Old Town Sportsman 120 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This old town sportsman 120 sit on top fishing kayak review focuses on a vessel built for stability and utility. Measuring 12 feet long with a 500-pound maximum capacity, it offers a wide platform for gear and anglers. The pontoon-style hull promotes tracking and steady movement on the water. At 85 pounds, the kayak remains manageable for transport. Its 36-inch width adds to the sense of security while casting or reeling. You get a sit-on-top design that drains itself, keeping you dry and comfortable during long sessions on the lake or river.
What stands out
- 500-pound maximum capacity with 415 pounds of usable weight for you and your gear
- Pontoon-style hull designed for optimal tracking and stability in calm waters
- Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat that promotes airflow and keeps you cool
- Universal transducer mounting system for easy installation of fish finders
- Customizable accessory tracks and multiple rod holders for organized fishing setups
Who it fits
Good fit for
This kayak suits casual anglers and tournament pros who need a stable platform. The 12-foot length and pontoon hull help you track straight while scanning for fish. If you value comfort, the mesh seat and cushioned floor pads reduce fatigue. Hunters may also appreciate the quiet movement and ample space for equipment. The side-mounted paddle clip keeps your gear secure while you focus on casting. It is ideal for those who want a nimble yet sturdy boat for freshwater fishing.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you require a closed-deck kayak for cold water or rough seas. The sit-on-top design exposes you to the elements and drains water, which may not suit all conditions. If you need a very compact boat for car-top transport, the 12-foot length and 85-pound weight might be challenging for some vehicles. Additionally, the fish finder is sold separately, so budget for that extra cost. This model is not designed for high-speed touring or whitewater environments.
Verdict: The Old Town Sportsman 120 offers a stable, feature-rich platform for anglers who prioritize comfort and tracking. Its high capacity and modular accessories make it a practical choice for dedicated fishing trips.
Key specs explained for this kayak
Length: 12 ft
This length offers a balance between stability and maneuverability. You get enough hull to track straight in flat water without becoming unwieldy on the shore. It is easier to transport than longer models, fitting in more standard vehicle racks. This size suits casual anglers who want performance without the bulk of a touring kayak.
Capacity: 500 lb
The maximum weight limit includes you, your gear, and any fish. This high limit ensures the kayak remains stable even when heavily loaded with tackle boxes and electronics. You can carry significant gear without the hull sitting too low in the water. Always check the usable capacity for a safer margin when planning your loadout.
Hull Type: Pontoon-style hull
This design features twin pontoons for enhanced primary stability. You feel steadier when casting or reeling in a fish, reducing the chance of tipping. It also improves tracking, meaning the kayak moves straighter with less effort. This hull style is ideal for beginners or those prioritizing a stable platform over high-speed performance.
Seat Type: Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat
This material promotes airflow to keep you cool during long sessions. The dual-layer construction provides support while reducing pressure points on your hips. Mesh dries quickly if you splash water or encounter rain. This seat type is practical for warm weather fishing, offering comfort that lasts through extended periods on the water.
Design and Build Details
The Old Town Sportsman 120 measures 12 feet in length and 36 inches wide. This width supports its pontoon-style hull, which the listing notes provides optimal tracking. The hull design helps the kayak move straight through the water with less effort from you. The seat is a dual-layer Textilene mesh. This material allows water to drain quickly and keeps you cooler during long sessions on the water. The sit-on-top layout keeps you dry and makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak.
According to the listing, the kayak weighs 85 pounds. This weight is manageable for one person to lift onto a roof rack or carry short distances. The maximum capacity is 500 pounds, with a usable capacity of 415 pounds for you and your gear. This gives you room for heavy tackle boxes and fishing equipment without compromising stability. The finish is available in Ember Camo or Steel Camo. These colors help you blend into natural surroundings while hunting or fishing.
The layout includes customizable accessory tracks and cushioned floor pads. The tracks allow you to position rod holders and other gear where you need them. Adjustable foot braces snap into place to support your legs. A side-mounted hull paddle clip keeps your paddle secure when you are not paddling. The universal transducer mount lets you add a fish finder. These features are built into the structure, not added later. The design focuses on practical utility for casual anglers and tournament pros.
Setup and Everyday Use
You begin setup by attaching the adjustable foot braces. They snap into place to secure your position while paddling. This feature improves control and comfort during active use. You then position the premium dual-layer Textilene mesh seat. The material is designed to keep you cool and allow airflow. This seat style supports long hours on the water without retaining heat.
The kayak includes customizable accessory tracks along the deck. You can mount rod holders and other gear where you need them. A custom tackle box is included for storage. You also have a side-mounted hull paddle clip. This keeps your paddle secure and out of the way when you are not paddling. The universal transducer mounting system allows you to add a fish finder. Note that the fish finder is sold separately. You must purchase it to use this feature.
The cushioned floor pads provide grip and comfort. They help you stay steady while moving around the deck. The pontoon-style hull offers stability, making it easier to stand or shift weight. You can carry up to 415 pounds of usable capacity for yourself and your gear. The total maximum capacity is 500 pounds. The kayak weighs 85 pounds. This weight makes it manageable for transport, though you may need assistance. The Ember Camo finish is one of two color options. The other is Steel Camo. Both options offer the same functional layout. You do not need a paddle, as it is sold separately. This setup is ready for fishing or hunting trips once assembled.
Before You Buy This Kayak
You need to buy the paddle separately, as the listing states it is not included. You should also plan for a fish finder, since the universal transducer mount is included but the device itself is sold apart. Check your vehicle’s roof rack capacity, as this 85-pound kayak requires secure transport. The pontoon-style hull offers excellent stability, making it a strong choice if you prioritize steady fishing platforms over speed. It fits well alongside other wide sit-on-top models in our 1 selections, particularly for those who value gear storage and comfort. The dual-layer Textilene seat provides good airflow, which is useful for long days on the water. Keep the cushioned floor pads clean to maintain grip. Ensure your rod holders are positioned for your specific fishing style. This kayak suits casual anglers and tournament pros alike who need a reliable, stable vessel for lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Check before you buy
- Confirm you have a compatible paddle for transport and paddling.
- Verify your roof rack can safely carry the 85-pound weight.
- Check if your fish finder fits the universal transducer mount.
- Ensure your vehicle can hold the 12-foot length securely.
- Review rod holder placement for your specific fishing techniques.
The product at a glance
Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high capacity and stability
- Seating Style
- Sit-on-top
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 500 lb max, 415 lb usable
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Paddle
- Hull Type
- Pontoon-style
View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak Affiliate link
The Old Town Sportsman 120 is a 12-foot sit-on-top kayak designed for fishing. It features a pontoon-style hull for stability and tracking. You get a 500-pound maximum capacity and a 415-pound usable load limit. The dual-layer Textilene seat stays cool, while accessory tracks and rod holders support your gear. It weighs 85 pounds and measures 36 inches wide.
Pros
- 500-pound maximum capacity supports heavy gear
- Pontoon-style hull offers stable tracking
- Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat keeps you cool
- Includes customizable accessory tracks and rod holders
- Universal transducer mount for fish finders
Cons
- 85-pound weight is heavy for solo transport
- 415-pound usable capacity limits total load
- Paddle is sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a stable platform for tournament fishing
- You want a kayak with ample gear storage tracks
- You prefer a pontoon hull for calm water tracking
Skip if
- You need a lightweight kayak for frequent carrying
- You require a larger usable capacity than 415 pounds
- You want a kayak that includes a paddle
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak is a stable, high-capacity option for anglers who prioritize gear storage and hull stability over lightweight portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak |
|---|---|
| Seating Style | Sit-on-top |
| Length | 12 ft |
| Capacity | 500 lb max, 415 lb usable |
| Person Capacity | Solo |
| Propulsion | Paddle |
| Hull Type | Pontoon-style |
| Seat Type | Dual-layer Textilene mesh seat |
| Fishing Features | Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks |
| Use | Fishing |
| Size | Length 12 Ft |
| Included Accessories | Paddle |
| Dimensions | 144 × 36 × 20 inches |
| Weight | 85 pounds |
| Color | Ember Camo |
| Model | 01.4075.0103 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Old Town Sportsman 120 weigh?
The Old Town Sportsman 120 weighs 85 pounds. This listed hull weight reflects its solid construction designed for fishing applications. You will likely want a kayak cart or a dedicated loading system to move this 85-pound vessel between your vehicle and the water comfortably.
What are the exact dimensions of the Old Town Sportsman 120?
This kayak measures 144 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 20 inches high. Its 12-foot length paired with a 20-inch profile provides ample volume on the water. These exterior measurements help you plan appropriate garage storage space and vehicle rack clearance before bringing the boat home.
What seating style does the Old Town Sportsman 120 use?
The Old Town Sportsman 120 features an open sit-on-top seating design. A sit-on-top layout allows you to move freely, stretch your legs, and access your angling gear quickly. It also lets water drain naturally from the deck area during active outings.
What color does the Old Town Sportsman 120 come in?
The manufacturer lists this kayak in an Ember Camo color pattern. The camouflage finish blends dark tones with earthy accents for a distinctive outdoor look. This aesthetic helps reduce visual contrast on open waterways while you target fish around lakes, bays, and rivers.
Who is the Old Town Sportsman 120 best suited for?
This kayak is best suited for anglers who prioritize high capacity and hull stability. If you plan to carry heavy gear configurations and prefer a planted platform on the water rather than lightweight portability, the dimensions and design of this model match your needs.
What is the specific model number for the Old Town Sportsman 120?
The official manufacturer model number for this specific kayak is 01.4075.0103. You can reference this part number when checking parts compatibility or ordering replacement components directly through official Old Town retail channels. Having the exact model code ensures you get matching accessories.