Pedal Drive Kayaks are Dead

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Check out The Bearded Paddler's response to my video ⬇ kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3WZdoh8a8t5qtU

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@MaineStreamFishing]

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

[@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 🤣

[@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

[@tedmelgo3313]

Hey man, if you are scared of phisical exercise then stay home and watch others catching fish on your TV screan. You can call yourself a popcorn fisherman.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I love popcorn.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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 🙏🏽

[@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.

[@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.

[@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! 🙏🏽

[@warefisher]

Exercise! Staying in shape!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

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

[@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

[@grumpysgarage7276]

I have to agree. I'm a 100% disabled vet, age 57. I've had two paddle kayaks. I don't have the endurance anymore to paddle nor to pedal a kayak. My next kayak will be a motorized one, more than likely the U10. The cost is lower in a case for a motorized kayaks and makes it easier for fishing folks

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for your service! 💪🏽

[@poipu425]

i think that's a great choice, nucanoe is a great company. they helped me out a lot even though i bought my pursuit second hand. i will say that i have recently bought a hobie lynx....45 pounds, turns great and can pedal all day. very easy to get on and off car. very easy to get into the water and really stable. its so light that an anchor system is kind of a must though. good luck, i was lucky enough to have served and didn't get into action. i hope you are doing well. keep getting out there.

[@rizangler]

I’m also a 100% disabled Vet and 61. Increase your endurance or you will downward spiral fast my friend. If you have two legs or two arm you can paddle or peddle.

[@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

[@Deckardrick007]

Disagree. The ONLY way pedal drive will be dead is when prices of motor and battery will be super affordable. Yes they have dropped price but that’s not enough for someone to shoot nearly $500-$1k on a motor rig when their kayak is $500. Not everyone is buying $1k-$5k kayaks, majority of people buy them for recreational so they buy cheap. But for someone to say they’re dead is silly. Stay healthy and get the work out. Everything that glitters isn’t gold.

[@StripedTurkey]

You’re right on point with your comment.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

A good pedal drive will set you back $1k-$1500. Much more than a battery and motor. Agreed though it’s not for everyone.

[@Deckardrick007]

@@BeardedDadFishing a pedal should be in everyone’s yak. When you own a motor your confidence goes up and you start feeling more comfortable launching farther and farther. The day your battery dies or motor burned out you’re going to wish for a pedal, happened to me and why I carry both. Yes a paddle can get you to point a to b but not all yak owners are in the best of shape. Those legs can get you far and quick pedaling versus burned out arms. Safety is everything when in waters.

[@PembKal_Legacy_Fishing]

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

[@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!

[@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!!!

[@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 🙌🏽

[@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.

[@shelbybentley7856]

Kayaks are no longer kayaks! KZbinrs and tournament guys are forgetting what kayaks are about. I like your videos but this video just proves this point

[@BeardedDadFishing]

@@shelbybentley7856 the thing I love most about kayaks is that they can be as big or as small or as simple or as complex as the user wants them to be. It’s a customized experience and there’s no one size fits all. I appreciate you watching 🙏🏽

[@ILLUMINATHAN79]

I have lost almost 100 lbs from fishing from a peddle drive kayak. It’s great exercise, i will always use a peddle drive

[@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...

[@gowiththegilmours2564]

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.

[@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!

[@HoosierCarnivore]

The real reason pedal drives are dead is because lazy out of shape fat guys got tired of trying to keep up with the younger-more fit fishermen and started putting motors on their kayaks to keep up and the powers that be allowed it to happen. Everyone was afraid to say no. Ask me how I know, LOL! You're right, motors are the future and that's because there's so much money in sales for all the new equipment, electronics, batteries, and accessories. Unfortunately, motorized kayaks are here to stay and that's why I went back to regular bass boat fishing. It's too bad because I really loved kayak fishing. I kept a cheap paddle kayak for rivers, but that's it.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

The reason motors are popular is because society moves with technology. Same reason cars overtook horses, electric bikes overtook bicycles, etc. we don’t go backwards, we go forward. That said, no one said you have to upgrade if you don’t want to.

[@MichaelBecker-jn8yi]

Not all Kayak anglers want the same thing from their kayaks. Pedals didn’t make paddles obsolete and motors won’t make pedals obsolete. Believe or not some actually like kayak fishing and not just fishing. I for one am becoming a bit annoyed that the commercial and competitive kayak fishing industry seems to feel they have to compete with boat anglers. Every new development in kayaks is modeled after a boat. Why do we have to be the same? Why can’t we accept that we can’t do everything bass boats do? Do we want to end up where the boat industry has by pricing people out of kayak fishing?

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed, every kayak angler’s needs and wants are totally different and their own.

[@tbone6924]

Dumb video...of course pedal kayaks are nowhere near dead. This dude is a shill for the industry and his sponsors. This is basically a paid advertisement.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

😂 you’re overestimating my reach brother. I’m not sponsored by any kayak manufacturer. But if you have any contacts, send em my way 😉

[@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

[@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.

[@floridadad2817]

Yes. Completely dead. Please let this start lowering the cost on them. In Florida, pedal drive kayak under 16 foot is a loophole to get out of having to buy a state registration.

[@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! 😎 🎣

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@whoofit]

You can always paddle a pedal kayak. You can never pedal a paddle kayak. Many pedal kayaks you would never want to paddle. That leaves the backup form of propulsion to a motorized kayak (most are becoming skiffs in disguise) as favoring pedal drives. I see pedals as being the natural extension of the larger skiff style kayaks hands-down. It's why I bought the Titan X 12.5. Now, you could argue an IX up front to become the backup propulsion to the NK300 out back but now you are talking some serious dough..... I wish the Autopilot had the pedal option. I probably would have bought in.

[@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.

[@feraldog5590]

Hard disagree, motors are way over rated. Less than half kayak fisherman do tournaments

[@BeardedDadFishing]

I don’t think they’re overrated, but I agree that tournament anglers are the minority.

[@Radican1]

Part of my excuse to fish so much is that it is also my exercise!

[@NasTimeAdventures]

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

[@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!

[@davidtosh6494]

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

[@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

[@Mike-xi4zt]

Number one reason to have a pedal drive is that you do not have to license the boat have it inspected by the highway patrol pay property tax on it every year. Buy a motorized vessel license every year.

[@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!

[@morganonayak]

this speculation is completely off base. Any seasoned kayaker who uses a pedal drive is well aware of the advantages a pedal drive offers. To clarify, the best fishing kayak has BOTH pedals and a motor. But I've been running a motor for some time now on my OT 120 PDL and I wouldn't even consider going to a kayak without them. The motor gets used for one thing....getting from A to B. Once I get to my destination, the pedals are irreplaceable for moving while fishing. NO, PEDALS ARE NOT "dead". To me, a kayak with JUST pedals is far more usable than a kayak with JUST a motor. given a choice (using OT as an example) I'd buy the ePDL or a PDL long before I'd throw my money on an AutoPilot. Give me the pedals...I'll throw on a spot lock motor. At minimum, the redundancy of propulsion offered by having both means that I'm not dead in the water if one system fails (I can always pedal back to the ramp if the motor dies and vice versa - and don't tell me I can use a paddle)

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Good points. All things I stated in the second half of the video 👍🏽 Thanks for watching.

[@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!

[@patear59]

You make a lot of sense, but I think a lot would be shocked. They push pedal drive almost rudely. No matter what you say, they think everyone should save up and get one. I for one wouldn't have been on the water enjoying fishing if I tried to save up for one. Being retired, and on Medicare and SS, I just don't have the savings I had a few years ago before covid

[@BCFishingJournal]

Disagree, 2 reasons. #1 - the combo of fishing and exercise. I love the leg and core workout of the pedal drive while fishing. #2 - Cost. The pedal drives will become entry level fishing kayak based on cost. It'll be many years still for the motorized kayaks to come down in price based on so many options, so the market will still look for that cheaper entry level kayak which I believe will be the pedal drives.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Thanks for sharing!

[@justinbartlett4711]

The tournament guys think too much of themselves. The biggest market is the casual enjoyer of the outdoors. They far outnumber the tournament guys. For those of us who are out on the water to just enjoy a day of kayaking/fishing/birdwatching/whatever -- pedal drives are a fantastic option to help us older folks get around quickly while still getting in some light exercise. We generally don't want to mess around with electric/gas motors.

[@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!!!

[@xnorcal831x]

I have to say it. Bass fishing is killing the kayak world. With bigger, more electronics. There need to be a limit to what is a kayak verse what is a small boat. Kayaks should not need trailers, they shouldn't cost $3k then couple more on electronics. Its the same reason why new small basic boats are $80k.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

It’s all subjective. Like most things in life. But I hear what you’re saying.

[@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!

[@jazfromhouston]

I just bought a used Hobie Revolution 2, but got a great deal on it. Upgrading from my Ascend 11" What do I play when I am fishing? "Something with bass and a good hook!" LOL

[@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.

[@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

[@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! 💪🏽

[@gardengreatness1457]

If im going to need a trailer to transport a heavy kayak, I will just buy a boat. The kayak group I joined does not allow motors for tourneys without a medical excuse, and even at that point the speed is limited. I think the point of a kayak is the human propulsion. Without that, it's just a small boat. If I wanted a boat, with a trailer to deal with as well as storage issues, I will buy one. As I get older, that may happen. For now, my Old Town PDL 105 is as big and heavy as I am willing to handle. Kayak tournaments with motors just are not kayaks in my opinion.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Valid points! I’ll trailer my kayak all day every day 😉

[@mikeprice3705]

If you're going to motorize your "kayak", just admit that what you're really craving is a small skiff - and go buy one. Guys think they have to have 3D sonar with billboard-sized displays, and custom boxes with racks for the six extra rods that they're not going to use for a day's fishing, and the warehouse of lures they'll never use either, cell phone holders, camera poles and mounts, etc. Then their "kayak" is too heavy and all the vertical nonsense acts just like a sail so they have to constantly fight the wind, which is easier to do with a motor. (Plus, and it's just my opinion, but kayaks with all that crap hanging off of them just look stupid.) Fact is, if you think you need all that stuff to enjoy a day's worth of fishing, it's your money and more power to you, but you've missed the point and the fun. It's sad what "tournament" fishing has done to the pastime. Bottom line: If you need all that stuff, you will be happier with a small skiff than a big, heavy, overloaded motorized "kayak."

[@BeardedDadFishing]

The same argument can be made about bass boat fishing 🤷🏽‍♂️ It’s what you want to make it.

[@Brunnen_Gee]

Pedal drives never really made it on my radar to begin with. Too expensive, don't want to deal with the extra parts, constantly seeing stories of them breaking on the water. I'll always be a paddle guy. Heck I'm kind of moving away from purpose made fishing kayaks altogether and am getting more into the touring style, I've found that I much prefer that over the barges that are fishing kayaks.

[@Tea4Texas]

Same brother

[@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.

[@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 ☠️

[@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.

[@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 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@MinxBx]

Kinda disagree with all of your statements. If you are watching thru fishing tournament lens than they make sense. You are talking about fishing tournament vessels. There is a lot of people that use pedal kayaks for recreation. I have Hobie Revo 13 and enjoy the simplicity, efficiency and speed of fin drive. Added Bixpy with simple DIY side mount so I can pedal at the same time and cover 12 to 20 miles when exercising or just pull Bixpy out and pedal. Light, easy to handle and paddle worthy. Done some fishing but not tournament level. I would never buy heavy "fishing kayak" that needs a trailer and a whole rig with it, with trolling motor and a lot of muscle to handle. I've seen a lot of people regret buying Pro Anglers, Outbacks or similar heavy fishing kayaks. If I'm that much into fishing, I would get one of those light aluminum Bass fishing boats. By the way there has been nothing innovative with trolling motors, jets whatever you call them except battery technology. Same old prop that has been around for a century.

[@grumpypotamus7143]

I have a pedal drive and I desperately wish I'd just gotten a paddle. The pedal yak is top heavy for me to move on my own and with a bum knee I can't even use the pedal drive, I end up paddling anyway. Ends up I never get to use my yak and I'm still a bank fisherman

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Sorry to hear man! Can you add a motor to it to help you out?

[@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.

[@conger333]

I realize you’re just doing this for clicks and comments but you are completely wrong, and you already know that by the reasons you listed at the end of the video. To me the whole point of a kayak is simple, cheap, lightweight, no trailer, no registration, no power, no electronics, hands free fishing!

[@BeardedDadFishing]

If you've watched any of my videos before, you'd know I don't clickbait. My opinion is as good as anyone else's. Thanks for watching.

[@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.

[@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

[@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 🔥🔥🔥

[@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.

[@helotaxi]

I’m staying with my pedal drive. I’m not giving up speed compared to the guys I fish with that use motors. I don’t have to register. I don’t need a trailer. As far as I’m concerned, now that motors are the “standard” within the tournament community, which I’ve been a part of for a long time, there’s really no reason to disallow bass boats just running on the trolling motor.

[@helotaxi]

And most of your “drawbacks” for pedal drives are specific to the prop style. The Hobie Mirage drive only requires a couple inches of water to function. Basically, if the hull floats, the drive works. It also deals with vegetation much, much better.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Agreed Hobie fins can function in much shallower water. Just much more expensive for Hobie 🤷🏽‍♂️ Nothing wrong either way brother

[@drjekelmrhyde]

Those batteries are going to go back up once those 25% tariffs hit, so get you one now.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Probably right.

[@RickHoffman777]

the industry may be moving away but that only for PROFITS, I will stick to my old town PEDAL that I can use a cheap motor on

[@bigguyinalittleboat7927]

You do realize sub $1500 paddle and pedal kayaks outsell all others 5 to 1. Pedals aren’t going anywhere. There’s more to kayaking than tournaments.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Of course. It’s natural that the cheaper options sells more.

[@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

[@willgriggers-ex5zq]

Motor gets me there and trolls, pedal is for moving around in tight coves and stealth, backing up after a hook up without fiddling with some remote while fighting a fish.

[@51ddb]

Well said. A motor to get you there or troll and use the pedal drive like a manual spot lock and for easy maneuvering. Pedal drive with a stern mounted motor..

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Good point!

[@smmj45]

If you can't car top it , it's not a kayak.

[@CarolinaBassFishingWithKurt]

Think the motors are gonna be the way to go... I love fishing and a motor at some point as i grow older will be the best bet.... But good motors are not that cheap... Neither are good batteries!!

[@OleDadFishing]

Dang BD, I just purchased a pedal drive.. You’re killing me Smalls! 😂😂

[@BeardedDadFishing]

Na you’re good! keep it 😂 I’m not getting rid of mine 😅

[@Raeilgunne]

Same here, but as someone recovering from a back surgery I agree with all his points. I'm using the pedal drive for exercise and rehab, but I'll be honest, it's more work than paddling. I got the pelican catch 110, and a bike style pedal drive would be easier. I'm planning on motorizing an xtr 130 next year after I recover.

[@ciscokid2444]

On point Jay! I want to fish not exercise that’s what gyms are made for lol.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

😂😂😂

[@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!

[@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.

[@Nate_stilo_fish]

Yes, but pedals are silent, no hum of a trolling motor, pressured water that matters. I’ll stick with my tube!

[@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.

[@rustyshacklfur2637]

It gets to the point where youre just better off with a small jon boat. The whole idea of a yak is accesibility and simplicity. Once you add motor, batteries, loads of electronics, its self defeating.

[@BeardedDadFishing]

But most people don’t want a jon boat.

[@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.