In recent years, pedal kayaks have grown in popularity.  Originally designed for anglers, pedal kayaks are also popular now with recreational kayakers who enjoy using a boat with foot-powered propulsion.  One of the main advantages of pedal kayaks is that they allow you to move across the water hands-free, making activities like fishing or taking photos easier. Some people also find they can propel their kayak with less effort using foot pedals versus a paddle.  Of course, you can still paddle a kayak with foot pedals.

There are several different styles of kayak foot pedals on the market today.  The Perception Pilot model  comes with a bicycle-style rotational peddle drive that users pedal in a circular fashion (versus a push pedal fin drive). This motion feels natural for most kayakers and, one key advantage offered by this drive over some other pedal drives is the ability to go in reverse without making any additional adjustments.  Some pedal drives must be removed from their housing and flipped to accommodate reverse paddling.  

The patent-pending Helix PDTM Pedal Drive* for Wilderness Systems Radar 115 and 135 features a 6:1 gear ratio precision-tuned to a 14 x 17 two-bladed fixed pitch prop. The Helix PD is the most efficient and intuitive pedal system ever engineered. Fully deployed, the system is optimized for maximum speed in exchange for less effort so you can be hands-free to fish all day. A groundbreaking auto-raising mast achieves zero draft with a spring-loaded kick pedal, and the unit can be further stowed forward and out of the way to complete the 3-phases of possible positioning.

All pedal drives must be retracted when the kayak enters shallow waters, typically at depths of less than 18 inches.  So, when launching or landing, your pedal drive should be retracted to a zero or low draft position and then you will deploy the pedal drive while on the water.

Basic maintenance for a pedal drive kayak involves a low-pressure fresh water rinse after use on salt water and annual lubrication of the drive following the instructions provided in the kayak owner’s manual.

Paddlers of any age or ability can enjoy a pedal-drive kayak such as the Perception Pescador Pilot.