Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Fishing Kayak Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This old town sportsman autopilot 120 motorized fishing kayak review focuses on a vessel built for stability and integrated propulsion. At 12 feet long and 37 inches wide, it offers a broad platform for anglers who need space. The kayak weighs 152 pounds, making it manageable for transport while remaining substantial in the water. It comes equipped with a Minn Kota trolling motor, which defines its primary mode of movement. This combination of length, width, and electric drive creates a steady base for serious fishing trips without requiring manual paddling for long distances.
What stands out
- 12-foot length provides ample room for gear and movement.
- 37-inch width enhances stability on the water.
- Integrated Minn Kota trolling motor for effortless propulsion.
- Four 18-inch tracks allow for flexible accessory mounting.
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this kayak if you prioritize stability and hands-free navigation. The 37-inch width offers a solid stance for casting and fighting fish. The included Minn Kota motor means you can cover more water without tiring. If you prefer a larger platform for longer outings, the 12-foot length accommodates more storage. The flush mount rod holders keep your gear secure and out of the way when not in use. This setup suits anglers who want a dedicated fishing boat that is easy to control.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you need a lightweight vessel for frequent portaging. At 152 pounds, this kayak is heavy to lift and carry alone. The 12-foot length may be too large for narrow car trunks or small garages. If you prefer the physical engagement of paddling, the electric motor might feel unnecessary. The wide beam, while stable, increases wind resistance. You might also want a smaller boat if you frequently fish in tight, shallow areas where maneuverability is key.
Verdict: This motorized kayak offers a stable, spacious platform for anglers who value ease of use. The integrated trolling motor and wide beam make it a practical choice for steady fishing trips.
Key specs explained
Length 12 Ft
A 12-foot hull offers a balance between tracking in a straight line and maneuverability in tight spots. You get enough waterline length to maintain momentum while casting or reeling. This size fits most standard garages and car trailers. It is long enough for stability but short enough to handle in wind compared to longer touring kayaks.
Width 37 inches
A 37-inch width provides a very wide platform for standing and moving around. You gain significant primary stability, which reduces tipping when you shift your weight. This is ideal for fishing from a seated or standing position. The extra width adds drag, so you may notice it requires more effort to paddle without motor assistance.
Weight 152 pounds
At 152 pounds, this kayak is heavy due to its robust construction and integrated motor. You will need a vehicle with a sufficient payload capacity and a trailer rated for this load. Solo lifting is difficult, so a kayak cart or a partner is necessary for transport. This weight contributes to its overall stability on the water.
Propulsion Trolling Motor
The integrated Minn Kota trolling motor allows you to cruise without manual paddling. You can focus on fishing while the motor maintains speed and direction. This feature is crucial for covering large areas or fighting currents. It eliminates the fatigue of paddling, letting you conserve energy for handling fish and managing gear throughout your outing.
Design and build details
The listing specifies a length of 144 inches and a width of 37 inches. This broad beam supports the 152-pound hull, creating a stable platform for fishing. The height measures 25 inches, which helps with storage volume while keeping the center of gravity low. The Ember Camo finish is noted for its visual pattern, which may help you blend into shoreline environments. The design prioritizes a wide stance over speed, making it suitable for calm lakes and slow-moving rivers where stability matters more than tracking performance.
According to the listing, the deck features non-slip EVA foam pads. These pads provide traction and comfort when you stand up to cast or retrieve gear. The layout includes four 18-inch tracks for mounting accessories. This allows you to add gear without drilling permanent holes. You also get two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush mount rod holders. These keep rods secure and out of the way when not in use. The inclusion of shallow water anchor mounting inserts gives you options for positioning in shallow areas.
Control comes from a large rudder system. The listing notes that this extra-large rudder provides excellent boat control in both forward and reverse directions. This is paired with a Minn Kota trolling motor for propulsion. The motor works with the rudder to help you hold position or maneuver in wind and current. The combination of a wide hull, stable deck, and integrated steering system creates a setup focused on control and ease of use for anglers who need a steady base.
Setup and everyday use
Setting up this kayak begins with the hull dimensions and included hardware. The listing specifies a length of 144 inches and a width of 37 inches. This broad beam supports the 152-pound weight, creating a stable base for your gear. The height measures 25 inches, which helps with storage volume while keeping the center of gravity manageable for you.
The vessel comes equipped with a Minn Kota trolling motor. This propulsion system is integrated into the design, meaning you do not need to purchase or mount a separate drive unit. The large rudder provides excellent boat control in both forward and reverse directions. This feature simplifies maneuvering when you are positioning yourself for a cast or adjusting to wind currents.
For accessory installation, the kayak features four 18-inch tracks. These allow for easy on-off mounting of various fishing tools. You can adjust their positions based on your specific needs. The listing also includes two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush mount rod holders. These are present when you want them and stay out of the way when you do not.
Non-slip EVA foam deck pads provide traction and stand-up comfort. This surface allows you to move around the cockpit safely. Shallow water anchor mounting inserts are also included. These inserts enable you to deploy an anchor without drilling additional holes. The setup is straightforward, relying on the existing tracks and mounts. Daily use involves leveraging these integrated features for efficient fishing.
Before you buy this kayak
This Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 comes with a Minn Kota trolling motor, but you must verify compatibility with your vehicle. The hull weighs 152 pounds, so ensure your trailer has adequate capacity. You should also check that your garage can accommodate the 12-foot length and 37-inch width. The kayak features four 18-inch tracks for accessory mounting. Confirm that your preferred electronics or coolers fit these tracks. The flush mount rod holders are integrated into the deck. You may need to purchase separate rod holders if you prefer different styles. The non-slip EVA foam deck pads require occasional rinsing to remove salt and debris. This model sits among other motorized options by offering integrated propulsion. Unlike paddle-only kayaks, it provides electric power for long days on the water. Consider whether you need the shallow water anchor inserts for your typical fishing spots. The extra-large rudder aids in control, but you should practice maneuvering in calm water first.
Check before you buy
- Verify trailer weight capacity for the 152-pound hull.
- Check garage space for the 12-foot length.
- Confirm accessory compatibility with the four 18-inch tracks.
- Ensure Minn Kota motor fits your power needs.
The product at a glance
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak
Best for: Anglers seeking motorized ease and stability
- Length
- 12 ft
- Propulsion
- Minn Kota trolling motor
- Use
- Fishing
- Size
- Length 12 Ft
- Dimensions
- 144 × 37 × 25 inches
- Weight
- 152 pounds
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This 12-foot fishing kayak features a built-in Minn Kota trolling motor for hands-free navigation. It measures 37 inches wide and weighs 152 pounds, offering stable tracking. The design includes four accessory tracks and flush-mount rod holders for gear storage. Non-slip EVA deck pads provide traction. The extra-large rudder aids control in forward and reverse directions.
Pros
- Integrated Minn Kota trolling motor for motorized propulsion
- Four 18-inch tracks for accessory mounting
- Extra-large rudder for enhanced boat control
- Non-slip EVA foam deck pads for traction
Cons
- Heavy at 152 pounds, making transport difficult
- Limited to 12-foot length for smaller storage
- No mention of onboard battery storage compartment
Good fit if
- You want motorized propulsion without manual paddling
- You need stable tracking for fishing
- You prefer integrated accessory mounting tracks
Skip if
- You need a lightweight kayak for frequent carrying
- You require a shorter kayak for small garages
- You prefer manual paddle-only propulsion
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized suits anglers who prioritize motorized ease and stability. Its integrated trolling motor and large rudder make it ideal for covering water with minimal effort.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak |
|---|---|
| Length | 12 ft |
| Propulsion | Minn Kota trolling motor |
| Use | Fishing |
| Size | Length 12 Ft |
| Dimensions | 144 × 37 × 25 inches |
| Weight | 152 pounds |
| Color | Ember Camo |
| Model | 01.4065.0103 |
Frequently asked questions
How stable is the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 for fishing?
It offers high stability due to its 37-inch width. This broad beam creates a wide platform that resists tipping. The design prioritizes steady casting and gear storage. You can stand or move around with confidence. The wide hull distributes weight effectively. This makes it ideal for anglers who need a secure base.
What are the dimensions of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120?
The kayak measures 144 inches in length and 37 inches in width. The height is 25 inches. These dimensions provide ample space for fishing gear. The 12-foot length helps maintain momentum on the water. The width ensures a stable stance. These specs fit standard storage and transport needs.
How heavy is the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120?
The hull weighs 152 pounds. This weight supports the integrated motor and large rudder. It provides a solid feel on the water. You will need a vehicle with adequate capacity to transport it. The weight also contributes to its stability. Plan for a sturdy trailer or roof rack setup.
Does this kayak come with a motor?
Yes, it includes an integrated trolling motor. The propulsion system is built into the hull. This setup allows for motorized ease without manual pedaling. You can cover more water with minimal effort. The motor works with a large rudder for steering. It is designed for anglers seeking hands-free navigation.
Is the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 good for beginners?
It is well-suited for anglers seeking ease of use. The motorized propulsion reduces physical exertion. The wide 37-inch hull offers a stable platform. This stability helps beginners feel secure while casting. The integrated system simplifies navigation. You can focus on fishing rather than complex setup or pedaling.
What color options are available for this kayak?
The listing specifies the Ember Camo color. This pattern helps blend with natural surroundings. Camouflage is useful for stealthy fishing approaches. The specific model number is 01.4065.0103. Check the current listing for other available colors. The camo finish is durable and practical for outdoor use.