Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Fishing Kayak Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This old town sportsman pdl 120 pedal fishing kayak review looks at a 12-foot pontoon-style hull designed for stability. It features a forward and reverse pedal drive system for hands-free navigation. The kayak supports a maximum capacity of 500 pounds and weighs 116 pounds. You get a premium mesh seat with lumbar support and customizable accessory tracks. This setup prioritizes comfort and gear organization. The wide 36-inch beam adds confidence on the water. It is built for anglers who want to cover water without paddling. The design focuses on practical fishing features and easy handling.
What stands out
- Forward and reverse pedal drive for hands-free propulsion
- 12-foot pontoon-style hull for enhanced stability
- 500-pound maximum capacity with 384-pound usable load
- Premium mesh seat with adjustable lumbar support
- Universal transducer mounting system for fish finders
Who it fits
Good fit for
This kayak suits anglers who value stability and comfort during long days on the water. The pontoon hull and 36-inch width provide a steady platform for casting. You will appreciate the pedal drive if you want to navigate without using your arms. The adjustable mesh seat and cushioned floor pads help reduce fatigue. It is ideal for single anglers or those carrying moderate gear, given the 384-pound usable capacity. The extensive track system allows you to customize your setup with rod holders and other accessories.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you need a lightweight kayak for frequent portaging. At 116 pounds, this vessel is heavier than many standard fishing kayaks. The 12-foot length may be too long for tight storage spaces or narrow trailers. If you prefer paddle propulsion over mechanical systems, the pedal drive might feel unnecessary. The removable pedal console adds another 19 pounds to manage. You might also want more height for better visibility, as the 18-inch model is available but the 25-inch variant is a different configuration.
Verdict: The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 offers a stable, comfortable platform for anglers who prefer pedal propulsion. Its wide pontoon hull and ample storage tracks make it a practical choice for dedicated fishing trips.
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Key Specs
Length: 12 ft
This 12-foot length offers a balance between tracking stability and maneuverability. You will find it easier to paddle in a straight line compared to shorter models, which is useful for covering distance on larger lakes. However, it requires more storage space for transport than compact kayaks. This size suits anglers who prioritize steady performance over extreme portability.
Capacity: 500 lb
A 500-pound maximum capacity allows you to carry significant gear, tackle, and additional passengers if needed. The usable capacity is 384 pounds, which accounts for the kayak's own weight and displacement. This high limit provides stability even when loaded with heavy fishing equipment, making it suitable for serious anglers who need ample room for their supplies.
Hull Type: Pontoon-style hull
The pontoon-style hull features a wide, flat-bottomed design that maximizes primary stability. You will feel secure standing or casting without worrying about tipping. This hull shape is ideal for calm waters and shallow areas where stability is crucial. It differs from V-hulls, which cut through waves but feel tippier when stationary, making this choice better for fishing.
Propulsion: Forward/reverse pedal drive
This system lets you move the kayak forward and backward using your feet, keeping your hands free for casting and reeling. You can navigate quietly without the splash of a paddle, which helps avoid spooking fish. The forward and reverse capability allows for precise positioning near structure or docks, enhancing your ability to target specific spots effectively.
Weight: 116 pounds
Weighing 116 pounds, this kayak is manageable for solo loading but may require assistance for lifting onto a rack or roof. The weight contributes to its stability and durability, ensuring it remains steady on the water. You should consider your vehicle's lift capacity and physical strength when planning transport, as this is heavier than ultralight touring kayaks.
Design and Build Details
The listing describes a pontoon-style hull with a 36-inch width. This wide beam creates a stable platform for standing or casting. The 12-foot length helps you track straight while maintaining enough maneuverability for tighter turns. The overall height is 18 inches, which keeps your center of gravity low. This design choice reduces tipping risks when you move gear around the deck.
You get a removable pedal console that weighs 19 pounds. The main kayak weighs 116 pounds. The removable drive allows you to launch and land without dragging heavy machinery. The forward and reverse pedal drive lets you navigate hands-free. You can keep your hands on the rod or camera while the pedals handle movement. This control system is key for long days on the water.
The finish comes in Ember Camo. This color helps you blend into shorelines and shallow water. The listing notes customizable accessory tracks and rod holders. These features let you arrange gear for your specific fishing style. A premium mesh seat with lumbar support is included. The seat adjusts to your leg length. This layout prioritizes comfort and organization over speed. You are buying a stable, gear-ready platform for fishing rather than a high-speed racing shell.
Setup and Everyday Use Guide
You install the pedal drive into the removable console, which weighs 19 pounds. The listing notes a patented easy-docking system for this unit. This design allows you to launch and land the kayak without dragging the mechanism across rough surfaces. The drive supports forward and reverse motion, enabling hands-free navigation while you fish.
The seat is a premium mesh design with lumbar support. It adjusts to your leg length for a secure fit. The cushioned floor pads provide grip and comfort during long sessions. You can customize your gear layout using the accessory tracks. These tracks allow you to mount rod holders and other equipment where you need them.
For electronics, the kayak includes a universal transducer mounting system. This feature lets you attach a fish finder, though the device is sold separately. The system simplifies installation compared to drilling holes in the hull.
Daily use involves managing the 116-pound weight. You may need assistance loading it onto a vehicle roof rack. Once on the water, the pontoon-style hull provides stability. The 36-inch width helps you remain steady when casting or reeling in fish. The 500-pound maximum capacity includes you and your gear. The usable capacity is 384 pounds. This limit ensures you do not overload the vessel. The Ember Camo finish helps you blend into typical fishing environments. You do not need to worry about high-maintenance upkeep for the pedal drive, as the listing describes it as low-maintenance.
What You Need To Know
You will need to purchase a paddle separately, as the listing does not include one. The pedal drive is removable and weighs 19 pounds, so you should verify that your vehicle can handle the extra bulk when transporting the console. The universal transducer mount requires you to buy a fish finder separately to utilize this feature fully. For upkeep, the pontoon-style hull and premium mesh seat are designed for low maintenance. The mesh material helps you stay cool and allows water to drain quickly, reducing the need for extensive drying time. The cushioned floor pads provide grip and comfort but may require occasional cleaning to prevent dirt buildup. This 12-foot model sits in the middle of the range for 1 options, offering a balance of stability and capacity. It suits anglers who prioritize hands-free operation and standing room over extreme speed or portability. Check your rod holder placement needs before finalizing your gear list.
Check before you buy
- Verify your car roof rack fits the 12-foot length and 116-pound weight.
- Purchase a compatible paddle since it is not included in the box.
- Buy a fish finder to use the universal transducer mounting system effectively.
- Check if the 500-pound capacity meets your gear and passenger requirements.
The product at a glance
Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak
Best for: stable pedal fishing with high gear capacity
- 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 pedal fishing kayak with a pontoon-style hull. It features a forward and reverse pedal drive for hands-free navigation. The 36-inch width provides stability, while the 500-pound capacity supports gear and anglers. A premium mesh seat with lumbar support keeps you comfortable. This model suits anglers seeking stable, pedal-propelled fishing platforms.
Pros
- Forward and reverse pedal drive for hands-free movement
- Pontoon-style hull offers high stability
- 500-pound maximum capacity for gear and angler
- Premium mesh seat with lumbar support
- Universal transducer mounting system included
Cons
- 116-pound weight requires effort to transport
- Paddle sold separately
- Fish finder sold separately
Good fit if
- You want hands-free propulsion while fishing
- You need a stable platform for heavier gear
- You prefer mesh seating for breathability
Skip if
- You prefer paddle-only propulsion
- You need a lightweight kayak for solo carrying
- You want an integrated fish finder
Verdict: Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 delivers stable, hands-free fishing with its pontoon hull and pedal drive. It fits anglers who prioritize stability and gear capacity over lightweight portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Pedal Kayak |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Fishing Features | Rod holders, transducer mount, tracks |
| Use | Fishing |
| Size | Length 12 Ft |
| Included Accessories | Paddle |
| Dimensions | 144 × 36 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 116 pounds |
| Color | Ember Camo |
| Model | 01.4071.0103 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the exact dimensions of the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120?
The kayak measures 144 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 18 inches high. These dimensions give you a wide base that emphasizes standing stability while you fish. The 12-foot length keeps the craft manageable on the water while providing ample space to store your gear.
How much does the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 weigh?
The kayak has a listed total weight of 116 pounds. This substantial weight reflects its rigid build and pontoon hull design. You will likely want a kayak cart or a trailer to help transport this craft from your vehicle down to the boat launch.
What propulsion method does this kayak feature?
The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 uses a dedicated pedal drive system for hands-free movement. This setup lets you propel the kayak across the water with your legs. By pedaling instead of paddling, you can keep your hands free to hold your rod, cast, and land fish.
What color finish is offered for model 01.4071.0103?
This specific model comes in an Ember Camo exterior finish. The pattern provides an outdoor aesthetic tailored for fishing environments. The color scheme blends darker tones across the 12-foot hull, complementing the functional design of the platform without affecting the overall specifications or performance on the water.
Who is the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 best suited for?
This craft is best for anglers who prioritize high stability and gear capacity over lightweight portability. Its wide 36-inch hull supports those who want a solid standing platform. If you carry lots of equipment and prefer hands-free pedal propulsion, this model matches your fishing requirements.
Is the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 stable enough for standing?
Yes, the kayak features a pontoon hull with a 36-inch beam built specifically for stability. This wide profile gives you a steady deck underneath your feet. Anglers who cast or sight fish will appreciate the balance provided by the generous beam and 18-inch hull height.
What is the overall length of the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120?
The kayak is 12 feet long, which equals 144 inches from bow to stern. This length provides a balanced footprint for navigating open waters and narrower creeks. It gives you enough waterline length for steady forward travel while remaining short enough to store inside a standard garage.