Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak or Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak? Which Old Town Model to Buy
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You are comparing the old town sportsman pdl 106 pedal fishing kayak vs sportsman pdl 120. Both models share a pontoon-style hull, premium mesh seats with lumbar support, and the same forward/reverse pedal drive system. They also include identical fishing features like accessory tracks and rod holders. The main difference lies in their dimensions and load limits. The shorter 106 model offers easier transport, while the 120 provides more interior space and higher weight capacity for extended trips.
Key differences
| Aspect | Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak | Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 10 ft 6 in | 12 ft |
| Width | 36 inches | 36 inches |
| Hull Height | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Max Capacity | 450 lb | 500 lb |
| Usable Capacity | 343 lb | 384 lb |
| Total Weight | 107 lb | 116 lb |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak if
- You need a kayak that is lighter and easier to car top.
- You prefer a shorter hull for better maneuverability in tight spaces.
- You typically fish alone or with minimal gear under 343 pounds.
Choose Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak if
- You require higher maximum and usable weight capacity for more gear.
- You want a longer hull for improved tracking and straight-line speed.
- You need a deeper hull for greater stability and dryness.
Verdict: The Sportsman PDL 106 is the better choice if you prioritize easy transport and agile handling. The Sportsman PDL 120 suits you better if you need extra capacity for gear or prefer the stability of a longer, deeper hull. Both share the same reliable pedal drive and seating comfort.
PDL 106 vs PDL 120 Specs
Length and Maneuverability
The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 measures 10 feet 6 inches in length, while the PDL 120 extends to 12 feet. This six-inch difference affects how each kayak handles in tight spaces. You will find the shorter PDL 106 easier to turn and navigate in narrow coves or crowded boat ramps. The PDL 120 offers a longer tracking line, which helps it move straighter over open water. If you prioritize quick turns and easy storage, the PDL 106 is the better fit. For steady forward motion, the PDL 120 has the advantage.
Capacity and Load
Capacity differs significantly between these two models. The PDL 106 supports a maximum capacity of 450 pounds, with a usable capacity for people and gear of 343 pounds. The PDL 120 increases these figures to 500 pounds maximum and 384 pounds usable. If you carry heavy tackle boxes, coolers, or fish for larger groups, the PDL 120 provides more room. The extra 42 pounds of usable capacity allows you to pack more gear without compromising stability. For solo anglers with light loads, both handle well, but the PDL 120 offers more buffer.
Weight and Portability
Weight is a key factor if you plan to car top or carry the kayak alone. The PDL 106 weighs 107 pounds, making it lighter and easier to lift onto a roof rack. The PDL 120 weighs 116 pounds, adding nine pounds to the load. This extra weight comes from the longer hull and slightly taller profile. Both kayaks feature removable pedal consoles that weigh 18 and 19 pounds respectively, which helps slightly with overall weight. For easier handling and transport, the PDL 106 is the clear choice.
Hull Height and Stability
Both kayaks share a pontoon-style hull and a width of 36 inches, which provides a stable platform for fishing. However, the hull height differs. The PDL 106 has a height of 14 inches, while the PDL 120 stands at 18 inches. The taller hull on the PDL 120 generally offers increased secondary stability and dryness in choppy water. You will sit slightly higher above the waterline in the PDL 120. The PDL 106 sits lower, which can be beneficial for low-profile casting in calm conditions. Height preferences will dictate your choice here.
Pedal Drive System
Both models use the same forward and reverse pedal drive system with a patented easy-docking mechanism. This system allows for hands-free navigation and pain-free launch and landing. The removable pedal console weighs 18 pounds for the PDL 106 and 19 pounds for the PDL 120. Since the propulsion technology is identical, you get the same comfort and control regardless of which model you choose. The drive system is low-maintenance and designed for long days on the water. There is no performance difference in propulsion between the two.
Which Old Town Sportsman PDL Model Fits You
Car-topper seeking easy transport and maneuverability
The 106 model weighs 107 pounds and measures 10 feet 6 inches long. Its shorter length makes it easier to handle in tight spaces or on smaller trailers. You can lift it onto a car roof more easily than the heavier 120. The 450-pound capacity fits most solo anglers and their gear without excess bulk.
Angler needing extra gear space and stability
The 120 model offers a 500-pound maximum capacity and 384 pounds of usable load. Its 12-foot length provides a longer tracking line and more room for tackle boxes and coolers. The 116-pound weight supports heavier loads. You gain stability and storage for longer trips or when carrying multiple companions.
User prioritizing identical core fishing performance
Both kayaks share the same pontoon-style hull, premium mesh seat, and forward/reverse pedal drive. If you do not need the extra length or capacity, the 106 delivers the same fishing features. You get accessory tracks, rod holders, and a transducer mount in a package that is lighter and easier to manage on land.
The products compared
Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing stable pontoon hull tracking
- Length
- 10 feet 6 inches
- Capacity
- 450-pound maximum capacity
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Forward/reverse pedal drive
- Hull Type
- Pontoon-style hull
- Seat Type
- Premium mesh seat
View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak Affiliate link
The Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 is a 10-foot 6-inch pedal fishing kayak with a pontoon-style hull. It features a forward and reverse pedal drive, a premium mesh seat with lumbar support, and a 450-pound maximum capacity. The hull measures 36 inches wide and 14 inches high. This model suits anglers seeking stability and hands-free navigation for freshwater fishing.
Pros
- Pontoon-style hull provides enhanced stability on the water.
- Forward and reverse pedal drive allows hands-free navigation.
- Premium mesh seat includes adjustable lumbar support for comfort.
- Universal transducer mounting system simplifies fish finder installation.
- Customizable accessory tracks offer flexible gear storage options.
Cons
- 107-pound weight makes car-topping difficult for some users.
- 343-pound usable capacity limits heavy gear loads.
- Paddle is sold separately, requiring additional purchase.
Good fit if
- You prioritize stability and tracking in a pedal kayak.
- You want a pontoon hull for steady fishing platforms.
- You need a forward and reverse drive system.
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter kayak under 90 pounds.
- You need a capacity over 400 pounds for gear.
- You require a single-person kayak under 10 feet.
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 offers a stable pontoon hull and versatile pedal drive for serious anglers. It fits those who value steady tracking and adjustable comfort over lightweight portability.
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak
Best for: Anglers needing high capacity and stability
- Length
- 12 ft
- Capacity
- 500 lb max, 384 lb usable
- Person Capacity
- Solo
- Propulsion
- Pedal drive
- Hull Type
- Pontoon-style
- Seat Type
- Mesh seat with lumbar support
View on Amazon: Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak Affiliate link
The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a 12-foot fishing kayak with a pontoon-style hull and 36-inch width. It features a forward/reverse pedal drive and supports a 500-pound maximum capacity. The premium mesh seat offers lumbar support. You get ample storage and mounting options for gear. This model suits anglers needing stability and hands-free navigation.
Pros
- Forward/reverse pedal drive for hands-free navigation
- 500-pound maximum capacity for gear and passengers
- Pontoon-style hull provides stable platform
- Premium mesh seat with lumbar support
Cons
- 116-pound weight requires effort to transport
- Paddle sold separately
- Fish finder sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a stable platform for heavy gear
- You prefer hands-free pedaling over paddling
- You want a seat with lumbar support
Skip if
- You need a lightweight kayak for solo carrying
- You want a paddle included in the box
- You prefer a sit-in hull design
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 delivers stability and capacity for serious anglers. It fits those who value pedal propulsion and a comfortable, supportive seat during long days on the water.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 Pedal Fishing Kayak | Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 10 feet 6 inches | 12 ft |
| Capacity | 450-pound maximum capacity | 500 lb max, 384 lb usable |
| Person Capacity | Solo | Solo |
| Propulsion | Forward/reverse pedal drive | Pedal drive |
| Hull Type | Pontoon-style hull | Pontoon-style |
| Seat Type | Premium mesh seat | Mesh seat with lumbar support |
| Fishing Features | Rod holders, transducer mounting system | Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks |
| Use | Fishing | Fishing |
| Size | Length 10 Ft | Length 12 Ft |
| Included Accessories | Paddle | Paddle |
| Dimensions | 126 × 36 × 14 inches | 144 × 36 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 18 pounds | 116 pounds |
| Color | Ember Camo | Ember Camo |
| Model | 01.4072.0103 | 01.4071.0103 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Old Town model is lighter for transport?
The PDL 106 is significantly lighter than the PDL 120. Data shows the PDL 106 weighs 18 pounds, while the PDL 120 weighs 116 pounds. This major weight difference makes the 106 easier to carry and load onto a vehicle. You will find the lighter model much more manageable for solo handling or frequent transport.
Does the PDL 120 offer more storage capacity?
The PDL 120 is designed for higher capacity due to its larger dimensions. It measures 12 feet long with an 18-inch height, compared to the 106’s 10-foot length and 14-inch height. The increased volume allows you to carry more gear and tackle. This makes the 120 better for longer trips requiring substantial storage.
Are the widths identical on both kayaks?
Yes, both models share the same width specification. Each kayak measures 36 inches wide. This identical beam width suggests both offer similar primary stability on the water. You can expect comparable balance characteristics despite the differences in length and overall size between the two models.
Which kayak is better for tight parking spots?
The PDL 106 is the better choice for tight spaces. It measures 126 inches in length, which is 18 inches shorter than the PDL 120 at 144 inches. The shorter length allows for easier maneuverability in confined areas like crowded boat ramps or small parking lots. You will appreciate the reduced footprint.
Do both models use the same pedal drive system?
Both kayaks utilize the same propulsion method. The specifications list Pedal Drive and Pedal for both the PDL 106 and the PDL 120. This means you get identical forward and reverse capabilities regardless of which size you choose. The driving experience and control remain consistent across both models.
Which model has a taller hull profile?
The PDL 120 features a taller hull profile. It stands 18 inches high, whereas the PDL 106 is only 14 inches high. This additional height contributes to the 120’s greater volume and stability. You may prefer the taller profile for better clearance or a more commanding view while seated.