should be risk-free.
- PDL Drive System
The Topwater 106’s PDL Drive system allows you to effortlessly control the kayak while leaving your hands free to do anything.
You’ll be free to fish, take photos, or even record videos while pedaling forward and backward.
Even as you pedal forward or backward, the rudder, which you operate by hand from the deck, will give you further control.
As you can imagine, the rudder could be extremely helpful for maintaining position if you’re fishing in currents.
Currently one of the most reliable pedal drives, you can expect the PDL system to efficiently keep you in command of your kayak.
- Better Versatility
Not limited to freshwater, this vessel is also safe for beach touring and does not need too much maintenance.
Just remember that if used in saltwater, you’ll have to rinse it off before storing it away.
- Transducer Mounting System
If you’re into kayak fishing, a fishfinder is one of the most indispensable pieces of equipment you need.
As the name suggests, it’s an instrument you use to find fish within a specific range from your kayak.
By utilizing SONAR technology, locating moving creatures in the water has never been easier.
Because of the convenience that fishfinders offer, it’s almost as important as fishing rods and baits, especially when fishing in calm waters.
The Old Town Topwater 106 PDL is one of the most fishfinder-friendly kayaks on the market, as it utilizes a universal transducer mounting system.
With tons of fishfinders models out there, there’s always a chance that the instrument you have does not perfectly fit.
Thanks to this revolutionary mounting tool, you won’t have to worry about that.
- Ample Storage Allowance
In regards to storage features, the Old Town Topwater 106 PDL has a massive 450-pound capacity.
As such, you’ll find no problems carrying all your fishing gear as well as other kayaking essentials.
With ample storage and the huge back tank where a fishing crate could fit in, you won’t need to go back ashore to get more supplies.
Also, there’s a bow hatch large enough to store multiple items below the deck.
Pre-installed flush-mounted rod holders, gear tracks, and a cup holder are also present, which saves you the hassle of modifying the kayak yourself.
Bungee cords are also available to help lock your things securely.
- Comfortable Ride
The adjustable, breathable ElementAir seat on the Old Town Topwater 106 PDL provides all-day comfort.
Style is also emphasized, as the seat is designed to look like a beach chair. This adds to the overall exterior appeal of the kayak.
To further enhance comfort, cushioned EVA foam floor mats are used for more traction and bounce while standing up.
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4. Wilderness Systems Radar 115
The South Carolina-based company Wilderness Systems is a prolific kayak manufacturer that offers an array of high-quality boats.
Being in the industry since 1986, it strives to produce innovative designs that exhibit top-notch quality.
The Radar 115 is one of the brand’s best-selling tri-powered kayaks with power, paddle, and pedal capabilities.
Review
Considering its price, the Wilderness Systems Radar 115 has one of the most dynamic features in today’s market.
Therefore, it wouldn’t be strange to assume that it is one of the highly rated pedal kayaks available.
- Helix PDTM Pedal Drive
The Helix PDTM Pedal Drive offers a distinctive experience where maneuverability is concerned.
As one of the most innovative and intuitive pedal mechanisms today, the pedal drive of this kayak has a gear ratio precision-tuned at 6:1.
This gear ratio is paired with a dual-blade fixed pitch prop to achieve optimal motion control.
The Wilderness Systems Radar 115 is primed for optimum speed even with minimal effort, allowing you to have a premium hands-free experience.
To further aid mobility, a spring-loaded kick pedal is paired with an auto-raising mast.
- AirPro MAX Seat
The AirPro MAX seat features various seating positions. It is designed for convenience using cam levers to speed up installation and removal.
For exceptional comfort, you’ll find that it uses mesh fabric covering a honeycomb-vented ergonomic 3D foam.
These materials allow for better ventilation while providing exceptional lower back support.
Also, the frame is made of aluminum tubes to ensure reliability in all types of weather.
You will also like that modifying the seatback angle is possible thanks to the backrest straps.
In addition, the grab handles are easily accessible, making any seat adjustments, from low to high, hassle-free.
Reclining also requires minimal effort, as you only need to unweight the seat and shift to your preferred angle.
- FlexPod OS Console Housing Unit
The FlexPod OS Console is the default housing unit for the Wilderness Systems Radar 115.
Aside from its primary purpose of housing your gadgets, you can also use it as an extra storage space.
This detachable pod allows you to customize your console setup with your favorite transducers or other valuable accessories.
If you’re very particular with your setup, the FlexPod OS Console can house different pods for each kind of trip.
Switching the pod is as easy as it gets, allowing you to be out on the water as soon as possible.
- SlideTrax Accessory System
Adding and removing equipment from the front of your boat with ease is possible using the front and mid-ship SlideTrax system.
You’d be able to make quick adjustments to your accessories based on preferences and the gear required.
Because of its marine-grade anodized aluminum construction, it’s ready to be used in saltwater.
- Plenty of Storage
The center hatch provides plenty of waterproof storage and is in a reachable position to offer maximum convenience.
Because it is flush with the hatch, you’re able to stand on it without worries.
The Orbix Bow Hatch offers storage space and hassle-free access to the interior of the Wilderness Systems Radar 115.
The tank well with adjustable bungee at the back of the seat can accommodate crates, tackle boxes, and other gear.
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CONS
5. BKC PK13
The Brooklyn Kayak Company offers excellent value for money because their kayaks are packed with functional features you often only find on high-end vessels.
The company directly sells its products online, unlike other kayak manufacturers that have a physical store.
One impressive addition to BKC’s growing list of pedal kayaks is the PK13 Angler.
Review
The BKC PK13 is a decent companion for water cruising because of its impressive set of qualities.
- Durable Construction
The hull of this pedal kayak is made of Roto Molded single-piece high-density polyethylene to promote optimal stability.
Among the most recognized qualities of this material is its resistance to abrasion and constant impact.
It can outperform inflatable kayaks and is a competent vessel on beaches, lakes, or rivers.
With its weight capacity of 550 pounds, you’re confident that the BKC PK13 can accommodate most of your kayaking needs.
You’d be able to ride currents, cuts through choppy water, and fish over still water with ease.
- Ample Storage
This kayak has a large cargo capacity that is capable of holding a 20-liter cooler.
With this on board, there’s no doubt that the BKC PK13 is designed for outdoor adventures.
The front features a watertight hatch, while the back has a cargo compartment with bungees to secure your tools and accessories.
- Convenience
The PK13 features scupper holes to drain any water that penetrates the kayak.
Of course, there are also plugs to shut these holes close when water rushes through the hull.
If you constantly worry about losing your paddles, this kayak has that covered too.
It has a paddle keeper system that you can use to secure your paddle to the hull when not in use.
Also, the PK13 has four carrying handles for safe and easy loading and unloading to a vehicle or trailer.
- Ergonomic Seat
The BKC PK13’s ergonomic seat is made of lightweight yet robust aluminum and features a cushioned and sturdy backrest and seat.
You’d be able to adjust it to improve comfort or enhance efficiency while paddling, pedaling, or fishing.
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Which Pedal Kayak Is Best?
Upon careful review, we picked the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 as the top choice pedal kayak among the five.
While other kayaks may have more storage and hull design features, its pedal system is nothing short of exceptional.
Dynamic mobility is also one of the highlights of this model, as the Mirage 360 Drive delivers more maneuverability than the other four.
Overlooking its price, it is almost impossible to put any other pedal kayak at the top spot.