Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The old town malibu pedal t 12 ft kayak alternatives list helps you find similar options if this specific model does not fit your needs. This 12-foot sit-on-top kayak offers a 686-pound capacity and dual pedal drives for hands-free navigation. It is designed for ocean use with ample stern storage and built-in rod holders. You might look elsewhere if you need a shorter vessel for easier transport or a different propulsion style.
We selected these 6 picks because their specifications overlap with the original model. The list includes other 12-foot pedal kayaks like the Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Horizon, which shares the same hull length and sit-on-top design. You will also find modular options like the Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft and Recon 10.5ft for anglers with limited storage space. The Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Kayak adds electric assist for shallow water fishing. Each alternative maintains key features like pedal drives and fishing-ready storage, allowing you to compare lengths, weights, and construction types to find the right fit.
How each alternative compares
Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak
The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak shares the same 12-foot length and dual pedal drive system as the original model. The primary difference is the color option, with this version available in Horizon instead of Lava. Both models offer identical seating styles and ocean-ready designs. You get the same hands-free navigation and stern tankwell storage. Choose this alternative if you prefer the Horizon colorway while maintaining the robust stability and high capacity of the original Malibu Pedal T design for coastal fishing trips.
Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak differs significantly in construction and propulsion. It features an inflatable hull with a width of 48 inches and a length of 138 inches. Unlike the rigid Malibu, this kayak includes electric trolling motor assist alongside its pedal drive system. This combination allows for quiet navigation in shallow waters and obstacle avoidance. It is ideal for anglers who need portability and electric assistance. However, it lacks the fixed structural stability of the 12-foot hardshell, offering a different experience for remote fishing locations where transport ease is critical.
Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
The Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak is much shorter at 9.5 feet and weighs only 66 pounds. It uses a modular construction design, making it easier to store in tight spaces compared to the 12-foot Malibu. While it retains a sit-on-top style and pedal drive, the reduced length means less total weight capacity and cargo space. This model suits anglers with limited vehicle or home storage. You trade the high 686-pound capacity and long-hull tracking of the original for a lightweight, compact solution that prioritizes convenience over maximum load potential.
Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
The Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak offers a 10.5-foot length and weighs 88 pounds. It features a fin drive pedal system, which differs from the dual drive of the Malibu. The modular design allows for compact storage, similar to the Raider but slightly longer. This kayak provides high load capacity relative to its size, though it still falls short of the Malibu’s 686-pound limit. It is best for anglers who need a balance between storage convenience and reasonable cargo space. You gain portability but lose the extended tracking and dual-propulsion precision of the 12-foot original.
Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak
The Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak matches the Raider in length and weight at 82 pounds. It also uses a modular construction and pedal drive system. The camouflage color and large size designation suggest a focus on blending in during calm water fishing. This kayak sacrifices the 12-foot Malibu’s length and high capacity for easier transport and storage. It is a practical choice for anglers who prioritize stability in calm conditions over long-distance tracking. You get a stable, easy-to-store platform but with significantly less total weight capacity and hull length than the original.
Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak is an 11-foot model weighing only 59 pounds. It features a 33-inch width, which is narrower than the 36-inch platform of the Malibu. This kayak uses a pedal drive for steering, offering precise maneuverability for solo anglers. It provides easy transport due to its low weight but lacks the high capacity and dual-propulsion system of the original. Choose this alternative if you value lightweight handling and precise steering over raw stability and cargo space. It is a practical pick for solo trips where maneuverability matters more than maximum load potential.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high capacity and dual pedal drives
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 13 ft 6 in
- Capacity
- 686 lb
- Person Capacity
- 2 person
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Seat Type
- Adjustable, breathable frame seats
View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak Affiliate link
The Old Town Malibu Pedal T is a 12-foot sit-on-top kayak with a 686-pound capacity. It features a dual forward and reverse pedal drive system for hands-free navigation. The design includes adjustable breathable frame seats and stern tankwells for storage. This model suits anglers needing stability and ample room for gear or a companion on fresh or salt water.
Pros
- Dual independent forward and reverse pedal drives
- 686-pound total weight capacity
- Adjustable breathable frame seats
- Stern tankwells for ample storage
- 36-inch wide hull for stability
Cons
- Limited to two color options
- No mention of integrated rod holder count
- Heavier build due to dual drive system
Good fit if
- You need high weight capacity for gear or a second person
- You want hands-free propulsion in saltwater
- You prefer adjustable seating for long trips
Skip if
- You require a single-person compact kayak
- You need motor mounting capability
- You prefer inflatable portability
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12ft offers robust stability and dual propulsion for serious anglers. It fits those prioritizing capacity and hands-free control over compact storage.
Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak
Best for: hands-free ocean fishing and beach use
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 250 lb
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Seat Type
- Element Beach seat
- Use
- Recreation, Ocean
View on Amazon: Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak Affiliate link
This 12-foot sit-on-top kayak features a hands-free pedal drive for forward and reverse propulsion. The Horizon colorway includes a breathable, removable Element Beach seat that doubles as a standalone chair. You get three flush-mount rod holders and two 18-inch accessory tracks for gear. The large stern tankwell offers ample storage for coolers and essentials. It is built for ocean use and suits anglers who want to keep their hands free.
Pros
- Hands-free pedal drive for forward and reverse movement
- Removable breathable seat converts to a beach chair
- Three flush-mount rod holders for fishing
- Large stern tankwell for gear and coolers
Cons
- Fixed 12-foot length limits transportability
- No included trolling motor mount specified
- Only two accessory tracks for customization
Good fit if
- You want hands-free propulsion for fishing
- You need a seat that doubles as a beach chair
- You require a 12-foot kayak for ocean use
Skip if
- You prefer a sit-inside design
- You need a shorter kayak for easy storage
- You require pre-installed rod holders that are not flush-mount
Verdict: Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Horizon is a stable ocean kayak for anglers who prioritize hands-free pedaling and versatile seating. It fits those who value the convenience of a removable beach chair and ample stern storage.
Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing electric assist in shallow waters
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 11.5 ft
- Person Capacity
- 1 person
- Inflatable
- Inflatable
- Use
- Fishing
- Propulsion
- Pedal Drive, Trolling Motor, Pedal
View on Amazon: Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak Affiliate link
This inflatable sit-on-top kayak measures 11.5 feet long and 48 inches wide. It features a flipper fin pedal drive and includes a 34 lbs thrust trolling motor with an anchor system. The design supports one person. You get a wide platform for stability and an adjustable seat. This setup suits anglers who need quiet electric assist and obstacle-avoiding pedals for weedy or shallow waters.
Pros
- Flipper fin pedal drive avoids grass tangles
- Includes 34 lbs thrust 12V trolling motor
- Wide 48-inch beam for primary stability
- Adjustable seat rotates 360 degrees
Cons
- Limited to one person capacity
- Inflatable construction requires setup time
- Heavier build due to motor and anchor gear
Good fit if
- You fish in shallow, weedy flats
- You want electric assist for long trips
- You need a stable platform for standing
Skip if
- You prefer hard-shell durability
- You need to transport two adults
- You want a lightweight solo paddle craft
Verdict: Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Pedal Kayak fits anglers who need electric propulsion and obstacle-avoiding pedals. It offers stability for standing and quiet motor assist for remote spots.
Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
Best for: Anglers with limited storage space
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Construction
- Modular sections, W-hull
- Length
- 114 inches
- Capacity
- 380 lb
- Propulsion
- Propeller pedal drive
- Hull Type
- W-hull
View on Amazon: Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak Affiliate link
The Reel Yaks Raider is a 9.5-foot modular sit-on-top kayak designed for fishing. It features a W-hull for stability and a propeller pedal drive for hands-free movement. The total capacity is 380 lbs, and the kayak weighs 66 lbs. You can disassemble it into sections for easy storage and transport. This model suits anglers who need a lightweight, customizable fishing platform.
Pros
- Modular construction allows for easy assembly and compact storage
- Propeller pedal drive provides quiet, hands-free propulsion
- W-hull design offers stability in rough waters
- Lightweight at 66 lbs with built-in handles on sections
- 380 lb capacity supports gear and angler weight
Cons
- 9.5-foot length is shorter than the 10.5 to 12-foot competitors
- 380 lb capacity is lower than the 400 lb option on the list
- Knee-friendly seating may not suit all sitting preferences
Good fit if
- You have limited storage space for a full-size kayak
- You need a lightweight kayak that fits in a car trunk
- You prefer hands-free pedaling for fishing
Skip if
- You require a longer hull for higher speed
- You need a capacity above 400 lbs
- You prefer traditional seat seating over knee-friendly options
Verdict: Reel Yaks Raider Modular 9.5ft is a practical choice for anglers who prioritize portability and modular storage over maximum length and capacity. It fits those with tight vehicle or home storage constraints.
Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing compact storage and high capacity
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 10.5 ft
- Capacity
- 400 lb
- Propulsion
- Fin pedal drive
- Hull Type
- W-hull
- Use
- Fishing
View on Amazon: Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak Affiliate link
The Reel Yaks Recon is a 10.5-foot modular sit-on-top kayak with a 400 lb capacity. It uses a fin drive pedal system for hands-free movement. The W-hull design offers stability for fishing. Its two-piece construction allows for easy transport and compact storage. This kayak suits anglers who need portability without sacrificing load capacity.
Pros
- Fin drive pedal propulsion for quiet, hands-free navigation
- 400 lb weight capacity supports heavier gear and anglers
- Modular two-piece design fits in small storage spaces
- W-hull provides enhanced stability on the water
Cons
- 10.5 ft length is shorter than the 12 ft Malibu Pedal T
- 88 lb weight requires physical effort to carry sections
- No integrated cooler or drink holder mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You need to store a kayak in a small apartment or trunk
- You prefer quiet fin drive propulsion over propeller systems
- You require high weight capacity for heavy gear loads
Skip if
- You need a longer hull for greater tracking speed
- You want a single-piece kayak for easier assembly
- You prioritize a propeller drive for stronger thrust
Verdict: Reel Yaks Recon Modular 10.5ft Fin Drive is a practical choice for anglers who prioritize storage convenience and high load capacity over maximum hull length.
Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak
Best for: Calm water fishing and easy storage
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 9.5 ft
- Capacity
- 380 lb
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Hull Type
- W-style
- Use
- Fishing
View on Amazon: Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak Affiliate link
The Efficraft 9.5 ft pedal fishing kayak offers a modular sit-on-top design with a 380 lb capacity. Its W-style hull provides stability in calm waters, while the camouflage finish suits natural environments. The kayak separates into sections for easier transport and storage, weighing 82 lbs total. It features a pedal drive for hands-free propulsion, making it suitable for anglers who need a stable platform for gear.
Pros
- Modular construction allows sections to separate for easier transport and storage.
- 380 lb capacity supports the paddler and fishing gear.
- W-style hull offers stability and tracking in calm water.
- Pedal drive enables hands-free propulsion while casting or trolling.
Cons
- 9.5 ft length is shorter than the 12 ft Old Town Malibu Pedal T.
- 82 lb total weight is heavier than some non-modular alternatives.
- Limited to calm water conditions due to hull design.
Good fit if
- You need a kayak that separates for easier storage in small spaces.
- You prefer a stable platform for fishing in calm lakes or ponds.
- You want hands-free propulsion for casting and trolling.
Skip if
- You require a longer hull for better tracking in open water.
- You need a lighter kayak for frequent solo carrying.
- You plan to fish in rough or windy conditions.
Verdict: Efficraft 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak fits anglers who prioritize easy storage and stability in calm waters over long-distance tracking.
Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak
Best for: Solo anglers seeking lightweight pedal steering
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 126 inches
- Propulsion
- HyDryve II pedal system
- Seat Type
- Ergoboost seating system
- Fishing Features
- In-handle rigging tracks, rudder
- Use
- Fishing
View on Amazon: Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak Affiliate link
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII is an 11-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak. It weighs 59 pounds and measures 33 inches wide. You get the HyDryve II pedal system for propulsion and a rudder for steering. The Ergoboost seat offers adjustable height. This setup suits anglers who want pedal power and maneuverability in a lightweight package.
Pros
- HyDryve II fin pedal system for efficient propulsion
- Adjustable Ergoboost seating system for better visibility
- Integrated rudder for straight tracking and steering
- In-handle rigging tracks for accessory mounting
- Lightweight 59-pound construction for easy transport
Cons
- Narrow 33-inch width may feel less stable
- No mention of a built-in cooler compartment
- Rudder control handle may interfere with leg space
Good fit if
- You prioritize lightweight portability for car-topping
- You want precise steering via a rudder system
- You prefer pedal propulsion over paddle effort
Skip if
- You need high stability for large-framed users
- You require integrated storage for large gear
- You prefer a wider hull for calm waters
Verdict: Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII fits anglers who value easy transport and precise steering over maximum stability. It is a practical pick for solo fishing trips where maneuverability matters more than raw cargo space.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Malibu Pedal T 12 ft Kayak | Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak | Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak | Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak | Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak | Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak | Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top |
| Construction | not stated | not stated | not stated | Modular sections, W-hull | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Length | 13 ft 6 in | 12 ft | 11.5 ft | 114 inches | 10.5 ft | 9.5 ft | 126 inches |
| Capacity | 686 lb | 250 lb | not stated | 380 lb | 400 lb | 380 lb | not stated |
| Person Capacity | 2 person | not stated | 1 person | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Propulsion | Pedal drive | Pedal drive | not stated | Propeller pedal drive | Fin pedal drive | Pedal drive | HyDryve II pedal system |
| Hull Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | W-hull | W-hull | W-style | not stated |
| Inflatable | not stated | not stated | Inflatable | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Seat Type | Adjustable, breathable frame seats | Element Beach seat | not stated | Knee-friendly seating | not stated | not stated | Ergoboost seating system |
| Fishing Features | Built-in rod holders | not stated | not stated | Customizable fishing setup | not stated | not stated | In-handle rigging tracks, rudder |
| Use | Recreation, Ocean | Recreation, Ocean | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing |
| Color | Lava | Horizon | Fishleap+Motor+Anchor System | Black White Red | Blue Gray | camouflage | Amazonia |
| Size | Length 12 Ft | Length 12 Ft | not stated | not stated | not stated | Large | not stated |
| Ferrule Type | not stated | not stated | Adjustable | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| For | not stated | not stated | not stated | Adults | Adults | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | not stated | 138 × 48 × 5.91 inches | 114 × 35.4 × 13 inches | 126 × 35.4 × 13 inches | 114 × 35.4 × 13 inches | 126 × 33 × 11.3 inches |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | 66 pounds | 88 pounds | 82 pounds | 59 pounds |
| Model | 01.7535.0005 | 01.7560.0702 | not stated | Raid95PopRwb | not stated | not stated | MHP10P105-00 |
Frequently asked questions
Are there shorter alternatives to the 12-foot Old Town Malibu?
Yes, several compact options fit tighter storage spaces. The Reel Yaks Raider measures 9.5 feet and weighs 66 pounds. The Efficraft model is also 9.5 feet long and weighs 82 pounds. Both use modular construction for easier transport. The Reel Yaks Recon is slightly longer at 10.5 feet but still shorter than the 12-foot Malibu.
Can I find a pedal kayak with electric assist?
The Spatium 11.5ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak includes electric propulsion. It features a trolling motor for quiet movement in shallow waters. This model also offers obstacle-avoiding pedals for stability. It is an inflatable sit-on-top design with a width of 48 inches. This setup suits anglers needing versatile power sources.
Which alternative is best for limited vehicle storage?
The Reel Yaks Raider and Efficraft models are ideal for small garages. Both measure 9.5 feet in length. The Raider weighs 66 pounds, while the Efficraft weighs 82 pounds. Their modular construction allows for disassembly. This makes them easier to store in tight spaces compared to the rigid 12-foot Old Town Malibu.
Is there a lightweight pedal kayak under 60 pounds?
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII weighs 59 pounds. It is 11 feet long and uses a pedal drive system. This makes it lighter than the Old Town Malibu Pedal T. The Reel Yaks Raider is also light at 66 pounds. Both options prioritize easy transport over maximum cargo capacity.
Do any alternatives offer a fin drive system?
The Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak uses a fin drive. It combines this with a standard pedal drive for versatile propulsion. The kayak is 10.5 feet long and weighs 88 pounds. This setup offers high load capacity while maintaining a compact footprint for storage.
Which kayak is suitable for ocean fishing?
The Old Town Malibu Pedal 12-Foot Sit-on-Top Kayak is rated for ocean use. It shares the same dual pedal drive as the Malibu Pedal T. The Spatium 11.5ft is designed for fishing in general conditions. It offers stability for standing and electric assist for remote spots. Other models are primarily marked for general fishing use.
Are there camouflage color options available?
The Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak comes in a camouflage color. It is a large-sized kayak designed for calm waters. The Old Town Malibu Pedal T is available in Lava. The Horizon version offers a different aesthetic. Most other models come in standard colors like black, white, red, or blue gray.






