Old Town BigWater 132 PDL Review (2026)
The Old Town BigWater 132 PDL is a premium pedal-drive fishing kayak built for serious anglers who fish large lakes, open bays, and offshore environments. Designed with speed, stability, and rough-water capability in mind, it combines a long, efficient hull with a hands-free pedal system to help anglers cover water efficiently and fish with confidence. In this review, we’ll cover its key features, on-water performance, pros and cons, and overall value.
Key Features Of The Old Town BigWater 132 PDL
- Length: 13 ft 2 in
- Width: 36 in
- Weight: Approximately 122 lbs (hull only)
- Capacity: Up to 500 lbs
- Seating: Adjustable framed seat with high back support and multiple height positions
- Hull Material: Single-layer polyethylene for strength and durability
- Kayak Type: Pedal-drive fishing kayak
- Pedal System: Forward and reverse pedal drive for hands-free propulsion
- Rod Holders: Multiple flush-mounted and adjustable rod holders
- Storage: Large bow hatch, rear tank well, and in-hull storage
- Deck Layout: Open, stand-friendly deck with traction padding
- Track System: Accessory tracks for electronics and gear mounting
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Pedal drive allows efficient, hands-free movement
- Long hull delivers excellent tracking and speed
- Stable platform suitable for standing and casting
- High weight capacity supports anglers and heavy gear
- Comfortable seating for long fishing sessions
- Designed to handle chop, wind, and open-water conditions
Cons:
- Heavy weight makes transport more challenging
- Requires significant storage and loading space
- Higher price compared to paddle-only kayaks
- Not ideal for shallow water where pedals may need to be lifted
- Best transported with a cart or trailer
Ideal For Offshore And Big-Water Anglers
The Old Town BigWater 132 PDL is ideal for anglers who fish expansive waters and want maximum efficiency and control. It’s especially well suited for trolling, covering long distances, and maintaining position in wind or current. Anglers targeting open-water species or fishing large reservoirs and coastal areas will benefit most from its design.
Performance And On-Water Experience
On the water, the BigWater 132 PDL feels fast, planted, and confidence inspiring. The long waterline improves glide, while the pedal drive allows precise boat control without setting down a rod. The wide hull provides excellent primary stability, making it comfortable to stand and fish even in light chop.
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
The pedal system is intuitive to operate and allows instant switching between forward and reverse. Seat adjustments are quick, letting anglers dial in comfort before launching. Maintenance involves rinsing the pedal drive after use, especially in saltwater, and performing routine checks to keep everything running smoothly.
Durability And Build Quality
Built by entity[“company”,”Old Town Canoe Company”,”kayak manufacturer”], the BigWater 132 PDL is engineered for demanding fishing environments. The rugged hull resists impacts and abrasion, and the pedal system and deck hardware feel solid and well-finished for long-term use.
Portability And Storage
At over 120 pounds, this kayak is best handled with a kayak cart, trailer, or truck bed. The 13-foot length requires ample storage space, such as a garage or outdoor rack designed for heavier kayaks. Once positioned, it stores well without hull deformation when properly supported.
Final Thoughts On The Old Town BigWater 132 PDL
The Old Town BigWater 132 PDL delivers a high-performance fishing kayak experience tailored for big water and serious anglers. While its size, weight, and cost require commitment, it rewards users with exceptional efficiency, stability, and fishability. For anglers who want a pedal-driven platform capable of handling wind, waves, and long days on the water, it offers outstanding value and dependable performance.