Description

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is a high-performance, sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for anglers who want the power, control, and hands-free advantage of a pedal drive, with enough length and stability to handle open water, wind, and standing. It’s part of Old Town’s “Sportsman” line, and it effectively replaces older Predator PDL models.

Key Features & Design Elements

1. PDL Drive System (Pedal-Drive, Forward & Reverse)

   • Instant forward/reverse pedal propulsion system, which frees up your hands to fish.

   • Low maintenance, with a 5-year warranty.

   • Comes with “easy-docking” system for launching/landing.

2. Hull Design & Stability

   • “Tri-hull” (V-shaped + stabilizing chines) design giving good tracking and stability in water.

   • Long waterline (because of the 13′2″ length) helps in achieving cruising speed in open or choppy water.

3. Comfort & Ergonomics

   • Seat with excellent lumbar support, mounted on a shuttle track so leg-lengths are accommodated.

   • Mesh cover in the seat for ventilation and drainage.

   • EVA non-slip deck pads so you can stand or move around more confidently.

4. Fishing & Gear Integration

   • Bow hatch (sealed) for dry storage.

   • Large stern tank well with bungee cords for cooler, tackle crate, bait bucket etc.

   • Accessory tracks both forward and aft for mounting rod holders, fish finders, etc.

   • Universal transducer mount for sonar/fish finders integrated.

   • One forward and two rear flush-rod holders (flush mounted).

5. Storage & Extras

   • Clip-on paddle mount so backup paddle is stowed away until needed.

   • Cup holder.

   • The drive and seat are removable for transport & storage.

6. Warranty & Build

   • Lifetime hull and deck warranty from Old Town.

   • PDL drive has a 5-year limited warranty.

Performance & Use Cases

• Works well in open water: Because of its length, hull shape, and pedal drive, it can maintain decent cruising speed even in moderate chop. Reviewers have reported comfort in 4-5 mph+ paddling or motoring via pedal in calm water.

• Standing & casting: Stable enough for standing (for fishing) thanks to wide beam & deck pads, although its “primary stability” (side-to-side at rest) is less than pontoon style kayaks; but its “secondary stability” once leaned or in waves is excellent.

• Hands-free maneuvers: With forward/reverse pedal drive you don’t have to paddle to reposition or fight wind/current; you can stay in your fishing spot more easily.

Pros & Considerations

Pros:

Overall Impression

The BigWater PDL 132 is well suited for serious kayak anglers who want the following:

• To cover distance without burning energy

• To stand and work comfortably (casting, fighting fish)

• To carry substantial gear (cooler, fish finder, battery, tackle)

• To have a versatile boat that handles both calmer waters and moderate waves or wind

It’s a premium fishing kayak, especially useful when you want more than just calm lakes — rivers, bays, coasts, etc.