First Impressions

Normally we like to review a kayak over a period of time in various conditions, the First Impressions reviews are literally that, a quick chance to paddle a kayak, either at a demo, a kayak fishing meet, or just by asking somebody at the beach.

Ocean Kayak, Big Game

Length 12' 9" (3.9 m), Width 34" (86.4 cm), Weight 69 lbs (31.3 kg).
Maximum weight capacity 550-600 lbs (249.5-272.1 kg) depending on water conditions.

Have been intrigued by the Prowler Big Game since it's release, but never been keen to paddle one, after all it's a big blokes kayak and big I'm not. But with it sat there amongst all it's slimmer siblings inquisitiveness got the better of me.

I've paddled the Malibu X Factor (full review) and the Big Game is a very similar paddle, incredibly stable, in fact stable enough for me to stand whilst underway and to turn around and kneel giving access to the full length of the tankwell.

Unlike other members of the Prowler fleet the Big Game has adjustable foot pegs, some people I know prefer these, this means that the foot well is flat, allowing you to stand easily should the need take you (why you would want to is beyond me), it also allows an easy exit for any water that may find it's way into the cockpit, saying that the Big Game would be a very dry ride for somebody of my weight (11 st kitted out).

Paddling was a more comfortable affair than the on the X Factor, this mainly due to the shape of the gunwales, on the X Factor it was necessary to change my paddling style to refrain from striking my knuckles on the gunwale, this was not the case on the Big Game. The weight of the Big Game is still felt when afloat, she is a big kayak to push through the water and needs considerable effort to paddle compared to the other members of the Prowler fleet and I can see why so many owners have fitted Minn Kota motors to theirs. Manoeuvrability was very good, but with my weight I couldn't really lean into the turn to help her round as I struggled to get her too lean at all.

The Big Game is aimed at the larger paddler and has been designed to make life onboard a little easier, the centre console keeping all those bits of tackle easily accessible without the need to stretch round into the tankwell, a raised seat helps to keep your backside dry, plus plenty of flat areas in and around the cockpit for easy fitting out.