Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Pedal Fishing Kayak Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How each alternative compares

Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

The Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak is significantly lighter and shorter than the Old Town BigWater PDL 132. Weighing only 66 pounds, it is much easier to transport and store than the 122-pound Old Town model. Its 9.5-foot length and modular construction offer flexibility for solo anglers with limited garage space. You give up the 500-pound capacity and wide 36-inch hull stability of the BigWater. This kayak suits those who prioritize easy handling over maximum gear capacity. The propeller drive provides an alternative propulsion method, though you may prefer the proven forward/reverse pedal system of the Old Town for precise open-water navigation.

Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

The Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak offers modular storage flexibility that the rigid Old Town BigWater PDL 132 lacks. At 88 pounds, it is lighter and more manageable than the 122-pound Old Town kayak. Its 10.5-foot length provides a middle ground between the compact Raider and the large BigWater. You sacrifice the 500-pound maximum capacity and the premium mesh seat with lumbar support found in the Old Town model. This kayak is ideal for anglers who need to break down their gear for transport. The fin drive adds a different propulsion option, though it may not match the hands-free efficiency of the BigWater’s pedal drive for long open-water trips.

Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak

The Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak is a compact, lightweight option compared to the large Old Town BigWater PDL 132. Weighing 82 pounds, it is easier to carry than the 122-pound Old Town model. Its modular design allows for flexible storage, which the rigid BigWater does not offer. You give up the 13-foot length and 500-pound capacity, making this kayak less suitable for heavy gear loads. This pick is best for calm water anglers who value easy transport and stability over speed. The 35.4-inch width is slightly narrower than the BigWater’s 36-inch hull, which may affect stability in rougher conditions. It is a practical choice for solo anglers prioritizing convenience.

Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak

The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak is a compact 11-foot option, significantly shorter than the 13-foot Old Town BigWater PDL 132. Weighing only 59 pounds, it is much lighter and easier to transport than the 122-pound Old Town kayak. Its 33-inch width is narrower, which may reduce stability compared to the BigWater’s 36-inch hull. You sacrifice the 500-pound capacity and the spacious deck for gear. This kayak is ideal for solo anglers who prioritize lightweight maneuverability in shallow water. The pedal drive offers hands-free operation, but the smaller size limits cargo space. It is a practical choice for anglers who fish alone and need easy portability.

Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 is a shorter, pontoon-hull version of the BigWater PDL 132. At 10 feet long, it is more manageable than the 13-foot BigWater, though it weighs 18 pounds, which seems to be a data error or refers to a component. Assuming standard weights, it is likely lighter than the 122-pound BigWater. It offers a 450-pound capacity, slightly less than the BigWater’s 500 pounds. The pontoon hull provides stability, similar to the BigWater’s wide design. This kayak is best for solo anglers who need a stable platform but want a shorter length for easier transport. It retains the pedal drive and Old Town brand reliability, making it a suitable alternative for those who find the BigWater too large.

Danrelax 12ft Inflatable Pedal Kayak

The Danrelax 12ft Inflatable Pedal Kayak offers portability that the rigid Old Town BigWater PDL 132 cannot match. Weighing 160 pounds, it is heavier than the BigWater, but its inflatable design allows for compact storage. At 12 feet long, it is slightly shorter than the 13-foot BigWater. The 38.6-inch width is wider, potentially offering more stability. You give up the rigid hull construction and the premium mesh seat of the Old Town model. This kayak is ideal for anglers who need a portable solution for calm lakes. The pedal drive provides hands-free navigation, but the inflatable material may feel less robust than the hard-shell BigWater. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing storage convenience over rigid performance.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Old Town BigWater PDL 132 Fishing Kayak

Best for: Open water anglers needing high capacity

Length

13 ft 2 in

Capacity

500 lb max, 378 lb usable

Person Capacity

Solo

Propulsion

Pedal drive

Seat Type

Mesh seat with lumbar support

Fishing Features

Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks

View on Amazon: Old Town BigWater PDL 132 Fishing Kayak

This 13-foot 2-inch pedal fishing kayak offers a 500-pound maximum capacity and 122-pound weight. It features a forward/reverse pedal drive for hands-free navigation and a premium mesh seat with lumbar support. The wide 36-inch hull provides stability for open water. You get customizable accessory tracks, rod holders, and a transducer mount. It suits anglers needing high gear capacity and stable platform for long days.

Pros

• 500-pound maximum capacity supports heavy gear loads
• Forward/reverse pedal drive enables hands-free fishing
• Premium mesh seat offers lumbar support and adjustability
• 36-inch width provides stable platform on open water
• Includes universal transducer mount for fish finders

Cons

• 122-pound weight requires significant effort to transport
• Removable pedal console adds 21 pounds to total load
• No mention of integrated storage compartments beyond tackle box

Good fit if

• You need a stable platform for open water fishing
• You require high capacity for heavy gear and tackle
• You prefer hands-free navigation while fishing

Skip if

• You prioritize lightweight gear for frequent carrying
• You fish primarily in tight, shallow waters
• You need a kayak under 13 feet in length

Verdict: Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 delivers high capacity and stability for serious anglers. Its pedal drive and wide hull make it ideal for open water trips where gear weight and hands-free operation matter most.

2 Best propeller drive

Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

Best for: Solo anglers with limited storage

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Construction

Modular sections, W-hull

Length

114 inches

Capacity

380 lb

Propulsion

Propeller pedal drive

Hull Type

W-hull

View on Amazon: Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

This 9.5-foot sit-on-top kayak uses a propeller pedal drive for hands-free propulsion. It features a W-hull for stability and modular sections that disassemble for easy transport and storage. The 380-pound capacity supports adult anglers. You will appreciate the lightweight 66-pound build, which requires no roof racks. The knee-friendly seat offers comfort during long sessions on the water.

Pros

• Propeller pedal drive system for efficient movement
• Modular design allows for quick assembly and disassembly
• Lightweight 66-pound construction with built-in handles
• W-hull provides balance in rough waters
• 380-pound weight capacity for gear and angler

Cons

• Knee-friendly seat may not suit all preferences
• Modular sections reduce structural rigidity compared to one-piece hulls
• No included rod holders or mounting tracks listed

Good fit if

• You have limited storage space and need a compact kayak
• You want to avoid using roof racks for transport
• You prefer a stable hull for calm to moderate waters

Skip if

• You require a tandem kayak for two anglers
• You need a longer hull for tracking in open water
• You prefer a standard padded seat over knee-style seating

Verdict: Reel Yaks Raider 9.5ft Modular Kayak fits anglers who prioritize easy transport and storage over maximum rigidity. It is ideal for solo fishing trips where you need to carry the kayak frequently.

3 Best budget

Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

Best for: Anglers needing modular storage and high capacity

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

10.5 ft

Capacity

400 lb

Propulsion

Fin pedal drive

Hull Type

W-hull

Use

Fishing

View on Amazon: Reel Yaks Recon 10.5ft Modular Pedal Kayak

The Reel Yaks Recon is a 10.5-foot modular sit-on-top kayak with a 400-pound capacity. It uses a fin pedal drive for hands-free movement and features a W-hull for stability. The two-piece design allows for easy transport and compact storage in small spaces. This blue gray model suits anglers who need high load capacity and portable gear for fishing trips.

Pros

• 400-pound weight capacity supports heavy gear and larger anglers
• Modular two-piece design fits in apartments, garages, and vehicle trunks
• Fin pedal drive provides smooth, hands-free propulsion for efficient coverage
• W-hull design offers stability while casting and navigating tricky waters

Cons

• 10.5-foot length is shorter than many long-range fishing kayaks
• 88-pound weight is substantial for manual carrying without assistance
• Modular construction requires assembly of sections before launching

Good fit if

• You need to store a kayak in a small apartment or garage
• You require a high 400-pound capacity for gear and comfort
• You want hands-free pedaling without using roof racks or trailers

Skip if

• You prefer a single-piece hull for faster setup on the water
• You need a longer kayak for tracking on open water
• You want to carry the kayak alone without lifting heavy sections

Verdict: Reel Yaks Recon Modular 10.5ft is a practical choice for anglers who prioritize storage flexibility and high load capacity over maximum speed. It fits buyers who transport kayaks by hand and need modular convenience.

4 Best premium

Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak

Best for: calm water anglers needing easy transport

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Length

114 inches

Capacity

380 lb

Propulsion

Pedal drive

Hull Type

W-style hull

Use

Fishing

View on Amazon: Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak

The Efficraft 9.5 ft pedal fishing kayak offers a modular sit-on-top design for anglers. It features a W-style hull and a 380 lb capacity. The 82 lb weight splits into manageable sections for transport. This kayak suits those who need easy storage and hands-free propulsion in calm waters.

Pros

• Modular sections simplify transport and storage
• 380 lb capacity supports gear and angler
• Pedal drive enables hands-free movement
• W-style hull provides stable tracking

Cons

• Shorter 9.5 ft length limits speed
• 82 lb weight is heavy for solo carry
• No mention of rod holders or storage hatches

Good fit if

• You need a kayak that fits in a small car
• You fish in calm lakes or ponds
• You want a stable sit-on-top platform

Skip if

• You require long-distance touring speed
• You prefer a lightweight one-piece hull
• You need extensive built-in storage compartments

Verdict: Efficraft 9.5 ft Modular Pedal Kayak fits anglers who prioritize easy transport and stability over speed. It is a practical choice for calm water fishing where modular design matters.

5 Best 11 ft

Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak

Best for: solo anglers prioritizing lightweight pedal maneuverability

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

View on Amazon: Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII Pedal Kayak

The Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII is an 11 ft sit-on-top fishing kayak. It weighs 59 pounds and measures 33 inches wide. The HyDryve II pedal system allows for hands-free propulsion. A rudder aids tracking, while the Ergoboost seat offers adjustable comfort. This model suits anglers seeking a lightweight, pedal-driven craft for shallow water fishing.

Pros

• HyDryve II pedal system for efficient propulsion
• Lightweight 59-pound build for easy transport
• Integrated rudder for improved tracking
• Ergoboost seating system with adjustable height
• In-handle rigging tracks for accessory mounting

Cons

• 33-inch width offers less stability than wider models
• 11-foot length limits storage capacity
• No mention of a center console or rod holders

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight kayak for solo car-topping
• You prefer pedal propulsion over paddling
• You fish in shallow waters with aquatic plants

Skip if

• You require a tandem kayak for two people
• You need a high-capacity boat for long trips
• You prioritize maximum stability over maneuverability

Verdict: Pelican Catch Kicker 110 HDII fits solo anglers who value easy transport and precise pedal control. Its compact 11-foot design is ideal for shallow water fishing where maneuverability matters more than cargo space.

6 Best length 10 ft

Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak

Best for: Solo anglers needing stable pontoon hull

Length

10 feet 6 inches

Capacity

450-pound maximum capacity

Person Capacity

Solo

Propulsion

Forward/reverse pedal drive

Hull Type

Pontoon-style hull

Seat Type

Premium mesh seat

View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 is a 10-foot 6-inch pedal fishing kayak with a pontoon-style hull. It supports a 450-pound maximum capacity and weighs 107 pounds. The forward/reverse pedal drive allows hands-free navigation. You get a premium mesh seat with lumbar support and customizable accessory tracks. This model suits anglers who want stability and easy car-topping.

Pros

• 450-pound maximum capacity
• Pontoon-style hull for stability
• Forward/reverse pedal drive
• Premium mesh seat with lumbar support

Cons

• Usable gear capacity is limited to 343 pounds
• Paddle is sold separately
• Fish finder is sold separately

Good fit if

• You need a stable pontoon-style hull
• You want a 450-pound capacity
• You prefer hands-free pedal propulsion

Skip if

• You need a tandem kayak for two people
• You require a length over 11 feet
• You want a kayak under 100 pounds

Verdict: Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 offers a stable pontoon hull and 450-pound capacity for solo anglers. It fits those who value pedal drive stability and easy transport over high gear volume.

7 Best inflatable

Danrelax 12ft Inflatable Pedal Kayak

Best for: portable pedal fishing on calm lakes

Construction

Drop-stitch floor, mesh PVC side panels

Length

12 ft

Capacity

330 lbs

Propulsion

Pedal system, motor mount, paddle

Hull Type

Boat-shaped hull

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: Danrelax 12ft Inflatable Pedal Kayak

This inflatable kayak features a 12-foot boat-shaped hull and a 330-pound capacity. It includes a pedal drive system and a separate rudder for hands-free navigation. The construction uses 2600g/m² PVC drop-stitch flooring and reinforced mesh sides. It comes with a motor mounting board and a 650L/min air pump. You get a complete kit with an aluminum paddle and seat cushion. It suits anglers needing portability and stability.

Pros

• Includes a pedal drive system and rudder for hands-free propulsion
• Heavy-duty 2600g/m² PVC drop-stitch floor for rigidity
• Boat-shaped hull provides superior stability on calm water
• Comes with a pre-engineered motor mounting board
• Portable design with a 600D Oxford carry bag

Cons

• 330-pound capacity is lower than rigid kayak competitors
• 160-pound weight is high for a single-person inflatable
• Lacks a molded high-back seat or adjustable lumbar support

Good fit if

• You need a portable kayak that fits in a small car
• You want a stable platform for lakes and calm rivers
• You prefer hands-free pedaling over paddling

Skip if

• You require a high weight capacity for heavy gear
• You plan to transport the kayak frequently by yourself
• You need a rigid hull for rough water conditions

Verdict: Danrelax 12ft Inflatable Fishing Kayak is a stable, portable option for anglers who prioritize easy transport and hands-free pedaling. It fits buyers who fish on calm waters and need a compact storage solution.

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