REVIEW! The NEW Old Town Predator PDL Kayak (Native Propel Killer?)
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- Опубліковано 16 лют 2017
- Old Town, Maine (September 28, 2016)
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks is proud to announce that the ICAST 2016 award-winning Old Town Predator PDL is now shipping, bringing anglers no-fail forward and reverse for unrivaled hands-free boat control and fishability.
"We're proud to report that we're delivering the Predator PDL to dealers across the country," said David Hadden, Brand Director for Johnson Outdoors Watercraft. "Actually, as you read this, many dealers have received Predator PDLs and are already reporting a very high level of customer enthusiasm."
The reason for all the hype? For starters, Old Town has taken boat control to new heights with forward and reverse via an efficient and easy-to-use propriety pedal-drive system.
"We wanted to create the best pedal fishing experience on the planet, complete with forward and reverse. To that end, our R&D spent three years creating the most durable, dependable, fastest, quietest, and intuitive pedal-driven mechanism in the industry, as well as the perfect hull and boat design to go with it. The end result offers superior maneuverability in wind, current, and around structure. It really fishes like no other."
Predator PDL Lifestyle Image One of the key differences between the Old Town Predator PDL and other pedal-driven kayaks on the market stems from engineering rooted in proven lifecycle technologies. What's the adage? Like riding bike? While some pedal-driven kayaks rely on other physical motions, the Old Town PDL pedals exactly like a bicycle, converting modest pedaling into maximum propulsion. A 10.3:1 gear ratio means that anglers can reach speeds up to 5.5 mph to reach fishing spots fast and efficiently. It also makes trolling through a range of user-adjustable speeds easy and effective.
The PDL Drive itself is easy to carry, operate and stow-and a proprietary weedless prop design creates the perfect combination of efficiency, speed, and torque. Additionally, Old Town's PDL Drive allows smooth forward and reverse and a small turn radius allow for the ultimate in boat control via one-handed rudder control on the boat itself.
"We also knew the system had to dock, deploy and stow quickly and easily, run in shallow water, but also pivot up quickly for navigating underwater obstacles. That was another considerable engineering hurdle," said Hadden.
What Old Town engineers designed is a compact, lightweight and rugged machine, with 16" of draft for navigating skinny waters, and a unique pivot and docking system that allows users to go from parked to peddling (or vice versa) in seconds. This also means anglers can avoid obstacles almost instantaneously and beach the boat virtually anywhere. A mere 21 lbs., the PDL Drive console is easy to transport; it even floats. Padded pedals allow for bare-footed comfort, and a carry handle makes for easy transport.
Predator PDL specifications
Length: 13' 2"
Width: 36"
Weight: 117 lbs. (Pedal Drive: 21 lbs.)
Carrying Capacity: 500 lbs
Predator PDL MSRP $2,799.99
Forward and reverse for exact boat control in wind and current
Smooth, quiet and easy to pedal
Removable PDL Drive installs in seconds and tips up instantly for shallow-water docking
Fast and maneuverable, with one-hand-operated rudder steering
Specially-designed hull with generous width for stability and storage
Includes accessory mounting plates, Element Seating System and other standard Predator features
Ease of transport
Low maintenance
Like other Predator models, the Predator PDL is infinitely customizable with rigging accessories from Cannon®, Scotty™, YakAttack®, RAM®, and more.
This year marks Old Town's second "Best of Show - Boats" win, the last in 2014 when the Maine, USA-based company introduced the ground-breaking Predator XL Minn Kota, an "Ultimate Fishing Machine" powered by by 45 lbs. of stealth-quiet saltwater-grade power.
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Excellent review! I watched numerous reviews and the predator PDL is just what I would buy. Trick worm...good luck in the tourney.
Thanks for the review. Liking those mounting boards pre-installed, no more holes! c'mon!
Good review brother, I'm very happy with my PDL, I took it already twice offshore in bad conditions and let me tell you, it does the job...
Absolutly great review and I can't wait to try one these kayaks out!!!
Just pulled the trigger on this kayak. Waiting for delivery! This video confirms my choice ! I even went with this color. Good quality video too btw!
I have watched a ton of reviews and this was by far the best review of this kayak and I love that you compared it to the propel those were the two kayaks I have had my eye on and I looked at both in person and I was leaning towards the predator and this helped me seal the deal I'm going to pull the trigger and buy the pdl from Austin kayak thank you for a though review and a good comparison between these two good kayaks
Thanks for watching and glad it helped! Did you get the PDL yet?
nice job man. I have been trying to get down to the decide between old town and native, and this video is the best, what I believe to be impartial example of the differences. thanks for doing this - and a side note, I happen to like clean you tubes.
Thanks Hans. Hope it helped!
Good review! I had a Native ultimate propel 12 that I sold in Sept and bought a PDL during Black Friday sales. I never consider a Hobie as the reverse to me is indispensable. I mostly bass fish with my kayak and I use the reverse constantly whether it's playing a fish, going in and out of docks... It's just so convenient. I'm 6'3" 240lbs 70yrs old and looking forward to being able to stand and stretch once in awhile, maybe even doing some stand up fishing if it's calm. Thanks for the review!
Thanks for watching Dick!
Love ur vids brother! I'm about one mile from a laker here in Texas. I'm not able to go w a boat so I've been researching kayaks for almost two years. I think u just sold me on this one. Should be getting a small bonus in March...And this is what I'm buying! Thanks again for your review.
Congrats man! It won't disappoint!
Great review!!! I love my PDL best purchase I've made as far as kyacks go. I have several blast injuries from Iraq to my back, neck, knees, and shoulder and being able to switch between peddle and paddle is amazing! Rejuvenated my love of kyack fishing. I would recommend this kyack to anyone.
Is what I like is that it's not a kayak with a peddle drive but peddle drive with a kayak around it which is why there are so many good reviews on comfort after long hours on the water.i,am only waiting for black Friday to roll around.
You are a very articulate speaker. Since I can understand you it's much appreciated. Old Town has been making boats (canoes) for longer than most and they've focused on kayak over canoes.
Yes they have Brad. They make good products.
Better kayaks than canoes now. Good luck with your channel.
Thanks Brad!
thank you for the review , been waiting for a regular guy to talk about the OT PDL rather than factory reps, live in northern Iowa and have 100s of farm ponds to fish so have been thinkin about a kayak and lots of parks and elect/no power lakes
I am a Slayer owner and really have enjoyed it....................based on what I have seen and heard the Predator overall is probably the better of the two.........but you will pay a little more for it as well. I stand a lot in my slayer and for the most part have never had any stability issues and one of the things that a lot of folks seem to not like about the Slayer is the raised console where the drive is, compared to the flat area of the Predator. Personally I like the raised console floor better than the flat console floor because it more or less forces you to keep your feet apart when standing which is important to maintain stability when standing. It is much easier to suddenly loose your balance when a side wake sneaks up on you when your feet are together.
Pescador is a series of kayaks that is made by Perception. If you don't know who Perception is, well, that's just weird. The Pilot is a specific version of the Pescador series. Sort of like the GT is a specific version of the Mustang, but made by Ford.
It looks like Perception did some of their beta testing of the Pilot on the customer base. Never really a good idea. Maybe they thought the low price would make up for it. Not sure. I'm sure they are working out the bugs though.
In any case, this was a very good and well made review. I really enjoyed it and learned a lot about the PDL in the process of watching it. Thanks for making and sharing it.
Great review. I've never seen one irl, but I feel like I know quite a bit about it now. It looks like a great way to spend the day fishing. This is the one I would purchase.
What are the kayak's you've considered?
Good review. Totally agree with you on Hobie being pretty expensive. I paid $3200 for my 2016 PA14. Because of the price there was an inner debate to choose boat or kayak. I think if it was a $100 more I'd be in a boat. To switch drives will cost you between $800 and $900. 💸
Great Review. I too had the Pro Angler, had to replace Fins a Couple of times........don't get me wrong great boat. I bought the PDL......WOW, I really love the pedal drive over FINS. Plus being a one man operation the Pro Angler got to be a bit cumbersome loading and unloading in the back of a Pickup, the PDL is a great loading boat for sure. Can't go wrong with either one
I agree Gus!
It's a great review I love that kayak if I'd had it to do again I'd go with that kayak instead of my slayer. It's good to see you back on the Tube, and perhaps we can get at em' this year
Yessir you know how to reach me!
The best video vibe info awesome. Keep up the good work.
I love everything about that kayak
Great review still searching for my first pedal drive kayak not sure what to do new stuff coming out for 2018 about 2 Grand is all I plan on spending
Great review. I like how you compared it to a couple similar kayaks. I've been torn between a 2017 Hobie PA12, a Native and the PDL. I'm leaning towards the PDL because it's truly hands free, with the new Hobie 180 Mirage you still have to make sure the pedals are somewhat aligned and pull a cord to reverse the fins. To me, this is one less thing to worry about.
Absolutely! Either way you go, you'll be happy with either one. They're both great boats!
Thanks for nice review!
Great job, thanks for the review
TheHocmaster thanks for watching
Oh yes, I gave you a big Like.
Good Job. Nice Kayak.
Great review! Very informative.
great review very informitive thanks more of the same please just bought a pro angler
Awesome review. Can you tell me what green life jacket you have on? Maybe do a review on it also?
Good job on the review
Great review man I'm sold going to the yak dealer rite freekin now. thanks
Thanks for the review
Awesome review thanks.
Thanks for watching!
Great review!!
I fully agree with you on all the stuff you said about the hobie's......I love them, but when will they set a price point and stop.....they are literally at a small boat size!
Thank you for the great Video.
I am going to order this boat very soon.
Do you have any information on the Trailer?
Did you make it and if so, do you have a video on that?
Thanks
Great review! What happens if the prop hits a submerged object or runs aground? Does it pop up like the coosa fd?
Great review! Thanks
thanks Amadeus!
Great review, thanks.
If you get a chance to get on and test the Wilderness kayak and their Helix drive system, post your thoughts on that one. Thanks again. New sub.
thanks for the sub! if there is one at the upcoming demo, I'll be sure to test it out for you.
Great review. I was looking at the Hobie Outback, and the Native yaks before I stumbled across reviews of the Predator PDL. One question, how is it to paddle? For example; If you are getting into grassy or shallow water, and need to raise the drive system, are you getting splashed by the rather large open slot where the drive sits? Dies it come with a dummy plug in case you do not want the pedal drive in?
Thanks
Mike
Very interested in the Predator. Trying to see if it fits in my 5th Wheel toyhauler. Can you tell me the measurement from the nose to the end of the rudder? Also the nose to the end of the Kayak if we were to remove the rudder for transport? Thanks so much for your channel and help!!
I just subscribed. I spoke with you Briefly after the tournament on Saturday. I've been watching your videos and love that you include God into your videos. looking forward to speaking again one day.
Great review. I just won this kayak for KATS Midwest AOY. And you're correct, I also love my PA14 but Hobie needs to chill out with their price hikes.
Yeah maybe they listened to me because they made the Compass.
So you going to test run a Titan? Basically a hobie size with a propel system.
Loved your video. I just bought a Predator 13 myself this week. I am very interested in how you set up your trailer. Can you give me some pics and info on that or do you have a UA-cam on that also?
Thanks
I have a newer trailer now but during this video I believe I had my original Harbor Freight trailer. I have a video about the HF trailer.
the surging you're getting is related to your peddling style. cyclists would call it peddling in squares. bring your seat closer and put some clips on the pedals so you can push and pull. this will eliminate the surge 100% guaranteed
How comfortable is the pedal compared to the Native? I have a Native Slayer Propel 13.5 with the seat all the way back but it's almost like I have to have the back of the seat in a recline (almost lay down) position in order to use the pedals. I think we're close to the same height so is the pedal position more comfortable in Old Town vs Native? The reclining is not a problem on long distance moves but if I'm in a spot with a line and the water its tedious using the propel. I have the boondox rudder but turning is still an issue, but love the Native though.
Also, unrelated question - do you run an anchor trolley on yur yak? trying to decide if I want to try one.
Just left native prostaff and can't wait to try this!
Just one heck of a review! Good job tony...very well executed
Thanks my man! You'll love the way it handles AND it's FAST!
How's the peddle? Does it have a lot of resistance when you're trying to move quick? I currently own a 2014 hobie outback and when I'm trying to get to my spot quick, the mirage drive can put a hurting on my legs
I had a couple of questions after watching your review. With respect to the pedal action, which do you prefer when compared to the Hobie PA? Greater fatigue factor from one or the other? I was also wondering how reliability and company support compared. Finally, is the Hobie worth $500. more. That is the difference in the list price of the two. (Hobie PA 12). Your review was well done and moved me to subscribe. Thanks, Randy.
Hi Randy. The Hobie's pedal motion imo requires less energy than the propel drives and are more of a natural motion when pedaling. Propel drives seem to put your legs up towards your stomach because of the circular motion and bc of that requires more force. Can create a problem if 1. you have a big belly lol 2. can interfere with your pfd depending on it's style and 3. are a tall person with long legs. I will say that the reverse on the propel system is miles ahead of the Hobie's reverse capability. It that's important to you, take it for what it's worth. Build quality of the Hobie is second to none. They hold their value better than any kayak brand. Hobie's customer service is top notch as well. Honestly, you wouldn't have made a bad decision if you were to purchase either of these kayaks, but with that being said, $500 extra is money well spent! I'd go with a Hobie! Thanks for the sub and I hope this helps. God Bless!
VentureTube you also have to consider weight between the pa and predator . I can carry the predator to get it in tight hard to get to fishing spots
Thanks for the video! Still thinking of a PA or a Predator. I love all the features of the PA, but the mass and price of the PA is a bit of a turnoff. I had the chance at a show last week to get the Predator PDL at a great price, but just couldn't pull the trigger. Did you get a chance to try paddling the PDL? I had some concerns w/ the high (non lowering) seat and paddling, and would really want to do either, as I may end up using it in some shallow waters.
Also, you said it's fast. How would you compare it to your PA in terms of speed?
I didn't get a chance to paddle it, but considering I've paddled my PA14 for long distances, I'm sure it would be a heck of a lot easier even with the high seat. My buddy and I have raced each other. Me in my PA and him in the PDL. He loses me in the start and then I gain on him and then we stay dead even....but that's because I do this all the time and have legs like trees... The initial takeoff of the PDL is much faster than the PA. I think if I was in the PDL, it would beat him in my PA all day long. A buddy of mine sold his PA and got the PDL. He has reached up to 6.4mph in it. Crazy!! Of course he can't maintain that speed, but maintaining 4mph in it is a breeze. Hope this helps!
I owned a Slayer propel 13 for one season and one season only. Been on a Hobie ever since and haven't looked back. It is all a matter of personal choice but in my opinion Hobie has and always will have the edge.
So if the Hobie with reverse and the Old Town Preditor were the same price which would you buy ?
I will have an issue with the prop up, with the native you can push it away. I have use my slayer for years I haven't really have an issue with the raise deck where the drive goes. Hobie does really do a boat for me too expensive and too big or too small
Aliex Fishing its funny, when I tested the pdl and the native I found this drives out of water position less intrusive than the native, the native I found is just so clumsy if you need to get it put of the water fast
Great video thxs
On a peddle kayak, would you need an anchor trolley vs a peddle kayak
Thanks for another great review. I noticed the seat does not have a lumbar knob and no arm rests like the Hobie. Can you see yourself out on the water for an extended period of time with the same amount of comfort. Looking to get an additional boat but as you commented, Hobie is pushing the envelope on price. Thanks and good luck with the tournaments.
Zak Hands down the comfort level of the seat does not match the Hobie. The lumbar support for me makes a great difference, the armrests not so much..I could fish all day in the Predator but I'd be soar... that's for sure. my friend will be in the saddle for 8 hrs this weekend during the tournament so I'll report back to you with his thoughts on comfort. I do know he already purchased 2 inflatable cushions. One for his back the other for his butt. He also suffers from back problems so that could be why..Thanks for watching!
Please do, can't wait to hear back. I'm 6'2" 250LB before breakfast so I feel your friends pain. Good luck this weekend.
I'm 6'3 45 so we're all in the same "boat" lol
I was looking at the predator XL... Can get the Minn Kota if I wanted to but I like it without the motor... This predator pdl has me interested but I'm gonna stay focused on the XL lol
Great video and review.
Wish the Pescador Pilot hadn't gotten off to such a ruff start. Really hurt it's reputation from the get go and gave it a bad name. I'd like to hear a honest comparison of the OT PDL vs a Perception Pescador Pilot 12 that is a more recent release with the original "bugs" worked out.
I just received my Pilot last week and it came with the new "corrections" so I can't speak of the previous issues and I haven't had a chance to get it wet yet so can't speak for the fixes either. Got carried away there, but seems like comparing this PDL to a Pilot might be a better comparison than trying to vs a Hobie. For $1k less Pilot might be a great bargain if the bugs are truly gone.
Keep up the good videos!
At our local kayak demo this past weekend, Perception sent the dealer an "updated" pilot for the customers to try out. The very first customer was stranded due to drive issues and had to be towed back to the bank. So far, this boat has not performed well on any level from what I've seen and is earning itself a rough reputation.
VentureTube oh that is a shame to hear. I really hope mine treats me better than it has others. Not much I can do about it if it don't. Kinda locked in at this point.
Well hopefully they'll come through for you. Good luck!
Thank for you information about Predator PDL . I looking for one I think I go too get that one bless you bro!{And sorry for my language im from Puerto Rico I living Jacksonville f.l.
Good review flipped my PDL today while trying to untangle a line from the rudder. I think I was leaning over too much and a wake hit me sideways.
Lose anything?
VentureTube A shoe fell off but got tangled by a fishing line which was wrapped around my body. The brand new pole was at the bottle of the river. Recovered everything.
great kayak..!!
Indeed!
great review😆.. what do you think about the titan 13.5 compared to this one? i really need a kayak that has propel type drive and some type of motor because of the current around where i live.
i really need help choosing one that can go up moderate current 😣 money is not an issue and the longer i wait technology for these things just keep getting better
Haven't seen the Titan yet but I'll be testing it in April and I'll be making a video review on it. Thanks!
great video
Thanks
Hey VentureTube! Question.. I just tested the PDL in Monterey Bay CA. It was awesome. But when I peddled in reverse it seems like i could feel the gearing through the peddles but was smooth as butter peddling forward. Did you notice this or was it bad luck on the one I tested?
Yeah I noticed the same thing on the one I tested and the problem got worse with time. The whole drive had to be replaced.
I called Old Town today and they said that it is a known issue on the first batches sent out and has sense been rectified. Did the PDL Drive they sent you back work correctly?
When the rope for the runner breaks how do you fix it when it's inside the haul of the kayak ??? 🤔
the replacement cable is stiff enough to run straight through the stock tubing
hey man I'm torn between this boat and the pro angler 14. I'm a big guy 6'4 280 lbs not sure if your my size or not, but what do you recommend? I can afford either one. I really enjoy your videos keep up the good work. I'm concerned I'm going to be to big to really stand on the predator. unfortunately I can't find a way to demo this boat.
No brainer Mitch. The Hobie PA hands down.
Any issues with water coming up through the drive cover in the hull on the PDL?
I never saw any water coming up..however, I wasn't using it in rough conditions nor did I demo it for very long.
Great Review! Would you choose the Pdl over a 2017 PA12? I had planned on buying the PA12 but I'm having second thoughts after watching this lol.
If money and transporting are no concern, I'd go with the Hobie everyday of the week and twice on Sunday.
VentureTube Thats what I was thinking! Thanks
with the rudder system can you put a power pole on the PDL?
You couldn't hang it directly off the back but you could mount one on either side of the stern.
Just purchased a hobie revo 16. I agree with you about hobie pricing themselves out the market,but I think hobie can get away with it since they are focused probably more on people who can afford it and who are willing to pay for the best drive.
Couldn't have said it better myself. Hands down the best!
What's the bike in the garage?
Between predator pdl and hobie outback which one you think is better?
If I were a smaller person, I'd say the Outback...but for a guy my size, the Predator
Looks good, but to me in the end hobies fell better crafted, like if they were to last longer
you sir are correct. I feel the same way. Can't beat Hobie quality!!
This may be an odd question, but where did you get your trailer? I want one like that with the storage box!
I purchased it from an individual on craigslist. It was a motorcycle trailer that I converted to fit my PA
Awesome, thanks!
What brands of fish finders can you put on the old town predator pdl
Any brand you would like!
right 👍🎣
I'll take the Native Titan 10.5 over that one. Old Town is coming out with a Top Water Series Pedal kayak at the 2018 icast should be interesting to see what they have done for this new pedal yak.
I have a Titan and already want to dump it because of the poor rudder system. I live on a lake and have been changing cables every week.
do you ever review Jackson kayaks? how you like the new cuda hd?
No I don't. Never really wanted a paddle kayak so I never bothered. Sorry
you may have a reason to try a jackson now as they have the coosa FD. i appreciate the reply not many people do. like your vids.
I'll have to look into that. I think the Jackson kayaks are great river boats but I didn't know they have a pedal drive version. That's cool! I appreciate you watching my vids man! I try and answer everyone's questions so ask away.
Great video. Is the kayak able to be roof loaded?
Yes sir it is!
Thank you
Have you ever demoed a 'Feel Free Lure' 11.5ft? If you have how do feel about it? Looking to purchase a kiyak soon. Will be mostly river fishing. Any recommendations?
Yes I have demoed that boat. Didn't stay in it long though so I can't honestly say whether it's good or bad. I can tell you that I'm tall and the backrest on that seat is made very short. A comfy seat is important to me so personally, I wouldn't purchase. May fit you just perfect though..
i just sold my 20' flats boat. i thought i was gonna buy a kayak. only ones i would consider has to have a a drive of some sort. im not fishing with a paddle kayak. i can't justify more than a thousand dollars for a piece of plastic, my brain says you have to be insane for that kind of price. oh well, I'll just buy another boat later. great review though. sorry for the rant. stay safe on the water
For the same amount of money, I would go with the Hobie Mirage Compass 2019.
Nice review man . Check my review out on my test drive . I was jumping on it trying to shake it over . It's pretty stable
Thanks Zach. I'll check out your vid!
Going to KATS event on Somerville?
Brandon Villanueva Lake Conroe
VentureTube you going to somerville for KATS tournament?
Yes I am. Leaving soon!
VentureTube Kool, ill be out there to. Good luck man!
Predator looks good but i rather stay in the Pro-Angler, just saying 😁
Oh for sure, me too!
VentureTube I fish a Wilderness Ride 115, i love my boat, but you look very comfortable in the Pro Angler. 😁
Nice video can I throw this onto the roof of my car with rack?
Yes
how much do you weigh?
250
So I’m 6’4” 275 anybody my size try standing in this?
thought u was sponsored by hobie ?
I am. Doesn't mean I can't be honest lol
VentureTube was referring too your in another yak ,I have both the slayer 13 and just got a pro angler 14 yesterday! there likes and dislikes with both for me !
Would you recommend this for a person 6-8 324 pounds
I have a 2015 Hobie PA14 for sale in Texas if anyone it's interested
How Much?
ANK Creative Group I'm wanting $3000obo. it has a GPS fish finder, Hobie cart, battery, custom built rod holders, bed extender, anchor trolley, and a few h-rail accessories, and a micro power pole mount "micro power pole not included. so there is more than $4000 in value
The price of hobbie kayaks are insane, those aren't affoordable boats. By no means i woukd buy a hobbie. Pdl is the kayak.
How fast is fast? No one does a speed test. Everyone who does a review pedals like a lazy bone. Also, at 1:45, its way cheaper fishing from the bank than in a kayak, isn't it. I wonder why people have to waste money when they have other options, the beach, the shore, the banks of rivers and lakes. I'll stick with casting a line from the land. Safer. And just for a day in the water, less fishing, I use an Aquaglide Columbia. Easy to fold, inflate, carry in the boot of my car and paddle for exercises. Way cheaper than these heavy pedal boats.
So you going to test run a Titan? Basically a hobie size with a propel system.
Yes I will be during the kayak demo in April