Hey guys, let's dive into a comprehensive Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL review! If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for the next great adventure, and let me tell you, this pedal kayak could be your ticket to exploring some seriously cool waters. We're going to break down everything from its design and features to its performance on the water, plus who this kayak is best suited for. Buckle up, because we're about to paddle into a sea of information to help you decide if the Bigwater 132 PDL is the right kayak for you!

Unboxing and Initial Impressions: What's in the Box?

So, the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL arrives at your doorstep – or, if you're lucky, you pick it up from a local shop. The first thing you'll notice is that this kayak means business! It's a sizable craft, designed for stability and comfort. Unboxing this kayak, you'll find the hull, the pedal drive system, the seat, and a few other accessories. The kayak itself is made of a durable material, which gives you confidence that it can withstand the rigors of exploring your favorite waterways. The initial impression is one of quality; everything feels well-built and designed with the user in mind. The color schemes are generally appealing, often featuring a blend of earthy tones and bright accents, which gives it a modern look.

What truly sets this kayak apart is the Pedal Drive, which Old Town is known for. It's the heart of the operation, allowing for hands-free propulsion. This is a game-changer for fishing, photography, or just leisurely cruising, giving you the ability to use your hands for other things. When you first get it, take some time to familiarize yourself with the components. Read the manual – I know, I know, it’s not the most fun, but it's important! Get to know how the pedal drive connects, how to adjust the seat, and where everything is stored. You’ll want to make sure the pedal drive is correctly installed and locked in before hitting the water. The initial setup is straightforward, but taking your time to ensure everything is connected and secure is essential for a smooth and safe experience.

Design and Features: What Makes the Bigwater 132 PDL Stand Out?

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL’s design and the features that make it a favorite among kayak enthusiasts. This kayak is built for stability, and that's immediately apparent when you look at the hull. It's wide, with a tri-hull design, providing exceptional secondary stability. What does that mean for you? Well, it means you're less likely to tip over, which is a big win, especially for beginners or those who like to stand up and fish. The kayak's length is 13 feet, 2 inches, which offers a great balance of tracking and maneuverability. You can cover distances without feeling like you're fighting the current or wind. The kayak's overall design prioritizes comfort and functionality. The open cockpit provides ample room for movement, making it easy to get in and out, and to move around while you are on the water.

One of the standout features is, of course, the PDL drive. This pedal drive system is a marvel of engineering. It allows you to move hands-free, which is great for fishing, photography, or simply relaxing and taking in the scenery. The pedal drive is easy to use and efficient, providing good speed with minimal effort. It also offers forward and reverse, which can be super helpful when maneuvering in tight spots or when you want to back up to re-cast a fishing line. The seat is another key feature, designed for all-day comfort. It's a mesh, breathable seat that is adjustable, so you can find the perfect position for your body. The seat's elevated position gives you a better vantage point and keeps you dry.

Beyond these core features, the Bigwater 132 PDL is packed with other thoughtful details. It has multiple storage areas, including a large bow hatch and a stern tank well with bungee cords for securing gear. There are also accessory tracks for mounting rod holders, fish finders, and other essential equipment. The kayak also comes with a paddle, although many experienced kayakers will likely upgrade to a premium paddle for better performance. The kayak has built-in carrying handles, making it easy to transport. All in all, the design and features of the Bigwater 132 PDL reflect a commitment to providing a comfortable, versatile, and high-performing kayak. It's clear that Old Town has put a lot of thought into the details.

Performance on the Water: How Does it Handle?

Now, let's talk about the real deal: how does the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL perform on the water? This is where all the design features and engineering come together to create a kayaking experience. The kayak excels in stability, and this is immediately noticeable when you get on the water. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, you will feel confident and secure. The wide hull and low center of gravity make it incredibly stable, so you can stand up, move around, and even cast a line without worrying about tipping over. The pedal drive system is a pleasure to use, providing smooth and efficient propulsion. You can easily maintain a comfortable cruising speed, and the ability to go in reverse is a major advantage when navigating or fishing. The kayak tracks well, meaning it stays on course, even in windy conditions. You won't have to constantly correct your course, which allows you to enjoy the scenery and focus on the task at hand.

In terms of speed, the Bigwater 132 PDL is not the fastest kayak on the market, but it provides a good balance of speed and stability. It's perfect for casual paddling, fishing, and exploring. It is capable of a respectable pace, enough to cover distances without tiring you out. The kayak’s maneuverability is also quite good, especially considering its size. It's responsive to steering and handles turns well. This is important for navigating in tight spots, around obstacles, or for quickly adjusting your course. The comfort of the seat is a major factor in the overall performance of the kayak. You can comfortably spend hours on the water. The seat provides good support and ventilation, which helps to keep you comfortable even on hot days. The kayak also handles various water conditions with ease. It performs well in calm lakes, rivers, and even in choppy conditions. While it is not designed for open ocean use, it can handle moderate waves and wind with no issues.

Who is the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL Best For?

So, who is the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL the perfect match for? This kayak is an excellent choice for a wide range of kayakers, especially those who value stability, comfort, and convenience. Let's break down some specific user profiles:

• Fishing Enthusiasts: This kayak is practically built for fishing. The hands-free pedal drive allows you to focus on your fishing gear. The stability gives you the confidence to stand and cast. The multiple storage options are perfect for storing rods, tackle boxes, and other gear. If you love to fish, this kayak is a great option.
• Beginners: The Bigwater 132 PDL is very user-friendly. The stability and ease of use make it a great choice for beginners. You'll quickly feel comfortable on the water. The pedal drive is easy to learn and use, and the kayak's overall design is forgiving.
• Recreational Paddlers: If you enjoy leisurely paddling, exploring, and taking in the scenery, this kayak is an excellent choice. The comfortable seat, ample storage, and easy pedaling make it perfect for long days on the water.
• Photographers: The hands-free operation of the kayak allows you to use your hands for your camera and capture amazing shots. You can easily maneuver into the right position for the perfect photo.
• People Seeking Comfort and Convenience: The Bigwater 132 PDL is designed with user comfort in mind. The adjustable seat, ample storage, and ease of use make it a convenient choice. You'll find yourself wanting to go out on the water.

Pros and Cons: A Quick Overview

To give you a quick summary, here's a rundown of the pros and cons of the Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL:

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The wide hull and tri-hull design offer excellent stability, making it ideal for beginners and stand-up fishing.
• Hands-Free Pedal Drive: The PDL drive system allows for effortless propulsion and hands-free operation, great for fishing and photography.
• Comfortable Seat: The adjustable, mesh seat provides all-day comfort and good ventilation.
• Ample Storage: Multiple storage areas, including a bow hatch and stern tank well, provide plenty of space for gear.
• User-Friendly: Easy to use, with intuitive controls and a straightforward design.

Cons:

• Weight: It's a heavy kayak, which can make it challenging to transport and load/unload by yourself.
• Speed: It's not the fastest kayak on the market, though it offers a good balance of speed and stability.
• Price: It comes with a higher price tag than some other recreational kayaks. But with the features you get, it's worth it.

Final Verdict: Is the Bigwater 132 PDL Worth It?

Alright, guys, after this in-depth Old Town Bigwater 132 PDL review, is this kayak worth it? Absolutely! If you're looking for a stable, comfortable, and versatile pedal kayak, this is a fantastic choice. The hands-free pedal drive is a game-changer for fishing and photography, and the overall design prioritizes user comfort and convenience. Sure, it has a few downsides, like the weight, but the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. It's a bit of an investment, but the quality and features you get make it worth the price. This kayak provides an incredible on-the-water experience and will have you planning your next adventure before you even leave the dock. If you enjoy fishing, photography, or just leisurely paddling, the Bigwater 132 PDL is an awesome choice! I hope this review has helped you make an informed decision! Happy paddling!