Pedal and flipper kayaks change the kayak fishing experience. Instead of paddling you use your legs, and your hands stay free for your rods. Galaxy Kayaks offers three different models with a pedal or flipper system, each made for a different fishing style and budget.
How do the pedal and flipper systems work?
Galaxy Kayaks uses two propulsion technologies: the Cyclone Drive pedal system and the flipper (fin) drive. They work differently and have different advantages.
Cyclone Drive pedal system
Cyclone Drive is a pedal system developed by Galaxy Kayaks that works much like bicycle pedals, only underwater. Pedalling turns a propeller that pushes the kayak forwards or backwards. Yes, backwards too: you simply change your pedalling direction. This is very handy when fishing and you need to position the kayak precisely.
The Cyclone Drive is made from LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene) with no screws, and is mounted on a front hinge that lets you easily raise and lower the mechanism into the water. Dimensions: 515 x 255 x 156.5 mm.
Flipper (fin) system
The flipper system works differently: instead of a propeller it uses two fins that move back and forth, much like a penguin's feet. The movement is quiet and efficient, which is why flippers are especially popular with anglers who do not want to spook fish with the noise of a motor or propeller.
The flipper system also has a smaller underwater footprint, so it suits shallower water where a propeller could catch on the bottom or weeds.
Galaxy Kayaks pedal models
Galaxy Wildcat: a flipper kayak for fishing
Galaxy Wildcat is the Galaxy Kayaks flipper kayak, built for serious fishing. The Wildcat has a flipper propulsion system, two rod holders, a hand controlled rudder and a roomy deck with storage compartments.
The Wildcat's advantage: the flipper system is quiet and efficient, and the hand controlled rudder gives precise directional control. It is the best choice for anglers who fish in shallow water or want to avoid noise.
Galaxy Supernova FX: the pedal flagship
Galaxy Supernova FX is a roomy 397.5 cm long, 85.5 cm wide pedal kayak with the Cyclone Drive system. It is the largest and roomiest Galaxy Kayaks pedal model. The Supernova FX prioritises stability and cruising speed for long fishing trips.
Cyclone Drive lets you go forwards and backwards, which means you can position the kayak in any direction even in strong wind. Besides the pedals, the Supernova FX has a roomy deck with several storage areas and accessories mounting rails.
We also have the Galaxy Supernova Jr, a more compact version of the Supernova with Cyclone Drive.
Galaxy Alboran FX3: two drives in one kayak
Galaxy Alboran FX3 is the most unique Galaxy Kayaks model. The Alboran FX3 offers a dual propulsion system: you can use the flipper drive for fast, quiet travel or the Cyclone Drive pedals to move forwards and backwards. Or simply paddle the traditional way, with an extended storage compartment in place of the pedal mechanism.
This new model, launched in 2024, combines the best features of both systems in one kayak. If you are not sure whether you want pedals or flippers, the Alboran FX3 lets you have both.
Which pedal kayak should you choose?
For quiet fishing in shallow water: Wildcat. The flipper system is quiet and suits shallows.
For long fishing trips on lakes: Supernova FX. The roomiest model, with Cyclone Drive that lets you go forwards and backwards.
Maximum flexibility: Alboran FX3. Both drives in one kayak, so you can switch to suit the situation.
Read a more detailed comparison of these models in our article Alboran FX, Supernova FX or Wildcat. You will find all Galaxy Kayaks models in Galaxy Kayaks category.
Frequently asked questions
Safety on the water
Always wear a life jacket. For fishing we recommend NRS Chinook Fishing PFD : it has pockets for tools and rod holder slots, so it does not get in the way when fishing. For more on safety gear, read our life jacket comparison.
Is a pedal kayak faster than a regular one?
Yes. Pedal and flipper kayaks are usually faster than paddled ones, because leg muscles are stronger than arm muscles. You can also hold a steady speed for longer without tiring. But the main advantage of pedals is not speed, it is keeping your hands free for fishing.
Can you use a pedal kayak without the pedals?
Yes. All Galaxy Kayaks pedal models come with paddles and can be used the traditional way. The pedal or flipper mechanism is easy to remove, and the space can be used for extra storage instead. The Alboran FX3 is specially designed for this flexibility: it has an extended storage compartment that fits in place of the pedals.
How are flippers different from Cyclone Drive pedals?
Flippers move back and forth (like a penguin's feet), are quiet and suit shallows. Cyclone Drive turns like a propeller and lets you go both forwards and backwards by changing your pedalling direction. Flippers are better for quiet fishing in shallow water, Cyclone Drive is better for precise positioning and longer distances. The Alboran FX3 has both systems, so you can choose to suit the situation.
Read also
- Galaxy Kayaks: Europe's No. 1 fishing kayak maker
- Which Galaxy Kayaks model should you choose? A complete guide by needs and budget
- The best fishing kayak in Lithuania 2026: the complete guide
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