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Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Review: The “Tesla” of Fishing Kayaks for Serious Campers
The “I Need a Bigger Boat” Moment
We’ve all been there. You’ve set up your perfect campsite, the solar panels from CampingSolar are soaking up the rays, and you’re looking out at the big water. You want that trophy fish, but your entry-level kayak feels like a floating bathtub in the waves. You need something that doesn’t just float—you need something that dominates.
Enter the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132. This isn’t just a kayak; it’s a 13-foot fishing machine that lets you use your legs for power and your hands for what matters most: catching fish (or holding a cold drink). If you are tired of paddling like a galley slave and want to glide like a pro, keep reading.
Top Features: Why the BigWater PDL 132 is a Legend
- The PDL Drive (Forward & Reverse): The crown jewel. This pedal drive is incredibly smooth, fast, and comes with a 5-year warranty. Instant reverse means you can stay on top of the fish without fumbling for a paddle.
- BigWater Hull Design: Engineered for the rough stuff. It provides the stability you need to stand up and cast while maintaining the tracking of a much longer boat.
- Elite Breathable Seat: Camping often means sore backs, but not here. The lumbar support is adjustable, and the mesh keeps you cool during those humid July mornings.
- Universal Transducer Mount: For the tech-heavy camper. Mounting your fish finder is a breeze, especially when paired with a portable power station from CampingSolar.
If you’re looking for gear to match this elite level of performance, check out the specialized equipment at GoOutdoor to round out your adventure kit.
Old Town BigWater PDL 132 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 13 ft 2 in (4.01 m) |
| Width | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
| Total Weight Capacity | 500 lbs (226.8 kg) |
| Assembled Hull Weight | 96 lbs (43.5 kg) |
| Drive System | PDL Drive (Pedal) with Instant Reverse |
How It Stacks Up: BigWater vs. The Competition
When you’re shopping at GoOutdoor, you’ll see many 10-foot “adventure” kayaks. But “BigWater” isn’t just a marketing name. Let’s see why the extra length and pedal drive change the game.
| Feature | Old Town BigWater PDL 132 | Standard 12′ Paddle Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| Mobility | Hands-Free Pedaling | Manual Paddling Only |
| Open Water Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Elite) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate) |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs | 350 lbs |
| Reverse Gear | Instant (Pedal Backwards) | None (Must use paddle) |
Maintenance: Keeping Your BigWater PDL in Peak Shape
This is a high-performance machine. Treat it like one, and it will last you for decades of camping trips.
- The PDL Drive Rinse: If you take this into saltwater, rinse the PDL drive thoroughly with fresh water. Even though it’s built tough, salt is the enemy of all things mechanical.
- Hull Protection: Don’t drag this 96lb beast over gravel. Use a heavy-duty cart (like the VEVOR carts we’ve reviewed) to protect the hull.
- Seal Check: Occasionally check the prop for fishing line tangles. It takes 30 seconds but saves the internal seals from wear.
Top 3 Accessories for the Sportsman Elite
- Waterproof Fish Finder: With the built-in mount, a high-quality sonar is a must. Power it with a small solar-charged battery from CampingSolar.
- Crate Storage System: The rear tank well is huge. A specialized fishing crate will keep your tackle organized and ready.
- Carbon Fiber Paddle: Wait, a paddle? Yes! Even with a pedal drive, always keep a lightweight backup paddle clipped to the side for shallow water or launching.
Is the Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 good for beginners?
Yes, the BigWater PDL 132 is excellent for beginners who want maximum stability. While it is a high-end boat, its 36-inch width and specialized hull design make it nearly impossible to flip in normal conditions. The pedal drive is intuitive (just like riding a bike), making it easier for novices to cover long distances without the fatigue of learning proper paddling technique.
What the Pro Anglers Say
“I’ve had mine for two seasons. The stability is unreal. I can stand up and sight-cast to redfish in a chop that would have sent my old kayak to the bottom.” – Captain Chris
“It’s heavy to load on a camper roof solo, but once it’s in the water, it feels like it weighs nothing. The PDL drive is the best on the market, hands down.” – Adventure Al
FAQ
Q: Can I use this in the ocean?
A: Absolutely. It was built for coastal waters and large lakes where wind and waves are a factor.
Q: Does the seat come out for camping?
A: Yes, it’s removable and makes a great beach chair when you’re back at the campfire!
Q: How fast is it?
A: Most users cruise at 3.5-4.5 mph with minimal effort—faster than most people can paddle for an hour.
