Tips for Using Pedal-Drive Systems in Fishing Kayaks

If you have been paddling your ‘yak for a minute, then you  know that they are extremely versatile little crafts that can launch you into all kinds of water-based activities. You might also have realized that a bit of hands-free motion would be appreciated. If you like to fish and wish you could free up your hands to move and cast, then you might be interested in a fishing kayak with a pedal-drive system. 

Understanding a Pedal-Drive System

When many people think of a kayak, they have a picture of a small boat with a cockpit that is propelled with a double-bladed paddle in a back-and-forth motion. However, that ain’t the only way to move your kayak. 

Pedal-drive propulsion systems first emerged in the late 1990s and quickly gained popularity, especially among anglers who appreciated the ability to keep their hands free for casting and reeling while on the move. Since then, many kayak companies have introduced their own versions, making pedal drives a go-to option for both recreational and serious paddlers alike.

Development continued in the pedal propulsion realm and now there are two popular drive systems available. 

Flipper Drive

Flipper Drive propulsion using a simple downward press of the foot on the pedal to cause a “flutter” of the fins under the kayak. The back-and-forth motion of the fins causes the kayak to move forward. 

Advantages of the flipper drive type of propulsion are that the fins can be feathered to sit very close to the kayak and allow entrance into very skinny water. They also are very easy to use and gentle on the joints. 

However, flipper drive propulsion isn’t quite as speedy as its Propeller Drive counterpart. Another downside is that most flipper drive pedal options do not have instant reverse as the fins would need to be manually rotated in order to switch direction. 

Propeller Drive

Propeller Drive propulsion is like riding a bike. The circular motion of the pedals connects to a gear which spins a propeller. The propeller moves the kayak efficiently through the water. Propeller drives are noted for more speed than the flipper pedal drives. They can also be reversed almost instantly by just pedaling backwards. However, propeller pedal drives might be harder on your joints (and they require more of your lower body) and less suitable for weedy and shallow environments. 

Benefits of a Pedal-Drive System in Fishing Kayaks

Hands free

Of course, one of the top benefits of a pedal-drive system in a fishing kayak is being hands-free. By creating the propulsion means with your feet, you free up your hands for other activities like casting and reeling in those fish. 

Adaptive Fitness

Pedal fishing kayaks can be great for those with less upper body strength. It is still a good workout, but you are using more of your (often) strong lower body and legs. It is a great low-impact workout that can still get your heart rate up. Pedal drives are another way for including more and more people in the kayaking world. 

Speed

Pedal drives can help kayaks travel faster speeds more efficiently than paddle kayaks. While this is a generalization, most people can pedal faster and for longer than they can paddle. This allows kayakers to stay out longer and go out further.

Noise

Even though kayaks are known for their stealth approach, pedal-drive kayaks are the most sneaky. Those fins or prop underneath don’t make as much noise as a paddle slapping the water. This is another reason why they have become so popular with kayak fishermen. 

Fishing Kayak Pedal-Drive System Tips

Preparation & Setup

• Always bring a paddle. Even though you have the option of hands-free propulsion, you always need a paddle for launching, landing, and emergencies. 
• Make sure your pedal drive is secure before launching. You want it securely attached but not deployed (if possible). Don’t deploy until you are in at least 2 feet of water. Propeller drives can get stuck until you have enough clearance to deploy it. (This is also why you need your paddle for launching and landing.)
• Adjust your seat accordingly. Before you head out, ensure that your seat is set so that your feet reach the pedals easily. You don’t want to be so far back that you are reaching on tip-toe to press the pedals. Nor do you want to be so close that you are unable to get in a full stroke of the pedals. 
• Pack spare parts like bolts, nuts, an extra propeller, if possible, and basic tools. Pedal kayaks have more parts that can get damaged, scrapped, or broken so come prepared to handle some on-water repair. (Also, another good reason to have a paddle on hand.)

On the Water

• Use the rudder for steering control. Pedal drives will come with a rudder that allows you to steer the craft. You can set the rudder in a straight path position for completely hands-free propulsion for a while. Most pedal drives use a tiller handle for easy left / right adjustments with just one-hand.   
• Fish efficiently with hands-free propulsion. Since you are able to keep moving with a push of your feet, your hands are free to cast and reel in that big catch. You can also maintain position, chase a fish, or change direction while keeping your hands on your gear.
• Reverse options let you quickly back away from problematic areas. A prop drive with an instant reverse feature is excellent for anglers who may get in a sticky situation. You can just move your kayak backwards with a backwards push of the pedals. 
• Shallow or weedy water should be approached carefully with a drive system. Flutter (fins)  can handle shallows and weeds to a certain extent, although you might want to lock them flat to the hull. If you have a prop system, you may need to raise it and use paddles.

Maintenance & Care

• Rinse the system thoroughly after each outing. Especially if you spend any time in salt water, flush everything with fresh water on your return. This helps to prevent corrosion and wear. 
• Inspect your drive to ensure that there is no damage or weeds that could entangle. Remove any entangling foliage and replace any broken parts or lines. 
• Check the alignment after each use as well. You might need to use shims or spacers to keep the drive centered.
• Keep the drive and kayak out of direct sunlight as much as possible. UV rays break down materials. For long-term storage, consider removing the drive altogether. 

Summary: Key Tips for Pedal-Drive Kayak Fishing

Although fishing kayaks with pedal-drives can drive up the cost of the kayak and add weight, they can also offer significant advantages. Those advantages of speed, efficiency, and hands-free operation might just outweigh any negatives as you expand your kayak fishing. Happy Paddling - um, Pedaling!