The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 gives you a stable, motorized sit‑on‑top that holds position with the Minn Kota i‑Pilot Spot‑Lock, so you can fish hands‑free, carry lots of tackle, and cruise shallow water without tiring your legs, but you’ll need to buy a marine battery, charger, paddle, and test the remote and steering on shore first; check seat durability, accessory fit, and warranty paperwork, pack spare batteries and tie‑downs, and keep reading for full setup and alternatives.
Some Key Points
- Fully rigged sit-on-top kayak with removable Minn Kota GPS trolling motor and i‑Pilot Spot‑Lock remote included (battery not included).
- Excellent hands‑free positioning for casting and steady anchoring, ideal for solo anglers and tournament use.
- Comfortable dual‑layer mesh seat, cushioned floor pads, and adjustable foot braces for long days on the water.
- Robust storage and tackle organization, plus large rudder for improved steering and maneuverability.
- Budget for a compatible marine battery, charger, paddle, and routine motor maintenance before first use.
Who the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Is Best For (Use Cases & Buyer Profile)
If you want a hands-free, stable fishing platform that’ll get you farther and keep you there, the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is aimed at solo anglers who fish a lot, like to cover water without wearing out their arms, and value space for gear and tackle, so think weekend tournament folks, dedicated bass or inshore saltwater anglers, and retirees who want easy access and comfort. You’ll love this if you’re a kayak angler doing solo trips, cruising shallow rivers, or chasing bass fishing spots, now prioritize a reliable battery plan, secure tackle storage, and practice Spot-Lock positioning before you fish. Wilderness Systems offers a range of kayaks and accessories designed for outdoor enthusiasts, making it easy to find complementary gear for long days on the water like paddling accessories.
What the AutoPilot 120 Includes and Core Specs You Need to Know
Start by knowing exactly what comes in the box and what you’ll need to add, because that sets how ready you’ll be on day one: the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 arrives as a fully rigged sit-on-top kayak with a removable motor console that houses a Minn Kota GPS-enabled trolling motor (with the Bluetooth i-Pilot remote and Spot‑Lock position-hold tech), a removable premium dual-layer Textilene mesh seat, a battery box (note the motor battery itself isn’t included), cushioned floor pads, adjustable foot braces, an extra-large rudder, and a sportsman tackle box plus the console cover plate and owner’s manual—so plan to bring a compatible marine battery, your paddle (sold separately), and any extra storage or rod holders you prefer, check that the 152 lb kayak and 24 lb motor console fit your transport setup, and remember the 558 lb max weight limit and 331 lb usable capacity when loading gear and bait. Reel Yaks also offers a range of accessories for kayak anglers that pair well with this rig.
Real-World Performance: Motor, Steering, Comfort, and Fishing Features
When you first push off in the AutoPilot 120, you’ll notice how the Minn Kota motor changes the whole feel of kayak fishing, because it gives you quiet, hands-free positioning with the i-Pilot remote and Spot‑Lock that holds you over a sweet spot while you cast, so bring a fully charged marine battery and clip the remote into an easy-to-reach pocket or mount before you leave the dock. You’ll relish steady steering from the large rudder and foot braces, comfortable mesh seating and cushioned pads, plus clever fishing features, but practice battery management, stow gear in waterproof storage, and test controls before you drift. Designed for anglers, the kayak also includes dedicated tackle storage and rod holders that make organizing gear straightforward, ideal for fans of Old Town kayaks.
Pros, Cons, and Common User Complaints From Owners and Reviews
You’ll notice the perks right away — the AutoPilot’s motor and Spot‑Lock free your hands for casting and give you steady positioning — but owners also point out a handful of things to watch for, so think like a prepared angler before you launch: expect excellent maneuvering and a comfy seat, yet plan for battery logistics since the motor battery isn’t included, bring a quality marine battery and a charger, and test the i‑Pilot remote and steering setup on shore so you don’t learn them while fish are biting. You’ll love accessory compatibility and storage space, but check seat durability, follow motor maintenance, document warranty claims, and use user support when needed. Consider also browsing our selection of fishing kayaks to find accessories and models that match your needs.
Should You Buy It? Price, Alternatives, and Final Buying Recommendation
If you want a motorized fishing kayak that mostly removes the hard work of staying on a spot, the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is worth strong consideration, but you’ll want to treat the purchase like planning a small boat setup rather than a plug-and-play kayak. For freedom-seeking anglers, it gives reliable Spot-Lock, comfortable seating, and room for gear, though you’ll budget for a battery and accessories. Do a price comparison with rival models and alternative kayaks that offer lighter weight or lower cost, then buy the essentials first: marine battery, charger, paddle, and a good tie-down system. Consider also outfitting it with kayak-specific gear to match your fishing style and improve on-water convenience.
Some Questions Answered
Is the Battery Type and Capacity Specified for the Motor?
No, the motor’s battery type and capacity aren’t specified, but you’ll want to weigh lithium options and check capacity ratings before you buy, since the battery’s not included and only a battery box comes with the kayak. Choose a lithium deep-cycle marine battery with capacity ratings that match Minn Kota recommendations, carry a spare charge plan, secure the box, and verify run-time estimates for trolling speed and Spot-Lock use so you won’t get stranded.
Can the Motor Console Be Used on Other Kayak Models?
Maybe, but it depends — the motor console can fit other kayaks if their deck space, mounting points, and battery placement match, and if you can adapt control mapping to the new layout. First, measure hatch spacing, deck thickness, and available accessory track positions, carry necessary bolts, backing plates, and wiring adapters, and test steering and Spot‑Lock functions before you go fishing, so you don’t lose control or comfort.
What Is the Recommended Storage Method for Winter Months?
Store it dry, indoors, in climate control if you can, so hull and electronics stay stable; rinse salt off, remove the Minn Kota console and battery, and let both dry before stowing. Cover the kayak with a breathable tarp, support it on padded cradles to avoid hull distortion, and keep vents open for air flow. Check seals and cords periodically, and charge the battery every few months to preserve life.
Are Replacement Parts Available Through Old Town Dealers?
Yes, you can get replacement parts through Old Town dealers, and you should check dealer availability first, because parts compatibility varies by component, serial number, and motor setup. Call or email a local dealer, have your model and part numbers ready, confirm whether Minn Kota motor parts come from Old Town or Minn Kota directly, ask about lead times and warranty coverage, and carry photos, serials, and proof of purchase to speed things up.
Is Assembly Required Upon Delivery of the Kayak?
Yes — you’ll need to do some assembly when it arrives, most especially seat installation and fitting the motor console, but it’s straightforward if you’re handy; start by unpacking in a clear space, bolt the removable seat into its tracks, check pedal and rudder linkages, secure the battery box, and plan paddle storage since the paddle isn’t included, so bring straps or a clip-on holder; expect basic tools, organized parts, and one calm afternoon.
