The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 PDL

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 PDL

sean Fields |

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 PDL is the marque’s top-tier pedal-drive fishing kayak built for serious anglers who want hands-free propulsion, ample storage, and the confidence to stand and cast—even in choppy conditions.

🚣♂️ Key Specs & Design

  • Length & Width: 13' 2″ by 36″, striking an ideal balance between speed and stability 

  • Weight: Approx. 122 lb hull + 21 lb pedal console; total usable payload ~378 lb (500 lb max gross) 

  • Construction: Rotomolded single-layer polyethylene with a lifetime hull warranty 

  • Propulsion: PDL homing-pedals with instant forward/reverse, backed by a five-year drive warranty 

🎣 Fishing & Angling Features

  • Tri-Hull Stability: Engineered to cut chop while offering the backbone needed for standing fishers 

  • Element Seating: Adjustable, ventilated seat with lumbar support—great comfort for long days 

  • Storage Solutions:

    • Sealed bow hatch

    • Center console with removable boxes

    • Large stern tankwell with bungee

    • Under-seat compartments & molded accessory tracks 

  • Rod Holders & Accessories: Three flush rod holders, multiple mounting tracks, transducer-ready, paddle clip, cup holder, rudder control 

🌊 Performance & Real‑World Use

GearJunkie tested it on Maine’s Moosehead Lake and praised its performance:

“The BigWater’s heft and tri-hull design took the chop in stride… I never felt like it was in danger of tipping.” 

Plus, the PDL drive makes long trolling or paddling effortless—“after 4+ hours… my legs weren’t fatigued.”

✅ Pros & Cons

✔️ Pros

  • Hands‑free pedal control with forward and reverse

  • Smooth performance in open water and choppy conditions

  • Spacious fishing setup with excellent storage & rigging options

  • Comfortable, breathable seat

⚠️ Cons

  • Heavy: ~122 lb hull + 21 lb console makes solo car-topping tough 

  • Less secondary stability—wobbles when standing reddit.com

  • Not ideal in extremely shallow or thick weed areas 

🧭 Who’s It For?

This kayak is made for serious anglers aiming to fish in big water—lakes, bays, and coastal flats. It's roomy, fast, durable, and ideal for those who spend long hours fishing and value the pedal drive system. Reddit users confirm its reliability even with heavier gear:

“I am 275 lbs… It holds up really well… in calm or rough water.” 

🔧 Tips for Buyers

  • Transport: Consider a cart or trailer—it's quite hefty for rooftop racks.

  • Standing: Wobbles are common; confidence and balance help.

  • Rigging: Great platform for electronics—install fish finders, cameras, power-poles.

  • Budget: Priced around $3 000–3 800 MSRP;

🏁 Bottom Line

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 PDL is the go-to pedal kayak for anglers who prioritize speed, stability, and a premium fishing setup. Its thoughtful design, spacious layout, and reliable performance shine in diverse water conditions.

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