Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL: Specs And Review

by Alex Braham 44 views

Alright, kayak fishing enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL, a kayak that's been making waves (pun intended!) in the fishing community. If you're on the hunt for a stable, feature-rich, and pedal-powered kayak, then you've probably heard about this one. This review is all about dissecting its specs, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right fit for your angling adventures.

Overview of the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL

The Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL is designed as a premium fishing kayak, emphasizing stability, comfort, and hands-free propulsion. The 'PDL' in its name stands for Pedal Drive System, which is the heart of this kayak, allowing you to navigate and fish simultaneously. Imagine cruising along the shoreline, effortlessly pedaling to your favorite fishing spot while your hands are free to cast, reel, and manage your gear. That's the promise of the Bigwater 132 PDL.

This kayak is built for a variety of water conditions, from calm lakes and rivers to open bays and coastal waters. Its robust design and thoughtful features cater specifically to the needs of anglers, making it a popular choice among both recreational and serious fishermen. This kayak isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about enhancing your entire fishing experience, providing you with the tools and comfort you need to stay out on the water longer and catch more fish. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Bigwater 132 PDL offers a blend of performance and convenience that’s hard to ignore. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty details and explore what makes this kayak stand out from the crowd.

Detailed Specifications

Understanding the specs is crucial when evaluating any kayak, and the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL has some impressive numbers to consider. Let's break down the key specifications:

  • Length: 13 feet 2 inches (13' 2")
  • Width: 36 inches
  • Weight: 92 pounds (hull weight) / 117 pounds (with PDL drive)
  • Capacity: 500 pounds
  • Seat Type: Element Seating System
  • Hull Material: Single Layer Polyethylene

Length and Width

The length of 13 feet 2 inches provides an excellent balance between tracking and maneuverability. It's long enough to maintain a straight course efficiently, yet still manageable in tighter spaces. The 36-inch width contributes significantly to the kayak's stability, allowing you to stand and cast with confidence. This is especially important for anglers who prefer to sight fish or need a stable platform for landing larger catches.

Weight and Capacity

At 92 pounds (hull weight) and 117 pounds with the PDL drive, the Bigwater 132 PDL is not the lightest kayak on the market. However, the weight is justified by its robust construction and feature-rich design. The 500-pound capacity is generous, accommodating a wide range of paddler sizes and plenty of gear. You can load up your tackle boxes, fishing rods, and other essentials without worrying about exceeding the weight limit.

Seat and Hull

The Element Seating System is designed for all-day comfort. It's adjustable and provides excellent back support, which is crucial for long days on the water. The Single Layer Polyethylene hull is durable and impact-resistant, capable of withstanding the rigors of kayak fishing. While it may not be as lightweight as some composite materials, polyethylene offers a good balance of durability and affordability. All these features are incredibly important for fishermen.

Key Features and Benefits

The Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL isn't just about numbers; it's about the features that enhance your fishing experience. Here's a rundown of the key features and the benefits they offer:

  • PDL Drive System: This pedal drive system allows for hands-free propulsion, making it easier to navigate and fish simultaneously. It's efficient, responsive, and allows you to maintain a steady speed with minimal effort.
  • Element Seating System: As mentioned earlier, the Element Seating System provides all-day comfort and support. It's adjustable to suit different body types and preferences, ensuring you can stay comfortable even during long fishing trips.
  • Accessory Tracks: The kayak is equipped with multiple accessory tracks, allowing you to easily mount rod holders, fish finders, GPS units, and other accessories. This makes it easy to customize your kayak to suit your specific needs and preferences.
  • Front and Rear Tankwells: These large storage areas provide ample space for tackle boxes, coolers, and other gear. They're designed with bungees to secure your items and keep them from sliding around.
  • Stand-Up Stability: The wide hull and stable design make it easy to stand and cast. This is a huge advantage for sight fishing and provides a better vantage point for spotting fish.
  • Rudder System: The integrated rudder system improves tracking and maneuverability, especially in windy conditions or strong currents. It helps you maintain a straight course and makes it easier to turn and navigate.

Performance and Handling

On the water, the Bigwater 132 PDL performs admirably. The PDL drive system is smooth and efficient, allowing you to cruise at a comfortable pace with minimal effort. The kayak tracks well, thanks to its length and rudder system, and it's surprisingly maneuverable for its size. The stable platform makes it easy to stand and cast, and the comfortable seating system ensures you can stay out on the water for hours without discomfort. Whether you're fishing in calm lakes, flowing rivers, or choppy bays, the Bigwater 132 PDL delivers a solid and reliable performance. I would recommend it for both professional and armature fishermen.

Pros and Cons

No product is perfect, and the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a balanced look at the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Excellent Stability: The wide hull provides a stable platform for standing and casting.
  • Hands-Free Propulsion: The PDL drive system allows for hands-free navigation.
  • Comfortable Seating: The Element Seating System provides all-day comfort and support.
  • Ample Storage: The front and rear tankwells offer plenty of space for gear.
  • Customizable: The accessory tracks make it easy to mount accessories.

Cons:

  • Weight: At 117 pounds with the PDL drive, it's not the lightest kayak to transport.
  • Price: It's a premium kayak with a premium price tag.
  • Learning Curve: The PDL drive system may take some getting used to for first-time users.

Real-World Applications

The Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL excels in a variety of fishing scenarios. It's ideal for:

  • Lake Fishing: The stable platform and hands-free propulsion make it easy to cover large areas of water and target specific fishing spots.
  • River Fishing: The rudder system and maneuverability allow you to navigate currents and tight spaces with ease.
  • Coastal Fishing: The robust design and stability make it suitable for fishing in open bays and coastal waters.

Whether you're targeting bass in freshwater lakes, trout in fast-flowing rivers, or redfish in saltwater estuaries, the Bigwater 132 PDL is a versatile and capable fishing kayak.

Alternatives to Consider

While the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL is a top contender, it's always a good idea to consider other options before making a decision. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14: Another premium pedal-drive kayak with a similar focus on stability and features.
  • Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13: A popular choice among anglers who prefer a more traditional kayak design with pedal propulsion.
  • Jackson Kayak Big Rig FD/HD: A feature-rich kayak designed for big guys.

Compare the specs, features, and prices of these alternatives to determine which one best suits your needs and budget.

Final Verdict

The Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL is a well-designed and feature-rich fishing kayak that offers a winning combination of stability, comfort, and performance. While it may not be the lightest or most affordable option, its hands-free propulsion, comfortable seating, and ample storage make it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers. If you're looking for a kayak that will enhance your fishing experience and allow you to fish more effectively, the Bigwater 132 PDL is definitely worth considering. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this kayak will help you take your fishing game to the next level. So, if you're ready to upgrade your angling adventures, the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL might just be the perfect kayak for you.