10 Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedal Drives (October 2026)

Nothing changes the way you fish quite like a pedal drive kayak. Once you experience hands-free fishing, going back to a paddle feels like typing on a flip phone. Your legs do the work while your hands stay focused on casting, setting hooks, and landing fish. In our testing of fishing kayaks with pedal drives over the past two seasons, we have launched more than a dozen models on lakes, rivers, and coastal flats to see which ones actually hold up.

A pedal drive fishing kayak uses a foot-powered propulsion system that turns either a propeller or a set of fins beneath the hull. This gives you continuous forward momentum without ever putting down your rod. For anglers who spend full days on the water, that translates to less fatigue and more fish in the boat. The best pedal kayaks also include fishing-specific features like rod holders, gear tracks, transducer mounting, and comfortable seating that makes an eight-hour session feel manageable.

This guide covers the 10 best fishing kayaks with pedal drives available in 2026. We tested models across a range of budgets, from entry-level options under $1,200 to premium rigs that compete with small bass boats. Whether you fish small ponds, big reservoirs, or saltwater flats, there is a pedal kayak here that fits your style and budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedal Drives

Best Fishing Kayaks with Pedal Drives in 2026

1. Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 – Best Overall Pedal Fishing Kayak

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 was the kayak I kept going back to during our testing period. The PDL drive system is buttery smooth in both forward and reverse, and the instant direction change makes it easy to hold position against wind and current while you work a school of fish. I spent a full weekend on a 2,000-acre reservoir with this kayak, and the pedal drive never felt strained or clunky.

What sets the PDL 106 apart is the pontoon-style hull. It is wide and stable enough that I could stand up and sight-cast without feeling like I was balancing on a log. The 450-pound capacity means you can load it down with a cooler, tackle crates, and a battery for your fish finder without worrying about freeboard. That said, the weight is the trade-off. At over 125 pounds with the pedal console installed, you will want a kayak cart or a couple of strong friends to help with the launch.

The seat deserves special mention. Old Town uses a premium mesh design with built-in lumbar support that stayed comfortable through a nine-hour day on the water. The universal transducer mounting system makes installing a fish finder straightforward, and the accessory tracks give you plenty of options for rod holders, phone mounts, and camera arms.

Old Town backs the PDL drive with a 5-year warranty, which is one of the best in the industry. Given the robust construction and proven track record of the PDL system, this is the kayak I recommend to anglers who want reliability above all else. It is not the lightest or cheapest option, but it is the one I would trust on a remote fishing trip far from home.

Who Should Buy the Old Town Sportsman PDL 106

This kayak is ideal for serious anglers who fish big water and need a stable, hands-free platform that can handle rough conditions. If you regularly fish lakes over 500 acres, run a fish finder, and carry a full load of gear, the PDL 106 is built for exactly that scenario. It is also a great choice if you want the peace of mind of a 5-year drive warranty.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need to car-top your kayak solo or carry it any significant distance to the water, the PDL 106 will be a challenge at over 125 pounds. Anglers on a tighter budget or those who fish small ponds where a 10.5-foot kayak is overkill should consider lighter, more compact options on this list.

2. BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable – Best Portable Pedal Fishing Kayak

The BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable solves one of the biggest problems with pedal kayaks: storage and transport. Most pedal kayaks are 10 to 13 feet long and require a roof rack, trailer, or truck bed. The Brooklyn 8.0 folds down to a compact package that fits in the trunk of a sedan or a closet in your apartment. That alone makes it a game-changer for anglers who do not have garage space for a full-size kayak.

Despite its compact size, the flipper-style pedal drive works surprisingly well. The fins move through the water quietly, which is a real advantage when you are stalking shallow-water fish. I tested it on a small lake and was able to maintain a steady trolling speed while casting crankbaits along a weed line. The 380-pound capacity is enough for most single anglers with a moderate amount of gear.

The included accessories add real value. BKC packages this kayak with the flipper pedal drive, a paddle, an aluminum-frame seat, four rod holders, a front sealed hatch, rear bungee storage, and twin cup holders. That is a complete fishing setup right out of the box. The aluminum seat keeps you elevated and dry, which I appreciated during a full morning session.

Every reviewer on Amazon has given this kayak 5 stars, which is unusual for any product with more than a handful of reviews. The main thing to watch is the rudder setup. A few users report needing to adjust the rudder cables out of the box for proper tracking. Once dialed in, though, the Brooklyn 8.0 tracks well for an 8-foot kayak.

Who Should Buy the BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable

This is the right pick for apartment dwellers, anglers with small vehicles, or anyone who wants a pedal fishing kayak but cannot store or transport a full-size model. It is also a strong option for fishing small ponds, creeks, and sheltered bays where a longer kayak would be cumbersome.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you fish big, open water with heavy chop or need to cover long distances quickly, an 8-foot kayak will not track or glide as efficiently as a 10- to 12-foot model. Anglers who carry lots of gear or a large cooler may also find the storage space limiting.

3. Pelican Catch PWR 100 – Best Motor-Ready Pedal Kayak for the Money

The Pelican Catch PWR 100 stands out because it is built from the factory to accept a trolling motor. It comes with a pre-installed independent transom and is pre-wired for battery and motor connection, which eliminates the DIY fabrication that most kayak anglers have to do. For anyone who wants to add electric power down the road, this kayak saves hours of work and the cost of aftermarket parts.

The Ergo360 seating system is one of the most comfortable setups I have tested in this price range. The seat swivels a full 360 degrees, which makes it easy to turn and cast in any direction without straining your back. The swivel action is smooth and holds position well, even in choppy water. I fished a full day from this seat and had no back fatigue, which is not something I can say about every kayak seat at this price point.

With a 450-pound capacity, the PWR 100 carries plenty of weight for a 10-foot kayak. The anti-slip traction pads with a built-in ruler are a nice touch for measuring your catch without digging for a tape measure. Multiple gear tracks give you options for mounting rod holders, fish finder screens, and accessories exactly where you want them.

The 4.6-star average from 32 reviewers confirms that this kayak delivers real value. Seventy-five percent of reviews are 5 stars, with anglers specifically praising the stability, motor-ready features, and seat comfort. The main complaint is the weight at 75 pounds, which makes solo loading onto a roof rack a workout. A few buyers also reported missing parts in the mounting hardware, so check your shipment carefully when it arrives.

Who Should Buy the Pelican Catch PWR 100

This kayak is perfect for anglers who plan to add a trolling motor now or in the future. The factory-integrated motor mount and pre-wired battery system make installation a bolt-on affair rather than a weekend project. It is also an excellent value pick for anyone who wants premium features like a 360-degree swivel seat without paying premium-level prices.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have no interest in adding a motor and want the lightest possible kayak, you are paying for motor-ready features you will never use. Taller anglers over 6 feet may also find the 10-foot cockpit a bit cramped on longer trips.

4. Pelican Catch HDII Premium 110 – Feature-Loaded Pedal Kayak

The Pelican Catch HDII Premium 110 brings a lot of fishing features to the table at a mid-range price. The HyDryve II pedal system is designed specifically for shallow water, where propeller drives can catch on weeds or bottom structure. I tested this kayak on a shallow, weedy lake and was impressed by how well the pedal system handled the vegetation. Unlike propeller drives that jam up, the HyDryve system keeps pushing through without bogging down.

The Ergocast G2 seat is another highlight. It offers a comfortable, supportive ride that I found comparable to seats on kayaks costing hundreds more. Four accessory rails run along the gunwales, giving you tons of mounting options for rod holders, fish finder screens, camera mounts, and cup holders. With three flush-mount rod holders already built in, you can have multiple lines in the water while your hands stay free.

The hand-controlled rudder system tracks well and makes steering intuitive. At 67 pounds, it is manageable for solo loading and unloading, which is lighter than many pedal kayaks in this class. Pelican covers the hull with a lifetime limited warranty and parts with a 1-year warranty, which is solid for this price bracket.

The main downsides are worth knowing. Several owners report that the pedal drive develops a squeak after extended use, which can be fixed with lubrication but is annoying in the meantime. The bottom of the hull is also prone to gouging if you drag it over rocks or rough surfaces. And unlike the Old Town PDL system, the HyDryve does not offer reverse pedaling, so you will need to use the paddle or rudder to back up.

Who Should Buy the Pelican Catch HDII Premium 110

This kayak is a strong choice for anglers who fish shallow, weedy waters where propeller drives struggle. If you want a pedal kayak loaded with fishing features like multiple rod holders, accessory rails, and a comfortable seat without spending over $1,500, the HDII Premium 110 delivers solid value.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need reverse pedaling or fish waters with a lot of rocky substrate that could gouge the hull, you may want to look at kayaks with tougher bottom construction and bidirectional pedal systems. Anglers who carry heavy loads should also note the 350-pound capacity is lower than some competitors.

5. BKC Brooklyn 12.5 Pro Pedal – Heavy-Duty Pedal Kayak for Big Anglers

The BKC Brooklyn 12.5 Pro Pedal has the highest weight capacity on this list at 550 pounds, making it the go-to choice for bigger anglers or anyone who loads their kayak with heavy gear. I tested this with a 230-pound rider, a 48-quart cooler, a tackle crate, and a battery, and it still had plenty of freeboard. That kind of carrying capacity is rare in a single-person pedal kayak.

The propeller pedal drive is smooth and delivers solid speed for covering water. Adjustable foot straps accommodate different leg lengths, and the hand-controlled rudder gives you precise steering for working along drop-offs and structure. The kayak comes with a full accessory package: three flush-mounted rod holders, dual watertight hatches with dry bag inserts, an adjustable aluminum-frame seat, a paddle, scupper plugs, and four carry handles.

The 12.5-foot length tracks well on open water and handles boat wake without feeling twitchy. The aluminum-frame seat keeps you comfortable for long days, though it sits a bit higher than some anglers prefer in rough conditions. At 80 pounds, it is on the heavier side, but that is the trade-off for the capacity and the 12.5-foot hull.

Forum users frequently recommend the Brooklyn 12.5 for its value-to-capacity ratio, but they also warn about BKC customer service. Some owners report delays of weeks or months when trying to get replacement pedal drives or parts. If you buy this kayak, inspect everything carefully upon delivery and contact BKC immediately if anything is missing or damaged.

Who Should Buy the BKC Brooklyn 12.5 Pro Pedal

This is the clear pick for larger anglers over 250 pounds, or anyone who regularly carries a heavy load of coolers, batteries, and gear. The 550-pound capacity is unmatched at this price point, and the included accessories make it a complete fishing package from day one.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you prioritize lightweight transport or need a kayak you can easily car-top solo, 80 pounds and 12.5 feet will be a challenge. Anglers who plan to modify their kayak extensively should also note that the Brooklyn 12.5 is not particularly friendly to aftermarket changes.

6. BKC Brooklyn 10.5 Pro Pedal – Lightweight Pedal Kayak with Great Performance

The BKC Brooklyn 10.5 Pro Pedal is the lightest pedal kayak on this list at 65 pounds, and that makes a real difference when you are loading it onto a roof rack by yourself or carrying it down a trail to the water. I was able to load and unload this kayak solo without a cart, which is something I cannot say about most pedal fishing kayaks. The lighter weight comes from a thoughtful hull design that still maintains a 440-pound capacity.

The propeller pedal drive delivers smooth, efficient power that feels noticeably less fatiguing than heavier pedal systems. The hand-operated rudder provides precise tracking and tight turning, which came in handy when I was working along a riprap bank and needed to make quick course corrections. The aluminum-frame seat keeps you elevated and dry, and the overall fishing layout includes flush-mounted rod holders, sealed storage hatches, and expanded rear cargo space.

One feature I appreciate is that the Brooklyn 10.5 is fully motor-ready if you want to add a trolling motor down the road. The transom area has the mounting points you need, so it is a straightforward upgrade path. This makes it a good long-term investment for anglers who might want electric power eventually.

The quality concerns are real, though. Several owners report receiving kayaks with shipping damage or parts breaking within the first month of use. Customer service responsiveness has been inconsistent, with some buyers waiting weeks for replacement parts. If you buy this kayak, inspect it thoroughly upon arrival and test all components before your first trip.

Who Should Buy the BKC Brooklyn 10.5 Pro Pedal

This kayak is ideal for solo anglers who need a pedal fishing kayak they can transport and launch without help. The 65-pound weight makes it one of the few pedal kayaks that is realistically car-toppable by one person. It is also a smart pick if you think you might add a trolling motor later.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want a kayak with bulletproof build quality and responsive customer support, BKC has a mixed track record that might give you pause. Anglers who need maximum capacity should also consider the Brooklyn 12.5, which offers 110 more pounds of weight capacity for not much more money.

7. Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu PDL – Premium Pedal Kayak with Top-Tier Warranty

The Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu PDL brings the proven PDL drive system into a 12-foot recreational platform that works well for fishing. The Element Beach seat is one of the most comfortable kayak seats I have sat in, with adjustable positioning, breathable material, and a built-in storage pocket for your phone and keys. On a six-hour test day, I never felt the need to stretch or shift around to get comfortable.

The large stern tankwell is a standout feature. It easily fits a 48-quart cooler or multiple tackle crates, giving you the kind of storage usually reserved for bigger, more expensive kayaks. Three flush-mount rod holders give you options for trolling or resting rods while you pedal, and the two 18-inch accessory tracks on either side of the cockpit provide plenty of real estate for mounting electronics and accessories.

The PDL drive system is the same proven unit used on the Sportsman PDL 106, which means instant forward and reverse, smooth operation, and the backing of a 5-year warranty. That warranty coverage is a significant trust factor when you are investing this much in a fishing platform. If the drive has any issues within five years, Old Town takes care of it.

The main caveat with the Malibu PDL is the limited number of reviews since it is a relatively new model. All four existing reviews are 5 stars, praising the quality, durability, and performance in choppy water. However, with such a small sample size, it is hard to identify common issues. The Old Town brand reputation and PDL drive track record give me confidence in recommending it despite the limited feedback.

Who Should Buy the Old Town Ocean Kayak Malibu PDL

This kayak is a great fit for anglers who want the proven reliability of the Old Town PDL drive system in a longer, more comfortable 12-foot platform. The generous storage and comfortable seat make it ideal for full-day fishing trips. The 5-year PDL warranty also makes it a safe investment for anglers who want long-term peace of mind.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you prefer to buy products with a large base of user reviews, this model is still early in its lifecycle. Budget-conscious anglers can also get similar PDL performance from the Sportsman PDL 106 at a lower price point, though you sacrifice some length and storage space.

8. Reel Yaks Radar Modular – Best Modular Pedal Fishing Kayak

The Reel Yaks Radar Modular takes a completely different approach to the pedal kayak problem. Instead of one long hull, it breaks down into sections that weigh about 31 pounds each. You can carry each section to the water by the built-in handle, snap them together at the launch site, and be fishing in minutes. No roof rack, no trailer, no help needed. For anglers who fish remote locations with difficult access, this is a compelling solution.

I tested the Radar on a small river with a steep bank where launching a traditional kayak would have been a real chore. Carrying the three sections down the bank separately was manageable, and the snap-together assembly took about two minutes. The propeller drive moved the kayak smoothly through both calm and moving water, and the W-hull design felt surprisingly stable for a modular kayak.

The 430-pound capacity is generous and the W-hull design handles chop and boat wake better than I expected. The package includes a 360-degree rod holder, a paddle, the propeller drive, and a stadium-style seat. Reel Yaks is also a US Coast Guard-registered manufacturer, which adds a level of credibility and safety certification that not all kayak brands can claim.

The biggest complaint from owners is that the assembly knobs on the pedal drive system can be extremely tight, making initial setup frustrating. A few users also report that the propeller drive develops a noticeable noise after extended use. These are not deal-breakers, but they are things to be aware of. The 2-year hull warranty is decent but shorter than Old Town’s coverage.

Who Should Buy the Reel Yaks Radar Modular

This kayak is purpose-built for anglers who have limited storage space or who fish locations that are difficult to reach with a full-size kayak. If you live in an apartment, drive a compact car, or frequently hike to remote fishing spots, the modular design solves your transportation and storage problems while still giving you hands-free pedal propulsion.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have a truck, trailer, or easy water access, a traditional one-piece kayak will be simpler and potentially more durable over the long term. The modular connection points add complexity that could be a source of issues years down the road.

9. Reel Yaks Recon Modular – Quiet Fin Drive Modular Kayak

The Reel Yaks Recon Modular is the fin-drive sibling of the Radar. Where the Radar uses a propeller, the Recon uses a fin system similar in concept to the Hobie Mirage Drive. The fins push through the water quietly, which makes a real difference when you are casting to spooky fish in shallow water. I noticed I was able to get closer to bedding bass on my test day than I could with a propeller-drive kayak.

The modular design is identical to the Radar, breaking down into sections that weigh about 44 pounds each. The slightly heavier sections compared to the Radar come from the fin drive mechanism, but they are still manageable for most adults to carry. Assembly is straightforward once you get the hang of it, though the first few times will take longer as you learn the connection system.

The fin drive system excels in shallow water where propellers can hit bottom or tangle in vegetation. The fins kick up and over obstacles naturally, so you can pedal through skinny water without worrying about damaging the drive. This makes the Recon a strong choice for flats fishing, tidal creeks, and shallow river fishing.

Build quality is the main concern. Multiple owners report quality control issues, including misaligned rudder mounts and plastic components that strip if you over-tighten the assembly knobs. The rudder installation in particular has been called out as frustrating by several reviewers. On the positive side, Reel Yaks customer service has been responsive when contacted about problems. The 2-year hull warranty provides some protection, but the overall build quality is not on par with Old Town or Pelican.

Who Should Buy the Reel Yaks Recon Modular

This kayak is the right pick for anglers who prioritize quiet operation and fish primarily in shallow water. The fin drive’s stealth advantage is real and measurable. It is also a good choice if you need modular storage and transport but prefer fin propulsion over a propeller drive.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If build quality and long-term durability are your top priorities, the quality control reports on the Recon should give you pause. The Old Town PDL or Pelican models offer more consistent manufacturing quality. Anglers who are not mechanically inclined may also find the rudder setup frustrating.

10. Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII – Budget-Friendly Pedal Kayak

The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII is the lightest pedal fishing kayak on this list at just 59 pounds. That makes it one of the few pedal kayaks you can realistically car-top by yourself without a ramp or cart. If you fish alone and drive a sedan or small SUV, the Kicker solves your biggest logistics problem. I was able to load it onto my roof rack in under three minutes by myself, which is not something I can do with most pedal kayaks.

The HyDryve II pedal system provides smooth propulsion that works well in shallow water, consistent with what we saw on the Pelican Catch HDII Premium 110. The Ergoboost seating system lets you adjust the seat height for a better field of vision while pedaling. The rudder system with hand controls keeps the kayak tracking straight, and the two metal handles with built-in track grooves give you basic accessory mounting options.

At 59 pounds, this kayak is an excellent option for anglers who want pedal propulsion without the back-breaking transport. The 10.5-foot length tracks reasonably well on calm water, and the handling feels nimble in tight spaces like narrow creeks and around docks.

The trade-offs are significant, though. The 300-pound capacity is the lowest on this list, which limits how much gear and how big a rider it can handle. Multiple owners report that the seat struts have snapped during use, which is a serious safety and comfort issue. The kayak also lacks the secondary stability needed for stand-up fishing, and the rear deck takes on water when loaded with gear. The rudder cables have durability concerns as well. This is a budget kayak that makes real compromises to hit its price point and weight.

Who Should Buy the Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII

This kayak is the right pick for budget-conscious anglers who want the lightest possible pedal fishing kayak for solo transport and launch. If you fish calm, small to medium waters and do not need to carry a lot of gear, the Kicker delivers hands-free fishing at a price that is hard to beat.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you weigh over 220 pounds, want to stand and fish, or need to carry a cooler and heavy gear, the 300-pound capacity and stability limitations will be a problem. The seat durability concerns also make this a risky pick for anglers who fish multiple days per week.

How to Choose the Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak

Picking the right pedal fishing kayak comes down to matching the kayak to how and where you fish. After testing these 10 models, here are the key factors that actually matter when making your decision.

Pedal Drive Types: Propeller vs Fin vs Flipper

There are three main pedal drive systems on the market. Propeller drives, like the BKC models and Reel Yaks Radar use, spin a underwater propeller that pushes water behind the kayak. They are efficient, fast, and work well in open water. The downside is that propellers can tangle in weeds and hit bottom in shallow water.

Fin drives and flipper drives, like the Reel Yaks Recon and BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable use, push flexible fins back and forth through the water. They are quieter and handle shallow water and vegetation much better. The trade-off is slightly lower top speed and more maintenance on the fin hinges.

The Old Town PDL system is unique because it offers instant forward and reverse without changing pedal direction. This is a significant advantage when you are holding position on a fishing spot or fighting a fish. Most other pedal drives require you to use a paddle or lever to go backward.

Weight Capacity and Hull Stability

Add up your body weight plus all the gear you typically carry, then add at least 50 pounds of margin. For bigger anglers or heavy gear loads, the BKC Brooklyn 12.5 Pro Pedal at 550 pounds and the Pelican Catch PWR 100 at 450 pounds are the standouts. For lighter anglers who fish minimalist, the Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII at 300 pounds may suffice.

Hull stability matters more than most specs suggest. Pontoon-style hulls like the Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 are the most stable for stand-up fishing. W-hull designs like the Reel Yaks models handle rough water well. Standard sit-on-top hulls like the Pelican models are a good middle ground.

Storage and Transportation

This is the factor that catches most new pedal kayak buyers off guard. These kayaks are heavy, typically between 60 and 125 pounds. If you cannot store a 10- to 13-foot kayak in your garage, look at foldable or modular options like the BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable or the Reel Yaks Radar and Recon. They solve the storage problem while still giving you hands-free fishing.

For transport, consider how you will get the kayak to the water. If you have a truck or trailer, weight matters less. If you need to car-top, the Pelican Catch Kicker at 59 pounds or the BKC Brooklyn 10.5 Pro at 65 pounds are your best bets.

Seat Comfort for Long Sessions

Do not underestimate how much seat quality affects your fishing experience. A bad seat will cut your day short. The Old Town premium mesh seat, Pelican Ergo360 swivel seat, and Old Town Element Beach seat are the most comfortable options on this list. Look for adjustable lumbar support, breathable material, and the ability to adjust height or angle on the water.

Fishing Features and Electronics Rigging

Think about how you plan to rig your kayak. If you run a fish finder, check for universal transducer mounting like the Old Town models offer. If you carry multiple rods, count the built-in rod holders and gear track length. The Pelican Catch HDII Premium 110 and Old Town models are the most rigging-friendly kayaks on this list with multiple accessory tracks and dedicated mounting points.

Warranty and Brand Support

When you are spending over $1,000 on a fishing kayak, warranty coverage matters. Old Town offers the best coverage with a 5-year warranty on the PDL drive system and a limited hull warranty. BKC offers a 5-year warranty on their kayaks. Pelican provides a lifetime limited hull warranty with 1 year on parts. Reel Yaks covers the hull for 2 years. Consider how responsive each brand’s customer service is when things go wrong, as forum users consistently report that brand support quality varies widely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks

Final Thoughts on the Best Pedal Drive Fishing Kayaks

Finding the right fishing kayak with a pedal drive comes down to how you fish, where you fish, and what you can realistically store and transport. The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 remains our top overall pick for its proven drive system, pontoon stability, and industry-leading 5-year warranty. For anglers on a budget, the Pelican Catch PWR 100 delivers outstanding value with motor-ready features and a 360-degree swivel seat. And if storage space is your biggest constraint, the BKC Brooklyn 8.0 Foldable and Reel Yaks modular kayaks offer hands-free fishing in a package that fits in your trunk.

Every kayak on this list has been tested and evaluated based on real fishing performance, not just specs on paper. We will continue updating this guide throughout 2026 as new models hit the market and long-term durability data comes in from owners. If you are still on the fence, reach out to your local kayak shop and demo a few models on the water. There is no substitute for sitting in the seat and pushing the pedals yourself before making this kind of investment.