Let's dive deep into the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120, an amazing piece of equipment that's been making waves in the fishing kayak world. If you're serious about fishing and want a kayak that's more like a bass boat than a traditional kayak, then you need to pay attention. This isn't just another kayak; it's a game-changer.

Overview of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is a high-end fishing kayak designed for anglers who demand the best. What sets it apart? It's all about the integrated Minn Kota trolling motor. Seriously, guys, this feature alone changes everything. Forget paddling for hours; now you can cruise around the lake with ease, focusing solely on finding the perfect fishing spot. The Autopilot system allows you to navigate effortlessly, maintain your position, and even set a course using GPS. It's like having a personal autopilot for your fishing adventures. The kayak is constructed from durable polyethylene, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of fishing in various conditions. It also features a comfortable and adjustable seat, ample storage space for all your gear, and a stable platform for standing and casting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 offers a unique and unparalleled fishing experience. This kayak is designed for those who want to cover more water, fish longer, and enjoy the convenience of hands-free navigation. Seriously, imagine being able to control your kayak with a remote while you're reeling in a fish. It's next-level stuff. The integration of the Minn Kota motor is seamless, providing plenty of power and precise control. You can adjust the speed, direction, and even set waypoints to follow automatically. The kayak also includes a battery management system to ensure you get the most out of your time on the water. Plus, the hull design is optimized for stability, allowing you to stand and cast with confidence. Overall, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is a top-of-the-line fishing kayak that delivers exceptional performance, convenience, and comfort. It's an investment, but one that will undoubtedly enhance your fishing experience and help you catch more fish.

Key Features and Benefits

When we talk about the key features of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120, we're talking about what makes this kayak a top contender in its class. First and foremost, the Minn Kota Autopilot trolling motor is the star of the show. This motor allows for hands-free navigation, meaning you can control the kayak's direction and speed with a remote or through GPS integration. This is a massive advantage for anglers who want to focus on fishing without constantly paddling. The GPS functionality is another standout feature. You can set waypoints and the kayak will automatically navigate to them, freeing you up to concentrate on finding fish. Imagine marking a series of promising spots on your lake or river and then letting the kayak take you from one to the next. It's like having a personal tour guide for your fishing trip.

Stability is also a major benefit. The Sportsman Autopilot 120 is designed with a wide and stable hull, making it easy to stand and cast without feeling tippy. This is crucial for sight fishing or when you need to make precise casts. The kayak also features a comfortable and adjustable seat, so you can spend hours on the water without getting uncomfortable. The seat is designed to provide excellent back support, and you can adjust the height and position to find the perfect fit. Storage is another area where this kayak shines. It has plenty of storage compartments, including a large tank well in the stern for storing gear, as well as smaller compartments for keeping essentials like your phone, keys, and fishing tackle. The kayak also has multiple mounting tracks, allowing you to customize it with accessories like rod holders, fish finders, and camera mounts. This level of customization ensures that you can set up the kayak to perfectly suit your fishing style. Finally, the durability of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is worth mentioning. It's made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of fishing. The hull is tough and resistant to scratches and impacts, so you don't have to worry about damaging it when launching or landing. The motor is also built to last, with a robust design that can handle the demands of frequent use. Overall, the key features and benefits of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 make it a top choice for serious anglers who want a kayak that can enhance their fishing experience.

Performance and Handling

Alright, let's talk about performance and handling. The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 isn't just about fancy features; it's about how it performs on the water. And let me tell you, this kayak delivers. The combination of the Minn Kota motor and the hull design makes for an incredibly smooth and efficient ride. Whether you're cruising across a calm lake or navigating a winding river, the Autopilot 120 handles like a dream. The motor provides plenty of power, allowing you to reach your fishing spots quickly and easily. You can adjust the speed to match your needs, whether you're slowly trolling for walleye or zipping across the lake to chase after some schooling bass. The kayak also tracks well, meaning it stays on course without requiring constant corrections. This is especially important when you're fishing in windy conditions or strong currents. The Autopilot system takes the hassle out of navigation, allowing you to focus on fishing. You can use the remote to steer the kayak, adjust the speed, and set waypoints. The GPS integration is particularly useful, allowing you to create routes and follow them automatically. Imagine marking a series of productive fishing spots on your GPS and then letting the kayak take you from one to the next. It's like having a personal guide for your fishing trip.

Stability is another key aspect of the kayak's performance. The wide hull provides a stable platform for standing and casting, even in choppy water. You can confidently stand up to get a better view of the water or to make longer casts without feeling like you're going to tip over. The kayak also handles well in turns, thanks to its responsive rudder system. You can quickly and easily change direction, which is essential when you're fishing in tight spots or trying to follow a moving school of fish. Overall, the performance and handling of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 are exceptional. It's a kayak that's designed to make your fishing experience more enjoyable and productive. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, you'll appreciate the smooth ride, precise handling, and stable platform that this kayak provides.

Pros and Cons

Like any product, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 has its pros and cons. Let's break them down so you can make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Hands-Free Navigation: The Minn Kota Autopilot trolling motor allows for effortless navigation, freeing you to focus on fishing.
• GPS Integration: Set waypoints and follow routes automatically, making it easy to explore new fishing spots.
• Exceptional Stability: The wide hull provides a stable platform for standing and casting, even in choppy water.
• Comfortable Seating: The adjustable seat provides excellent back support, allowing you to spend hours on the water without discomfort.
• Ample Storage: Plenty of storage compartments for all your gear, including a large tank well and smaller compartments for essentials.
• Customization Options: Multiple mounting tracks allow you to add accessories like rod holders, fish finders, and camera mounts.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of fishing.

Cons:

• Price: The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is a premium kayak and comes with a higher price tag than most other fishing kayaks.
• Weight: The kayak is heavier than traditional kayaks due to the motor and battery, making it more difficult to transport and launch.
• Battery Life: The battery life is limited, so you'll need to plan your trips accordingly and consider bringing a spare battery.
• Complexity: The Autopilot system can be complex to learn and use, requiring some time and effort to master.

Overall, the pros of the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 far outweigh the cons. While the price and weight may be a concern for some, the hands-free navigation, GPS integration, and exceptional stability make it a top choice for serious anglers. If you're willing to invest in a high-quality fishing kayak that can enhance your fishing experience, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is definitely worth considering.

Alternatives to the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120

If the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 isn't quite the right fit for you, don't worry! There are several alternatives that offer similar features and performance. Here are a few to consider:

• Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14: The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 is a pedal-powered fishing kayak that offers hands-free propulsion. Instead of a trolling motor, it uses Hobie's MirageDrive system, which allows you to pedal the kayak forward and backward. It also features a comfortable Vantage seat, ample storage, and a stable platform for standing and casting. The Pro Angler 14 is a popular choice for anglers who want a workout while they fish.
• Jackson Kayak Coosa FD: The Jackson Kayak Coosa FD is another pedal-powered option that's designed for river fishing. It features Jackson Kayak's Flex Drive system, which is durable and easy to use. The Coosa FD also has a comfortable seat, plenty of storage, and a stable hull. It's a great choice for anglers who want a kayak that can handle both calm and moving water.
• NuCanoe Frontier 12: The NuCanoe Frontier 12 is a versatile fishing kayak that can be paddled, pedaled, or motorized. It has a wide and stable hull, making it easy to stand and cast. The Frontier 12 also features a comfortable seat, ample storage, and plenty of mounting options. It's a great choice for anglers who want a kayak that can be customized to their specific needs.
• Wilderness Systems Radar 135: The Wilderness Systems Radar 135 is a versatile kayak that can be paddled, pedaled, or motorized. It features a stable hull, a comfortable seat, and plenty of storage. The Radar 135 is also compatible with Wilderness Systems' Helix MD motor drive system, which allows you to add a trolling motor for hands-free navigation.

When choosing an alternative to the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120, consider your budget, fishing style, and the type of water you'll be fishing in. Each of these kayaks offers a unique set of features and benefits, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best meets your needs.

Final Thoughts

So, what's the final verdict on the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120? Guys, if you're a serious angler looking for a top-of-the-line fishing kayak, this is definitely one to consider. The hands-free navigation, GPS integration, and exceptional stability make it a game-changer on the water. Yes, it's an investment, but one that can significantly enhance your fishing experience. While the price and weight may be a deterrent for some, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for those who demand the best. Whether you're fishing in lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 can help you catch more fish and enjoy your time on the water. Just imagine cruising around the lake with ease, focusing solely on finding the perfect fishing spot. That's the promise of the Autopilot 120. Of course, it's essential to consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision. Think about the type of fishing you do, the conditions you typically encounter, and your budget. If the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 seems like the right fit, then go for it! You won't be disappointed.