Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120: Review & Features

by Alex Braham 52 views

Let's dive deep into the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120, an amazing piece of equipment that has been making waves in the kayak fishing world. If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for gear that can elevate your fishing game, and this kayak might just be the ticket. I’ll walk you through what makes this kayak so special, from its innovative features to its overall performance on the water. So, whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, stick around – you might just find your next dream kayak right here.

Overview of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is essentially a fishing kayak on steroids. It’s designed for anglers who demand the best in terms of stability, comfort, and technology. This kayak stands out due to its integrated Minn Kota trolling motor, which is controlled by a remote, allowing for hands-free navigation. Imagine being able to precisely position yourself in the perfect spot without ever having to paddle! That's the kind of convenience we're talking about here. Beyond the motor, the Autopilot 120 boasts a supremely comfortable seat, a rock-solid hull design for stability, and ample storage for all your gear. It’s built for long days on the water, ensuring you stay comfortable and focused on what matters most: catching fish.

The hull design of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is engineered for stability, which is crucial when you're trying to reel in a big one or standing up to cast. The doubleU hull provides excellent tracking and stability, making it easy to maneuver even in choppy conditions. The kayak is made from durable polyethylene, which can withstand bumps and scrapes, so you don’t have to worry about every little thing you hit while you're out on the water. The attention to detail in the construction ensures that this kayak is not only high-performing but also built to last. It's an investment, sure, but one that will pay off with years of reliable use.

When it comes to comfort, Old Town really nailed it with the Sportsman Autopilot 120. The kayak features a premium seating system that can be adjusted to multiple positions, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body. The breathable mesh fabric keeps you cool and comfortable, even on hot summer days. There's also plenty of legroom, so you won't feel cramped or restricted. Trust me, being comfortable is a game-changer when you're spending hours on the water. It allows you to focus on fishing and enjoy the experience without distractions. Little things like adjustable foot braces and strategically placed padding make a big difference in overall comfort.

Key Features and Benefits

Let's break down the key features that make the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 a standout choice for kayak anglers. This kayak is packed with features designed to enhance your fishing experience and give you an edge on the water.

Minn Kota Trolling Motor

The Minn Kota trolling motor is the heart of the Autopilot 120. This motor allows you to effortlessly navigate the water, maintain your position in current or wind, and cover more ground without tiring yourself out. Controlled by a handheld remote, the motor offers precise speed control and spot-lock functionality, which keeps you anchored in your desired location. Imagine being able to fish a specific spot without constantly paddling to stay in place – that's the power of the Minn Kota motor. It's quiet, efficient, and a total game-changer for kayak fishing.

Spot-Lock Technology

The Spot-Lock technology is a game-changer. With the push of a button on the remote, the kayak uses GPS to lock onto your current location and automatically adjusts the motor to stay put. This is incredibly useful when you find a productive fishing spot and want to stay there without drifting away. It's like having an anchor without the hassle of actually dropping one. Spot-Lock allows you to focus entirely on fishing, rather than constantly adjusting your position. This feature alone makes the Autopilot 120 worth considering.

Advanced Rudder System

The advanced rudder system on the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 enhances the kayak's maneuverability, especially in windy conditions or strong currents. The rudder is easily controlled with foot pedals, allowing you to make quick and precise adjustments to your course. This is particularly useful when you're trying to navigate tight waterways or stay on course while trolling. The rudder system works seamlessly with the Minn Kota motor to provide exceptional control and responsiveness.

Premium Seating

The premium seating system is designed for all-day comfort. The seat is adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit to your body. The breathable mesh fabric keeps you cool and dry, even on hot days. The high back provides excellent support, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions. The seat can also be adjusted to multiple positions, including a high position for better visibility and a low position for increased stability. Comfort is crucial when you're spending hours on the water, and the Sportsman Autopilot 120 delivers in spades.

Ample Storage

Storage is key for any serious angler, and the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 doesn't disappoint. The kayak features a large tank well in the stern, perfect for storing a crate of gear or a cooler. There's also a spacious storage hatch in the bow for stashing larger items. Additionally, the kayak has multiple accessory tracks for mounting rod holders, fish finders, and other accessories. With all this storage, you can bring everything you need for a full day of fishing without feeling cramped or cluttered.

Performance on the Water

When it comes to performance, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 truly shines. The combination of the stable hull design, Minn Kota motor, and advanced rudder system makes this kayak a joy to paddle and fish from. Whether you're navigating calm lakes or choppy rivers, the Autopilot 120 handles with ease and provides a stable platform for casting and reeling in fish. The hands-free control offered by the trolling motor is a game-changer, allowing you to focus on fishing without constantly paddling.

The stability of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is one of its standout features. The doubleU hull provides a solid platform, even when standing up to cast. This is particularly important for anglers who prefer to stand while fishing, as it allows for better visibility and casting range. The kayak feels incredibly stable, even in choppy conditions, giving you the confidence to fish in a variety of environments. The stability also makes it easier to land fish, as you don't have to worry about tipping over while fighting a big one.

The maneuverability of the Autopilot 120 is also impressive. The advanced rudder system allows you to make quick and precise turns, even in tight spaces. This is particularly useful when you're fishing in rivers or narrow waterways. The Minn Kota motor provides excellent control, allowing you to easily navigate around obstacles and maintain your position in current or wind. The combination of the rudder and motor makes this kayak incredibly responsive and easy to handle.

Tracking is another area where the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 excels. The kayak tracks straight and true, even in windy conditions. This is important for covering long distances efficiently and staying on course while trolling. The rudder system helps to maintain tracking, especially when paddling or motoring in a straight line. The kayak's hull design also contributes to its excellent tracking abilities, ensuring that you can cover more ground with less effort.

Pros and Cons

Like any piece of gear, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 has its pros and cons. Let's take a balanced look at what makes this kayak great and where it might fall short.

Pros

  • Stability: The doubleU hull design provides excellent stability, making it easy to stand and fish.
  • Minn Kota Motor: The integrated trolling motor offers hands-free navigation and precise control.
  • Spot-Lock Technology: This feature allows you to lock onto a specific location and stay put.
  • Comfortable Seating: The premium seating system is adjustable and designed for all-day comfort.
  • Ample Storage: The kayak has plenty of storage for gear, tackle, and personal items.

Cons

  • Price: The Autopilot 120 is a premium kayak and comes with a higher price tag.
  • Weight: The kayak is heavier than non-motorized models, making it more difficult to transport.
  • Battery Dependence: The trolling motor requires a battery, which needs to be charged and maintained.
  • Complexity: The integrated motor and electronics add complexity to the kayak's operation and maintenance.

Who is This Kayak For?

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is ideal for serious anglers who demand the best in terms of performance, comfort, and technology. If you're someone who spends a lot of time on the water and wants a kayak that can handle a variety of conditions, this might be the perfect choice. It's also great for anglers who want the convenience of hands-free navigation and the ability to precisely control their position while fishing. However, due to its higher price point and weight, it may not be the best option for casual anglers or those who have limited storage space.

This kayak is particularly well-suited for anglers who fish in lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. The stable hull design and powerful trolling motor make it capable of handling a variety of conditions. It's also a great choice for anglers who target a wide range of species, as the ample storage and accessory mounting options allow you to customize the kayak to your specific needs. Whether you're trolling for walleye, casting for bass, or fishing for redfish, the Autopilot 120 can help you get the job done.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 isn't quite the right fit for you, there are several alternatives to consider. These kayaks offer similar features and performance, but may be better suited to your specific needs and budget.

Jackson Kayak Coosa FD

The Jackson Kayak Coosa FD is a pedal-drive kayak that offers hands-free propulsion and excellent maneuverability. It's a great alternative for anglers who prefer pedal power over a trolling motor. The Coosa FD is known for its stability and comfortable seating, making it a popular choice among kayak anglers.

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 is another pedal-drive kayak that's packed with features for serious anglers. It has a stable hull, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage. The MirageDrive pedal system is efficient and easy to use, allowing you to cover long distances with minimal effort.

Wilderness Systems Radar 135

The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 is a versatile kayak that can be powered by paddle, pedal, or motor. It offers a stable platform, comfortable seating, and ample storage. The Radar 135 is a great option for anglers who want the flexibility to choose their preferred method of propulsion.

Final Thoughts

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is a top-of-the-line fishing kayak that offers a unique combination of stability, comfort, and technology. The integrated Minn Kota trolling motor and Spot-Lock technology make it a game-changer for anglers who want hands-free navigation and precise control. While it comes with a higher price tag and is heavier than non-motorized models, the Autopilot 120 is a worthwhile investment for serious anglers who demand the best. If you're looking for a kayak that can elevate your fishing game, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is definitely worth considering.

I hope this review has been helpful in your search for the perfect fishing kayak. Happy fishing, guys! Remember to always prioritize safety and follow local regulations when you're out on the water. Tight lines!