The Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is a stable, roomy sit‑on‑top pedal kayak built for solo anglers who want hands‑free casting and lots of gear space, and you’ll want to check pedal fit, seat trim, and transducer/rod‑holder placement before launch; bring a paddle backup, spare line, and plan where your tackle box will sit, rinse and inspect the removable pedal console regularly for leaks, and expect great standing stability if you prioritize long, gear‑heavy trips—keep going to learn specifics.
Some Key Points
- Stable, hands-free pedal kayak ideal for solo anglers who prioritize casting and electronics access.
- 13’2″ length with 500 lb max (378 lb usable) supports heavy gear and standing stability.
- Removable 21 lb pedal console eases transport, maintenance, and seasonal storage.
- Roomy cockpit, cushioned seat, and good tracking enable comfortable casting and transducer use.
- Requires regular rinsing, seal checks, and care to prevent wear on removable-console components.
What the BigWater PDL 132 Is and Who It’s For
If you’re hunting a stable, hands-free fishing platform that still fits on a pickup or trailer, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 is built for that kind of day on the water, and it’s especially right for solo anglers who want to focus on casting and electronics instead of paddling. You’ll get a roomy, sit-on-top pedal kayak with a shallow draft, so you can slip into skinny water and anchor up without fuss, and you’ll want to bring a transducer, a tackle box, spare line, a paddle for backup, and a simple mounting plan before you head out. It also pairs well with Wilderness Systems kayaks for paddlers looking to compare stable, fishing-oriented designs.
Key Specs and On‑Paper Features That Matter to Anglers
Now that you know who the BigWater PDL 132 is built for, let’s look at the specs and on-paper features that actually affect your day on the water, so you can decide what to carry, how to rig it, and what to expect performance-wise. At 13’2” and a 500 lb max cap, you can load tackle, cooler, and a partner dog, but note usable capacity is 378 lb, so plan gear weight, and think footprint comparison with other 13-footers when choosing storage. The removable 21 lb pedal console aids transport and seasonal maintenance, carry lighter gear first, inspect seals yearly. The site specializes in gear and advice for old town kayak enthusiasts, so check resources on kayak accessories to optimize your setup.
On‑Water Performance: Pedal Drive, Stability, Comfort, and Handling
You’ll notice the pedal drive changes how you go about a day on the water, because once you get the BigWater PDL 132 trimmed and the seat dialed in, you can steer with your feet and keep your hands free for casting, netting, or reaching for gear, so pay close attention to where the pedals sit relative to your knees and whether the seat height gives you solid leg extension. You’ll appreciate pedal efficiency when you cruise without burning out, and the hull’s tracking accuracy keeps you on line when stalking fish, while roomy stability and the cushioned seat let you stand or lean comfortably. Old Town’s angler-focused features make it easy to outfit the boat for fishing with pedal drive accessories.
Fishing Setup and Accessories: Rod Placement, Electronics, and Storage
When you’re setting up the BigWater PDL 132 for a day of fishing, start by thinking through where you want each rod, gadget, and box so they’re within reach but out of the way when you’re pedaling, casting, or standing; mount your primary casting rod in a forward-facing rod holder for quick access, park spare rods in the aft holders or alongside the seat to keep the cockpit uncluttered, and test the reach to your tackle box and paddle clip before you push off. Plan rod routing to avoid tangles, position electronics where you can read them while seated, secure the transducer, and stow gear in designated hatches, leaving room to move freely. Consider outfitting your kayak with purpose-built accessories from Reel Yaks to optimize storage and functionality.
Value Verdict: Strengths, Trade‑Offs, and Who Should Buy It
If you’re weighing whether the BigWater PDL 132 is worth the money, think about what matters most on the water—stability for standing and casting, hands-free pedal power that keeps you mobile without arm fatigue, and a roomy layout that lets you bring lots of gear without feeling cramped. You’ll love freedom to roam, but note durability concerns with heavy use, so follow maintenance tips like rinsing, drying, and checking fittings, which protects resale value later; think seasonal suitability—winter storage versus summer pounding—and ask: do you want long solo trips or compact transport? Buy if you prioritize steady, gear-forward freedom. Double Kayak Adventures carries related gear and advice for 2 paddler kayaks to help you outfit trips with a partner.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Kayak Come With a Warranty, and What’s Covered?
Yes, you get a limited warranty, and it typically covers parts and defects, with parts coverage for hull and components and a labor warranty for authorized repairs, though time limits apply; check the paperwork for exact durations. You’ll want to register the kayak, keep receipts, photograph damage, and contact the dealer first, because transferability may be limited, so confirm whether the warranty moves to a new owner before you sell or loan it.
How Difficult Is Transporting the Kayak on a Car Roof Rack?
It’s doable but you’ll need care, because at 122 lb it’s heavy and bulky, so prep matters: pad bars to reduce roof friction, lift with a friend or use a loader, center it fore-aft, then secure with carrier straps front and rear and a bow/stern tie for backup. Check crossbar rating, watch for rubbing on edges, tighten straps after a short drive, and bring gloves and a block to rest it during loading.
Can the Pedal Drive Be Serviced or Replaced Locally?
Yes — you can get the pedal drive serviced or swapped locally, and you’ll want maintenance tips: rinse salt, lubricate splines, inspect seals, and keep the drive removed during transport. Check replacement sources like Old Town dealers, marine shops, or online OEM parts sellers, and bring model details when you call, so they can match drives or rebuild kits; ask about warranty, turnaround time, and whether they’ll test-fit before you leave.
Is There Built-In Buoyancy or Flotation for Safety?
Yes — the kayak has built-in flotation, but you’ll want to check details before you push off. It uses foam filled compartments and self bailing scupper holes, so it won’t sink if swamped and water drains through the scuppers, yet foam keeps buoyancy if hull breaches. Bring a properly fitted PFD, a dry bag for gear, a spare paddle, and a pump or sponge; inspect foam seams and scuppers for blockages first.
Are There Color or Accessory Package Options Available?
Yes — you’ve got color variants and optional accessory bundles, so you can pick the look and kit that fit your freedom to roam, choose muted camo or brighter hues, then add bundles with rod holders, tackle storage, or paddle clips. Check dealer listings for package details, confirm what’s included versus add-ons, and carry extra mounting hardware and a small tool kit so you can customize on the first outing.
