Description

The Jackson Knarr FD is a premium, big-water focused pedal-drive fishing kayak built by Jackson Kayak to meet the challenges of open and large waters — surf, wind, waves, tides, and long distances. Designed with input from big-game, tournament, and open-water anglers, its hull, rigging, and systems are crafted to provide stability, efficiency, and excellent gear integration. The “FD” stands for Flex Drive, Jackson’s propeller-drive system that allows forward and reverse motion without paddling. It’s one of the most loaded pedal boats Jackson offers.

Design, Features & Outfitting

• Drive System: Flex Drive Mark IV (patented) — Jackson’s evolved pedal propeller system. Faster, quieter, more durable. Provides forward and reverse pedal propulsion, making long hauls or currents more manageable.

• Steering System: Newer models (2025) include an updated steering system changing from two-handed to single-handed operation, reducing the length of steering line and easing tension adjustments. Swap-sides capability (left/right) is supported.

• Hull Shape & Big Water Performance: Hull designed by Tony Lee with input from open-water anglers; built for surf, waves, wind, long tracking in lakes and oceans. The bow has surf-friendly rocker and the hull efficiently cuts through chop. High gunnels protect gear.

• Gear & Tackle Storage:
    • Rod management for up to 6 rods inside the gunnels (yard-sale proof) with rod tubes and rod tip protection. 
    • Two flush-mounted rod holders behind the seat.
    • Bow and stern hatches, with raised hatch lips to reduce water ingress under sporty conditions. Stern hatch designed to fit large batteries (like 27-Group battery).

• Deck & Accessory System:
    • TriTrak channels/factory-installed rails around much of the deck for mounting electronics, hiding cable runs, attachments etc. 
    • Multibox storage system for baits, soft plastics and tools. 
    • Raised, adjustable EZ Hi-Lo seat system allows shifting the seating height for comfort and visibility while fishing.

• Motor & Prop Compatibility: Bow and stern are designed with trolling motors or electric motor installation in mind. Flat mounting areas and bow­slope geometry made for foot-controlled steering in some configurations.

Advantages & Trade-Offs

Advantages:

• Loaded with features ideal for serious fishing in big lakes or saltwater: rod storage, accessory mounting, battery storage, comfortable seating.

• Prop drive system means you can fish hands-free and manage currents or wind easier.

• Built tough and durable; high quality materials and thoughtful design (hatches, raised lips, rod tip protection).

• Good capacity and load handling for gear, cooler, electronics etc.

Trade-Offs / Considerations:

• Weight: The boat is heavy (140-158 lbs depending on configuration), which means handling off the water (loading on roof racks, carrying to launch) is challenging.

• Price: Premium level; expect higher cost, plus accessories.

• Size: 13’9″ by 37″ is large; not ideal if you often need very compact or ultralight transport, or if you primarily fish in very tight, shallow creeks.

• Learning curve: Steering, balancing gear to avoid lean, setting up drive and rudder can require some tweaking.

Ideal Users & Use Cases

The Knarr FD shines in these scenarios:

• Anglers who fish in large bodies of water (lakes, bays, oceans) with surf, wind and current, not just sheltered calm water.

• Those who want a pedal-drive fishing kayak with hands-free operation and robust gear handling.

• People who carry a lot of gear: multiple rods, electronics, big batteries, cooler, etc.

• Tournament anglers, big-game anglers, saltwater users who demand performance and durability.

• Anyone willing to have proper transport (truck/trailer), or equipment to handle heavy kayak lifting/loading.

Summary Description

The Jackson Knarr FD is Jackson Kayak’s top-tier open-water fishing kayak meant to meet the demands of serious anglers. With a formidable hull, advanced pedal drive (Flex Drive Mark IV), TriTrak accessory channel, high capacity (≈425 lbs), massive gear storage, and design engineered for surf, waves, and wind, it is one of the most capable rigs on the market. It trades off lightness and portability for capability, but if you need a kayak to handle “big water” with speed, tracking and room for gear, the Knarr is built for it.