Looking Beyond the Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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Looking for old town sportsman bigwater 132 sit on top fishing kayak alternatives? The BigWater 132 offers a 13-foot-2-inch length and a 425-pound capacity, providing a wide, stable platform for open water. Its performance tri-hull and adjustable Element Seating System support standing and long sessions. You might seek a different size, propulsion method, or weight for easier transport. Some anglers prefer pedal drives or modular designs that break down for storage. Others need a more compact hull for narrow access points or lighter weight for solo hauling. We selected these alternatives because their key specifications overlap with the BigWater 132. Each option matches its core use case while offering distinct physical attributes. You can compare lengths, widths, and weights to find a better fit for your specific needs. This list covers a range of capacities and hull types. You will find options that prioritize portability, speed, or specialized features like motor readiness. The goal is to help you identify a kayak that aligns with your exact fishing style and logistical constraints.
Our top pick: Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 Fishing Kayak.
How alternatives differ from BigWater 132
Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
The Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular is shorter at 10.5 feet and narrower at 35.4 inches compared to the BigWater 132. It weighs 88 pounds, slightly heavier than the 86-pound BigWater, but offers a 400-pound capacity. This model features a modular design, allowing you to break it down for transport, which the rigid BigWater cannot do. It includes both pedal and fin drive options. You should choose this if you need to store the kayak in a small space or transport it in a smaller vehicle. You give up some raw stability and length for the benefit of easy breakdown and portability.
Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft Motor-Ready Kayak
The Pelican Catch PWR 100 is significantly smaller, measuring 10 feet long and weighing only 75 pounds. It has a much narrower width of 15.8 inches, which reduces stability compared to the 34-inch wide BigWater 132. This kayak is motor-ready with pre-wired mounts, a feature not standard on the BigWater. It is designed for calm waters rather than open water. You should pick this if you prioritize lightweight handling and motor compatibility over stability. You give up the high 425-pound capacity and the wide, stable platform needed for standing or fishing in rougher conditions.
Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII is 11 feet long and weighs just 59 pounds, making it much lighter than the 86-pound BigWater 132. It features a pedal drive system for hands-free propulsion. The width is 33 inches, nearly matching the BigWater, but the shorter length affects tracking. This model is ideal for solo anglers who value easy transport and precise steering. You should choose this if you fish alone and want to carry your kayak easily. You give up the higher weight capacity and the longer hull that provides better speed and stability in open water compared to the BigWater.
Spatium 11-Foot Inflatable Pedal Kayak
The Spatium 11-Foot Inflatable Pedal Kayak is 11 feet long with a very wide 48-inch beam, offering exceptional stability for calm lake fishing. It is inflatable, making it highly portable compared to the rigid BigWater 132. It lacks a specified weight but is designed for single occupancy. This kayak includes a pedal drive system. You should pick this if you need a stable platform for flat water and easy storage. You give up the rigid durability and the high 425-pound capacity of the BigWater. It is not suitable for open water or rough conditions where the tri-hull design of the BigWater excels.
BKC Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak
The BKC Brooklyn 12.0 is 12 feet long and weighs 75 pounds, lighter than the 86-pound BigWater 132. It has a width of 33.5 inches, similar to the BigWater, but is shorter. This model features a pedal drive and rudder steering system for precise control. It is designed for single anglers who value stability and steering precision. You should choose this if you want a stable platform with better maneuverability than the BigWater. You give up the longer length and higher capacity of the BigWater. It is less ideal for carrying large amounts of gear or fishing in very open water.
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 is 14 feet long and weighs 72 pounds, significantly lighter than the 86-pound BigWater 132. It is narrower at 28 inches, which reduces initial stability compared to the 34-inch wide BigWater. This kayak offers more gear space and comfort for extended sessions. You should pick this if you prioritize tracking and comfort over maximum stability. You give up the wide, stable platform needed for standing and the high 425-pound capacity. It is better suited for anglers who value speed and long-distance paddling in open water.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 Fishing Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high capacity and stability
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 13 ft 2 in
- Capacity
- 425 lb
- Propulsion
- Paddle
- Hull Type
- Tri-hull
- Seat Type
- Element Seating System
View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 Fishing Kayak
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 is a 13-foot 2-inch sit-on-top fishing kayak built for stability and open-water efficiency. Its performance tri-hull design supports standing while you fish, and the 425-pound capacity handles heavy gear loads. The adjustable Element Seating System offers high and low positions for comfort. This model suits anglers who prioritize a stable platform and ample storage for long days on the water.
Pros
- 13 ft 2 in length provides excellent tracking in open water
- 425 lb maximum capacity supports heavy gear and larger anglers
- Performance tri-hull design offers stability for standing and paddling efficiency
- Center console features removable containers and splash-proof storage
Cons
- 86 lb weight makes transport and launching more difficult
- No pedal drive system included for hands-free propulsion
- Paddle is not included with the kayak
Good fit if
- You need a stable platform for standing while fishing
- You require high capacity for heavy gear loads
- You fish in open water where tracking matters
Skip if
- You prefer a lightweight kayak for frequent carrying
- You want a pedal drive system for hands-free operation
- You need a smaller vessel for narrow waterways
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 delivers the stability and capacity needed for serious anglers who fish in open water. It fits buyers who value a wide, stable platform over lightweight portability.
Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing portable, stable fishing platforms
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 10.5 ft
- Capacity
- 400 lb
- Propulsion
- Fin pedal drive
- Hull Type
- W-hull
- Use
- Fishing
The Reel Yaks Recon is a 10.5-foot modular sit-on-top kayak designed for anglers who need portability. It features a 400-pound capacity and a 35.4-inch width for stability. The fin drive pedal system allows for hands-free movement. Its two-piece construction weighs 88 pounds, making it easier to carry than traditional single-hull kayaks. This setup suits those prioritizing easy transport and storage without sacrificing fishing utility.
Pros
- 400 lb weight capacity supports heavy gear loads
- Modular two-piece design simplifies transport and storage
- 35.4-inch width provides stable platform for casting
- Fin drive pedal system enables hands-free navigation
- W-hull design enhances stability in tricky waters
Cons
- 10.5 ft length offers less tracking than longer models
- 88 lb weight is higher than non-modular equivalents
- Modular assembly required before each launch
Good fit if
- You need to store your kayak in a small apartment or closet
- You want to carry the kayak without a roof rack or trailer
- You prioritize stability and high weight capacity for fishing
Skip if
- You require a single-piece hull for faster setup
- You need a longer kayak for open water tracking
- You prefer a lighter kayak under 70 pounds
Verdict: Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular is a practical choice for anglers who value portability and stability over raw speed. It fits buyers who need to break down their kayak for easy transport and storage while maintaining a high 400 lb capacity.
Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft Motor-Ready Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing motor mounts and adjustable seating
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 10 ft
- Propulsion
- Transom motor mount, up to 2.5 hp
- Seat Type
- Ergo360 seating system, swivels 360
- Use
- Fishing
- Dimensions
- 39.6 × 15.8 × 117 inches
View on Amazon: Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft Motor-Ready Kayak
The Pelican Catch PWR 100 is a 10-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for anglers who need mobility and motor support. It features an Ergo360 seat that swivels 360 degrees and slides on tracks for position adjustment. The hull includes a pre-wired transom for up to 2.5 hp motors. Two front and two in-handle rigging tracks allow for accessory installation. Traction pads with a built-in ruler provide safe standing.
Pros
- 10-foot length offers manageable size for transport and storage.
- Ergo360 seat swivels 360 degrees and adjusts on sliding tracks.
- Pre-wired transom mount supports gas or electric motors up to 2.5 hp.
- Four rigging tracks provide mounting options for accessories.
- Anti-slip traction pads include a built-in ruler for measuring catches.
Cons
- 15.8-inch width provides less stability than wider 132-inch models.
- 75-pound weight is heavier than some entry-level kayaks.
- No pedal drive system included for hands-free propulsion.
Good fit if
- You want a compact kayak for smaller waterways.
- You plan to add a small motor for easier paddling.
- You need a seat that swivels for better casting angles.
Skip if
- You require a pedal drive system for hands-free movement.
- You need a wide hull for maximum stability.
- You prefer a lightweight kayak for frequent carrying.
Verdict: Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft is a solid option for anglers who prioritize motor compatibility and seat adjustability in a compact package. It suits those who fish in calm waters and value the convenience of pre-wired motor mounts.
Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak
Best for: Solo anglers prioritizing lightweight transport and pedal drive
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 126 inches
- Propulsion
- HyDryve II pedal system
- Seat Type
- Ergoboost seating system
- Fishing Features
- In-handle rigging tracks, rudder
- Use
- Fishing
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII is a 10.5-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak with a 59-pound weight. It uses the HyDryve II pedal system for propulsion and includes a rudder for steering. The Ergoboost seat offers adjustable height. You get in-handle rigging tracks for gear. This lightweight design suits anglers seeking easy transport and efficient pedal power.
Pros
- HyDryve II fin pedal system for efficient propulsion
- Lightweight 59-pound construction for easy handling
- Integrated rudder for improved tracking and steering
- Ergoboost seating system with adjustable height
- Built-in track grooves in side handles for accessories
Cons
- Narrow 33-inch width may reduce initial stability
- Fixed pedal drive limits manual paddling versatility
- No mention of integrated rod holders in specs
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight kayak for solo car-topping
- You prefer pedal propulsion over paddling for long distances
- You want a rudder for better steering control
Skip if
- You require a wide hull for maximum stability
- You plan to carry multiple passengers regularly
- You need a kayak with extensive accessory mounting points
Verdict: Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII offers a balanced mix of pedal efficiency and manageable weight for solo anglers. It fits those who prioritize easy transport and precise steering over high-capacity stability.
Spatium 11-Foot Inflatable Pedal Kayak
Best for: portable lake fishing with pedal drive
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Construction
- Double-layer PVC brushed, 0.9 PVC pipes
- Length
- 132 inches
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive, motorized fin option
- Hull Type
- Stabilizing fins
- Inflatable
- Inflatable
This inflatable sit-on-top kayak measures 132 inches long and 48 inches wide. It features a pedal drive system with an optional motorized fin upgrade. The hull uses double-layer PVC brushed material for durability. You get a 360° rotatable seat on an 80cm rail. It suits single anglers looking for stable lake fishing options.
Pros
- 132-inch length provides ample space for gear
- 360° rotatable seat with 80cm adjustment rail
- Pedal drive with optional motorized fin conversion
- Double-layer PVC construction for impact resistance
Cons
- Inflatable design requires setup time
- Top speed limited to 6-8 km/h
- No explicit weight capacity listed in data
Good fit if
- You want a portable inflatable kayak for lakes
- You prefer pedal propulsion over paddling
- You need a wide, stable platform for fishing
Skip if
- You need a rigid hull for rough water
- You require a high weight capacity for two people
- You want a kayak that launches instantly
Verdict: Spatium 11ft Inflatable Pedal Fishing Kayak fits anglers who value portability and a stable, wide platform for calm lake fishing. It is not ideal for those needing high speed or rigid durability.
BKC Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak
Best for: single anglers needing precise rudder steering
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Construction
- UV-protected HDPE hull
- Length
- 12 feet
- Seat Type
- Ergonomic aluminum frame seat
- Use
- Fishing
- Capacity
- Single
The BKC Brooklyn 12.0 is a 12-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak with a 33.5-inch width and 75-pound weight. It features a high-efficiency propeller pedal system and a hand-operated rudder for hands-free steering. The UV-protected HDPE hull offers stability in chop or current. An ergonomic aluminum frame seat and dual watertight hatches provide comfort and storage for single anglers seeking precision control.
Pros
- High-efficiency propeller pedal system with removable drive
- Hand-operated rudder for precise steering control
- Stable 33.5-inch wide HDPE hull
- Ergonomic aluminum frame seat for all-day use
Cons
- Single-person capacity limits group use
- No mention of integrated rod holder count beyond two flush mounts
- Heavier at 75 pounds compared to some competitors
Good fit if
- You want hands-free pedaling for long distances
- You need precise rudder steering in windy conditions
- You prioritize stability with a wide hull design
Skip if
- You require a tandem kayak for two people
- You prefer a lightweight hull under 60 pounds
- You need multiple integrated rod holders for heavy gear
Verdict: BKC Brooklyn 12.0 Pedal Fishing Kayak fits single anglers who value precise rudder steering and stable, wide-hull performance over lightweight portability.
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140
Best for: Anglers needing stability and gear space
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 14 ft
- Seat Type
- Phase 3 Air Pro sit-on-top seat
- Use
- Fishing
- Dimensions
- 168 × 28 × 14.5 inches
- Weight
- 72 pounds
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 is a 14-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak designed for stability and glide. It features a 28-inch width and a Phase 3 Air Pro seat. Weighing 72 pounds, it offers a 168-inch length for ample gear capacity. This premium angler kayak suits anglers who need a stable platform for longer trips. It is ideal for those prioritizing performance in open water.
Pros
- 14-foot length provides extended gear capacity
- 28-inch width ensures stability on the water
- Phase 3 Air Pro seat offers comfort
- Sit-on-top design allows easy entry and exit
Cons
- 72-pound weight is heavy for solo transport
- No pedal drive system included in specs
- Limited color options of Mango or Galaxy
Good fit if
- You want a stable platform for longer fishing trips
- You prioritize comfort with a premium air-pro seat
- You need ample space for gear and tackle
Skip if
- You need a lightweight kayak for easy carrying
- You prefer a pedal-driven propulsion system
- You want a shorter kayak for tight spaces
Verdict: The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 is a stable, long kayak for anglers who value comfort and gear space. It fits those who need a reliable platform for extended fishing sessions.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 Fishing Kayak | Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak | Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft Motor-Ready Kayak | Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak | Spatium 11-Foot Inflatable Pedal Kayak | BKC Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak | Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top | Sit-on-top |
| Construction | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Double-layer PVC brushed, 0.9 PVC pipes | UV-protected HDPE hull | not specified |
| Length | 13 ft 2 in | 10.5 ft | 10 ft | 126 inches | 132 inches | 12 feet | 14 ft |
| Capacity | 425 lb | 400 lb | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Propulsion | Paddle | Fin pedal drive | Transom motor mount, up to 2.5 hp | HyDryve II pedal system | Pedal drive, motorized fin option | not specified | not specified |
| Hull Type | Tri-hull | W-hull | not specified | not specified | Stabilizing fins | not specified | not specified |
| Inflatable | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Inflatable | not specified | not specified |
| Seat Type | Element Seating System | not specified | Ergo360 seating system, swivels 360 | Ergoboost seating system | 360° rotatable seat, 80cm rail | Ergonomic aluminum frame seat | Phase 3 Air Pro sit-on-top seat |
| Fishing Features | Rod holders, custom tackle box | not specified | not specified | In-handle rigging tracks, rudder | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Use | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing | Fishing, Lake, River | Fishing | Fishing |
| Water Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Rivers | not specified | not specified |
| For | not specified | Adults | not specified | not specified | Adults | not specified | not specified |
| Included Accessories | Paddle | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 150 × 34 × 15 inches | 126 × 35.4 × 13 inches | 39.6 × 15.8 × 117 inches | 126 × 33 × 11.3 inches | 132 × 48 × 5.91 inches | 144 × 33.5 × 15 inches | 168 × 28 × 14.5 inches |
| Weight | 86 pounds | 88 pounds | 75 pounds | 59 pounds | not specified | 75 pounds | 72 pounds |
| Size | Length 13 Ft | not specified | 10' | not specified | not specified | not specified | 14' |
| Color | Steel Camo | Blue Gray | Light Kaki | Amazonia | Fishbone | Royal Tide | Galaxy |
| Model | 01.4070.0107 | not specified | MFP10P400-00 | MHP10P105-00 | not specified | not specified | 9750405142 |
Frequently asked questions
Which kayak offers the widest beam for maximum stability?
The Spatium 11-Foot Inflatable Pedal Kayak features the widest beam at 48 inches. This width provides a very stable platform for calm lake fishing. It suits anglers who prioritize steadiness over speed. Other models like the Pelican Catch PWR 100 have narrower widths, making the Spatium the best choice for those needing a wide, stable seat.
What is the lightest option for easy transport?
The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak weighs 59 pounds. This makes it the lightest option on the list for solo anglers. It offers a good balance of pedal efficiency and manageable weight. You can carry it more easily than heavier models like the Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132, which weighs 86 pounds.
Which kayak is best for motor installation?
The Pelican Catch PWR 100 10 ft is designed for motor compatibility. It includes pre-wired motor mounts for convenience. This model suits anglers who fish in calm waters and value adjustable seating. It is a compact package that prioritizes motor readiness over the raw stability found in larger, heavier kayaks.
Which model provides the most gear space for long trips?
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 offers significant gear space for extended sessions. At 14 feet long, it provides a stable platform for comfort and storage. It fits anglers who need reliable performance for long days on the water. Its length allows for better tracking and more room to organize tackle and equipment.
Is there a modular kayak for easy storage?
Yes, the Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak is built for portability. Its modular construction allows you to break it down for easy transport and storage. It maintains a high 400-pound capacity despite being shorter than the BigWater 132. This design suits buyers who need flexibility without sacrificing stability.
Which kayak has the longest length for better tracking?
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 is the longest at 14 feet. This length helps with straight-line tracking and stability. It is ideal for anglers who need a reliable platform for extended fishing. The Old Town Sportsman BigWater 132 is also long at 13 feet, but the Tarpon offers even more length for open water.
Which kayak uses a rudder for precise steering?
The BKC Brooklyn 12.0 Single Pedal Kayak features precise rudder steering. It offers a stable, wide-hull performance for single anglers. This model fits those who value accurate steering over lightweight portability. The rudder system helps maintain course, which is useful in windy conditions or when casting.