Quote from: craig on September 25, 2021, 04:05:49 PM

I have seen more people go away from the heavy kayaks like an Outback than the other way around.

On my list of pedal kayaks, there are only two kayaks which weigh less than the Outback.  So the Outback is actually pretty light for a pedal kayak.

Hobie Compass,  all the Revos still made, and the Passport models are lighter. 

As others have said the demand for big stable boats for small water is higher than that for ocean trollers and the current crop of medium boats (i.e. the new Outback) seem to do a good job of balancing stability, capacity and speed.  Also, I would have to guess the reinforcement needed to support the drive and the forces exerted on it adds up.  I mean finding a 12'+ paddle SOT under 60 lbs isnt really that common, at least without going higher end.

Kayak manufacturers are making pedal fishing kayaks heavier because anglers prioritize stability, durability, and advanced features over weight. Wider hulls, reinforced materials, and built-in mounts for electronics and accessories all contribute to the added bulk. While lightweight options like the Hobie Lynx exist, they often lack the depth and structure needed for rough waters, making them less suitable for ocean and big lake fishing. Some anglers looking for a lighter alternative have even turned to SUP stand up paddle boards for certain fishing conditions, though they lack the efficiency of a pedal drive. A balance between weight and functionality is crucial, but there’s definitely a demand for lighter pedal kayaks with advanced features like a 360 drive or GPS spot lock trolling motor. Hopefully, manufacturers will listen and find innovative ways to reduce weight without sacrificing performance.

we need to bring back the 14-17 ft. offshore SOT....

https://stealthkayaks.com/

But I'd love to see a domestic option!