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Kayaks with pedals might seem a bit strange. We conjure up ideas that kayaks must be propelled with paddles. However, for recreational purposes, kayaks with pedals can be very useful and fun!
Kayaks with pedals allow us to use the strongest part of our body. This keeps us from fatiguing quickly and will aid us in reaching our destination faster. For those of us who have been on long kayaking trips where our arms start to get sore, and we wished we could switch to our legs, this is the perfect solution!
The Obvious…
So clearly the main benefit would be not having to use paddles. This can be a blessing and a curse. Not using paddles can make movement a bit easier, however, it can be quite challenging to steer efficiently. Basically, with the change out from paddles to pedals, you exchange maneuverability for speed.
They are mostly useful for fishing, as they allow you to focus of your specific fishing style rather than fumbling around with the paddle. The engineering really is fantastic. Although it varies from different manufacturers, they mostly follow the same setup (see image below).
Pedal or Paddle?
If your sole objective for buying a kayak is fishing, it’s definitely worth looking into a pedal kayak. Kayaks with pedals provide an increase in torque that you do not get naturally with traditional kayaks. They allow you to reach your destination quicker. They also allow you to move easier in wind or unfavorable waves.
It really just comes down to our basic anatomy. Legs are stronger and have more stamina than arms. it just makes sense to utilize this part of your body as opposed to your arms. However, as we stated before; we really just recommend this for those who are using the kayaks for angling purposes exclusively. Most others, including ourselves enjoy the intimate process that goes along with traditional kayaking.
Our Recommendations of the Best Kayaks with Pedals!
Hobie Mirage Sport Kayak
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”left” asin=”B00N9HMLJY” cloaking=”default” height=”160″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21pNW-ahF%2BL._SL160_.jpg” tag=”paddle05-20″ width=”159″]The Mirage Sport kayak from Hobie is basically billed as a fishing kayak. However, for all intents and purposes, this is a general recreational kayak. We really don’t have to go too much into the quality of products coming from Hobie. They sell a great kayak. Everybody knows it.
The Mirage Sport is wonderfully engineered. The paddles move from side to side with each stroke of the pedals. Most pedal kayaks are engineered the same, however, with this kayak you get the Hobie name, which really speaks for itself. Hobie has always been a big name in kayaking, but in recent years they have really been putting emphasis in fishing kayaks. Although they charge a high end price, you get arguably the best quality kayak out there, and they have certainly dominated the pedal kayak market
Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 Pedal Kayak
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”right” asin=”B00Q5JLYSM” cloaking=”default” height=”160″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41TXMAHmQpL._SL160_.jpg” tag=”paddle05-20″ width=”160″]>>Click Here to Read More<<[/easyazon_image]The Mirage Pro Angler is not much different compared to the Mirage Sport. The main differences are: the Pro Angler is quite a bit longer at 14ft. Additionally, the Pro Angler is going to have quite a bit more options for fishing, being an exclusive fishing kayak. This is a great thing for you anglers! The extra features such as the rod holders, pedal system, etc., help you maximize your fishing experience. Although there are plenty of alternatives, if you are looking for a kayak with pedals for fishing purposes, we highly recommend the Mirage Pro Angler from Hobie.
Hobie Mirage Outback Kayak
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”left” asin=”B00N9DBS5G” cloaking=”default” height=”160″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41gguObobPL._SL160_.jpg” tag=”paddle05-20″ width=”160″]>>Click Here to Read More<<[/easyazon_image]The Outback 2014 is the newest pedal kayak from Hobie. It offers a fantastic setup that works well for functionality when fishing and even just messing around on the water. It’s sturdy and stable. Also, they added a new seat to the 2014 model that provides excellent lumbar support. This only further solidifies the exceptional kayak fishing experience you get with the Hobie Outback.
It also offers a ton of great features in addition to the pedal system. It comes with rod holders, a sail mount, and even a place to store bait and fish. It’s a great kayak, and we highly recommend it!
