Sportsman Autopilot 120 Kayak Review

Last Updated on August 12, 2024 by Afsar

When it comes to innovative fishing kayaks, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 stands out as a game-changer. Designed for anglers who demand the best in technology and comfort, this kayak integrates a powerful, saltwater-ready motor with state-of-the-art navigation features. It’s not just a kayak; it’s a sophisticated fishing platform that allows you to focus on what truly matters—fishing.

Motorized Precision with Minn Kota®

At the heart of the Sportsman Autopilot 120 is the 45-pound thrust, 12V Minn Kota motor. This motor is designed for effortless travel on the water, allowing you to reach your favorite fishing spots quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re battling strong currents or breezy conditions, the motor’s strength ensures you maintain control. The Minn Kota motor is also removable, adding versatility to your kayaking experience. For days when you prefer traditional paddling, simply remove the motor and cover the console, giving you a streamlined, paddle-ready kayak.

Autopilot Navigation and Spot-Lock Technology

What sets the Sportsman Autopilot 120 apart from other motorized kayaks is its advanced navigation system. The Autopilot feature, controlled by a Bluetooth-connected remote, allows you to set your desired speed and direction. The remote’s sun-friendly screen ensures you can easily read your settings, even in bright conditions. Perhaps the most impressive feature is the Spot-Lock technology, which acts like an anchor, holding your kayak in place regardless of wind or current. This feature is especially valuable when you’ve found the perfect fishing spot and want to stay put without fussing with a physical anchor.

Hands-Free Fishing: A Reality

The combination of the motor’s power and the foot-brace steering means you can maneuver the kayak entirely hands-free. This leaves your hands free to cast, reel, and manage your gear—turning your fishing experience into a seamless, uninterrupted flow. The large rudder, controlled by adjustable foot braces, provides excellent tracking, whether moving forward or in reverse, further enhancing the hands-free experience.

Comfort and Convenience Onboard

Fishing all day requires a kayak that prioritizes comfort, and the Sportsman Autopilot 120 delivers. The premium seating is designed with dual-layer Textilene, known for its durability and UV resistance. A layer of 3D mesh adds comfort without compromising the breathability of the seat. Whether you prefer a high or low seating position, the adjustable seat ensures you’re always in the optimal posture for casting and paddling. The seat is also removable, making transport and storage more manageable.

Thoughtful Storage and Accessibility

Anglers will appreciate the thoughtfully designed storage options available on the Sportsman Autopilot 120. The large open cockpit provides ample space to organize your gear, while the aft tank well is perfect for storing larger items like coolers or tackle boxes. The kayak comes equipped with a custom tackle box, ensuring your essentials are always within reach. Additionally, four 18-inch accessory tracks allow for easy mounting of accessories, whether it’s a fish finder, rod holders, or other fishing gear.

Rigged for Fishing

With four flush-mounted rod holders—two forward-facing and two rear-facing—this kayak is ready for serious fishing. These rod holders are strategically placed to stay out of your way when not in use, yet easily accessible when you need them. The kayak also features non-slip EVA foam deck pads, providing traction and comfort for those who prefer to stand while fishing. The inclusion of tournament-ready channels for your fish measuring board and shallow water anchor mounting inserts further solidifies this kayak as a top choice for competitive and recreational anglers alike.

Durability and Build Quality

Constructed from single-layer polyethylene, the Sportsman Autopilot 120 is built to withstand the harshest conditions, whether you’re fishing in saltwater or freshwater. The hull weight of 128 lbs, combined with the 24 lbs motor console, ensures stability and durability on the water. Despite its robust construction, the kayak offers a usable weight capacity of 406 lbs, with a total boat capacity of 558 lbs, making it suitable for anglers who carry extensive gear or larger catches.

Tech-Ready for the Modern Angler

The Sportsman Autopilot 120 isn’t just about comfort and motorized convenience; it’s also rigged with the latest tech for the modern angler. The transducer mount is ready to accept Fish Finders with thru-hull wiring, ensuring you can install your fish finder without the need to drill into your kayak. The kayak also includes three through-hull wiring kits, making it easier to set up electronics like a fish finder in minutes.

Easy Transport and Setup

Despite its advanced features, the Sportsman Autopilot 120 is designed for easy transport and setup. The lift-assist mechanism makes deploying and stowing the motor quick and effortless, especially in shallow waters or when launching and landing. The removable motor console, which weighs just 24 lbs, adds to the kayak’s portability, making it easier to transport by car or trailer.

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is not just a kayak; it’s an investment in a superior fishing experience. Its combination of motorized power, hands-free navigation, and angler-focused features make it a top contender for serious anglers. Whether you’re a tournament fisherman or someone who enjoys weekend fishing trips, this kayak provides the tools and technology to enhance your time on the water.

With its premium seating, ample storage, and cutting-edge features like Spot-Lock technology, the Sportsman Autopilot 120 ensures that every fishing trip is efficient, comfortable, and, most importantly, successful. While the price point may be on the higher end, the features and benefits it offers justify the investment, making it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s arsenal.