Pedal Kayaks · Fishing
The Big Fish 120 PDL is the big brother of the 105, and the extra 18 inches of hull change the whole personality of the boat. It is faster, roomier, and built for anglers who want to pedal across the lake, not just around the cove.
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The Big Fish 120 PDL is the big brother of the 105, and the extra 18 inches of hull change the whole personality of the boat. It is faster, roomier, and built for anglers who want to pedal across the lake, not just around the cove. If your home water is measured in hundreds of acres instead of dozens, this is the Big Fish for you.
If you want to skip ahead and see what it costs, check the current price here.
Who This Kayak Is For
This is the kayak for the angler who covers serious water. Big lakes, reservoirs, large rivers, and coastal bays are where the 12-foot hull earns its keep. Taller and bigger anglers will appreciate the extra legroom and the 400-pound capacity. If you have ever run out of steam paddling back across open water, the efficient pedal drive on a long hull will feel like a revelation.
Stability on the Water
The cathedral tri-hull scales up beautifully at 12 feet. With a 35.4-inch beam, the 120 PDL is noticeably more stable than the 105, especially when standing. The padded reinforced standing platform gives you a solid, grippy deck to cast from. The longer waterline also tracks straighter, so you spend less energy correcting course and more energy fishing. In wind and boat chop, it rides with more confidence than its little brother.
Seat and Comfort
The EZ Rider seat is the same excellent design as the 105: adjustable high, low, and recline positions, quick-dry mesh, and a flip-away function that doubles as a lean bar for standing. In the longer cockpit of the 120, you get more room to stretch your legs and shift positions through a long day. Seat comfort is a genuine strength of this entire lineup.
Storage and Rigging
Storage grows with the hull. The large stern tankwell with bungees fits a full-size crate, the bow storage area handles nets and gear bags, and the tackle box pocket behind the seat keeps essentials close. UNI-Track rails line the gunwales for fish finders, rod holders, and cameras with no drilling. Two flush mount rod holders, a paddle holder, cup holder, and drain plug round out a well-thought-out deck.
Pedal Drive Performance
The Profish pedal drive paired with the EZ Steer system and Beaver Tail rudder is a smooth, proven combo. On the 12-foot hull, the drive is more efficient: you go farther per pedal stroke and hold speed better than on the shorter 105. Top speed and cruising efficiency are the 120’s big advantages. The 4-point stern mount means you can add a trolling motor or Power Pole later, turning an already capable boat into a true power fishing machine.
The 4-point stern mount is ready for a few good options: a PowerPole Micro anchor, Newport Motors, or Bixpy.
Honest Drawbacks
Weight is the tradeoff. At 110 pounds without the drive (131 with the 21-pound drive installed), this is a two-person lift or a cart-and-trailer situation. The long hull is also less nimble in tight creeks and around heavy cover, so skinny-water specialists should look at the 105 instead. And like the 105, paddles are not included.
3 Waters Big Fish 120 PDL Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 12′ |
| Width | 35.4″ |
| Weight | 110 lbs (hull, excluding drive) |
| Weight capacity | 400 lbs |
| Drive type | Profish pedal drive (21 lbs) |
Frequently Asked Questions
3 Waters Big Fish 120 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak FAQ
What is the difference between the Big Fish 105 PDL and 120 PDL?
The 120 is 18 inches longer and about an inch wider, with 50 pounds more capacity. It is faster and roomier but heavier and less nimble. Pick the 120 for big water and distance, the 105 for tight water and easier transport.
How much does the Big Fish 120 PDL weigh?
The hull is 110 pounds without the drive. With the 21-pound Profish drive, you are at 131 pounds rigged. A cart or trailer is strongly recommended.
Can I add a trolling motor to the Big Fish 120 PDL?
Yes. The 4-point stern mount is designed for motors and is compatible with Power Pole and Newport Vessel motors.
Is the Big Fish 120 PDL good for beginners?
Yes. The cathedral hull is very forgiving, the pedal drive is intuitive, and the stability builds confidence fast. Just have a transport plan for the weight.
Where to Buy
If the 3 Waters Big Fish 120 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official 3 Waters website for the 3 Waters Big Fish 120 Pedal Drive. Also check out our reviews of the 3 Waters Big Fish 105 Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak, 3 Waters Big Fish 105 V3 Fishing Kayak, 3 Waters Big Fish 120 V3 Fishing Kayak, Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak, and Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Fishing Kayak.
