Prowler Big GameII vs Predator 13

Not knowledgeable enough to understand the subtle differences between these 2 yaks. Will appreciate inputs.

Absent knowing any significant hull design differences, the stats differences are marginal.  Two things that stand out are the weight and max capacity.  When the Predator 13 first came out, company reps were saying the weight was 70lbs but that was before equipping the boat with seat, hatches, etc (saw that on a YouTube video).  I see they are now showing its actual weight.  As for the max capacity, others are more knowledgeable than I - personally, I don't see how boats which are comparable in width and length can have such a difference in max weight ratings.

As for features - the Predator 13 has a flat deck stem to stern, there is a stand assist strap and the seat flips back to increase the standing area.  There are rod tip protectors up front and a transducer hole forward of the hatch.  There is more room to grab the side handles and there are tackle nets on either side of the seat (cannot tell if the Big Game has them).

At a glance, appears there are more features in the Predator -- that would get my vote.


Big Game II:

LENGTH: 12' 9"
WIDTH: 34"
WEIGHT: 70 lbs
SEAT WIDTH: 21"
LEG LENGTH: 50"
BOW HATCH: 16.5" x 10.5"
MAX CAPACITY: 550-600 lbs
RETAIL: $1249 USD

_________

Old Town Predator 13:

Length: 13' 2"
Width: 33.5"
Weight: 86lbs
Seat Width: 21"
Seat Height: 15"
Leg Length: 48"
Bow Hatch: 16.5"x10.5"
Max Capacity: 400lbs - 425lbs
RETAIL: $1299 USD

Big Game and Predator 13 top down look...

and how about hull shape relating to drag? ive heard Pred does have more drag than say a T13.

If I can make it to ISE this weekend I will ask around. Maybe the main difference is what we don't really see (hull) but I was attracted by the dimensions of the BigGame (wider and lighter) as well as the two flush mount rod holders behind the seat.

http://www.rapidmedia.com/kayak-fishing/categories/boats/item/2219-first-look-ocean-kayak-s-prowler-big-game-ii.html

My old Prowler Big Game paddled like crap. But maybe they have improved the hull design since 2008.

This is a prime example of why comparing stats doesn't tell the whole story.  The Big Game and the Predators are entirely different beasts.  I should be getting a BGII in to refresh myself on this, but I did own the original BG for a while and the hull side of the I and II are supposedly the same.

-Allen
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I started kayaking about 2 I/2 years ago and my first kayak was a Big Game. It was a great kayak for a bigger guy it was extremely stable and great in the ocean even when it was rough. I caught many fish off of it and enjoyed the space and stability to move around. The only problem was it was slow and after paddling 6-8 hours you knew it. I also had a hard time keeping up with other kayak fisherman but the stability was worth it. I have not paddled the Predator 13 although it sounds heavy at 86lbs it does look like a great kayak. Good luck!

any updates on a comparison?