Paddle or pedal

I'm probably opening up a can of worms here but I'm in the process of choosing a kayak and at this point can only buy one.  So feel free to weigh in regarding which way to go with regards to propulsion, paddle or pedal.  At ORC I noticed 80+% of the yaks were pedal types, either Hobie or Native Watercraft.  I'm trying for that sweet spot of a kayak that will do all things, lakes rivers and near inshore ocean fishing.  What do people think about the best way to move your kayak through the water and fish?

Yep, the lid is off!
We all have our own personal preferences and I am in the Hobie Mirage Drive corner.
Having fished from a row boat as a kid, I knew that "hands free fishing" was a real advantage, so I bypassed the paddle kayak when I made the move after selling my 18' Jetcraft boat 4 years ago.
I would suggest trying both types of kayaks to see what is most comfortable for you...then pick your ride!

Don't worry about starting a war - this question gets asked so often that we can answer for each other anymore.

The only places that paddle yaks have a clear advantage are in shallow or fast moving water. Pedal yaks are really lake, large river, and ocean boats.

Guys that have both almost always chose to use their pedal yaks. 80% of the people might be wrong, but they are don't give a crap - they are happy not having to pick up a paddle...

It really depends on what you plan to do. I use my kayak for a large variety, ranging ftom rivers and lakes, ocean and bays to hunting the crappiest marshes you can imagine. For me a paddle is the only practical way. I never had a problem trolling as long as my hooks are sharp I don't miss anything, or atleast I dont know I did . Have only played with pedal yaks, but never underdtood how they were better for long distance. I have never seen a sit-in pedal yak, but they are the true long haul machines.  All my friends who travel long distances paddle. Now that I have really stirred the pot, good night everyone.

I usually lake fish this time of the year, covering 8 to 9.5 miles at an average of 1.7 mph.
Since I am trolling and if not using my down rigger, I can hold my rod and "pump the action" of my quickfish or spinner while peddling.......try that some time with a paddle kayak!
Another benefit is your legs offer more endurance Vs your arms over the long haul.......I am more than 70 (older fart)  and have no problems covering these distances in my PA-14, fishing multiple days in a row.  It also is good exercise for your waist line......I easily maintain  178 pounds on my  6' frame and no special diet.
A couple glasses of zinfandel is all I need in the evening with dinner....that's my story and I am sticking to it.   

but never underdtood how they were better for long distance.

Really? Like DSC said, your legs are much larger and stronger muscles then your arms and you can paddle for a while if your legs get tired. Can't do the opposite in a sink. I would bet on a comparable hulled pedal boat lika an adventure over a paddle yak fon an endurance test every time...

Guys we are comparing apples to oranges. Even a 27" wide plastic adventure is a completely different vessel than a 24" wide glass or kevlar SINK. The narrow sea kayak is going to take a considerably higher level of skill to fish heavier gear from and still stay upright. 

I have both. Caught tons of fish off both. But there is simply too much advantage to hands free propulsion in the saltwater fishing I mainly do. Less gear tangling. Holding position in current. Move while fighting fish. Etc. No doubt both will catch fish. I just think hands free is a lot of advantage the paddlers need to overcome. It's done everyday by folks...

Thanks all for the opinion.   Seems like there is somewhat of a consensus on pedaling except for shallow water.   Now I could really set things off by asking what is the best micro brew beer (FYI, Ninkasi of course)!

Pedaling is for lazy people who lack coordination.   

-Spot-

If you are a kayaker transitioning to kayak fishing, then strongly consider a paddle yak.

If you are a fisherman transitioning to kayak fishing, get a Hobie Revo13 and just start fishing.

Pedaling is for lazy people who lack coordination.   

Perhaps, but my freezer is full of salmon, ling, and crab.

Ummmm.......when's the last time there was a 'group order' for cast aluminum paddles???  Lol! Just kidding fellers.....

To be honest, I ALWAYS carry my paddle on my Revo13.  Occasionally, I'll even use it to beach among rocks.

Pedaling is for lazy people who lack coordination.   

-Spot-

now you know why i got a pedal boat....

To be honest, I ALWAYS carry my paddle on my Revo13.  Occasionally, I'll even use it to beach among rocks.

I use my paddle every time i go out, the first ten feet when i launch and the last ten feet when i land..