Looking for a pedal kayak that doesn’t cost a fortune?
You’re not the only one. More anglers are switching to pedal kayaks because they free up your hands, let you cover more water, and make fishing way easier. But many of the top-tier options are well over $2,000.
That’s why in this video, we’ve rounded up 5 of the best budget fishing kayaks with pedals. Each one has the features you need for fishing without draining your savings.
After watching the video, be sure to check the links in the description below for the best budget fishing kayak with pedals. Now, let’s get started.
5 Best Budget Fishing Kayaks with Pedals (2025 Review):
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🚣#1. Reel Yaks 11’ Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak
The Reel Yaks 11’ is one of the most complete budget pedal kayaks out there. It strikes a smart balance between comfort, function, and price—and it shows.
The direct-drive pedal system is smooth and ideal for calm lakes and backwaters. You won’t hit top speeds, but you’ll stay hands-free and focused on fishing. It’s easy to use, even for beginners.
The kayak is 34 inches wide and 11 feet long, offering excellent stability. Standing up to cast or sight fish feels natural, even if you’re not a seasoned paddler. You won’t get that wobbly feeling common in narrow boats.
The raised mesh seat is a standout feature. It offers better posture and keeps you dry—a rare touch in the budget range. You also get rear and front bungee storage, a dry hatch, and gear tracks for customizing your setup.
It supports up to 500 lbs, so it’s perfect for larger anglers or those who bring lots of gear.
At about 75 lbs, it’s not ultralight, but it is manageable with a cart or pickup bed.
If you’re after a well-equipped, stable, and comfortable kayak that stays under budget, this one’s hard to beat. Easily one of the best pedal fishing kayaks for the money.
🚣#2. Pelican Getaway 110 HDII – Lightweight and Portable
The Pelican Getaway 110 HDII is one of the lightest pedal kayaks at just 59 lbs, making it perfect for solo anglers who need a kayak that’s easy to transport. You can lift it onto a roof rack or pull it across land without much effort.
With a 33-inch-wide hull, it offers solid stability for seated fishing. It’s not ideal for standing, but it’s steady enough for calm waters like lakes and slow rivers.
The HyDryve II pedal system uses a simple fin-style drive that’s quiet, easy to maintain, and works well for slow, hands-free cruising. It’s not the fastest, but it gets you where you need to go with ease.
The seat is raised for comfort and airflow, though it’s more basic than higher-end models. You also get front and rear bungee storage for gear, but there’s no sealed hatch. Still, it’s good for minimal gear and short trips.
It has a 300 lb weight capacity, which is perfect for lighter loads but won’t handle heavy gear or larger anglers. Rod holders aren’t built-in, but you can easily mount them using gear tracks or flat deck areas.
At this price, it’s one of the best budget pedal fishing kayaks for anglers looking for something portable, stable, and easy to use.
If you want a cheap fishing kayak with pedals that’s easy to load, carry, and fish from, this is a smart, simple choice.
🚣 #3. Reel Yaks Radar Series 10’
The Radar 10’ from Reel Yaks is a solid middle-ground option. It’s compact, stable, and offers solid features at a budget-friendly price.
The kayak is just 10 feet long, which makes it easier to transport and store. Still, it’s 34 inches wide, so stability isn’t sacrificed. You can stand and cast if needed, though most will sit comfortably in the raised mesh seat.
Its fin-style pedal system is easy to operate and reliable. It’s slower than premium options but gets you around quietly and hands-free—perfect for slow rivers and calm lakes.
There’s a sealed front hatch, bungee rear storage, gear tracks, and flush rod holders. The 400 lb capacity gives you plenty of room for gear or a small cooler.
At around 70 lbs, it’s not super light, but still manageable with a cart.
A great option if you want a budget pedal kayak that doesn’t feel stripped down. Simple, smart, and fully fishable.
🚣 #4. Pelican Catch HDII
The Pelican Catch HDII pushes the upper end of the budget category but delivers big on features.
At 12 feet long and 34 inches wide, it’s stable enough to stand and cast comfortably. This is a kayak that feels premium without the premium price. The flat hull handles wind and waves better than most in its class.
The HyDryve II pedal system performs well in flat and slightly choppy water. The hand-controlled rudder helps you steer precisely—something not all pedal kayaks offer.
You get gear tracks, flush rod holders, front and rear storage, and an adjustable elevated seat that makes long trips much easier on your back.
With a 425 lb weight capacity, you can pack a full day’s worth of gear without stress.
At about 78 lbs, it’s not the easiest to transport solo, but the build quality and space make it worth the lift.
If you want more comfort, space, and features while staying under budget, this is a great choice. Best for anglers who fish often and want a reliable setup they won’t outgrow.
🚣#5. BKC PK11 Solo Sit-On-Top Pedal Drive Kayak
The BKC PK11 is one of the most affordable fishing kayaks with pedals that doesn’t cut corners on essential features. It’s perfect for solo anglers who want a flexible setup, upgrade options, and a solid pedal system.
At just under 11 feet long, the PK11 is easy to handle both on and off the water. It weighs around 65 lbs without the pedal drive, making it one of the more portable options in its class. Whether you’re throwing it in the back of a pickup or dragging it to the water’s edge, it’s doable for one person.
The pedal drive system is smooth and easy to operate. You won’t break any speed records, but you’ll move efficiently and keep your hands free to cast, troll, or reach for your next lure. The rudder system is controlled by hand and gives you excellent turning ability—something a lot of budget kayaks lack.
Where the PK11 really shines is in features. You get a dry storage hatch, a large rear tank well, a paddle included (rare for pedal kayaks), and even a pre-installed trolling motor mount. That’s a big plus if you ever want to upgrade your setup without drilling or modifying anything.
The seat is elevated and adjustable, though not as plush as some pricier models. Still, it’s supportive enough for multi-hour trips, especially on calm waters.
Rod holders come built-in, and there are flat areas on the deck where you can mount more accessories if needed. With a 420 lb weight capacity, you’ve got room for your gear, a small cooler, and whatever else you need.
This kayak is best suited for lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. It’s not made for heavy currents or ocean waves, but for casual and serious freshwater anglers, it works great.
🧭 Which Budget Fishing Kayak with Pedals Should You Buy?
If you want the most fishing-friendly setup without overspending, the Reel Yaks 11’ gives you the best blend of value, features, and comfort.
But if you need something lighter or simpler, the Pelican Getaway 110 is a great entry point.
🧾 Final Words
Finding a good budget pedal fishing kayak doesn’t mean you have to settle for junk.
Every kayak we covered today offers a different kind of value—whether it’s portability, comfort, gear space, or upgrade potential.
The right choice comes down to where you fish, how much gear you carry, and how much time you spend on the water.
Pedal drive changes the game—more casts, less fatigue, and more fish in the boat.
Last Updated on October 1, 2025 by Marie Johnson
