Pedal Drive Kayaks are Dead

[@urbanfishingtv]

I don’t think they are dead. If you take tournament anglers out of the equation Im confident most people will prefer a pedal drive.

[@nicolaskudsieh2216]

@@urbanfishingtv they want it to look this way to sell more crap. Look at youtube and see how many people are using motors vs pdl drives ! There are other fisg than stupid bass to catch but they make it seem as if its the only fish on this planet

[@grantsmith505]

Your confidence is misplaced

[@newstrending-us]

Agreed - there's also a license requirement once you go to a motor... we prefer the pedal drive for sure.

[@JDMerica]

I own my 106PDL to recreationally fish for fun and do wildlife photography. I want the exercise associated with the activity as well. Same reason I own a mountain bike and not an E-bike. No interest in a motor for the Kayak. I don't want to register it as a boat and I'm not in it to make it the most efficient tool to win tournaments. Seems like a lot of the KZbin group is forgetting the enjoyment of being out in nature part of fishing and just racing to what gives me the best edge in some tournament.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed it can become a race for the best of the best! Great call to slow down and enjoy

[@AliexFolgueira]

You should try an Ebike, you work out more, it is pedal assist, you will find yourself pushing harder, going places further away! and best of all going blazing fast!

[@JPHET37]

I will never give up my pedal kayak. I need to work out my legs even though I have Newport vessel nk180 trolling motor. I’ve been fishing a lot with my kayak you will never know a battery or motor can go bad it’s very tough to paddle back when you have fully loaded accessories

[@judasblewit]

Ebikes are so fun though. I'll never go back.

[@AliexFolgueira]

@@judasblewit yup and you can workout as hard was you want, e assist goes to say 26mph you can pedal harder and push it over, super workout

[@rockisawesome100]

The Kayak industry is going towards the money. Who spends the money? The tournament scene, where if you don't have a motor-powered skiff, you're at a disadvantage. If the tournament scene banned motors or added a pedal drive only class, there will be more innovation in the pedal drive scene guaranteed.

[@jasondadudetoo4176]

There are motor free kayak tournaments.....

[@devinwillis7787]

Of course the industry is going to cater to their customers

[@jasondadudetoo4176]

@@devinwillis7787 lots of customers buy pedal kayaks for a reason

[@devinwillis7787]

@@jasondadudetoo4176 not enough of them for the companies to see it as an area that has growth potential

[@chadontheroad1]

Very true statement here. They are all gearing to more expensive kayaks not to mention the extra thousands of dollars to rig it out like they are designed to do. I feel they are getting away from the basics and hindering new people on a budget who just want to get into kayak fishing, not necessarily tournaments.

[@srivera001995]

If they are dead can you tell them to lower the price on them so us poor people don't have to believe that a Jon Boat would just be the better buy or can actually afford them?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

😂

[@philthy3893]

Underrated comment

[@david.bowerman]

Pedal drives don't require me to register the Kayak or get a boating safety certificate to operate where as if I put a motor on it, I do.

[@michaelagin7076]

SC if if the motor is 4hp or less it doesn't need registration

[@david.bowerman]

@@michaelagin7076 I live in NYS and In New York, boats (watercraft) without a motor do not need to be registered. If you use a motor (electric or fuel-driven), regardless of the size of your boat or the motor, you must register your boat. (Pulled right from our DMV site.)

[@WilliamLee-eh6hy]

@@michaelagin7076 Texas requires all watercraft that are powered by a motor to have registration numbers on the hull. True any motor under 10hp does not require registration (that is why there are so many 9.9hp) for the motor but put it on a vessel and the vessel does.

[@david.bowerman]

@@michaelagin7076 NY does not care the size. If it is a watercraft with a motor, it must be registered.

[@Pussmash]

Ohio any recreational watercraft has to be registered 😂 so stupid. Doesnt matter if it has a motor or not

[@arthunkle3213]

Been a kayak fisherman for over 20 years. Have only owned paddle SOT's (6 in total). Still use a paddle to this day. These new boats are pigs, way to heavy, car-topping is almost out of the question. The kayaks now almost always require a trailer. I prefer an 80 pound paddle kayak I can throw on the roof. These 5 and 6 thousand dollar 36 and 38 inch wide kayaks defeat the whole purpose of why I got into kayakfishing. 2 rods and a milkcrate was all that was needed. Simplicity. Now it's 6 grand, a registration, a trailer, and the difficulty moving it around. I wish Wlderness, Ocean Kayak, Jackson, or Hobie would go back to making a decent 14 foot, 32" wide sub 75 pound SOT for around 1,200 - 1,500. If I have to drop 6 grand and get a trailer I'm buying a used 12 foot whaler.

[@rc3443]

imagine you are 5 miles out offshore, or 5 mile away from your launch in the ocean, and your motor/battery dies, and the wind is blowing you offshore, and it's getting dark, you'd wish your kayak is 100lb lighter

[@BeardedDadFishing]

If I was going 5 miles off short, I’d bring a backup battery. And a marine radio.

[@MrTlgsr]

If I was 5 miles off shore and the battery died and I was in the ocean and the wind blowing etc. The Kayak would definitely all of a sudden become 100 Lb lighter! LOL

[@MaineStreamFishing]

I don’t wanna have to register my yak… thats why im staying away from it. Eventually ill get a motor for tournaments

[@galactusfantasticus4814]

One more reason: non-motorized lakes. Where I live, there are a lot of lakes which prohibit the use of even trolling motors.

[@warefisher]

Exercise! Staying in shape!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@warefisher that’s right! Can’t go wrong with that!

[@pyang4155]

Not in california. If you put any type of motor on a vessel, you have to register it. Pedal drive keeps you from paying annual reg fees and ramp launch fees.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Same here as far as registration goes.

[@WilliamLee-eh6hy]

I am sure California (and other states) are thinging of ways they can tax the kayak fisherman like they do the power boat angler.

[@kjfishman547]

Missouri is the same way.

[@christopherrogers4734]

Fifty-five years old, fished out of a paddle kayak for five years then got a pedal kayak a couple of years ago. I still miss the simplicity and light weight of the old boat. Not too keen on the idea of adding still more weight and complexity with a motor.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I hear you! Great point.

[@Tea4Texas]

Go back to the paddle

[@grantsmith505]

​@@Tea4Texas Too simple

[@Tea4Texas]

@@grantsmith505 KISS

[@grantsmith505]

@@Tea4Texas 🤔 KIS would have done thanks You didn't need to add the second S 🤣

[@carmentascione4802]

As long as there is duck hunting on public land, the pedal drive will never die

[@randall517]

Motors are way overrated and overpriced. The vast majority of kayak anglers don't do tournaments and just fish to relax and have fun. It's silly to think they are dead. Mines alive and well and I have no problem pulling in 40# catfish in it.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching!

[@svk_5104]

Plus you can always DIY a motor for pretty cheap. I made one for my hobie compass for about $250. Found a great deal on used trolling motor from FB market place for $100, spent around $50 on the materials need to build the set up and then upgraded to a nicer lithium battery that was just under $100. I fish a river system most of the time and having both a motor and the pedal drive is AMAZING.

[@leslieleathem1227]

The bad thing is my local lake (Kiser Lake) does not allow motors or gas engines. Human or wind-powered only.

[@lowlifeangler]

Kiser Lake is one of my favorite lakes. That's why I wanna upgrade to a pedal

[@CARPital]

Yes, how bad that they try to protect the environment. And you exercise too to stay fit. How horrible

[@lowlifeangler]

@CARPital it's only a 350+ acre lake , so good to see people getting exercise instead of putting in a $78,000 Z21 bass boat when there's a 3000 acres lake just 30 minutes north that has excellent bass, saugeye and channel cats

[@ZacharyWilli-ge4qh]

I’m old school: kayaks are meant to be paddled. If you put a motor on it, then you may as well have a jon boat

[@somerandomperson8282]

Nothing is 'meant' to be anything, you can use whatever works best for you.

[@ReelTimeCapt]

The reasons you layout are logical. However, I think the hybrid pedal/power drive like the eDrive and feelfree motordrive may very well be the new innovation that are offered by kayak manufactures across more models. They reason is that many anglers actually enjoy the pedaling because it keep them from being so sedentary all day, and also it gives them a redundant form of propulsion should the motor controller, electrical system stop working. Other than that, I think you are correct - a good paddle kayak with a good motor unit work well and seems to be easy on the budget. I have 2 Old Town 132 and 12 PDL with a bixpy motor, and a Ocean Kayak BGII and a Minkota C30 with Autoboat. I can swap any motor on any kayak. Typically, it extends our fishing range where we can go 10 to 15 miles a day and leaves us fresh when we get back to the dock to enjoy the rest of they day. Thank you and good commentary.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great points! Thanks for sharing!

[@GarrettGreen-o5z]

A similar situation happened with the paintball industry. It was race for the fastest/higher tech products and then it reached its peak when it was more about the equipment than skills, so limits were set to level the playing field. This has now created different divisions in play where some events are just electric (motors) or mechanical (pedal) or pump (paddle). I feel that the kayak industry will quickly progress to the point that it will be clone of the boating events rather than kayak events. At which point we will likely see a separation into different divisions/events.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Great analogy. Already seeing tournaments (I’m doing on this weekend) where it’s no electronics or motors allowed.

[@codythron5307]

The thing is, most the places I fish, no motors are allowed. But pedal drives are. And you have to register them once you put a motor on them. Paddle or pedal drive, no registration required. So they definitely have there place.

[@jasondadudetoo4176]

Kayak companies will sell pedal drive as long as people are buying them. Lots of ponds and lakes prohibit motors, even electric.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

100%

[@RuujRubellite]

I enjoy the exercise from my PDL106. The main reasons i don't have a motor is because a lot of good lakes around here are motor free zones. No reason to get something i can't use. Also they're heavier, making loading and unloading more annoying. Not every lake has a launch for you to use :p

[@theyshouldhavenamedmefishe7860]

This makes me sad to see, I just got my first peddle drive kayak the other day. I got a used Pelican Catch HD2 with the hydra drive peddle. I put it in the pond by my house to test it out and absolutely love it so far, I can’t wait to take it to the lake!!!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@theyshouldhavenamedmefishe7860 congrats on the new yak! Keep rocking it. Just because the industry is moving away from them doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the heck out of it! ☺️

[@theyshouldhavenamedmefishe7860]

@@BeardedDadFishing man thanks so much for taking the time to reply, you just made a fan for life lol I’ve been a bank fisher my whole life aside from going out with my dad in his bass boat, super excited to get out on the water and fish those spots I couldn’t reach before. I’m gonna build out a milk crate like yours and take her on a real trip this weekend!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@theyshouldhavenamedmefishe7860 awesome! Enjoy brother! 🙏🏽

[@svk_5104]

You can always DIY a motor for your pedal drive for fairly cheap too. I made one for my hobie and it cost me around $250. Found a trolling motor for about $100, a good lithium battery for just under $100 and then the materials(pvc pipe, fasteners, adhesive etc.)to build the set up for the trolling motor was about $50. Having a motor AND being able to pedal when wanted/needed is 100% better then just having one or the other.

[@teetimeaz]

My fishing buddy is a US Marine GSGT, 34 yo.He has an older PA 14. I am 70 and have a 2022 Outback. He was telling me he is interested in trolling motors. I simply told him when I get older I may consider it. He never mentioned this again. BTW, we do a lot of inshore salt water fishing and almost everyone uses paddles, we are unique with pedals. Also Chad Hoover told me he has at least $8k invested in his Bonerfried yak.

[@WilliamLee-eh6hy]

Bought a Vanhulk's Shad this week. Are other power options available for it? Something that uses an adapter box and fits in where the fin drive goes? Happy with the fin drive but thinking ahead ... with the adapter box configured like it is it would seem easy to adapt a drop in prop drive or an electric drive for it. Has that happened yet?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Probably not for the same drive hole, but certainly for side or stern mounted.

[@WilliamLee-eh6hy]

@@BeardedDadFishing Found the information ... Unlike Hobie where the fin drive fits an exact floor opening there is an adapter box that goes into the large hole in the bottom of the Vanhulks Shad kayak. There are optional adapter boxes setup for either type pedal drive (fin or prop) and even one for mounting a trolling motor right there where the pedal drive goes. Hopefully the future will see after market propulsion options offered for that floor opening.

[@ThatJamesGuy88]

My problem isn’t the pedal vs motor…. My problem is how big and heavy the kayaks are getting. My empty hull OT Predator (bought it used) is over 90 lbs. my buddy’s Bonified PWR 129 empty hull is over 100.

[@DeSmith-o4b]

My Lifetime Tamarack Angler is 52 lbs, carries 3 rods and a crate, and I can park, unload, setup, and drop in less than 5 minutes.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Totally valid. These kayaks are getting HEAVYYY

[@joecuillo5005]

I can relate!! I'm still paddling my bonafied ss127 😂 I also have the jackson cruise angler 10 and vibe yellowfin 10ft for family and friends but they're light enough. Sure wish bonafied would make a pedaldrive unit for the ss127 that I could buy

[@Tea4Texas]

My Eddyline Caribbean is 50 pounds and I paddle my kayak.

[@svk_5104]

You don’t have to buy the big and heavy kayaks. There are plenty of smaller and lighter weight options to choose from. The hobie compass only weighs 70lbs and I’ve seen other pedal drive kayaks in the 60-70lb range as well.

[@michaell1665]

Great points made! Older guy now using my NK300 and leaving my pedal drive home! My question: Which of the newer, larger, very stable kayaks would likely provide a drier ride at perhaps 6mph. My Slayer 13 is pretty dry at 3.5 mph (pedal speeds), but I do get wet at 5 to 6 mph in any choppy water. Considering which way I will go in the near future!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@michaell1665 I’d recommend waiting until March to pick a new one up. Should be some good ones dropping early season.

[@michaell1665]

@@BeardedDadFishing Good advice! Exactly what I was thinking. Besides, wife and I have some renovations that will go on until at least February - would love to get a better deal!

[@PowhiroMus]

A very sound, thorough assessment, clear logic but there is a lot to be said for the basic paddling or pedals for exercise and relaxation. The cost needs to come down for pedals. Electric motors make a lot of sense for bigger kayaks, except if they fail. Where I live, I see more fishing done via jetskis, especially jetskis designed and setup for fishing, so fast and out in the ocean or on the river, very able to take on the waves at the river mouth or to flee back home if the weather changes, long range if needed, able to carry weight, multi-purpose. More expensive, need a trailer though.

[@waguni]

Man why do you make such good points. I’ve been eyeing the autopilot for sometime and thanks to your video you’re tempting me to get rid of my PDL. Great video!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Highly recommend the AP! 💪🏽

[@punasurf4697]

Love my pdl, but just added an electric motor and it's even better. I can troll off shore for miles, way further than I could using my legs. I take the pdl with me though in case I have mechanical issues or just run out of juice. BTW, I just caught my personal best, a 15.6 pound Kagami Ulua a week ago. It was insane!

[@KevinOGrady-v2n]

What happens when your motor props hit a submerged log or ground? Is there a model that kicks up upon contact? Thanks..

[@BeardedDadFishing]

The old town autopilots kick up upon impact.

[@Gamer_Dad14]

i just picked up a used old town topwater 106. I love it but paddling a long time especially if its windy is quite painful and exhausting. so im saving up for a 120 PDL. the no registration was my main reason for not wanting motorized. and im a bit of a minimalist myself. i want to keep potential points of failure to a minimum if im in the middle of a lake.

[@PoormansMachineGun]

In the state of Indiana if you attach a trolling motor to a kayak you have to register it like a full size boat. Pedal drive kayak don't have to be registered.

[@dlmsarge8329]

Admittedly I'm a Hobie fan boy, I absolutely love my PA12 180. I bought my original PA12 second hand and used it heavily for 6 yrs, fishing 5 or 6 days a week from May to Oct here in Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦. When it was time to buy a new kayak last year I bought the identical Hobie. I'm in my mid 60s and cartop my PA12 , loading it and unloading it single handed isn't a problem. I love the exercise, and the fact it's absolutely the most stealthy way to fish better than motors or prop driven kayaks.

[@ErickAVelezBeltran-eg4jl]

I don't have much experience, I understand what you're saying and it makes some sense but the reality is that a kayak from the major recognized brands with an electric motor included easily start at almost $3,000, it's crazy. I would rather buy a 12" Expandacraft stabilizer for my $1,500 Old Town Kayak, and put a 3.5 hp Mercury engine on it, it costs $1,500. At this point I've already spent $3,500 on a kayak with a boat motor that I can use with just its gas tank to go 5 miles wherever I want and when I bring 2 gallons of gas I can go almost 20 miles and have plenty of gas left over. Electric is the future, but the prices are crazy for now.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed, prices can get out of hand QUICK. But yeah, lots of set ups topping out at around $10k, so it's different for everyone.

[@markskibo5159]

I have the OT 136, If I did it over I would get a pedal kayak and add a GPS motor. About the only reason for pedals is for backup ,like a dead battery or breakdown. I tried paddling just to see how hard it is , its unbelievably hard . I do love my 136 though!!!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Not a bad idea!

[@JoeNajorFishing]

Great video Jay! I have a pedal kayak for sale, that I can’t get rid of. I feel everyone is heading towards motors. That’s what I did. As a minimalist, a bow motor and a paddle is all I need.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks Joe! Motors are the future man! At least in the fishing world 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@tombosanko3085]

Yes a motor can get you to farther places faster but you have to register it in Cali. Some camp grounds charge you extra for having a motorized kayack.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Same in PA

[@anthonyvespia6662]

I agree 100%. I also own a 23' AP-120 series. I actually purchased the new PP-768 J2 Bixpy motor for my last yak. So I kept my Bixpy, and i run it on a gravity rudder kit. I DIY'D a small bracket for my small battery, and mounted it on my wilderness systems crate. So two motors,with plenty of juice, for fun fishing. And the 45lb thrust for my tournament fishing. Awesome vid! 😎 🎣

[@ShenpaiWasTaken]

Eh I think they are very much going to stick around. Aside from the leg work out the pdl lets you get a better set while trolling (just peddle faster) and faster response times for changing your speed (you don't have to touch a controller you just pdl faster or slower), they're also lighter.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

They have their benefits! I don’t think they are going away but the industry is moving away from them as a whole.

[@maxcole3930]

Trolling motors are getting more & more popular, which makes sense because there's so many options made specifically for kayaks these days. I've been an avid kayak angler for just over 10 years now. In that time I've owned two PA12's, the 360 last couple years. I don't have a trailer or trolling motor, nor do I want either. It loads in & out of the bed my truck easily & the Hobie cart works good for getting it around on the ground. I don't have to register it because no motor & I fish for free at all the big lakes because you only pay to park at boat ramps if you have a trailer. Not to mention the hard to get places I go most of the time you couldn't get to with a trailer! I can pedal my kayak hard all day with any fatigue, I've been doing that long time. Another thing is your loosing part of your stealth running a trolling motor, now you sound like every other boat approaching areas. I get the motor is attractive to a lot of people. Just not for me for all reasons above. To each their own!!!

[@gowiththegilmours]

I think of my kayak as a tool, similar to rods, and lures. For some uses, a pedal drive makes total sense, for others, I can understand a motor. I was out with my buddy prefishing a section of the Susky for an upcoming event, and he was able to shoot up ahead of me and wokr a section of river much quicker... However, I picked up a pile of fish he missed, that were either chased off by the noisy motor, or by the fact that he was moving fast which didn't afford him the chance to sight fish. My 2 cents... I got into kayak fishing to hit sections of our home water on the Delaware that most boats couldn't get to, and I still prefer to fish such places. I love my OT PDL drive and appreciate the exercise I get when I'm out on the water.

[@mjc1177]

I like my pedal 106 because when I was fishing for stripers in the late fall it was freezing I would warm up peddling. With my predator MK I would be really cold in the same situation.

[@PembKal_Legacy_Fishing]

I won’t ever get rid of my coosa FD. Got that thing for $800! Now that’s a steal!

[@jeffspencer4317]

Exercise and minimalist is why I have mine. I’ve passed by a lot of boats at the ramp that wouldn’t start. Unfortunately I’ve left bros at the dock when their trolling motor setups fail.

[@joecuillo5005]

I thought we were supposed to never leave brothers behind😂 I'm kidding I'd tell him he better get paddeling!!!

[@ricardojasso2730]

Was wondering where I could get a Moken Feelfree 12.5 EZ Rider Seat cover replacement. Thanks

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Not sure, maybe google? Thanks for watching!

[@panchopachangas4450]

I’m going to look into the Auto Boat but I want to keep the pedal drive though. I’m only interested in the gps/spot lock feature though. Anchoring to me is a pain in the asss. I actually like pedaling around and I can only see myself using the trolling to get back to my vehicle after a long day of pedaling. During trout season the majority of my fishing is trolling with dodgers so my knees hurt after 5-10 hours of pedaling so it would be nice to give them a break after a long day on the water.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Spot lock is everything man. Best part of it.

[@Flippencz]

Having the PDL is great for trolling with a rod in your hand(back peddling is a plus). To each is own. Mine works great for me. Sportsman’s 106 PDL Stern mount: Newport Nk180Pro 3 options: PPM (Paddle shallow , Peddle while fishing , motor for distance stern mount) 😎🤙

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Good combo!

[@ryanhorn4190]

Not so much lakes here in Stokes County, NC. More rivers, the Dan is a big one. I love my Pelican Motin 100x, cheap kayak but perfect for my fishing needs, and the water helps move us on down to keep on fishing. Don't mind having to hand paddle one bit! I can sure see the alure for these new Kayaks though! Just found your channel, will subscribe! Keep up the great work sir!

[@Angiefishing1]

I just did a similar video on my old town pdl kayak. Ultimately, my choice is I should of just saved a little more and purchased a small used boat with small actual motor because at the end of the day a 6k kayak with trolling motor your still VERY limited on how far you can go, or spending lots of time getting to spots.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I would take my $6k kayak any day over a boat 😂 I'll check out your video!

[@mattcollinsfishing]

I’ve gone all power (AP136 - love it!) but miss the pedal drive for the simplicity. I’ll probably end up buying another PDL as a second kayak and fish tournaments out of the AP.

[@1969LILJOE]

I agree with you. I bought a 106PDL in 2021 and turned around a bought a MK 106 in 2023. I love the convenience and the ability to steer with my feet. I still have my PDL but only take it out if someone wants to go out with me. Someone I ran into on the water was looking for an updated kayak because he was in a paddle version. I told him about my 106PDL but he wants one with a motor. So I see your point. Thanks for dropping the info.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

It’s the inevitable progression of things. Love my autopilot.

[@bamabowhunter8499]

I’m putting a trolling motor on my unlimited because I feel like I spend most of my time paddling to spots instead of fishing. I have limited time to fish so paddling for 30 min versus 5-10 min trolling over will be great.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Right on!

[@seancurley7954]

I fish the Salt. Hobie Revolution. Light , nimble, and fast for a pedal yak. bonus It can easily be car topped. Recently got an Ouback. Had to get a trailer. love the room but just more to deal with. I had sold my small boat to just enjoy fishing. When I started 20 plus years ago kayak tournaments were 12 or 15 guys getting together. The winner got extra raffle tickets to whatever the shop was offering. again simple.

[@jeremykenward3082]

Im trying to figure out what i ultimately want. Love my 45# throw and go perception for the small waters with just a paddle. I live near the great lakes, and want to troll/jig for trout, salmon, and walleye. The Ocean Kayak prowler/trident hull is really great for these waters. None are pedal driven, and to keep stability something small and light like a rudder mounted bixpy is the way to go. I want something that paddles good in big water in case i get in a jam. OT salty/bigwater/predator PDL and the hobie revo/pa are often available used for the same price as adding a bixpy plus battery and rudder system to my OK. Maybe marketplace will get flooded with pdl kayaks cheap as everyone motorizes

[@ARCENAULT]

I bought a whaly 370 for 3900..20hp for 3400..trailer for 1500..all new items and i have the capability to fish offshore inshore and in between shores..i think i am in it for less than a modern motorized kayak

[@sofloflow]

I hated mine, too much resistance / slow

[@brandonwaddell2583]

So I’m actually about to pull the trigger on the lure 13.5 v2 with overdrive that’s on sale right now. My opinion is this, the drive can always be raised and it be paddled, or even push poled when you reach shallow areas. I’m gonna be fishing the st lucie River and other surrounding areas that have deeper areas to traverse and the pedal is great for that. I had an original 13.5 and loved the stability and was able to paddle it a decent distance and I’m in better shape today than I was then. Getting the motor, as you spoke to, adds a registration, wiring, carrying a battery, etc. I prefer the pedal

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed! Thanks for sharing!

[@brandonwaddell2583]

@@BeardedDadFishing no problem, also update. Ordered the Lure in Midnight Bolt

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@brandonwaddell2583 congrats my guy!!

[@jamessims5240]

The driving factor for motorized kayaks is laziness

[@jamessims5240]

@@AliexFolgueiraI paddle and I fish… I didn’t say all people who use them are lazy… for some it’s necessary….. fishing lakes and ponds it’s unnecessary…. I don’t even use electronics…I prefer the challenge of catching fish …. Its human nature today for people want everything to be “easy”

[@jamessims5240]

@@AliexFolgueira ​​⁠you’re not going to catch more fish because you have a motor. You still have to identify where the best locations are. A motor can get me there faster but I’m not tournament fishing so what do I care? I’m not spending thousands of dollars on a kayak. I might as well get a real boat at some point. Most people want motors because they don’t want to paddle because it’s work or because they think it’s “cool” I don’t know what you’re talking about as far as something being awkward. My anchor system does just fine for me holding a position… it’s a matter of preference. I’m not going to argue with you about it though

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I disagree. No more than someone using a boat is out of laziness. Different mode of transport.

[@jamessims5240]

@@BeardedDadFishingI will thank you for your video on the things you don’t need to get started. It put a lot of things in perspective and allowed me to purchase things to improve my experience as I grow

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@jamessims5240 happy to hear it brother! Glad it was helpful 🙏🏽

[@johnanthony8305]

You could debate either way - "dead" is probably on the extreme side, and I think there is a distinct price point difference between pedal and motor kayaks that appeal to people. I could justify buying my Old Town PDL106 with the pedal feature, but an extra $900 was not in the budget for the powered version. You made some great points on the good side, and they are spot on.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed bro! Thanks for the insight 🙌🏽

[@davidtosh6494]

Thanks for your thoughts They make sense but I’m not on board with the same direction Thanks again for the video perspective

[@calbo1954]

the difference between a pedal drive and a non pedal drive is about $1000 bucks. You can buy a trolling motor for about 200 to 300 and the battery for another 250 if you want an entry level lifePo4 battery. I bought 2 Native Titan 12 propels a little over a year ago and now wish I had just gone with a non pedal version and added the trolling motor. So yes I think in a few years the manufacturers will start offering motor packages and phase out the pedal drives.

[@seanfalconer7182]

I have the BOTE Rackham Aero Apex PD Inflatable Paddle Board, and I am horribly disappointed in the Apex Pedal Drive. It has a 10:1 gear ratio, and the propeller was modeled after a kitchen utensil. After pedaling for five minutes, my legs are burning so badly that I start screaming. The Newport NK180PRO has absolutely changed my life, and I can actually enjoy my time on the water now.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Upsetting to hear their pedal drive is so horrible! I know those things ain’t cheap.

[@ashleem1387]

What do you think about the pac motor For my outlaw 11.5

[@ScruffyCityFishing]

I have a hobie outback that I got used for a killer deal.. similar to what you said. I looked at a moken PDL as well. The paddle drive on those is legit heavier than a battery and trolling motor. Personally I’m now interested in these almost hybrid paddle board fishing kayaks. Crescent SUP+ specifically.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Those SUP are pretty cool looking

[@Deathbecomesme3]

My main 'yak (3waters bigfish 120) is already a fat pig without adding a motor to it. I think it's 95 pound bare hull. I find myself taking my little crappy budget 10 footer out more often because it's half the weight, easier to lug around and easier to paddle and handle. The Bigfish has most of the downsides of my 14' Jon Boat with none of the upsides so making it motorized would make it completely useless IMO.

[@daveaz9962]

What are your recommendations on a good paddle kayak?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Lots of good options. Take a look at some of my older videos.

[@daveaz9962]

@@BeardedDadFishing Will definitely do, thanks!

[@marklyons9418]

Good content and clearly communicated, thanks.

[@Myk63]

I wouldn't have got a kayak if they were all motorized, if they are moving away from them it's a stupid move. Either leaving money in people's pockets or giving it to the competition. I got a PDL because of no registration and I'm glad I did. My other option was a used bass boat and that's still in the plans years down the road when friends retire.

[@RemayPesca]

At least for me Pedal Drives are not dead. I love pedal drives since as you mentioned I can exercise while fishing. I would only install a motor just to go from point A to Point B, once I reach Point B, then I would use my pedal drives as I am doing now, no problem. Take care buddy!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching brother!

[@DrBlazer50]

Well, I hope they keep improving and trying to further the advancement in pedal drives. I don't have a kayak but I always wanted one. My left arm is paralyzed so a pedal kayak pretty much is my only option. I might add a motor to it but it needs to be pedal powered as well. I'm not going to buy one for the next year or two because right now I'm living the vanlife and traveling around the country and fishing as much as possible. I don't want to travel around with a kayak on a trailer and, with only one arm, as well as the fans, solar panels, & equipment on the roof of my van, I have no idea how I'd be able to mount it to my van to bring it with me... but I really wish I could. Fishing from the bank is fun but fishing on the water is more fun, easier, and drastically more places to fish.

[@raywells2858]

Whats the point of buying a high end Yak given what they cost then put as motor on it, have to register it annually on a Yak thats so heavy you need a trailer to haul it around? Wasnt that the point of getting a yak anyways, you dont need a trailer, or to register it? I can buy a boat for what some of these newer Yaks are starting to command for retail prices. Sorry I dont see the point of a motor on a yak...

[@lowlifeangler]

One of my favorite Ohio lakes and the location of the OKF classic finale series is a paddle/pedal only lake. I want a lightweight pedal kayak, not a 90lb+ plastic boat. One future cons about a motorized kayak, the Chinese are buying up the Lithium mines. And ,in Ohio , you have to register all kayaks. But there's different 3 year tags for manpower or motorized. Knuklhed update: Darren Wendell got his PB today. It's a monster Thank you for your awesome vids

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks brother!

[@cutley2b]

I recently purchased theNative Titan X with the pedal drive. I did NOT want the drive as I prefer a motor. But absolutely fell in love with the Titan. They should at least offer a motor drive like you get with the OldTown 106 MK. In fact I thought I saw that but cannot locate it anywhere. I contacted Native and mentioned that they should offer the drive as an option so people could save $1k…they thanked me for the feedback. Pedal drives on ALL boats should be an option. But we all know that $$ rule.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed! Glad you love the Titan!

[@NasTimeAdventures]

Interesting. Personally, I do like the exercise but there are often times I do wish I had a motor.

[@gokrisgaming]

Like mine 106pdl and I also built a motor mount for it so I can change them when I want to.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Smart!

[@TACPR]

I recently installed an NK 300 on my Jackson Take 2 and it is the best thing I could have done.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I’ll be getting one on my Pdl 120 here soon

[@thebeardedpaddler]

The last couple of years the casual fisher is going motorized too, not just the tournament angler. I think this is where the growth and innovation has come from. I also think inflatables are the future as well. Super light and durable that can be motorized

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Next video : Non-inflatable kayaks are dead ☠️

[@aboston5740]

Your points are good ones. A typical paddle fishing kayak is considerably cheaper than the pedal ones. Even adding an electric motor will come out less than the pedal one. In the end, however, I'm looking for an experience that does take me to nature. Further, what's wrong with both a human and a motor power. And foot power is more convenient than hand powered when combined with a motor. (as such).. Which is precisely the next wave as you point out. So it's more alive than ever, imho. I see huge growth in the pedal kayak market over the next 5 yrs. 20 yrs ago, its was bleeding edge. Now its leading edge. In a few years, it will hit the muggles and the masses.

[@Fish-Erman]

I'm an older guy (60) who wants to get into kayak fishing. If I can fit, say, a little 10' kayak into an SUV, along with a trolling motor, I may take the plunge. I wish I knew someone to set me up properly.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@Fish-Erman if you need help setting up let me know. Maybe I can help or direct you to someone who can.

[@Poontz208]

You can’t use a electric motor everywhere, some ponds n lakes don’t allow them. Also you don’t have to register your kayak if it’s pedal power in Idaho. If you have anything with a electric motor you have to register it just food for thought

[@comfortablynumb9342]

I paddle my kayak and I want a peddle drive. A buddy just got one and it's awesome. We mostly fish around bridges and tunnels in the Chesapeake Bay or in the marshes. It's tough to stay in position with a paddle and fish at the same time. A peddle drive yak is out of my price range right now. A motor is probably not in the cards anytime soon unless I can put a cheap trolling motor on my boat.

[@Jetmech1085]

I’m still rocking the paddle yak, for 5 years now. I just don’t see a point in wasting money upgrading for pedal/motor . I drift fish 99% of the time so I paddle out, drift in with a full stringer

[@rubenakacoolerlid2314]

I agree with your point about the price of batteries lately, I spent double for a battery back in 2021 and had to wait for it than I did this year

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Yeah it’s wild!

[@tombutler7726]

Another reason for pedal / paddle kayaks: no-motor zones, which because they are limited to wind or human power often have the best fishing

[@bobditts]

2 main reasons I purchased my pedal drive is no registration in Utah, and Most of the small lakes/ponds/reservoirs in my area do not allow any motorized watercraft. Pedaling while fishing is unbeatable in my area.

[@charliepalmer2465]

I agree, and this is why I am selling mine at the end of the year, an getting the XTR 130

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Those look 🔥🔥🔥

[@WadeLife]

The industry might, but your weekend fisherman isn't there will always be a market for every tier of kayak, I believe. My current rig is a Moken 10.6. Nothing fancy bought it 3 years ago for right around $900/w paddle brand new. Is it a Hobie or Jackson nowhere near, but it has served me well. My next kayak might go with newer Moken 10 Peddle Drive the brand has been solid the wheel in the keel is a nice addition everytime I'm taking out I always get "Is that a wheel built into the back that is so nifty". Great upload 👍🏻

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for watching my guy! 💪🏽

[@crazyobservations3080]

The first day that i was in a kayak I knew i was going to electrify it. Its like riding a magic carpet. If you buy a used kayak with the intention of putting a motor on it, do your best to be sure its not stolen. You have to title your boat within so many days of your purchase receipt. It varies from state to state. If your over that time in Indiana you have to call the cops and they verify the boat, fill out your form and then you can title reg and all.

[@rkygriz]

If you want to pay too much money for one of those newer motorized kayaks such as the Old Town EPDL, which retails for around $6,000.00, then go for it! I have a pedal drive that I've motorized, and I switch back and forth between the pedals and the motor depending on where I'm going, and how I decide to fish a particular river or lake. And mine cost less-way less- than half the price of that Old Town EPDL kayak. It's a Hoodoo Tempest 120p. $1,299.99, not including shipping. And the 2024 version is made in the USA! When I'm not using the pedal drive, it's powered by a Minn Kota Endura Max 55lb trolling motor, and a 100ah lithium battery. It will fish for days on a single charge. I troll Sierra lakes (Lower Twin, Boca, Stampede, Tahoe, etc) for trout and kokanee salmon, using a downrigger. It's a set up that it works perfectly. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIWXq6pqqd92g9k

[@briansprinkle7855]

the reason you say that is $$$ in the tournament scene. Faster yak = more fish time. Thanks, but I'm a weekender and I'll hold onto my Old Town Prop drive...Plus, Not everybody can afford to replace their yak every 6 months when the "next big thing" comes out.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed! Thanks for watching.

[@iscokinawa]

They may be dead for the freshwater pond, guys. I would prefer to peddle to a motor on open water for a couple of reasons. 1, it's lighter, with less gear. 2. There is a lot more space, I should also mention that I try to be a minimalist out there also. I bring a small cooler and 2 very small tackle boxes and 2 rod/reels. Less is more

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Less is more 💯 brother

[@granvillej3316]

Jay awesome video love the video content every point is spot on legit. Since I’m new to all this kayak fishing I first started to want a paddle or peddle drive just for the exercise part of it. Now I’m not trying to be out of breath by the time I get to my spot if there is still one available since it took you much longer to get there in a tournament and you then have to stop fishing to make sure you get off the water on time or get disqualified! For social fishing go for it not a tournament and not one you want to win! Tight lines take care and God bless!❤

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Always got the good insight Granville! Appreciate you bro

[@infernalpaint1132]

Have a PDL120, gonna get the XTR130 and fabricate a pedal drive into it. I average 35k+ steps / 13-20 miles of power walking at work everyday, so pedals are right up my alley. Motors seem good to fly spot to spot, missing all the fish in between. All I see is extra weight, and more unnecessary components that can fail. 🤷‍♂️

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I’d love to see the pedal drive on that XTR130

[@mikeygrizz23]

I’m with Darren on this one. I think they will always be an option from the big companies. Some may move away from it but I think OT and Hobie will always offer it. It’s too convenient!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed. I don’t think they are going away at all. But the industry as a whole is moving its focus to the motorized realm. Thanks for watching!

[@bofa83]

I like having the pedals for trolling, but getting to and from the fishing area would be better with a motor.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Best of both worlds if you combine em

[@svk_5104]

I don’t get why more people don’t just DIY a motor for their kayaks if they really want a motorized kayak. You can do it for pretty damn cheap and in my opinion, having both a motor and pedal drive is better anyway. It cost me about $250 to make the motor for my hobie compass and it has been AMAZING. I found a trolling motor for $100, spent a $100 on a nice lithium battery and then about $50 on the materials to build the set up. There’s no need to spend $4k+ just to have a kayak with a motor, especially if you already have a pedal drive.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

💯

[@kimberlyglascock6875]

Great video, thank you. I personally do not have any interest in a motorized kayak but in the short time I have been into kayak fishing, I definitely see your point and agree that this is where the market is going,or at least where the companies will put their money for development. I currently have a paddle kayak which is great for the small waters I fish, but would really like a pedal drive for larger bodies of water so my legs get the workout rather than my arms being my arms are weak 😂.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Yes! There’s something for every angler (and body of water)

[@Twinville2]

I prefer to keep it simple. Here in New Mexico, you get charged registration fees and boat ramp fees if you're kayak is motorized.

[@TruFade]

Really dumb but what kayak trolling motors do you recommend? Also if you could do a video on how to "install" a motor to a standard kayak like you mentioned

[@BeardedDadFishing]

There isn’t exactly a standard motor install. They are all different. A standard minnkota Endura can be great. Higher end units like Newport Vessels and Motorguide also.

[@TruFade]

@@BeardedDadFishing thank you! Haha after mentioning this comment all the other videos of people installing them showed up. Definitely excited to test out soon

[@djddub]

I think kayaks are out in general. I took my kayak out after 5yrs in Huntington Beach and everyone was in a motorized paddleboards. I felt outdated lugging that heavy kayak around.