Last updated: March 23, 2026
Quick Answer: The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132: Pedal-Power Hybrid for Beginner Saltwater Inshore Adventures is a 13.2-foot fishing kayak that pairs a human-powered pedal drive with an integrated electric motor assist. It delivers a top speed of approximately 5 mph, carries up to 500 lbs, and ships with a 36V 20Ah lithium-ion battery included. It is built for anglers who want to cover large inshore bays, estuaries, and flats without burning out their legs or their budget on a separate motorized vessel.
Key Takeaways
- The ePDL+ system lets you pedal with your feet, engage electric assist at five speed levels, or use cruise control to lock in a steady pace while you fish
- The kayak holds up to 500 lbs, giving beginners room for full gear loads without sacrificing stability
- A 36V 20Ah lithium-ion battery ships with the kayak. Low cruise settings on calm water can last a full weekend of fishing
- Top speed with motor assist reaches approximately 5 mph
- The wide 36-inch beam creates a stable platform for standing casts in inshore shallows
- At 125+ lbs rigged, transport requires a cart or a second set of hands
- The ICAST Best Watercraft award recognized the BigWater ePDL+ as a standout in fishing kayak innovation
- Hobie's fin-drive systems weigh less and handle weeds better in shallow flats. The ePDL+ wins on motor-assist range and payload capacity
- Beginners benefit most from the cruise control feature, which removes the need to manage speed while casting or landing fish
- Price sits in the premium tier, above most sub-$2,000 pedal kayaks currently on the market
What Exactly Is the Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132?
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 is a pedal-power hybrid fishing kayak designed for inshore saltwater use. It combines a traditional foot-pedal drive with an integrated electric motor, giving anglers two propulsion modes in one hull.
Old Town built this kayak around the idea that covering water matters as much as finding fish. Inshore fishing on big bays, tidal flats, and estuaries requires range. Paddling alone limits how far you go and how fresh your arms stay when it counts. The ePDL+ system solves that by letting you pedal when conditions are easy and engage the motor when wind, current, or distance demands it.
The “132” in the name refers to the kayak's 13.2-foot length. The hull measures 36 inches wide, which is wide enough to stand and cast without bracing. The kayak earned the ICAST Best Watercraft award, a peer-recognized benchmark in the fishing industry.
Who this kayak is for:
- Beginner saltwater anglers who want stability and range on bigger inshore waters
- Anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and snook in bays and estuaries
- Fishers who want hands-free propulsion so they focus on casting, not paddling
Who should look elsewhere:
- Anglers fishing tight, weedy flats where a lighter kayak maneuvers better
- Anglers who need to solo-carry their kayak to the water regularly
- Budget shoppers. This kayak sits in the premium price tier
How Does the ePDL+ Hybrid Drive System Work?
The ePDL+ drive works like an electric bike for water. You pedal with your feet to move the kayak forward, and the electric motor adds assist based on the speed level you select.
Five speed levels sit on a waterproof control panel mounted within easy reach on the deck. Outdoor Life described the panel as resembling “an original Nintendo Game Boy,” and noted it is designed to be readable through polarized sunglasses, which matters on bright saltwater days. You scroll through speeds with a simple button press. No throttle grip. No remote control to fumble with while a fish runs.
The cruise control feature is the standout function for beginners. Set your speed, take your hands off the controls, and focus entirely on your rod. Outdoor Life called cruise control the feature that “separates itself from traditional pedal or motor crafts”. For a new angler still learning to manage a kayak, cast, and watch a fish finder simultaneously, that hands-free option removes one major variable.
The motor draws power from a 36V 20Ah lithium-ion battery that ships with the kayak [1]. Airkayaks reported that low cruise settings can sustain power across a full weekend of fishing, though range drops significantly at higher speed levels. Field & Stream noted the system “has a good deal of pep to it, even on the lower levels,” with top speed reaching approximately 5 mph.
Practical drive tips for beginners:
- Start on speed level 1 or 2 when learning to steer. Higher speeds require more confident paddle or pedal correction
- Use cruise control when drifting along a shoreline or working a long grass edge
- Reserve higher speed levels for repositioning against wind or current, not for sustained travel
- Charge the battery fully before each trip and carry the charger in your vehicle
For a full breakdown of how to rig your kayak before hitting inshore water, see the complete saltwater kayak rigging guide at FishOnYak.com.
What Are the Key Specs and Stability Features?
The BigWater ePDL+ 132 is built wide and heavy on purpose. Stability on open inshore water is the priority, and the specs reflect that.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 13.2 feet |
| Width | 36 inches |
| Weight (rigged) | 125+ lbs [6] |
| Weight capacity | 500 lbs [4] |
| Battery | 36V 20Ah Li-Ion (included) [1] |
| Top speed (assisted) | ~5 mph [6][10] |
| Drive type | Hybrid pedal + electric motor |
| Hull material | High-density polyethylene |
The 36-inch beam gives the kayak primary stability, meaning it feels flat and planted on calm water. Beginners who have never stood in a kayak before will find this hull forgiving. Secondary stability, the resistance to full capsize when the hull tilts, is also strong given the wide waterline.
The 500 lb capacity handles an angler, full safety gear, a tackle load, a fish finder, anchor system, and a cooler without pushing the hull dangerously low in the water. That margin matters in saltwater, where chop and wakes from passing boats add unexpected load to the hull.
Rigged weight is the trade-off. At 125+ lbs, this kayak does not go from truck to water without a cart or a partner [6]. Plan your launch logistics before your first trip. A good kayak cart and a concrete boat ramp make the process manageable solo. A sandy beach launch without a cart is a hard workout.
For a full guide on setting up your kayak for inshore saltwater conditions, the inshore saltwater fishing kayak setup guide covers everything from rod holder placement to anchor trolley rigging.
How Does the BigWater ePDL+ 132 Perform on Inshore Saltwater?
On open bays, tidal rivers, and calm estuaries, the Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132: Pedal-Power Hybrid for Beginner Saltwater Inshore Adventures performs well above what most beginners expect from a kayak. The motor assist lets you cover water that would exhaust a paddler in two hours.
Field & Stream's review noted that the ePDL+ allows anglers to “cover a lot of ground quickly without tiring as fast,” which is the core advantage on large inshore bodies of water. When redfish are pushing bait across a 2-mile flat or speckled trout are stacked at a distant point, the ability to reposition quickly without fatigue changes how you fish.
Where the ePDL+ 132 excels:
- Big open bays and tidal rivers where distance between spots is significant
- Windy conditions where paddling against the breeze drains energy fast
- Long fishing days where leg fatigue from pure pedaling becomes a factor
- Beginners who want to explore without worrying about making it back to the launch
Where the ePDL+ 132 shows limitations:
- Dense grass flats and shallow oyster bars where the motor and prop risk fouling
- Tight mangrove creeks where the 13.2-foot hull limits turning radius
- Carry-in launches with no ramp access, given the 125+ lb rigged weight
Wired2Fish noted the BigWater ePDL+ 132 stands apart from pure motorized alternatives because it keeps the angler physically engaged through pedaling, which improves boat control and awareness on the water compared to sitting still and steering a trolling motor [research source].
If you are new to saltwater kayak fishing and want to build your skills before your first trip, the 21 essential saltwater kayak fishing tips for newbies at FishOnYak.com gives you a practical starting point.
How Does the Old Town BigWater ePDL+ 132 Compare to the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler?
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler is the most direct competitor to the Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132: Pedal-Power Hybrid for Beginner Saltwater Inshore Adventures. Both target serious inshore anglers who want hands-free propulsion and a stable fishing platform.
The core difference is drive philosophy. Hobie uses a fin-based mirage drive that sweeps side to side like a penguin's flippers. Old Town uses a propeller-based pedal drive paired with an electric motor. Each approach has real trade-offs.
| Feature | Old Town BigWater ePDL+ 132 | Hobie Mirage Pro Angler |
|---|---|---|
| Drive type | Pedal + electric motor hybrid | Fin-based mirage drive |
| Electric assist | Yes, 5 speed levels + cruise control | Available on some models |
| Top speed (assisted) | ~5 mph [6] | Varies by model |
| Weight | 125+ lbs rigged [6] | Lighter, more portable |
| Weed performance | Limited in dense grass | Better in shallow weeds |
| Payload | 500 lbs [4] | Comparable |
| Battery included | Yes, 36V 20Ah [1] | Varies by model |
Choose the Old Town ePDL+ 132 if:
- You fish big open bays where motor assist and range matter more than shallow weed performance
- You want cruise control for hands-free fishing on long drifts
- You want battery and motor included at purchase
Choose the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler if:
- You fish tight, weedy flats regularly where the fin drive outperforms a prop
- You need a lighter kayak for solo transport to carry-in launches
- You prioritize lower overall weight over motor-assist range
What Rigging Does the BigWater ePDL+ 132 Support?
The BigWater ePDL+ 132 arrives with a solid base for rigging, and the wide deck gives you room to add gear without crowding your casting space.
Standard rigging points and features:
- Multiple rod holder positions across the deck
- Gear tracks for mounting accessories like fish finders, rod holders, and camera mounts
- Bow and stern storage wells for tackle bags and dry boxes
- Anchor trolley compatibility for controlled positioning in current
- USB charging port for electronics
For a fish finder, the wide hull gives you a stable transducer mounting surface. A quality side-imaging unit paired with a GPS plotter changes how you locate fish on big inshore water. The Fishpro 1080P MF 2026 model review covers a strong option for murky inshore water where visibility is limited.
Rigging priorities for beginners on inshore saltwater:
- Mount a fish finder with GPS before your first trip. Knowing depth and bottom structure prevents you from running aground on oyster bars
- Install an anchor trolley. It lets you hold position in current without spinning the kayak
- Add a paddle leash. Even with the ePDL+ drive, a paddle as backup keeps you safe if the motor fails
- Secure a PFD rated for kayak use. Wear it, not just carry it
- Add a VHF radio or waterproof phone mount for emergency communication on open water
The full inshore saltwater fishing kayak setup guide at FishOnYak.com walks through each rigging step in detail.
What Are the Common Mistakes Beginners Make With the BigWater ePDL+ 132?
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132: Pedal-Power Hybrid for Beginner Saltwater Inshore Adventures is forgiving for beginners, but a few consistent mistakes cut into both safety and fishing success.
Mistake 1: Running the motor at high speed in shallow water The prop sits below the hull. In water shallower than 18 inches, the prop risks striking bottom or fouling in grass. Drop to pedal-only mode in skinny water.
Mistake 2: Skipping the battery charge check A partial charge at launch means a dead motor before the end of the trip. Charge fully the night before. Carry a portable power bank for your electronics separately so the main battery stays dedicated to propulsion.
Mistake 3: Underestimating the rigged weight at the launch First-time owners often arrive at a sandy beach launch without a cart and discover that 125+ lbs on soft ground is a serious problem. Scout your launch before your first trip. Bring a kayak cart.
Mistake 4: Ignoring tide timing On inshore flats, tide dictates where fish hold and where you go aground. Check a local tide chart before every trip. Fish moving tides, not dead slack water.
Mistake 5: Over-relying on the motor and skipping situational awareness Cruise control is useful, but it does not steer around crab pot buoys, submerged pilings, or boat traffic. Keep your eyes on the water ahead, not just the fish finder screen.
For broader tactical guidance on saltwater kayak fishing, the saltwater kayak fishing resource hub at FishOnYak.com covers species-specific tactics and seasonal patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Old Town BigWater ePDL+ 132 come with a battery? Yes. The kayak ships with a 36V 20Ah lithium-ion battery included. No separate battery purchase is required to use the electric motor assist on day one.
What is the top speed of the BigWater ePDL+ 132? With full electric assist, the kayak reaches approximately 5 mph [6][10]. Speed varies based on angler weight, total load, wind, and current.
How long does the battery last on the water? On low cruise settings in calm conditions, the battery can sustain power across a full weekend of fishing. Higher speed levels drain the battery significantly faster [6]. Exact range depends on load, conditions, and speed selection.
Can a beginner handle this kayak solo? Yes, on the water. The wide hull and stable platform suit beginners well. The challenge is transport. At 125+ lbs rigged, launching and retrieving solo requires a kayak cart and a suitable ramp [6].
Is the BigWater ePDL+ 132 good for saltwater use? Yes. The hull and hardware are designed for saltwater environments. Rinse the drive system and hull with fresh water after every saltwater trip to prevent corrosion buildup.
How does the pedal drive compare to a traditional trolling motor? The ePDL+ keeps your hands free like a trolling motor, but adds physical pedaling for propulsion. This gives you more direct boat control and keeps you physically engaged, which improves awareness on the water compared to sitting still and steering a motor.
What fish species work best from this kayak? Redfish, speckled trout, flounder, snook, and striped bass in inshore bays, estuaries, and tidal rivers. The range and stability suit species that require covering large areas of open water.
Can you stand and fish from the BigWater ePDL+ 132? Yes. The 36-inch beam and flat deck support standing casts in calm to moderate conditions. Beginners should practice standing on calm water before attempting it in chop or current.
What awards has this kayak received? The BigWater ePDL+ earned Old Town the ICAST Best Watercraft award, a peer-recognized distinction in the fishing industry.
How does the cruise control work? You set a speed level on the deck-mounted control panel, and the motor holds that speed without further input. This lets you focus on casting, fighting fish, or reading your fish finder without managing propulsion.
Is the ePDL+ drive system easy to remove for transport or storage? The drive system is designed to be removable for transport and storage. Check the owner's manual for the specific removal steps, as improper removal risks damaging the motor housing.
How does the BigWater ePDL+ 132 handle wind and chop? The wide hull and motor assist make headwind travel more manageable than a paddle-only kayak. In significant chop above 2 feet, the hull's weight provides some dampening, but open-water conditions above that threshold are not recommended for beginners.
Conclusion: Is the Old Town BigWater ePDL+ 132 the Right First Saltwater Kayak?
The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132: Pedal-Power Hybrid for Beginner Saltwater Inshore Adventures earns its place as one of the strongest options for beginners targeting inshore saltwater species in 2026. The hybrid drive removes the biggest physical barrier new anglers face on big water: fatigue. Cruise control removes the biggest mental barrier: managing propulsion while learning to fish.
The 500 lb capacity, wide beam, and stable hull give beginners the margin they need to build confidence without fighting the kayak. The included 36V 20Ah battery means you launch ready, not shopping for power on day one.
The trade-offs are real. Transport requires planning. Dense grass flats favor lighter, fin-drive alternatives. And the premium price demands a committed budget.
Actionable next steps:
- Visit a local dealer and sit in the BigWater ePDL+ 132 before buying. Confirm the seat height and pedal reach fit your body
- Research your primary inshore fishing spots. If most of your targets are on open bays and tidal rivers, this kayak fits. If you fish tight, grassy flats exclusively, compare the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler first
- Budget for a quality kayak cart, a PFD, a fish finder, and an anchor trolley alongside the kayak purchase
- Take one trip on calm, protected water before venturing onto open bays. Learn the drive system and cruise control in conditions that forgive mistakes
- Study local tides and inshore species patterns before your first outing
Kayak. Drill. Catch. Repeat.
See you on the water.
References
[1] Sportsman Bigwater 132 Epdl – https://www.kayakcentre.com/sportsman-bigwater-132-epdl.html
[2] Old Town Watercraft Bigwater Epdl Review – https://www.outdoorlife.com/gear/old-town-watercraft-bigwater-epdl-review/
[3] Sportsman Bigwater Epdl 132 – https://www.hitempo.com/sportsman-bigwater-epdl-132.html
[4] Old Town Sportsman Bigwater Epdl 132 – https://www.marinegeneral.com/product/old-town-sportsman-bigwater-epdl-132/
[5] Old Town Epdl Kayak Review And Buying Guide – https://www.airkayaks.com/old-town-epdl-kayak-review-and-buying-guide/
[6] Gear Review Old Town Sportsman Bigwater Epdl 132 – https://www.bassmaster.com/gear-reviews/news/gear-review-old-town-sportsman-bigwater-epdl-132/
[7] Old Town Epdl Electric Pedal Assist Kayak Review – https://fieldandstream.com/stories/fishing/old-town-epdl-electric-pedal-assist-kayak-review
