Is the Old Town Predator/Bigwater PDL Stable?
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- Опубліковано 25 лип 2020
- I have seen several people describe the Predator/Bigwater hull design as unstable so I decided I would ramble about it for a bit.
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I know this is an old video but just purchased a used Predator and love it. It is because of these reviews that gave me confidence in my purchase.
Congratulations on the kayak, Matt. It’s my favorite kayak of all time. Good luck on the water.
thats me today
@yutyeetskeetmcgeet3039 rough out?
@@NavarreKayakFishing I am getting mine delivered next week. Hope to start my adventures before mahi season here in Japan
@yutyeetskeetmcgeet3039 you’re going to love it.
You do a very nice job explaining why you have your opinions. You provide compelling arguments that make good sense. Keep it up.
Thanks for watching, Brennan.
Have to say that this was a fantastic no bias BS just great KAYAK video and how experience is important. Great job! I have had a Hobie outback for like 10 to 13 years and have NEVER flipped or been in the water. I fish only saltwater here in NJ and love it. My wife wants to go more often so i am giving her my outback and i am getting the PA 14. 360 Love everything about that boat and am looking forward to lots of good times. Great video
Thanks for watching, Brian.
Excellent video discussion about stability...I'm upgrading to the bigwater... can't waitto get it.... looking forward to some ocean fishing on cali coast, although most of my fishing is in the high reservoirs if the Sierra's..., And bassing in the lakes...and...I still like to just paddle some times...which it does very well and fast!
I’m glad you made that video,all fishing kayaks are very stable, I have a ocean kayak prowler 13 I fish all the time never came close to flipping out of it unless I try to even in 3 ft swells !
Exactly! I feel like you have to try to flip it as well.
Just bought a Big Water series and it’s being delivered tomorrow. I’ve owned a Malibu Kayaks with a 55lb thrust trolling motor for two years now and never came close to falling out on Martha’s Vineyard. I’m happy with it, I’m just not electrically inclined so when I have an issue, I have to wait to be able to fish until I can get somebody to fix it for me. Hence the old town big water purchase I made Saturday. I am with you on inexperienced people giving bad reviews on products. It’s frustrating to say the least. Great video. Keep them coming.
Great video as always. For you new guys out there. Don't leave the beach alone, don't leave without a life vest, and don't leave without a way to remove water from your kayak.
Excellent points!!!
I had NO experience with kayaking let alone kayak fishing when I bought my Sportsman Big Water 132 PDL. I have only been out 5 or 6 times and I had a few near spills. Every experience was a learning lesson for me but I think one of the biggest mistakes “newbies” is that they don’t realize the fact that they are actually on a kayak. The second thing, I would imagine, is a lack of situational awareness. If you can’t fish and pay attention to what your kayak is doing at the same time, you are probably going swimming or cause damage to your kayak. It’s almost happened to me and fortunately it hasn’t happened yet. I definitely appreciate your expertise and advice. Thank you
Thanks for watching the video, Scott.
Sitting in the Pacific NW watching video of your “rough” water. That would a beautiful day for kayak fishing up here.
i have a feelfree lure 11,5 and i loved, and is what you said, is all about experience, need to practice first in skinny water feel good and learn how balanced,and the most be relaxed, after few time you can go to a deeper water. wonderful video
Thanks for commenting and watching, Carlos.
Nick, thanks for another very informative video. I have limited experience kayak fishing. But I have been in a Predator. Personally I found it very stable very comfortable, and really fast. Its at the top of my list for my personal kayak purchase. Thanks again, keep the great vids comin.
Thanks for watching, Drew. I’ve always found it very stable as well.
Love my predator pdl keep adding mods all the time. I always feel safe on it. One of the best purchases I've ever made. Good job Old Town!
Very well said. One thing folks can do too is upon purchasing your kayak, no matter a $400 one or a $4000 one, take the necessary time to learn the kayak. I tell people to put in in a pool or shallow pond and purposely try and flip to learn what works and what you can do before losing that center of gravity. Another thing is to think how much weight you are adding in gear. You know, you can very easily add 75lbs after all your stuff is added for your fishing setup making the kayak react differently. Anyway, love the videos man. I come down to ft walton every summer from ohio and do alot of offshore fishing. Maybe run into you sometime. Later bro.
well said Nick. People need to pay attention. Even tho I fish all the time now, I'm still new to kayaking and not once have I ever felt unsafe my predator. Even tho it's not offshore and more bass fishing I've still been in plenty of big waves between storms and boat traffic. Awesome video
Boat wakes and big lakes are no joke. Water is a crazy beast and most do not pay attention.
I love this video. I am NOT a kayak fisherman, but I teach sea kayaking. I paddle a long skinny kayak, and this is one of the best videos I have seen discussing stability. - I actually did a video pleading with kayak fisherman to take a paddling lesson, because as you said, you have to be good at two things, kayaking, and fishing. THe only thing I would add is with those peddle kayaks, if you aren’t using a paddle, you are going to feel less stable. You are losing an outrigger. Great video!
I have not spent much time in a kayak, but I have spent a lot of time canoeing. I always thought getting wet and falling out of the boat were just part of the deal when dealing with these types of boats. Its just something you have to deal with. If you kayak or canoe you will go in the water at some point. Tie off and secure your stuff. If it shouldn't get wet, it shouldn't be in the boat. You learn what you can and cannot do. And every once in a while you get a little too comfortable and physics teaches you a lesson!
Great video !!!
I’m getting one!!!
I’ll keep my ride 135, but I’m upgrading to peddle drive. Ten years kayak fishing the Long Island sound and the Atlantic Ocean. I turned a lot of people onto kayak fishing, including my 60 year old brother😜😜
Thanks
Thanks for watching!
As always, great knowledge right there. Also, not sure what ya did, but the lighting on the video was great!
Thanks, Dino.
glad to hear you talking about some kayaking skills here. i would love to see more people in this game getting some hours in a touring kayak to really see what the other half of the sport, the kayaking, is all about. there's a difference between secondary and initial or primary stability. a boat with a flat bottom or a pontoon bottom or a rounded bottom will feel stable until it's time to get wet. it's a nice, stable platform on flat water. it will suck when the wind and chop picks up and you start to pitch. if it's really choppy, get the paddle in your hands and work on your low bracing. if you need to high brace it's going to be way too late in a boat like that 😅
I came across your channel a few weeks ago and I been watching a few videos and you stay speaking #facts. Even the rants, I know alot of ppl hate to hear but you aint getting any arguments here. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for watching!
I have been fishing from Predators since the year after the 13 came out. I absolutely love them. I will say moving from the 13 to the PDL had a learning curve for me. I always sat in the low seat position on the 13. I felt glued in that boat. The center of gravity was very low and as a result, it was very forgiving in what you could do in it. Moving to the PDL, the seat was higher and the boat immediately felt much tippier. My first fish, I leaned over to let it go and rolled the kayak. As you said, I wasn't paying attention. The only other time I rolled the kayak, I was caught in a strong current headed toward a rock. I desperately tried to get the lower unit of the pedal drive up but I could not get the lock turned. I admit I was panicking. The kayak turned sideways and the lower unit hit the rock, dumping me onto it and flipping the kayak on top of me. I was able to push the boat off of me and get out. That incident left me with horrible anxiety so I ended up buying a set of pontoons to add to my stability. The boat DOES NOT need them. I agree with you 100%, the predator is a stable and safe craft. In both cases, I made the mistake. However, I need the added stability for my own mental health on the water. With them added, I feel far safer than without them.
Thanks for that unique perspective. I am on the fence right now between a predator, Bigwater, or Salty. Thankas for any more thoughts.
@@secretjourney4815 You would do well with any of those. I personally lean toward the bigwater/Predator. I like the size and I fish some areas where having just that little bit extra height in the bow helps cut through some big waves.
Very well said couldn’t agree more, I’ve been ocean kayaking for 8 years and have never flipped and I’ve been on some serious swells, the predator is super stable, even for a big like me at 6’7” I don’t ever feel like I’m gonna flip, keep urself centered like you said and when you are taking a swell sideways treat it like a motorcycle and lean the opposite way a little to balance it out
When i first got my yak (feel free moken 12.5) i flipped over reaching for my paddle.. good thing i was at the launch point..boat ramp...i was new to the sprot..now that was the only time i flipped over now iv been yaking for about 6 yrs now and haven't flipped again..you learn the as you go..learn the limits on your yak...what can and can't do..there is no perfect kayak. But always wear your PFD..and yak on 👍🏼🎣🚣♂️🎣👍🏼
If someone calls the Predator or Bigwater 132 unstable, they are only highlighting their lack of experience. You hit the nail on the head. Primary stability might be a little below what some people like but the Predator more than makes up for it with secondary stability, speed, and a dry ride. Great video.
Thanks for watching!
I have a 2019 Predator PDL and I've had it out on some very rough water, I was happy to find out that it was more stable than I could have ever wished for. I am an experienced kayaker, for over a decade using a Pungo paddle drive, before I splurged and bought the Predator. The Predator PDL was perfect for me. I get to use my strongest muscles to propel while freeing my hands to cast or troll. The seat is perfect and total comfort, for fishing all day. I don't stand in it under big wave conditions, but I have caught many standing in it during smooth to medium wave conditions. I don't think there is a safer kayak out there, but I am aware that there are some very clutzy or panicky people out there, that are going to have problems regardless. In which case, I can only say, it ain't the kayak. Thanks for posting, many of your videos I have learned from and enjoyed. My PDL hasn't had a problem with the drive, but I glad you've got videos to cover repairs, if it ever does. I do have one question at this time and that is which fish locator do you prefer for the Predator ?
I like the Garmin 94SV Plus. It’s a little overkill but it serves me well.
Hi Nick Thanks for another great helpful video, you mentioned that you give a short safety briefing before every trip , could you show a video of that briefing , think it would be helpful to a few of us 👍 thanks
That’s a great idea, John.
I can honestly say that since upgrading from an outback to predator, i venture out further and feel alittle more confident in big water. Cover more ground too.
Thanks for directing me over here. Makes perfect sense. If your centre of gravity remains I the centre if the kayak there's no issue. I think this has finalised my thoughts....predator it is 👍
You won’t be disappointed.
Just got my new bigwater pdl on the water today, this thing is super stable and fast, im in love with it.
It’s a great kayak!
As the kayak community grows , the experience is dropping . Man that's so encapsulating of what's happened thankyou , such truth
Thanks for watching and commenting, Jamie.
Cool vid. What’s your recommendation I am new to fishing and want to learn to fish ocean and harbors maybe even the jetty. I’m interested in a pedal drive kayak not sure which to choose? Like old town kayaks.
Just upgraded from a Seastream Angler 120 PD to a Bigwater PDL, what a difference. I took it out today in rough water and it was excellent, even taking rollers broadside, no problem.
In calmer water I was able to stand on it with zero issues, better than the Seastream. I can't believe people think this is an unstable kayak.
People are crazy haha. Congratulations on the new kayak.
Enjoyed this video. People are constantly asking me how stable my topwater is. And it's difficult for some to comprehend when I tell them it's as stable as you want it to be. Don't do anything stupid pay attention to your surroundings especially wave direction and you'll be fine. Worried about going swimming then get a boat lol. Subscribed
It’s true. I’m sure I could figure out a way to fall out of a Topwater if I tried hard enough hahah
I have this kayak and it is a tank. The seat does sit high which is super nice. I have been out in it a lot and the thing is crazy stable. Standing up feels so good. If people compare this to any other platform in person they will see. The only time I start to pay attention to stability is in a strong following sea.
Following seas can be tricky in every kayak and it can be a bit sketchy!
Very compelling video, I recently bought by Bigwater pdl 132 based on your video's and I am very satisfied with stability/speed on this with Kayak. I can stand and fish with this as well, have been out on some winds and current but kayak so fast and cuts through waves that I dont feel unsafe.
Thanks for commenting, Josh. It’s a great kayak.
My big water 132 in the water part of the Chattahoochee river. I’m used it in the gulf. I’ve gone through shoals and rapids with it. I have no problems with stability never have. It’s a great boat even so you can lean into it you can do things with it that other boats won’t allow you to do I like it a lot it’s definitely not dangerous. This was a great video paddlers really need to learn to paddle.
Funny i watch this after making my choice. I got my first kayak yesterday and ended up with a black predator pdl. Came with a garmin echomap uhd 73sv and all accessories, i had wanted the 120 sportsman because i figured itd be better because it its width however knew nothing. Im after big bodies of water. Took it out yesterday after getting it and am very satisfied. Best 2200 ever spent
I'm not experienced at all today it was my second trip out on my predator PDL... Which by the way is the first kayak I've ever owned or been in... Never felt like I was going to tip over once. standing up felt like I was going to fall out! 🤣 I keep balanced and turn my nose to the swells/wakes... I was out from Tillamook Bay in Oregon today when there is a small craft advisory, pretty damn choppy and windy but the only trouble I had was going against the current/tide.
Haha. You will get use to standing. It just takes times and confidence.
I'm glad someone else is bragging on the pred/bigwater hull. Doesn't get talked about enough. I think it is the best "big water" hull out there. Also the driest kayak platform I have ever been on.. I mostly fish bass, but make some offshore trips most years. I was worried about the high seat in the swells and surf, but once on the water it just did great.
It’s a fantastic kayak.
STABLE,! Nick, we (Jimmy, Shara, Ryan and myself) and we felt very safe! Btw, had a great time 😁
The four of you did great on the trip!
We are hoping to make our way back to you. This time we want to fish inshore with you.
I started on a 10' Sun Dolphin SOT, then went to a Vibe Sea Ghost 130, and now have the Predator PDL. I stand and fish all of the time. I am fluffy with bad knees and ankles. I even fish sideways of the kayak in waves and boat wakes. Sometimes I forget and that can be dangerous but it is extremely stable. I think it would be very difficult to flip it but you can fall put of you are not careful. I haven't fallen out but almost did at the boat ramp while the keel was still touching the bottom (😂).
If you can sit in a 10’ Sundolphin you can sit in anything!
The videos I have watched on the 2020 predator seems to be a stable craft. I bought one used 2 weeks ago from a freshwater only fisherman, I got a good deal. Its a kayak and will always be a kayak its not a Jon boat or a 21 foot CC boat, its the simplest platform on the planet Earth to fish anywhere pending weather conditions. So simple, check the air temp water temp wind speed have a sharp pair of cutters on your side at all times that cant fall off and sink. Just my opinion. I love your Videos man!
Thanks for watching, Scott.
I have a predator pdl and you hit right on the nose. Its very stable and in spite of my lack of experience
Thanks for watching, Taz.
Hello Nick. Thanks for your videos. I am looking for a Kayak that I will be able to take offshore, and I was looking at the Old Town and Hobie Kayaks. However, I learned about the Slayer Propel 12.5 MAX from Native. What do you think, will this Kayak be able to handle open water? I will appreciate your input. Regards and keep up the good work!
They are all very capable platforms. It’s going to come down to personal preference and I always recommend demoing or renting if possible before purchase.
Years of my life paddling a canoe, but my first kayak is a Big Water 132. I am shocked how stable they are
Waiting on my first Bigwater to arrive. Salty videos have been interesting. Seems a great choice for quick trips. All of my fishing would be inshore and I'd face wakes from boat traffic or SW wind picks up quicker than expected and produces 1-2ft swells. Since you been using the Salty in the ocean, and considering price point, do you think the Salty would be a good second yak for the shorter trips? (Getting a 2nd one so my wife and I can go together at times - going to buy the Salty or another BigWater) Thanks!
I think the Salty is a fantastic kayak for shorter trips. Easy to move around and handles chop well.
Hello. I have a question, is it possible to fix crack and a hole in the hull? Is it even worth it? My local kayak store has it for half a price due to that damage. Do u think fiberglass resin would work on that?
Nice instruction on balance in the kayak.
Thanks for watching, Robert.
Love your videos and your “no nonsense” attitude. Also visit Pensacola 2-3 times a year, and now that I’ve stumbled across this channel I’m looking forward to an inshore trip with you guys! Question: I’m looking into getting a fishing kayak of my own, tired of borrowing..pretty big guy, 6’2” 230(ish). Think I’ve decided on a pedal drive, but can you (anyone) make some suggestions for one on a budget? Also nowhere near me to test before purchasing..thanks
I would look at the used market for a Predator PDL that’s 1-2 years old. You will save $1000 and if you find the right one it’s going to be in great shape.
Navarre Kayak Fishing | Florida Kayak Fishing thank you for your response and input! Keep up the great work with your videos
It is a kayak and not a pontoon boat. Stay in the middle of the boat. When Melissa and I were there parked in a brisk storm, we never felt unstable. Thanks for the great fishing!
I cannot understand how people say predators aren't stable. I dont fish big water, but I do fish choppy packed lakes on holidays where the water gets rough for a lake. It handles it fine.
It's a game of balance. If you exceed that center of gravity, you're going to tip. Just like a balance beam. You have a very minimal amount of lean either direction before you're going to fall.
I dont get how people dont understand that. Great content, as usual.
It’s always interesting to see people fall off and blame the kayak. Entertaining! Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the video. I have decades of offshore fishing experience but am looking to try in my first kayak. Looking at Hobie and old town. Any of the two you recommend for west coast offshore fishing?
Both companies make fantastic products. I would try to demo/rent both so you make your decision.
@@NavarreKayakFishing Thanks! Demo days have been shut down here in Vancouver, Canada with Covid. The local kayak dealer is only taking orders.
I won’t argue about something I have no experience in. The only Kayak I’ve fished in is the Sportsman 120 PDL and it feels very stable. Like Nick said, I keep my body(weight) centered in the kayak right
PDL hands down is one of the best kayaks on the market with regard to stability, speed and quality. I've fished that platform in all types of water and in conditions I probably shouldn't have.
Me too. It takes it like a champ!
Well said👍
I'm looking to upgrade my kayak in the next week. Would you recommend this for bigger lakes and possibly the great lakes. I'm from Michigan. If not this kayak can you recommend one around $2500 range?
I would go with the (this kayak) Predator/BigWater 132 PDL. You can find them used under $2500 but it’s perfect for big bodies of water.
Final question lol. I'm 6ft 3inch and weigh around 275lbs. I know they say weight capacity is 500lbs but just wondering how well that translates to actual stability in water and how accurate is the 500lbs capacity? Again sorry for all the questions........
So this may sound weird but the lower the kayak sits in the water the more stable it will be. So you don’t weigh enough for it to matter.
The only concern is - once your weight is left or right of center it’s easy to flip. You just need to learn to toss your feet to the left when you lean right and vice versa.
He have put multiple people over 280 each year without any issues.
Really awesome video. Is there any way you could do a video on how the Old Town Salty pdl would perform compared to the predator pdl in open water. I'm looking to buy one soon, and just looking for the best options for my Budget
I spent some time in the Malibu PDL prior to them renaming it the Salty PDL. I could do a video pointing out some of the details.
Oh so basically the Salty pdl is just the late model of the Malibu? And yeah I'd really like to see a video like that if it's not to much of a hassle
What is a good kayak cart for the big water PDL especially with the beach around here
I have been using the Fish N Mate cradle cart for several years without any major issues. Recently several people have purchased it and broke the black plastic pieces. Suspenze makes a cradle cart and Skylar uses it daily without any issues.
How is it to stand and fish in the predator/bigwater in calm water? I have back issues and need to stand up pretty often.
Very easy to stand and fish from.
I just sold the big water 132 paddle it was very stable just pay attention I order a 132 pdl should be here in 2 weeks or less thanks great video
You’re going to really enjoy the PDL.
I have a predator PDL and I've never even flipped the thing and I have been in some pretty rough Waters I'm 230 lb so if anybody considers this kayak unstable they probably shouldn't even be on a kayak to begin with that's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard
Привет. Хочу приобрести предатор pdl, для рыбалки как в море (10%), так и в пресной воде (90%). Есть ли версия предатор для солёной воды или можно купить обычный predator pdl.
Love my Predator!! Rock solid!!
The predator is the best kayak for rough water the slayer max is also another kayak That does well in bad weather
Hey Nick, i was curious your opinion on 2019 outback vs the predator/bigwater132. i have a 2019 outback I fish saltwater with on cape cod MA for primarily stripers bluefish false albacore and some bottom fishing. love the stability of it, especially being able to stand and sight cast. however, i have only had the kayak for less than a year and the mirage drive has broken twice in that time. of course things break but it is a bit frustrating, and has me considering trying other options. im on th fnce betwen the predator/bigater 132 or the 2020 outback with kickup fins. how tough is the old town drive? have you had any issues with them breaking and how do they hold up to the abuse of salwater fishing on a daily basis? have you hit rocks with it and how does it hold up? thanks
JB, the Old Town drive is unbelievably durable. I have ran into oyster bars, rock walls, and every other object you can think of while on the water. It also comes with a five year warranty when purchased new.
I’m not a fan of the new hull design on the Outback. It takes a ton of water over the front of the kayak
The Predator/BigWater is stable but it sits higher and may feel a bit tippy to you at first. However, you can stand without any issues and sight fish all day.
I think you will enjoy the PDL and I highly recommend demoing one if possible.
I couldn't agree more with what your saying. If your new go buy a inflatable kayak that is designed to fish built by a whit water rafting co. Then you will be a lot more stable. I have one you can't flip it unless you literally lean over the side
how is it in class I and II water or bumping into shallow boulders
I have personally have zero experience in the kayak in those situations.
I am thinking about a Sportsman PDL 120. I will be doing 85% bay fishing and camping and may venture offshore when I get experience. Will I regret not getting the Big Water PDL from the get go? this will be my first kayak.
Mark, the 120 will turn a bit better in tight areas but if you plan to spend time in open water and would like to cover a lot of water I would go with the bigger kayak.
If you are looking to anchor down in areas with boat traffic and fish and stand don't need to cover as much water, get the Sportsman PDL 120. I'm a big guy and I can't flip that thing through normal usage. If you are looking to cover a lot of water, get the Bigwater. That said, I got my youngest son the Topwater 120 and while it's not as fast as the Bigwater/Predator, it's still faster than my Bonafide SS127 so it's not overly slow or anything.
I have seen people test both side by side where they get the 120 to about 5mph and the Bigwater to 7mph.
So im hearing a lot about it being good offshore and in rough water, what about fishing inshore and in the marsh with the propeller style pedal how shallow can it go, I’m looking into this one because I’m a bigger guy @6’-4” 255lb?
You need about 20” (knee deep water) to pedal without any issues. Grass can be a problem but if you’re fishing truly shallow water you will be push poling. We put plenty of 250-280 lb people in the kayaks without issues.
@@NavarreKayakFishing preciate it this helps a lot
I fish very shallow water inshore in my predator PDL. Whenever it is too shallow for the drive, (1 foot on my through hull transducer) it is way faster for me to just pole around with my shallow water anchor. Feathering the pedals in a hobie sounded good, but in practice I found it a PITA and less efficient. Also new propellers are only like $10-$15 bucks where new fins were $200+.
Do you know if it is better to have a pedal system or trolling motor on a kayak going offshore?
I would pedal personally. Flipping a motorized kayak in the surf is bad news.
@@NavarreKayakFishing ok, thank you!
This gets bantered about on FB as well. If you think the Predator or Bigwater isn't stable, you're the problem not the yak.
This Thursday before Hurricane Hannah came to visit Texas I had to go pull my crab traps because the storm was building more than forecast. My traps are 24x24×20". Wind was 12-15mph steady and gusting into the 20s. Bay they are in is shallow and narrow. Not a lot of swells but it gets snotty choppy.
Was I able to whip up next to a trap, pull it, lash it and move to the next one? No way, no how. Not that I would've minded going swimming because I was already soaked from the splash of the waves over the bow.
I had to anchor pulling the anchor trolley as far forward as I could, then drift back to the buoy to pull the trap. Pulled it to my starboard, leaned to port as I picked it out of the water, and then set it down on top of the bow hatch. Put the buoy inside the trap, watched the waves, and when the flat spot came between the wave sets, I put it on the stern well deck and bungeed it down.
On a calm day I can ride with six traps on the Predator. Thursday I was catching too much wind with only three. Had to take the waves full side on, but shifted my weight to ride up and over them to keep the center of gravity inside the hull. If I had more than two sets to pull, I probably would've been in the water eventually.
Bottom line, the Predator/Bigwater line is very stable.
Did you catch the Crabs?
@@NavarreKayakFishing Not since I quit dating exotic dancers in college.
7 blues, but most were barely legal so they are still swimming.
How's the speed in it? I'm looking for a good yak for trolling right off the beaches in the Gulf of Mexico (Tampa Bay/St Pete area).
Cruises at 3.5 mph. You can go faster but it has a fixed pitch propeller and a differential so you work hard for no reason. Top speed is around 6mph.
@@NavarreKayakFishing 3.5 is enough when slow (leisurely ?) trolling for kings.
I usually keep it under 2 mph when we are trolling for Kings.
Every kayak I ever owned I flip it on purpose just so I know how to flip it up right and mount up from the water. Appreciating the danger makes you more safe on the water.
Everyone should.
has anyone had a predator on the new river from bluestone dam down
I have the salty 120 PDL. Can that kayak handle these same conditions?
I wouldn’t personally take the Salty out in anything like that. I’ve taken it offshore several times and had trouble in the surf. The front fills with water and doesn’t drain water fast enough. It gets pushed down and since it’s narrow it semi submerges itself.
I’ve seen your beach surf video with the Hobie lynx, how does it rate for seaworthiness and stability in the larger swells like described and seen in this video. How does it compare to these yaks? Thanks, I’m learning a lot from you tutorials.
I would prefer to have the Predator/Bigwater in conditions like those. The Lynx is easily pushed around. It’s stable it just isn’t the best platform for that situation in my opinion.
@@NavarreKayakFishing so it’s a matter of better boat control with the predator/big water?
Yes.
@@NavarreKayakFishing I bought a Lynx just yesterday. Maiden voyage was last evening. I’m in my 60s and can choose calm days so the Lynx will offer me hopefully no regrets. September I’m taking it onto Lake Superior for a tour of the Apostle Islands…on pristine days.
It will serve you well. There’s no reason to be out in terrible conditions anyways. Pick and choose your days.
Great video, many thanks. Would you recommand the pdl120 or the bigwater for standing fly fishing on lakes? Stability, deck space to avoid tangling of the fly line etc. 240lbs 5'11"
I would take the BigWater in every situation over the pdl 120. If you want ultra stable the 120 is a smarter option.
people want something "impossible to flip" but then complain about it being slow and heavy. EVERY kayak can flip, some just need unusual circumstances to make it happen. it's those circumstances that they don't expect or prepare for so they're screwed when it happens. I get tired of hearing how stable 'this or that' kayak is, trying to sell someone a piece of expensive plastic, claiming they won't flip. THAT'S the part that is dangerous...making false claims that give anglers (new and old alike) a false sense of security. Thank you for pointing out it can happen on any kayak.
Kathy, I agree completely. Lots of hype about kayaks that can’t flip and it does put inexperienced kayakers in a dangerous spot.
I have a bigwater 132 it's hard to tip
im going to pickup a new to me oldtown predator pdl its a 2019 model with the aluminum rudder. big upgrade from my lostcreek/Riot and its got a trailer, my back is already feeling better
You’re going to love it.
@@NavarreKayakFishing your completely right bro i love it
Great news!
Looking forward to fishing with your group. I e-mailed you about a trip.
Daryl, I replied.
And is there a new 2023 version of it?
I have a predator 13 paddle kayak and take it to the northern California coast where we have big surf and cold water. I have only flipped it once when I was caught by a random wave that hit me sideways while I was reentering at a river mouth. I have thought about getting the pdl version but thought maybe the top water was more stable than the predator pdl. I admit that I prefer my seat in the lowest setting for stability when I'm on the ocean, and I feel that it was an oversight they should correct to give it both a high and low position for increased stability. Of course you can compensate for it with experience but generally speaking I feel that stability is still the most important feature to have in a fishing kayak.
Lowering the seat on the pedal version would put your hips below the pedals and make difficult to pedal. I’m not saying it eluding work but it would be weird in my opinion.
@@NavarreKayakFishing if it's similar to the paddle version I will probably feel comfortable in it anyways. I've had my predator for three years now and I love it.
It’s a good kayak. The pedals just make life a bit easier.
One thing not talked about much is the amount of stability gained through the PDL drive itself. That extra large keel really settles down the kayak. The PDL version is so much more stable when the drive is in the water. When the drive is in the water and the kayak has some speed, it just knifes through whatever comes.
Just an update, I did end up buying the PDL version and it is plenty stable. I practiced a bit by going out on my paddle kayak with the seat in the highest setting, but tbh it wasn't hard to make that adjustment. I feel just as stable in the PDL and being hands free on the water with instant reverse is pretty damn convenient.
I've talked to plenty of people with Predators and none of them complain that it's unsafe or overly unstable. I mean it's not going to be a top choice if I want to anchor and fish an area with boated traffic, but you buy the Bigwater to cover a lot of water anyway.
A couple of years later after thinking I'd go with a Hobie PA14 or more recently maybe a Titan X (and demoing these kayaks), I now own a Bigwater. As a big guy with poor balance, I've done just fine. Sure, I can't lean on it like I did on my old Bonafide SS127 (or even a 120) but I like getting to spots in less time.
Ok, I have NO experience and I'm looking at the old town. So is the big water the same as the predator PDL ?
Yes. There are a few differences but nothing major. Here’s a video - ua-cam.com/video/vID5NvLz9vI/v-deo.html
Only dangerous for the fish we’re catching 👍🔥🎣
Agreed!
When I buy my next kayak I'll just do like I did with my last one I'll stuff the insides with pool noodles
There is such a thing as "sea legs"! I've seen folks not keep their balance in a 20' skiff. Most any of the high end yaks are stable? I've seen folks many times feel like they couldnt turn around to get gear out their crates for fear of flipping, more in your mind than anything. If I am dropping down bottom fishing whatnot I like sitting side saddle? One last thing is many times you didn't flip, you fell out? Either way swimming but still many times not that the yak was unstable, you were. Dangerous??? Whatever - cheers man, your killing it with common sense
Sea legs is huge thing. I know guys who can’t stand up in the Predator who weigh 160 lbs and I know guys who weigh 230 lbs who stand up without any issues. Always interesting to see who is coordinated and who isn’t!
Which Old Town model would you suggest for Freshwater? Which model is the most stable?
The Sportsman 120 PDL would be considered the most stable of the lineup.
@@NavarreKayakFishing How do I find out all of the differences the website sucks?
I would just go and watch reviews of them so you can get a better idea.
I have a big water 132, it’s awesome. Stable as can be, have had it out in 6’ swells and never felt like I was going to fall out or tip over. Like you said, you have to pay attention to what you are doing. I’m a newbie but feel very safe in my big water!
Thanks for taking the time to comment, Kevin.
Well here are some thoughts from a total newbie from Western Australia on the Predator PDL. Firstly, I must say I both agree and disagree with you mate. For starters I have no real experience on a kayak apart from many years ago deciding I didn’t like them because I could not sit and balance on the ones I tried to ride. However, on Wednesday (31st March, 2021) last week I took possession of my OTP kayak that I bought BELIEVING that it would be a stable kayak - so with totally NO experience at all on kayaks - ZERO, NIL, ZILCH!
Rather arrogantly I took it straight up to Wedge Island (a shack fishing community north of Perth) and out to the open coastal waters of Western Australia. The winds were circa 25 - 20kms per hour gusting to 26kms. I took it out in those conditions for my first ever kayak ride on Easter Friday to get a feel for it before trying to fish from it. There were white caps forming and a slight swell.
At first I felt a little sketchy in it BUT very quickly found that it was like riding a dirt bike. If you let the kayak (dirt bike) move around under you and you just keep balanced (ie let your body flex at the hips AND you move your back OFF the back rest so that you can flex properly so you stay vertical - it is brilliant and I ended up yakking all around the open ocean for 2&1/2 hours. I only came in because I was getting a bit too much sun and we’d taken visitors up to our shack so felt that I should head back to be with them on the beach as well.
I absolutely lapped it up and hence why I do disagree with your comment about you need to be experienced on a kayak in order to stay upright on the Predator PDL. If you (1) let the kayak move beneath you BUT you let your hips roll and keep your upper body vertical (relative to the centre of the earth - NOT relative to the kayak) which you can do if (2) you don’t glue your back to the back rest whenever the water gets rough or the swell rolls through, then you will find the OTP PDL a very stable kayak indeed.
So much so that on Saturday I then went out for my first ever fish on it. I took two rods and very happily took my bag limit of legal sized Snapper from it. In WA that’s 2 and they had to be 50cm. The winds were stronger and the swell was higher but using the dirt biking balance principle, I absolutely loved it, did not feel scared or worried and definitely did not feel like it was unstable and that I was going to capsize. Honestly, it was my absolutely best time ever and I am so glad I bought this kayak. I am in love with it.
So in this regard I do agree with you. This kayak is definitely stable. I have never ridden any other kayak (apart from a very brief hire ride on a cheap Chinese one a few weeks ago) so can’t compare it BUT I can say to anyone who watches this vid and reads these comments - that the Old Town Predator PDL kayak is bloody stable and confidence inspiring. Relax, let the kayak move beneath you, be flexible at the hips and do not glue your back to the back rest of the kayak in rough water. When you’re on the move, keep your vision on the horizon and let your body use your cerebral cortex and find it’s natural balance. After a short time doing that you will get the rhythm of your kayak in the water and feel confident in it and you will realise as I did that this thing is bloody stable and an absolute pleasure to ride in the open ocean as I did and have. I took mine out without anything else in it ‘just in case’ and so went out with the attitude that it didn’t matter if I messed up and ‘went in’. BTW about 3 weeks ago I hired a cheap Chinese made one and practiced 5 self recoveries and knew that I could get back into one. This helped me establish my mindset and mental approach to this kayak. I have also approached this on the basis that I EXPECT to go in and have it settled in my mind that every time I go out in it that I could go in - so am mentally prepared for it. My mental suggestion is that you go out with the EXPECTATION that you could go in (capsize) and DO NOT go out hoping you don’t. It creates a positive mindset rather than one built on fear. Own it and control it and don’t let your fears make you freeze up and stiff. Be loose, let the kayak move beneath you and you will stay centred and balanced and you will not have that feeling of teetering and fighting to stay balanced.
This video was the last one I watched before I rode my OTP PDL over the Easter weekend so it was with trepidation and cautious optimism that I took to the water and it is with absolute pleasure that I am now writing this comment on this vid and the statements made and feedback given by other viewers especially the ones you have mentioned giving rise to you producing this video in the first place. Without any doubt in my mind, this is a stable kayak and guys / girls - please note my suggestions above if you want to give any consideration to acquiring one for yourself. It is honestly a good stable kayak and the pedal mechanism is a friggin dream to use.
Wedge was super busy on the Easter weekend and a lot of people showed a lot of interest in my kayak AND in my snapper on my return. I hope this helps you too if you want one but are worried about the commenters that have said it’s not stable! I do disagree with the comments that say you need to be experienced though including our channel hosts (Nick) - but I do say that with due respect to you mate.
Good luck and wishing you well if you do decide to buy one or are considering it.
Kind regards
Paul
I will be taking delivery in a couple of weeks of a OTP and like you, I am a first timer, so reading the account of your maiden voyage was very interesting, although there is no way I would go out in the conditions you described for a first ride, especially here in SW Ireland, the North Atlantic is a lot colder so avoiding dunking is a good idea. Of course you're a mad F-in Ozzy like all my Australian mates so of course you did! lol. But I do get your point about not being rigid and staying flexible, I will keep that in mind before I set out. I will build up from calm seas and when I get the run of things I can push it. The conditions can alter here from calm to chop really quickly, but in shore I can zip around between small islands, its pretty safe with great fishing too. Thanks for taking the time to describe your experience. Good on ya Mate.
@@liamgarvey33 Hi Liam. Mate, you'll love it and I'm jealous of your fishing locations (around the islands as you describe). I'm confident you'll be very impressed with it and will have a lot of fun that will make you super excited to get back out there again. You're definitely right about the waters up your way. I have watched canoeing footage of guys up all your way and it looks bloody cold and choppy so yes, I too would be very mindful of getting dumped into those northern Atlantic waters. Rolling swells are fine and don't concern me at all - ditto choppy waters. Flyin Fish TV (another YT channel) goes out off Hawaii in rolling swells in his Hobi (24" beam) - see some of his footage and you'll see what I mean) and they're just not a problem. I'm quite happy in rolling swells but always keep an eye on where the reef breaks etc are happening for my own personal safety. Having said that, I have yakked right up to them to fish and just back pedal when the pre-break swell pushes me too close to them. Stay out of anything that is breaking (which I would also do even in a boat so really nothing different there) and make sure you've got your PFD on and not alone (okay do as I say - don't do as I do haha I'm a dickhead) .... Let us know once you've gotten it and then once you've been out. Would enjoy hearing about your ongoing exploits too. Cheers Liam. Paul :)
@@PaulMotu Thanks Paul, I hope to be out by the end of next week.I am really looking forward to it. Unfortunately I will be kayaking alone as everyone around me are into boats. I always tell people where I am going and my return time. I wont try going outside inland waters to the ocean until I get around a years experience and hopefully I can convince a local to get a yak. The comments I am getting so far are F**k me, you're going out there in That little thing! lol
Where you are is probably similar to where we are. There aren’t many yak fishers over here in WA and so I have had similar comments when people have come up to have a look at me when I’m launching. They often ask about cost first and then assume I’m only going to go and get some squid and herring, assuming that we dont catch BIG fish in kayaks haha. They also assume I’m only just going out past the beach breakers LOL. I didn’t do any mods to mine at first but have now added a quick release anchor, some railblaza rod holders and tray, plus just recently (for my birthday) my wife got me a Garmin Striker 7SV which I have only partially installed as I’m watching lots on YT and the web about using it trying to make sure I have a good grasp on it before I head out with it.
Also, as for the going out on your own, I'm totally a hypocrite there LOL. I've never been out with anyone as I don't know any other kayak fishermen over here. I just keep my wits about me, make sure I have my safety gear (PFD mainly but also a water proof 2 way to keep in contact with my wife on shore) and always keep an eye on the waters around me. But I totally love it. I love being on the water and fishing by myself with no one else around me. Pedalling to different spots is soooo easy even when the wind picks up and I troll most of the times I'm on the move which is also fun. Catching squid is fun and then I now use the fresh head bits as bait which is really effective because it's so fresh and when I use fresh caught fish as bait it's also very effective because it too is so fresh. I love everything about our kayak fishing LOL ...
I have a jackson big rig now looking to upgrade to a pedal. I can get a used 2019 pa14 for the same price as the 2020 big water 132. Im a bigger guy and i would like to kno which i should get. I fish mostly open water on a big lake that gets alot of chop. Thx
500 vs 600 lb weight capacity. Some kayaks weight capacity are not legit. If the old town bigwater 132 pdl weight capacity is legit, im leaning towards that one
The PA14 will feel more stable then the BigWater. (Depending how big you are). Both will hold 400 lbs without any issues.
Nice. Thx 4 the info. Im probably going to go old town big water mostly due to your videos (let Old Town know) lol
Ha! It’s a solid kayak!
Im bout to pull the trigger on this predator pdl i jus gotta know. Me and all my gear weigh around 340 lbs. The first kayak i bought water kept coming up through the scupper holeseven with a 400 lb rating. The jackson big rig is so true to the capacity rating that the water is halfway down the scupper holes. I cant demo this kayak cuz theres no dealer even close to me. I kno u take many clients. How does the predator handle the big fellas. Im trusting u b4 i drop this $2500. Then ill stop bothering u. Thx
Can I take a pdl 120 out in those waves?
You can but it’s not the best option in my personal opinion.
I own an old outback and never once felt like I would flip. I took my buddies buddies kayak predator out fishing and it’s a heavy stable kayak but if you lean to far out to land a fish you will flip. I almost flip twice and I’m experienced. Bottom line the predator is stable and fast but you have to be more cautious.
Being comfortable with one kayak doesn’t make you experienced.
Every single kayak behaves differently.
@@NavarreKayakFishing well maybe I’m not experienced, all I’m saying is that the pdl if you lean to much you gonna eat it. The predator sucks at leaning period and too heavy, overated.
If you lean to much in any kayak you’re going to “eat it.”
I’ve seen guys fall out of every quality kayak on the market. 99% of the time it’s because they lack experience and did something stupid.
Just an old guy , good balance. Can buy and PDL old Towne . In Englewood Florida Snowbird . Novice fisherman in salt water . And kayaking , Like to learn. Open minded. So, what Old Town, 106 ,120, big water, peridor, which old town for me . I heard the 120 is not a Gulf Kayak, I have no experience here. fish up north for years , Lund 16’ 30hp 2 stroke Yamaha . Walleye , Lake Erie Karwatha Lakes , don’t want a boat here . idea, I wish for the best old town for me now to fish inter coastal and Gulf on learning days. Just want to get all my experience next year . Thank you Nick
No the predator is not dangerous, you are right everyone should practice on the water with their kayak. God bless and be safe,fish on.
grew up huntin/fishin in canoes and pyroes , my O/T pdl feels like a barge
Two different worlds when it comes to stability!
I put in 10-15 miles on Lake Erie in my Old Town Big Water PDL with ease. Awesome yaks!
No way is it dangerous! The issue is not in the stability it is the inexperience of the boater. I own three kayaks one is the predator pdl by far the most stable of all three. The issue to me is the new boaters never test their kayaks in water. You have to go out and practice tipping your kayaks to find that braking point. Practice tipping, falling out and getting back in. Before any of my kids were able to go kayak fishing with me they had to practice over and over falling out, tipping the kayak and getting back in. Once they were comfortable with those skills then they were able to join me fishing from them.
Trever, we do several seminars each year and I always talk about going out and familiarizing yourself with your kayak. No one does it though. Everyone thinks they can toss it in the water and have zero issues. Teaching the kids what to do if something bad does happen is super important.
I almost flipped my PA 14 over offshore. How? I was new first time offshore and didn’t keep my CG like you mentioned. Leaned and reached. Lesson learned and luckily caught just before tipping.
In the PDL. How do you get fish in the kayak? Net, fish grips, gaff.
I may get a PDL for freshwater lake fishing in GA where I will move to in the near future.
I tail grab most Kings, fish grip most Snapper, and use the net and gaff as needed.