NorthWest Kayak Anglers
Kayak Fishing => The Kayak Shack => Topic started by: Spot on February 04, 2014, 10:36:43 AM
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Let's hear it? Who still paddles?
If I went by current posts, it would appear that pedalers are the majority here. So, all you paddlers stand up and be counted! Especially if you're a lurker.
Thanks!
-Spot-
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Both...does that count?
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My single is a paddle, my tandem is a peddle.
Honestly that's mostly due to budget, though. The long term plan is to get a Revo 13 for my single boat. That said, I really enjoy paddling. I just find it harder to fish, although after doing it for a while it's getting easier. The rub is that rod holders would/will help, but ironically get more in the way the more you paddle (IMHO).
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I own both pedal and paddle kayaks and do both. I paddle to play in the surf and pedal to troll for trout/kokanee.
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Like RumLuck wrote, if I do both does it count? I don't see it as a pick one type question. Use the best tool for the job.
I spend most of my fishing time pedaling but I still paddle on occasion. I find the feeling of getting into a good paddle cadence on flat water very relaxing, especially when in a fast boat. There is no way I'd ever try to pedal whitewater or surf. Paddling in those conditions for sure.
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Added a poll.
-Allen
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Paddle here. Of course that is the only option on the Wavewalk, but that being said, it paddles very easy and I am not stuck in one position. Standing up and stretching out is really nice.
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Paddle +1. I bought a paddle kayak when I started to see if I liked it b4 I went all out and bought a hobie mirage drive.I like the workout to be honest.
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... That said, I really enjoy paddling. I just find it harder to fish, although after doing it for a while it's getting easier. The rub is that rod holders would/will help, but ironically get more in the way the more you paddle (IMHO).
Good points CR. I think a lot of people feel the same way. There is more of a learning curve to paddling for fish. That said though, if your cockpit is set-up correctly, a paddle kayak can open up techniques that aren't easy options on a pedal kayak.
Keep em coming guys!
-Spot-
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Spot/Allen-
You forgot to add the option "I'm a purist; peddling is cheating and therefore no longer kayaking" or "motorized" >:D
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Paddler here. But not entirely by choice. If I could afford a Hobie I'd have one. Though if I did have a pedal yak I'd still keep the paddle yaks for when they work the best.
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Im still a total newb to this. I pedal only because I was lucky enough to sell off the dirtbike addiction for the kayak I wanted. but will soon be trying to get my hands on T13 or something similar.
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Both here! 3 of 5 boats are paddle craft, but those pedals are nice to have!!
South Sounders drink up!! ;D >:D
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I use a paddle from time to time. Sometimes a paddle has an advantage in certain situations, like going through a swampy shit hole to a duck hunting spot.
Agreed, south Sounders, take your shot!
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I swing whichever way is most effective for the purpose I am using it for. Allegiance to the sport doesn't mean only using one kind of boat, a broad repitoire of abilities and capabilities means a much wider scope of situations that you can effectively fish.
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I swing whichever way is most effective for the purpose I am using it for. Allegiance to the sport doesn't mean only using one kind of boat, a broad repitoire of abilities and capabilities means a much wider scope of situations that you can effectively fish.
I agree.
-Spot-
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I have been a whitewater kayaker since 1985, and I own four whitewater kayaks. When I began kayak fishing, I bought a 13' Trident paddle kayak. Last year I bought a 13' Revolution pedal kayak. At this point (a) I paddle when whitewater kayaking, (b) I paddle my Trident when spearfishing, when fishing on rivers, and sometimes when fishing on lakes, and (c) at this point I prefer to pedal my Revolution when fishing on lakes, due to its greater speed, reduced effort, availability of hands-free fishing, greater ability to hold the kayak stationary over the bottom for jigging, and the ability to carry bigger downriggers.
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Occasionally I have to paddle backwards in my Hobies. ;) But in all seriousness, I do both. I have a couple cedar strip boats I love to paddle and they are each about 35 lbs so I can carry them anywhere. I have not used either for over a year because I loaned the seats for them to other people.
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I ain't no pedal pusher! Paddle all the way! :laugh:
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Two out backs and a mini-X. I think I was every bit as successful paddling as I was pedaling. I'm a HUGE proponent of hands free fishing. But on a per trip basis I did every bit as well in my mini-x (fishing saltwater, no less) as I do my Hobies. I think success is more a function of planning and effort as are many things in life...but dang, I LOVE the efficiency if the mirage drives...especially in windy conditions.
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almost forgot to take my South Sound shot :spittake:
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Paddle, '08 T15 when I can get out and away from all consuming work supporting our troops, or the doc says I'm cleared for exercise again.
Had an I9s that worked out ok for small water fishing
Prefer the paddle. like the. workout . Hobies seati g and pedal position seem awkward to me and aggravate the spinal injury.
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I peddle a tank but do use the paddle only to back up.
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Well, i'm still putting my stuff together to fish off mine (Elie Gulf 120XL), but purely a paddler here... I'd love to give a pedal boat a try but haven't had a chance yet.
Jim
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That Elie always looked like a nice All purpose boat when I saw the in stores. Should be a greaone to pass down thru the family.
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Paddle the F-N-D! One day I'll peddle...but for now...
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Paddle the F-N-D! One day I'll peddle...but for now...
Nothing wrong with a F'n'D! That was my first boat, and will always have a spot in my quiver! I'm sure pelagic would agree with me too!;D
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There's a time and place for both pedals and paddles...I have four boats, two with mirage drives, a short river boat and a long sea kayak. I will say I get much more use out of the mirage drive boats as it's just easier for me to fish without a paddle in my hands. for example, if I'm out on the ocean bottom fishing and get hung up, I can quickly change directions and get "upstream" of the snag in a flash...without having to put my rod down. On the other hand, If I'm fishing a river, I wouldn't want turbo fins hanging down under my boat.
As much as my wife would like me to, it would be narrow minded of me to limit myself to one type of boat.
I also use both spinning and casting reels... and have a jeep, a motorcycle and a family car.
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Both, paddle for touring, ww, and multiday, pedals for fish, photo and leisurely floating. 3 of 9 are pedaled.
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I swing whichever way is most effective for the purpose I am using it for. Allegiance to the sport doesn't mean only using one kind of boat, a broad repertoire of abilities and capabilities means a much wider scope of situations that you can effectively fish.
Nicely stated Yakbum, I'm getting all misty eyed ::) I chose "Both" because I finally have both options available. My kayaking started with paddling my Ocean Kayak Trident T-11, but most of the guys I hung out with had Hobies, so I always wondered. Well, I bought a Hobie Revo 13 last year in need of some TLC, but haven't been in it yet. :o Moving back to the PNW very soon, that will change as I plan to get back to my home waters and chasing fish again. As you've stated, I will peddle or paddle, whichever is most effective for the purpose I am using it for.
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Come on lurkers chime in! It doesn't matter if you have 1000hrs on the water or 10. I want to know what kind of equipment you're using.
-Spot-
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OK Trident 15 Angler! Love it. Full Wheeleez cart fits in the front hatch. Slices through big waves. Great fishing platform for my needs. Those lawn chair models do look nice for anchoring up though.
Also currently rigging our tandem Necky sea kayak for fishing this Spring with my kids, pics to follow.
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Come on lurkers chime in! It doesn't matter if you have 1000hrs on the water or 10. I want to know what kind of equipment you're using.
OK, I did - wasn't going to since I haven't pedaled/paddled in almost 3 months! Been busy with holidays and other winter activities - but time to get back at it. ;D
If I went by current posts, it would appear that pedalers are the majority here. So, all you paddlers stand up and be counted! Especially if you're a lurker.
Interesting theory - though the current polling seems to be neck and neck. Maybe the pedalers are just a louder group!
Sam
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Saw this video on FB. It's for a FL kayak fishing tournament. I thought it was funny. The Native Slayer Propel seems to be getting traction down there in the southeast.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=743423379002025
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Hey im riding in a 12 ft perception. Pescador. No fishfinder on board. I only use gps plotter. I have a fishfinder i just havent used it yet. All stock no mods . Longest paddle i could find.. just basic average joe cabelas paddle . 49 bucks. Average cruising speed 3.0 in currents. 3.4 3.5 knots in calm water. Back pack full of tackle,dry storage with.extra clothes. Watetproof box for keys wallet etc. No dry suit. Been out in all coconditions never felt uunsafe . . Love this. Yak
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Thanks to members continually selling off their kayaks, I'm now up to four paddle kayaks. I've got to cover all situations for family and friends. I've got my original Trident-11 plus another lightly used one and then a Trident-13 and most recently bought Indyflyer's Emotion Mojo I haven't had a chance to try out yet. I still need to modify a couple of milk crates, get one more rod pod and two fish finders and I hope I'll be caught up. I got a two rod endorsement for 2014 so I'll be a real quick draw expert soon. Either that or wish I was pedaling.
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Look at the results so far ... neck and neck. Not what I was expecting.
-Allen
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+1 Paddle
I bought my Jackson Cuda 12 Illuminati last year and love it! I've got two GT90 tracks and backing plates waiting for install, a Visicarbon Pro, anchor trolley, and a tricked out crate. This year plan mods are homemade rod leashes and paddle leash, fish finder (looking at the new Humminbird 688c DI), kayak cart, and drift anchor setup. As soon as it gets warm (hard to think about with snow on the ground ;D) hope to practice some SOT recovery.
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Saw this video on FB. It's for a FL kayak fishing tournament. I thought it was funny. The Native Slayer Propel seems to be getting traction down there in the southeast.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=743423379002025
Looks like the Mirage drive is even better ;)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0rvFdLdplA
skip to 0:40
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iPaddle, started in sink, went to SOT and now returning to a sink, always with a paddle. Bracing, tight turns and backing up just seem easier for me with a paddle in my hand. Haven't had issues with paddle in hand/lap while fishing, whether I am using a rod & reel or Cuban handline.
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I Paddle a Old Town Discovery 119 single seat canoe. Made a new front thwart with three Scotty mounts in it. I also have a Eagle cuda 350 fish finder that I mount on one side. It has worked out great but this year I want to get a Revo 13 so we will see if I can go fish with some of you all some day here soon.
Darkbeer
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I paddle because I just enjoy the workout. I hurt my back years ago, and I look at paddling at helping me retain my core strength. So far it works.
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Look at the results so far ... neck and neck. Not what I was expecting.
-Allen
Yah yah...I also know folks that run single core chip processors and they think it's great because the calculator they used prior was an abacus. Until they run the latest equipment, they just don't know. LOL ok ok. no flames. I was just kidding sort of. I can only speak to the specific situations I fish. I caught some really nice fish using a 9ft mini-x in the same waters I fish now and didn't know any better. Having said that, I can barely bench press the "bar" let alone any weight. But I will put my "squat" abilities against any one out there on a pound to pound basis. So naturally I prefer the pedals.
Also in my style of fishing, there are some HUGE advantages to hands free propulsion. But keep in mind I mounted a permanent down rigger base to my kayak. I troll about 90% of the time...even for halibut. In that arena, there is absolutely no question that pedals are superior. I don't have to worry about current direction, wind speed, nothing as I deploy my gear. You DO need to be aware of all of those factors while paddling so you don't get tangled up as you deploy.
Really what it boils down to for me is "can you fish out of it and can you do it safely?" If you can, it's ALL good!!!!
A better question might be what is your PRIMARY kayak. I LOVE my mini-x. lightweight, portable, does everything the outback can do in my waters...with a LOT more effort. But it can be done. I voted pedal, though I do both. I;d be interested in if the "Both" crowd doesn't lean pedaling by a significant margin which would make a difference.
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+1---I have a OK Big Game Prowler. My reason was I have a big problem going where kayaks probably shouldn't go to get at fish like 1"to2" of water rocks,kelp,logs and what not.Plus I use the paddle to push off rocks and smack the sometimes wandering all to close fur bag and plus it looks real cool paddling.( and yes my hull looks like hell,but every scratch has story)
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Both.
I started paddling to fish.
Then I got a Hobble Indenture and knew IT was THE way.
Then I started guiding tourists and paddled so they would not feel bad. Then I noticed that I kinda liked paddling.
Now I've noticed that I leave the drive at home a bit more than half the time I'm out in my boat. Think that's because I've discovered my inner inuit?
Naaaah!
The ridiculously overpriced replacement drive needs a larger shaft to properly fit my boat and I'm too lazy to fix it.
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I do both. might be due to the fact that I'm female and I can't decide.
Pedalling is great for hands free and using my leg strength since I have weenie arms, but there is no replacement for the paddle style kayak. Guess I'll always have at least two kayaks because I can't decide.
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I paddle my Native Ultimate around and my arms get tired. I have fished with Hobie owners and have found a couple of minor advantages to paddling. The reason I have keenly noticed these minor advantages is because I want to offset the profound jealousy and remorse I have for not having a mirage drive boat. Though I am a Native owner, I would not buy their pedal-yak over a mirage-drive.
I would never take my Ultimate out in the big blue but I fish and crab in the bays quite a bit. When I am on anchor fishing out of the Ultimate, I have no complaints. Anytime I am trolling or fighting wind or current I wish I was peddling. Anytime I have to travel more than a few miles in a day I wish I was peddling.
Obviously, it is time to go out and get a mirage drive boat but you get so attached to your boat, sometimes it is hard to go out and get something else. After all, it has filled the freezer so many times and never complained. It would almost be like a married man bringing another woman into the house.
I'm still going to do it someday.
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It would almost be like a married man bringing another woman into the house.
Kayak polygamy isn't necessarily a bad thing ;)
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Kayak polygamy isn't necessarily a bad thing ;)
From the postings on this forum, it is clear that kayak fishers don't feel that kayak fishing is a marriage between one person and one kayak.
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It would almost be like a married man bringing another woman into the house.
Kayak polygamy isn't necessarily a bad thing ;)
I've own 20 different kayaks in the past 10 years. ::)
-Allen
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Loved my WldernessTarpon120, my first kayak. Love my Outback even more. I kept the Tarpon for friends, but love the handsfree fishing. Both are outfitted with FF and anchor trolleys Made a cart and finally broke down and bought a better one. Have added another tool box to back of trailer and sides. Now just waiting for spring. Room for two more kayaks :happy3:
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I'd love it if somebody got one of these things. I really wanna try it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjZmoTaqVVA
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I'd love it if somebody got one of these things. I really wanna try it!
I demo'd one at OR last year. This kayak turned out to be a sweet kayak. I predict if Native ever increases their presence on the west coast, they'll do well with this kayak.
-Allen
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How's the price point comparison?
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Where I live, if I had to choose only one kayak, I'd go with a pedal kayak b/c I can always choose to paddle in it. I love paddling when I'm kayaking. I love pedaling when I'm fishing. My wife and I always took fishing poles on our multi-day kayak/camping trips, but the challenges of stowing the paddle and managing the fishing pole always seemed to be big challenges (in part b/c we hadn't set the kayaks up with rod holders or any other fishing set up).
However, now I fish in the salt and on lakes with an Outback. Love being able to get to spots while I'm also setting up my gear, and I like that pedaling while I troll eliminates the step of hand transfer from paddle to rod.
As many people have already said, though, it's more a matter of choosing for the context than it is one or the other.
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I'd love it if somebody got one of these things. I really wanna try it!
I demo'd one at OR last year. This kayak turned out to be a sweet kayak. I predict if Native ever increases their presence on the west coast, they'll do well with this kayak.
-Allen
Talked with one of the guys at a flyfishing shop here in Gig Harbor who has/uses one out in the Narrows. He loves it, says he can do 6 knots without any problems… I've been waiting for a chance to give one a spin, too… I love the paddling, but I can see how fishing would be lots easier when pedaling…
Jim
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A little while back I would have been in the Pedal only camp. Now I am in the market for a Paddle Kayak to add to my collection. It has been said before that you should choose the right tool for the right job. Maybe it is experience and time the leads you to those special circumstances that require a special tool.I am at that point now.
Don't get me wrong, The Outback will still be my go to kayak of choice. The hands free option just can't be beat.
I have been very vocal about pedal kayaks in the past. Now I am eating my crow with fava beans and looking at adds for used Kayaks.
Wobbler
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A little while back I would have been in the Pedal only camp. Now I am in the market for a Paddle Kayak to add to my collection. It has been said before that you should choose the right tool for the right job. Maybe it is experience and time the leads you to those special circumstances that require a special tool.I am at that point now.
Don't get me wrong, The Outback will still be my go to kayak of choice. The hands free option just can't be beat.
I have been very vocal about pedal kayaks in the past. Now I am eating my crow with fava beans and looking at adds for used Kayaks.
Wobbler
Would that have anything to do with the Bass technique I showed you at the HOW event last summer? ;D
-Spot-
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Would that have anything to do with the Bass technique I showed you at the HOW event last summer? ;D
-Spot-
[/quote]
Yeah, just a little ;D
Wobbler
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Paddle, cuda 12.
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I have a paddle kayak, but would love to have a peddle kayak someday when I decide to finally pony up the money. I've gotten pretty adept at fishing while paddling, but it's certainly not ideal.
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Due to a lack of fundage...And the fear of my wife finding out if I bought a peddler...I paddle
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The thread is a little old but because I just made the switch I will weigh in. I paddled, then I peddled, and now I paddle. I blame the knee but now that I am paddling again, I am digging it. The boat is lighter and turns a ton better.
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... I paddled, then I peddled, and now I paddle. I blame the knee but now that I am paddling again, I am digging it. The boat is lighter and turns a ton better.
What were you pedaling?
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How deep does the water have to be to pedal a Hobie? Some of the skinny water places I have been this year have been full of logs, boulders, and shallow gravel bars. I think paddling would be the only option in some of those spots, not that it would not be nice to be able to cover big distances faster by pedaling.
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foot and a half for the full swing, 6 inches or so to flutter the fins
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I was on an Oasis.
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All three are paddle only. I figured I wanted to get into Kayak Fishing for it's simplicity and exercise. I bicycle a good deal so figured the paddling would help with the upper body.
Seeing how often their gear is in the water and number of casts they get per hour with their hands free while I am paddling, I do envy the peddlers when it comes to fishing.
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I paddle a big tuna by Jackson , and love it. I have taken it up some tight tributaries in the tilly bay and can usually keep up with the Hobie's I have fished along side, unless there holding back on speed for my sake.
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Slow to respond but count me as a paddler.
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I paddle, and paddle...and when I think I can't paddle no more...I dig a little deeper and paddle some more... :banjo:
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I paddle, and paddle...and when I think I can't paddle no more...I dig a little deeper and paddle some more... :banjo:
Running from the banjos in Prinetucky, Scott? :)
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Ha ha! Pretty funny DON. It's ok, I know you got my back buddy. I am just getting ready to do some drilling & cutting on my old yak, need to put some rod tubes on the beast.
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I'm considering a predator or a jackson kayak for duck hunting.
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Ha ha! Pretty funny DON. It's ok, I know you got my back buddy. I am just getting ready to do some drilling & cutting on my old yak, need to put some rod tubes on the beast.
Cool. I might install one or two on my crate. One for the Louisville slugger, one for the net. Ordered my new transducer cable so if don't have to fly blind!
I'm gonna paddle until I can't. I love the F-n-D for stability and capacity. I'll hobie at some point I think but not quite yet.
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I paddle because multitasking is where it's at.
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I Paddle, can't afford to peddle.
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I Paddle, can't afford to peddle.
If you peddle your paddle kayak, you might be able to afford a pedal kayak.
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I Paddle, can't afford to peddle.
If you peddle your paddle kayak, you might be able to afford a pedal kayak.
Demonick will love you for that
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Just sold my Santa Cruz paddle kayak, and will buy a Hobie next spring. Can't wait to have hands free to fish.
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I paddle because it's all I've ever known, and I choose to spend my duckets on quality fishing gear. Sure would love to do both one day ;D
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Pmmpete... just in case you happen to read this.
Well, I've taken your advice; good or bad and I've sold my paddle barge.
Had an old friend stop by from the Midwest on his way to Canada for some fishing. Seems he's been looking at the very same Predator 13 so I've sold him mine. They have gone up in cost by $100.00, made mine easy to sell.
He gave me a sizable down-payment and will pick it up on his way back through, on his way back to Illinois.
It's time to reacquaint myself with Andy Stafford the very pleasant Sales Manager at Scappoose Bay paddle center. I want to demo or rent the Revo and the Outback. I called today; Andy is out but it appears the two yaks I want to try will be in to demo or even rent in a few weeks. How cool, maybe a Christmas present!!!
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I Paddle, can't afford to peddle.
If you peddle your paddle kayak, you might be able to afford a pedal kayak.
Pmmpete... just in case you happen to read this. Well, I've taken your advice; good or bad and I've sold my paddle barge.
I was poking fun at your spelling, not giving you advice. But if you had asked me whether you should trade in your Predator paddle kayak for a pedal kayak, I would have said "Definitely!" I have whitewater kayaked for thirty years, and I was fishing from a 13' Trident. Then I borrowed a friend's Outback, and was immediately totally sold on the advantages of pedal kayaks for lake and ocean fishing. Within a week I bought a 13' Revolution, and do all my lake fishing from it. I now only use my Trident for river fishing and for spearfishing.
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Doh!
That's funny, when you said that I had to look at my spelling, had to study it too... don't know why it looked so right, for so long.
I'm a good target, I rarely know when I'm being spoofed.
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I'm a paddel guy but I wod like to try a hobie or revo .
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I paddle and peddle. I paddled only for 7 years before buying a Hobie. I prefer paddling but the Hobies have a distinct advantage in some conditions and targeting some species. All that said, of the 7 kayaks I have owned in the last 10 years my Eddyline Caribbean is my favorite followed by my OK Prowler 15.
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I paddle, never had the opportunity at half off of hobies. Would sure like one for trolling though I enjoyed the system. I like my paddle for river fishing and surf though.
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I peddle, hobie revo 13.
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Always paddled. White water kayak in the 90's. And my surfboard. But going into Portland Sunday for kayak demo day. To try a Hobie. And Mrs. Surforegon wants to try different fishing kayaks. Should be a fun day.
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Been paddling since i started kayak fishing in 2001, dont foresee myself changing that at any time soon. Tried Hobies and Natives but just not for me.
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I just started kayaking, and I use a peddle Revolution 13. I like paddleing too, but wanted the peddle drive for trolling.
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poll is closed? i peddle.
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poll is closed? i peddle.
so what you selling?
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after july 1st? u can buy in oregon too.
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after july 1st? u can buy in oregon too.
:o >:D :o >:D :o >:D ;D ;)
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I paddle.It seems to work fine for the bottom fishing i do.For the rivers and trolling ,pedals would be nice!
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I do both. I love my Hobie Outback and my OK Trident 11. It all depends on how I feel that day, and how far I need to go etc. If I'm trolling hardware, the Hobie wins most every time.
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Paddle Trident 13. If I wanted it easy I’d use a PB ???
Is there an actual poll I’m not seeing?
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Paddle to the People...Emotion Pro Angler.
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OK Tridemt 11. She's never failed to perform in every form of water I'd ever want to paddle in. She especially shines on the rivers in the winter months. It wasn't till the 2 rod endorsement for springers came out that I threw in the towel & bought a Revo 13. The Hobie-2-rods is the way to troll. :banjo:
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Hobie Revo 13 for open water, Aquaglide Blackfoot inflatable for floating the rivers.
My first few years of kayak fishing took place on an OK Scrambler. I love paddling, but when I bought my first Revo, there was no turning back. Hands-free mobility makes everything from trolling to staying on a pinnacle to working out a snag infinitely easier.
I picked up the Blackfoot less than a year ago, but so far I love it for the rivers and those tight waters that aren't Mirage Drive-friendly.
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I paddled a trident 13 and loved it up until a few months back then I got a revo 13 and the advantages are incredible. I’ve caught a lot of fish that I wouldn’t have while paddling. I will probably sell the trident 13. Paddling is fun, but fishing hands free is the shit! That Revo was a huge purchase for me, it’s worth more than my car, and the wife wasn’t happy when I bought it, but it’s a lot more fun to be around than she is, and I know it will be with me forever. [emoji6] I’ll use a the ten foot Lifetime Tamerak for drifting for steelhead, it’s more stable than the trident and a little easier to maneuver in tight areas.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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I paddle my OK Trident 4.3 Ultra. LOVE IT!
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I paddle my thresher 155 when it is warmer. I like paddling.
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I will probably sell the trident 13.
You should keep it around to float rivers rivers.
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I paddled a trident 13 and loved it up until a few months back then I got a revo 13 and the advantages are incredible.
I pedaled a Revo 13 for a couple of years until the drawbacks and disadvantages became too much to put up with, replaced it with a Trident 13 and haven't looked back. I'm probably one of the few who disliked a Hobie enough to get rid of one, but the 5% of the time when pedaling had any advantage for me never outweighed the other 95% of the time when it wasn't worth the PITA.
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I paddled a trident 13 and loved it up until a few months back then I got a revo 13 and the advantages are incredible.
I pedaled a Revo 13 for a couple of years until the drawbacks and disadvantages became too much to put up with, replaced it with a Trident 13 and haven't looked back. I'm probably one of the few who disliked a Hobie enough to get rid of one, but the 5% of the time when pedaling had any advantage for me never outweighed the other 95% of the time when it wasn't worth the PITA.
Interesting. I think you're the first person I've heard of who went from a pedal-drive to a paddle kayak for non-medical reasons--usually it's the other way around. If you don't mind me asking, what turned you off to the pedal system?
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If you don't mind me asking, what turned you off to the pedal system?
X2. Curious about this. Do spend most of you time running rivers?
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I don't spend much time running the rivers - and I have (and have had) a Trident 11 for when I do.
The Hobie could get me to a fishing spot reasonably quickly - although I never outran surfs12foot* - but once I was there, it really didn't do me much good. I had to pull out the paddle to hold position or make a sharp maneuver or back away from the rocks or get back out of a kelp bed... Plus I gave up a huge amount of room I could have otherwise used, from my lap to my toes, to the Mirage drive, and even the MD180 drive and a reverse meant I'd still have give up all that space.
The Revo was amazingly stable and inspired confidence in rough conditions, but unless one trolls - and I don't - it had too many drawbacks for me.
I'm going to give kokanee fishing a try this year, so I may regret my decision. We'll see.
* When passing across a hairy stretch of washing machine conditions, surfs12foot easily pulled away from me and left me and the Revo in the metaphorical dust.
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Copy that. I hear ya on the nimbleness of a paddle kayak, and kelp/weeds can be a PITA with a Mirage Drive. I too would prefer a paddle kayak when fishing close to wash rocks and inside kelp beds.
Interestingly enough, the day I was sold on a Hobie was on a rockfishing trip. There was a stiff drift pushing all of us paddle kayakers off the pinnacles, making for difficult fishing conditions. But the Hobie guys simply pointed themselves into the current, and lazily pedaled to sit on top of the pinnacles. They just crushed the fish. Same situation with the wind: if the wind picked up, your day of rockfishing from a paddle kayak was basically over. But the Hobie guys could keep on fishing, pedaling into the wind just enough to stay on top of the pinnacles.
Another factor that played into my decision was the ability to rip plugs. Ripping plugs across the flats for big brown trout and smallmouth bass was one of my favorite springtime activities in the northern Sierras. It's literally impossible to rip a plug while trolling from a paddle kayak.
I don't fish brown trout or bass up here on the Oregon coast, but I'm damn glad to have the Hobie for salmon trolling. I can't imagine what a PITA it would be to troll these estuaries on a strong tide with only a paddle kayak. Hats off to those of you who do!
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The Revo 13 is my Fishing Choice , For Pleasure on the water with a Long Narrow Paddler I will take any time, Just not Fishing.
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I enjoy my Trident 4.3 very much. I have been in choppy water beside a Hobie, and I get much less splash as I paddle my as along. My wife asked if I wanted a different kayak, but no I don’t. Trolling and holding positions against current or wind would be the only time pedals would be that big of an advantage.
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Both
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I really liked paddling my trident 13, great yak and I enjoy paddling for fun in other yaks. Have done multiple 40 miles a day in a sea kayak. Very nice to just be quiet and get a rythem. Can’t run anymore :-).
But in fishing Puget Sound it’s either tides, current, wind or all three you’re fighting all the time. While I really enjoy the challenge, there are times it’s just nice to be able to hold your place while holding a pole at the same time. Before deciding to switch to a hobie revo 13 I did some test peddling/paddling comparisons in the revo. Clearly I can peddle and hold a pole. But I can paddle the revo about the same speed I can the trident by just pushing the fins to the side of the hull and grabbing the paddle. So, I hope to be able to paddle as fast/far in the revo while having the option to peddle into the water flow to hold and jig vertically. Plus, I have a reasonably quick reverse, which was the straw that broke the tridents back. Best of both for me anyway...but there was a cost of real estate space due to the area consumed by the drive unit that I will have to figure out. Part of the game.
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I really liked paddling my trident 13, great yak and I enjoy paddling for fun in other yaks. Have done multiple 40 miles a day in a sea kayak. Very nice to just be quiet and get a rythem. Can’t run anymore :-).
But in fishing Puget Sound it’s either tides, current, wind or all three you’re fighting all the time. While I really enjoy the challenge, there are times it’s just nice to be able to hold your place while holding a pole at the same time. Before deciding to switch to a hobie revo 13 I did some test peddling/paddling comparisons in the revo. Clearly I can peddle and hold a pole. But I can paddle the revo about the same speed I can the trident by just pushing the fins to the side of the hull and grabbing the paddle. So, I hope to be able to paddle as fast/far in the revo while having the option to peddle into the water flow to hold and jig vertically. Plus, I have a reasonably quick reverse, which was the straw that broke the tridents back. Best of both for me anyway...but there was a cost of real estate space due to the area consumed by the drive unit that I will have to figure out. Part of the game.
So are you going to change your forum name to "Revolution 13?"
I also have a 13' Trident and a 13' Revolution, and while the Trident is a great kayak, it mostly languishes in my garage because I prefer to fish from my Revolution. During the last couple of weeks I've been jigging for lake trout with a friend who paddles a Trident. I have a lot easier time staying stationary over the bottom, and I definitely wouldn't swap kayaks with him. On the other hand, he has outfished me a couple of times, so the Trident isn't too much of a handicap.
I've found that adding a simple wind direction indicator to my kayak really helps me hold my kayak stationary over the bottom. For a description of my wind direction indicator, see http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=18212.msg195603#msg195603 .
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I prefer paddling. Love my Viking Profish Reload. I tried pedal and get why so many love it. Hands free, downriggers, staying on top of a spot, and trolling ease are all benefits of the pedal yak, but it takes a lot of the fun out of it for me. If I want to pedal, I ride my bike. On the water I want to paddle. Maybe if my rotator cuff ever gives out I’ll switch, but until then happy paddling.
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"If I want to pedal, I ride my bike. On the water I want to paddle."
That's my attitude, too. Nothing against pedals, though.
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I can't believe I've never responded to this thread.
Here are the reasons I paddle...
1.) I haven't found a pedal kayak with a decent surf-friendly hull
2.) I get plenty of pedal exercise on my daily bike commute to and from work. So, I feel I need the upper body exercise that paddling provides.
3.) Pedal kayaks used to be heavier than paddle kayaks. Recent paddle kayak models are also heavy and I'm not a fan (I really don't care if they Bubba the 400 lb bass angler feels stable or not)
4.) Having my paddle on my lap is a bit of a security blanket.. I'm always ready to brace for that rouge wave
5.) I can't justify the cost of a pedal kayak. I can buy two or three really nice carbon fiber paddles for the price differential.
6.) I have a really nice paddle and yes it makes a difference.
That said there are a few times I wish I had a pedal kayak
1.) Trolling 360 flashers for salmon... those things pull too much to one side. Maybe I just need a rudder to counter that.
2.) Any slow trolling that requires one to be right on the bottom and hands on the rod at all times (e.g. fishing prawn spinners for springers)
3.) Bottom fishing in strong wind or current and trying to stay above a particular spot.
4.) When I'm paddling against the current and my wife calls... I hate loosing ground because she keeps talking and won't let me hang up. I'd should probably try and put her on speaker phone, but I'm guessing the wind would be an issue. True story.... I'm paddling against the current to get back to my car... my wife calls and asks "How long until you're home?" I respond 2 hrs (30 min paddle, 30 pack up, 1 hr drive). She proceeds to talk about her day. Finally, she says.. "So see you at 4" and I respond "Nope more like 5-5:30, I just lost a mile against a 2+ kt current while you were talking"
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I can't believe I've never responded to this thread.
+1
Both, now. I paddled a F&D for years. Just got an Outback in 2018.
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I really liked paddling my trident 13, great yak and I enjoy paddling for fun in other yaks. Have done multiple 40 miles a day in a sea kayak. Very nice to just be quiet and get a rythem. Can’t run anymore :-).
But in fishing Puget Sound it’s either tides, current, wind or all three you’re fighting all the time. While I really enjoy the challenge, there are times it’s just nice to be able to hold your place while holding a pole at the same time. Before deciding to switch to a hobie revo 13 I did some test peddling/paddling comparisons in the revo. Clearly I can peddle and hold a pole. But I can paddle the revo about the same speed I can the trident by just pushing the fins to the side of the hull and grabbing the paddle. So, I hope to be able to paddle as fast/far in the revo while having the option to peddle into the water flow to hold and jig vertically. Plus, I have a reasonably quick reverse, which was the straw that broke the tridents back. Best of both for me anyway...but there was a cost of real estate space due to the area consumed by the drive unit that I will have to figure out. Part of the game.
Trident 13,
I'm well into my first fishing season with my 2012, T13. I'm extremely happy with this design. The sleek hull, light weight, seaworthiness, and easy paddling, make it a pleasure on the water. However, I'm struggling to find a handy position for my rod holder. As a moocher/jigger, I need ready and quick access to my rod. The aft integral mounts aren't usable (old back injuries make twisting around painful, also can't see rod tip). Have you any suggestions for a rod holder location, that won't interfere with paddling and keep my rod within easy reach? Presently, I have a Scotty rod holder mounted, well forward, on the mod pod (right behind the FF shield).
Any ideas would help,
kaz (Glen)
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I also paddle and I like it, Vibe 130 in the past and Thresher 140 now. But honestly I have started thinking about pedals because I have found about nice and cheap Riot Mako with ocean friendly hull. Hope I can save and buy it in couple of months. Please provide any opinions if you already got it. :)
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Before I bought a 2012 Trident 13, I was seriously looking at the Mako12, but I couldn't find reliable references. On Amazon there are a few product reviews, but they mostly complain about shipping damage. At least one of these Amazon buyers has a few short videos on Youtube.
You might a search at NCKA. IIRC, one of their members had recently bought a M12. I'm not sure if this buyer has commented on the yaks performance.
I agree that the M12 has a seaworthy-looking hull design. I just wish there were reviews.