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3 Waters Big Fish 105 PDL Review: Compact Pedal Kayak

3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak KayakDIY Review
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Pedal Kayaks · Fishing

If you have been eyeing a pedal kayak but dreading the thought of hauling a 12-foot barge to the ramp, the Big Fish 105 PDL might be your answer. It takes everything people love about the Big Fish series, the stability, the comfy seat, the fishability, and shrinks it into a 10-foot-6 hull that fits

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If you have been eyeing a pedal kayak but dreading the thought of hauling a 12-foot barge to the ramp, the Big Fish 105 PDL might be your answer. It takes everything people love about the Big Fish series, the stability, the comfy seat, the fishability, and shrinks it into a 10-foot-6 hull that fits in a truck bed. I have spent time in the paddle version of this boat, and the pedal version adds a whole new layer of hands-free fishing.

If you want to skip ahead and see what it costs, check the current price here.

3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak KayakDIY Review

Who This Kayak Is For

This is the boat for the angler who fishes ponds, small lakes, and calm rivers, and who does not want to wrestle a heavy kayak at every launch. If you are working tight cover, flipping docks, or hopping between small bodies of water, the compact size is a real advantage. It is also a strong pick for bigger anglers who want a shorter boat without giving up capacity.

Stability on the Water

The cathedral tri-hull is the heart of this kayak. It has two outer pontoons plus a center pontoon with deep channels between them, and it feels rock solid when you are sitting. Standing takes a little practice in a 33.25-inch beam, but the reinforced padded standing platform gives your feet a grippy, flat spot. I would call the standing stability good, not amazing, which is exactly what you expect at this size and price.

Seat and Comfort

The EZ Rider seat is one of the best in this class. It adjusts to multiple positions, high, low, and recline, and you can flip it out of the way to use it as a lean bar when standing. The mesh keeps you cool and drains water fast. On a long summer day, the difference between this seat and a basic pad seat is the difference between fishing eight hours and quitting at noon.

Storage and Rigging

For a 10.5-foot boat, the storage is generous. You get a large stern tankwell with bungees that fits a standard crate, a bow storage area with bungees, and an integrated tackle box pocket right behind the seat. UNI-Track rails run along the gunwales for rod holders, camera mounts, and fish finder arms with no drilling. Two flush mount rod holders are built in, and there is a paddle holder and cup holder too.

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Pedal Drive Performance

The Profish pedal drive moves this hull well. It is a bicycle-style drive, so most people get the hang of it in minutes. The EZ Steer system with the Beaver Tail rudder gives you solid steering control. Because the boat is short, it turns on a dime, which is great for working shorelines and pockets. A standout feature is the 4-point stern mount, so you can add a small motor or a Power Pole later without any hull surgery.

The 4-point stern mount is ready for a few good options: a PowerPole Micro anchor, Newport Motors, or Bixpy.

Honest Drawbacks

Let us be real. At 99 pounds without the drive (the drive adds another 21 pounds), this is not a lightweight boat. You will want a cart for longer carries. The short hull also means it is not as fast as a 12-foot pedal kayak, so crossing big open water takes more time. And paddles are not included, so budget for one.

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3 Waters Big Fish 105 PDL Specs

Spec Detail
Length 10’6″
Width 33.25″
Weight 99 lbs (hull, excluding drive)
Weight capacity 350 lbs
Drive type Profish pedal drive (21 lbs)

Frequently Asked Questions

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3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak FAQ

Is the Big Fish 105 PDL good for standing and fishing?

Yes, for most anglers. The cathedral tri-hull and padded standing platform give you a solid base. Like any 10-foot kayak, it is steadier in calm water than in chop.

How heavy is the Big Fish 105 PDL?

The hull weighs 99 pounds without the pedal drive. Add 21 pounds for the Profish drive, and you are at 120 pounds fully rigged. A kayak cart is highly recommended.

Can I put a motor on the Big Fish 105 PDL?

Yes. It has a 4-point stern mount designed for trolling motors and is compatible with Power Pole and Newport Vessel motors.

Does it come with a paddle?

No, paddles are sold separately, so factor that into your budget.

Where to Buy

If the 3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:

Check Current Price

For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official 3 Waters website for the 3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive. Also check out our reviews of the 3 Waters Big Fish 120 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak, 3 Waters Big Fish 105 V3 Fishing Kayak, 3 Waters Big Fish 120 V3 Fishing Kayak, Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak, and Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Fishing Kayak.