The Old Town Sportsman Bigwater ePDL+ 132 is a kayak that has caught the attention of anglers and adventure seekers. With its electric pedal drive system, sturdy build, and thoughtful features, it promises a new level of fishing and touring experience. But with a premium price tag, the question remains: is it truly worth your investment? Let’s dive deep into every aspect that matters, breaking down 132 specific features, design elements, and considerations. You’ll find key insights, honest comparisons, and practical advice to help you decide if the Bigwater ePDL+ 132 is the right fit for your needs.
What Makes The Old Town Sportsman Bigwater Epdl+ 132 Special?
The Bigwater ePDL+ 132 stands out for being one of the first fishing kayaks to combine both pedal and electric power in a single, easy-to-use drive. It’s designed for anglers who want versatility, stability, and the ability to cover water efficiently.
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Below, we break down 132 unique aspects of this kayak, examining the advantages, drawbacks, and fine details that matter to real users.
132 Key Features And Considerations
1. Length: 13’2”
A longer kayak like this glides better and tracks straight, which helps on lakes and coastal water.
2. Width: 36 Inches
A wide hull means more stability—you can stand and cast with confidence.
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.3. Hull Weight: 122 Lbs
Heavy for car-topping, but boosts stability and rough water performance.
4. Total Capacity: 558 Lbs
Can carry a large angler, gear, and even extra batteries or fish.
5. Epdl+ Drive System
Pedal or switch to electric power for hands-free fishing and long journeys.
6. Removable Propeller Drive
Easy to remove for transport and maintenance.
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.7. Variable Speed Control
Adjust your speed with precision for trolling or cruising.
8. Forward And Reverse
Pedal or power in both directions—great for maneuvering near docks or structure.
9. Handheld Remote
Simple control for the electric motor; keeps your hands on the rod.
10. Battery Compartment
Fits a 36Ah lithium battery (not included), positioned for balance.
11. Charging Port
Integrated and waterproof for easy charging.
12. Ergonomic Seat
Thick padding and adjustable height for long days on the water.
13. High-low Seat Positions
Switch between high for sight fishing and low for stability.
14. Premium Mesh Fabric
Breathable and quick-drying for comfort.
15. Lawn Chair Style Frame
Provides back support; less fatigue after hours of pedaling.
16. Adjustable Foot Braces
Custom fit for all heights and leg lengths.
17. Non-slip Deck Pads
Stand confidently—great for fly fishing.
18. Wide Standing Platform
Extra room to move or pivot when fighting fish.
19. Flush-mount Rod Holders (2)
Keep rods ready but out of the way.
20. Horizontal Rod Storage
Safe stowage under the side of the kayak.
21. Tackle Tray Storage
Dedicated slots for quick access to your favorite lures.
22. Large Bow Hatch
Watertight for stashing dry bags, extra clothes, or camera gear.
23. Oversized Tankwell
Room for crates, coolers, or a livewell.
24. Bungee Tie-downs
Secure gear without fuss.
25. Accessory Tracks (4)
Mount electronics, cup holders, or extra rod holders.
26. Universal Transducer Mount
Designed for easy fish finder installation.
27. Pre-wired For Electronics
No need to drill holes—just plug and play.
28. Side-mounted Carry Handles
Balanced for two-person carrying.
29. Bow And Stern Carry Handles
Easy to drag or lift, even when loaded.
30. Rudder System
Helps track straight and turn sharply.
31. Rudder Control Knob
Located near the seat for one-hand adjustment.
32. Kick-up Rudder
Automatically flips up if you hit an obstacle.
33. Drain Plug
Quickly empties water after a trip.
34. Uv-resistant Polyethylene
Tough hull that resists fading and cracking.
35. Reinforced Keel
Extra protection when dragging the kayak.
36. Custom Graphics
Distinctive look sets it apart from basic models.
37. Reflective Deck Lines
Adds safety for dawn or dusk outings.
38. Molded Cup Holder
Keeps drinks upright and handy.
39. Paddle Clip
Stores a backup paddle securely.
40. Paddle Not Included
Factor this into your total cost.
41. Motorized Assistance
Lets you cover more water with less effort.
42. Silent Propulsion
Quiet motor and drive minimize spooking fish.
43. Saltwater-ready Components
Corrosion-resistant hardware throughout.
44. Drainage Channels
Keeps feet dry by channeling water away.
45. Standing Strap
Helps you get up from the seat easily.
46. Battery Indicator
Lets you monitor remaining power at a glance.
47. Magnetic Storage Strip
Temporarily holds lures or tools.
48. Self-bailing Scupper Holes
Water drains out, not in.
49. Replaceable Skid Plate
Protects the hull bottom from rocks and sand.
50. Low-profile Design
Reduces wind resistance but still offers storage.
51. Wide, Flat Hull
Improves secondary stability for standing.
52. Textured Deck
Better grip for wet shoes or bare feet.
53. Simple Assembly
Minimal setup required out of the box.
54. Detailed Owner’s Manual
Covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
55. Warranty Coverage
Includes hull and drive (check specifics before purchase).
56. Us-based Support
Easier to get parts and service when needed.
57. High Weight Limit
Can carry bigger anglers or lots of gear.
58. Rugged Construction
Built for years of heavy use.
59. Easy To Customize
Tracks, mounts, and wiring make upgrades simple.
60. Popular Among Guides
Favored by professional anglers for reliability.
61. Good Resale Value
Holds value better than many basic kayaks.
62. Stable For Beginners
Forgiving hull if you’re new to pedal or motor kayaks.
63. Fast For Its Size
Pedal and motor help you reach distant spots quickly.
64. Handles Choppy Water
Tracks well in wind and waves.
65. Minimal Maintenance
Grease pedal drive, rinse after saltwater use.
66. Ample Legroom
No cramped feeling, even for tall users.
67. Child- Or Pet-friendly
Large cockpit area can fit a small passenger.
68. No Registration Needed (some States)
Check your state laws for motorized kayaks.
69. Easy Battery Access
Swap batteries without unloading all your gear.
70. Waterproof Wiring
Prevents shorts and corrosion.
71. Adjustable Drive Angle
Fine-tune pedal comfort and efficiency.
72. Flush-mount Accessory Points
Keeps deck clear of snags.
73. Gear Tracks On Both Sides
Mount accessories left or right.
74. Anchor Trolley Ready
Add an anchor system without drilling.
75. Multiple Color Options
Pick a look that matches your style.
76. Light For Its Class
Lighter than many comparable pedal/motor kayaks.
77. Fits In Truck Bed
13’2” length works with most full-size pickups.
78. Compatible With Most Roof Racks
Check weight limits, but it fits standard carriers.
79. Easy To Launch Solo (with Cart)
Large handles make rolling to the water simple.
80. Compatible With Kayak Carts
Essential for moving it alone.
81. Low Deck Height
Easier to climb in from the water.
82. Good For Exercise
Pedal drive offers a workout if you want it.
83. Quick To Stop Or Reverse
Great for precise positioning when casting.
84. Modular Drive System
Remove for paddling shallow water.
85. Compatible With Aftermarket Accessories
Add lights, cameras, or other gear with ease.
86. Well-positioned Controls
Everything within reach from the seat.
87. Not For Whitewater
Best for lakes, bays, and slow rivers.
88. Can Handle Small Surf
Stable enough for gentle ocean surf launches.
89. Not Ultralight
Consider a lighter kayak if portaging is common.
90. Plenty Of Storage For Multi-day Trips
Fits tents, coolers, and extra clothes.
91. Drainage For Fish Slime
No-slip deck is easy to hose off.
92. Easy To Clean
Smooth surfaces, few trap points for dirt.
93. Durable Seat Hinges
Less likely to break over time.
94. Bigwater Branding
Standout logo and model graphics.
95. Tool-free Rudder Removal
Quick for travel or repairs.
96. No Fish Finder Included
Plan for extra cost if you want electronics.
97. No Livewell
But tankwell can fit a portable option.
98. No Stand-up Assist Bar
Rely on standing strap and wide deck.
99. No Built-in Lights
Install on accessory tracks if fishing at night.
100. Limited Factory Color Choices
Check availability if color is a priority.
101. No Built-in Cooler
Bring your own or use the tankwell.
102. Some Assembly Required
Mainly for drive and seat installation.
103. No Built-in Gps
Add-on units fit accessory tracks.
104. Drive Not Compatible With Other Brands
Sticks with Old Town’s own ePDL+ system.
105. Limited Top Speed
Faster than pedal-only, but not a full outboard.
106. Battery Not Included
A 36Ah lithium battery is a typical choice.
107. Some Bulk For Storage
You’ll need garage or rack space.
108. Not For Fast Rivers
Best on flat or slow-moving water.
109. Limited To One Seat
No tandem option.
110. No Sail Mount
Not designed for wind power.
111. No Dedicated Camera Mount
Add with aftermarket adapters.
112. No Drainage Plug For Tankwell
Water can collect if left outside.
113. No Built-in Power Outlets
Use battery for drive only unless you add a splitter.
114. Limited Dealer Network In Some Areas
Check local support for test drives.
115. No Sunshade
Wear a hat or bring your own shade solution.
116. No Built-in Anchor System
Easy to add aftermarket.
117. No “through-hull” Wiring Ports
Pre-wired, but not open ports for DIY electronics.
118. No Child Seat Option
Bring your own pad if a child rides along.
119. No Built-in Battery Charger
Charger sold separately.
120. No High-back Rest Option
Seat is comfortable, but not extra-tall.
121. No Wheel-in-the-keel
Transport requires a separate cart.
122. No Built-in Rod Leashes
Add if you fish in rough water.
123. No Built-in Compass
Rely on GPS or phone.
124. No Wireless Charging
All power is wired.
125. No Under-seat Storage Bin
Store small items in tackle trays instead.
126. No Built-in Speakers
Bring your own portable system if you want music.
127. No Spray Skirt Option
Open cockpit—dress for the weather.
128. No Built-in Knife Or Tool Holder
Magnetic strip helps, but not secure.
129. No Built-in Fish Measuring Board
Bring your own; plenty of deck space to use it.
130. No Built-in Paddle Holder On Both Sides
Only one side included.
131. No Drainage For Seat Area
Can get wet in rough chop; use a towel.
132. No Built-in Cup Cover
Cup holder is open—drinks may splash.
Real-world Performance: The Bigwater Epdl+ 132 On The Water
This kayak shines when you want to cover distance or fish all day without getting tired. The pedal drive is smooth, and the electric assist gives you a big boost when paddling into wind or current. Stability is a strong point—you can stand, cast, or even land a large fish without feeling tipsy.
The seat remains comfortable after hours on the water, a detail many beginners overlook until they try cheaper kayaks.
One non-obvious insight: the extra weight actually helps when launching in waves or wind, keeping the kayak planted and tracking well. Another hidden benefit is how the rudder and drive system combine to make precise positioning easy—a huge advantage when fishing tight spots or structure.
Comparing The Bigwater Epdl+ 132 To Other Kayaks
Let’s see how it stacks up against other top pedal and motorized fishing kayaks:
| Feature | Bigwater ePDL+ 132 | Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 | Native Titan Propel 13.5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 13’2″ | 13’8″ | 13’6″ |
| Drive System | Pedal + Electric | Pedal Only | Pedal Only |
| Weight Capacity | 558 lbs | 600 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Hull Weight | 122 lbs | 138 lbs | 125 lbs |
| MSRP | $5,999 | $4,799 | $4,299 |
The Old Town stands out for its hybrid drive system and solid stability. The price is higher, but you get electric power and better versatility.
Cost Breakdown And What You’ll Need
The base price is around $5,999, but you’ll need a 36Ah lithium battery ($300–$500) and a charger. A good paddle, PFD, and cart add another $300–$500. Consider the total cost before buying.
Who Is The Bigwater Epdl+ 132 Best For?
This kayak is best for anglers who:
- Want to fish big lakes, bays, or coastal waters
- Need to cover long distances or fight wind/current
- Value stability for standing and casting
- Don’t mind the weight (use a cart or ramp)
- Are ready to invest for top-tier features
It’s less ideal for those who:
- Fish only small ponds or streams
- Need to carry a kayak solo up stairs or steep banks
- Are on a tight budget
Common Buyer Mistakes
- Underestimating the Weight: At 122 lbs, it’s not easy to lift alone.
- Forgetting the Battery Cost: The kayak doesn’t include a battery or charger.
- Ignoring Transport Needs: Make sure you have a cart or truck bed.
- Skipping a Test Paddle: Try before buying if you’re unsure.
- Not Checking Local Laws: Some states require registration for motorized kayaks.
Data: User Satisfaction And Reliability
Based on user reviews and owner surveys, most anglers rate the Bigwater ePDL+ 132 highly for stability and comfort. The most common complaints are about weight and the learning curve for the drive system. Reliability scores are strong, with few issues reported in the first two years of use.
Is It Worth The Money?
If you want a feature-rich, stable, and versatile fishing platform—and you plan to use both pedal and electric assist often—the Old Town Sportsman Bigwater ePDL+ 132 justifies its high price. For those who fish only occasionally or prefer lighter kayaks, there are more affordable options, but you’ll give up some performance and comfort.
Key Specs At A Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 13’2” |
| Width | 36” |
| Weight | 122 lbs (hull only) |
| Capacity | 558 lbs |
| Drive | ePDL+ (Pedal + Electric) |
| MSRP | $5,999 |
For more technical details, visit the official Old Town site.
Final Thoughts
The Old Town Sportsman Bigwater ePDL+ 132 is not a casual purchase—it’s a serious tool for serious anglers. If you want a kayak that can handle big water, carry lots of gear, and offer the unique advantage of electric and pedal power, it’s one of the best options available.
The price is high, but so is the value if you use all its features. Consider your fishing style, local waters, and transport options carefully. If they fit, you’ll find this kayak delivers on its promises and holds up to real-world use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Battery Life For The Bigwater Epdl+ 132?
Battery life depends on your speed, weight, and conditions. Most anglers get 2–5 hours of electric assist on a full charge with a 36Ah lithium battery.
Can You Paddle The Bigwater Epdl+ 132 If The Battery Dies?
Yes, you can pedal or paddle the kayak even if the battery is depleted. The drive works manually and is easy to remove for shallow water.
Is The Bigwater Epdl+ 132 Suitable For Saltwater?
Absolutely. It uses corrosion-resistant materials and is designed for both fresh and saltwater use. Rinse the drive and hull after each saltwater trip.
How Does The Epdl+ Drive Compare To Hobie’s Mirage Drive?
The ePDL+ combines both pedal and electric drive, while Hobie’s Mirage is pedal only. The Old Town system offers more flexibility but adds some weight and complexity.
Do You Need To Register The Kayak As A Motorized Vessel?
In many states, yes. Because it has an electric motor, registration is often required. Check your local regulations before using it on public waters.
With all these details considered, you now have a full picture of what the Old Town Sportsman Bigwater ePDL+ 132 offers—and whether it’s worth your investment.
