The Autopilot 120 Solo Angler is a 12‑ft sit‑on‑top that feels like a tiny fishing boat, and you’ll like it if you want a stable platform with a Minn Kota GPS‑ready trolling motor and Spot‑Lock for holding station; it’s roomy enough for a battery, cooler and a day’s tackle, but remember the removable 24‑lb motor console for transport and pack gear low and centered for balance, test Spot‑Lock and steering near shore first, and keep essentials handy in the included tackle box if you want to learn more.
Some Key Points
- 12-foot sit-on-top hull with a 152 lb weight and 558 lb capacity, optimized for solo anglers and boatlike stability.
- Built around Minn Kota GPS-enabled thrust with optional i-Pilot remote and Spot-Lock position-holding for precise station-keeping.
- Removable 24 lb motor console and separate deep-cycle battery allow roof-rack transport once components are removed.
- Large rudder and adjustable foot braces improve steering and tracking under motor or paddle; test alignment and Spot-Lock in wind.
- Fishing-focused layout includes custom tackle box, accessory tracks, and recommended low-centered battery/cooler placement for balance.
What the Autopilot 120 Solo Angler Actually Is and Who It’s For
If you want a solo fishing kayak that feels like a little fishing boat, the Autopilot 120 Solo Angler delivers that—it’s a 12-foot sit-on-top designed around powered, saltwater-ready trolling motor use, so you can rely on GPS-enabled Minn Kota thrust and Spot-Lock position-holding instead of constant paddling; that means you’ll want to plan for a separate motor battery and expect to steer with either the extra-large rudder and adjustable foot braces when the motor’s off, or with the Bluetooth i-Pilot remote and paddling (paddle sold separately) when it’s on. You’ll appreciate solo portability, ample storage, and beginner anglers will like the stability and simple controls, so bring a battery, tackle, and a tow strap, test Spot-Lock near shore first, and practice steering with foot braces before heading farther out. This model fits well with buyers who are already comfortable with Wilderness Systems’ focus on performance and comfort in fishing kayaks Wilderness Systems.
Key Specs That Matter: Size, Weight, Capacity, and Motor Features
When you size up the Autopilot 120 Solo Angler, think less about fancy specs and more about how they affect your day on the water: at 12 feet long and 152 pounds hull weight, it’s short enough to load on a roof rack or small trailer by yourself once the seat and removable motor console weight are out, but heavy enough to feel stable when you cast; its 558 pound capacity means you can easily carry a 200–250 pound angler plus a battery, cooler, and tackle, though the usable person+gear capacity of about 331 pounds is the safer number to plan around for true performance and tracking. You’ll want a separate deep-cycle motor battery, a Minn Kota-compatible mounting plan, and a removal routine for transport, then pack gear low and centered, secure the cooler and battery near the stern for balance, and keep essentials handy in the custom tackle box so you can launch fast and stay free all day. Paddle into adventure with Retrospec kayaks and explore the outdoors with confidence.
On-Water Performance: Tracking, Steering, and Spot-Lock Reliability
Because good tracking and steering make the difference between a relaxing day of sight-fishing and a constant fight to stay in place, you’ll want to check a few practical things the first time you take the Autopilot 120 Solo Angler out: confirm the Minn Kota is mounted square and the removable motor console is securely clamped, carry a charged deep-cycle battery sized for several hours of trolling, and test the large rudder and adjustable foot braces in calm water to feel how the boat turns under both motor and paddle, noting whether it tracks straight at a slow speed or needs slight rudder correction. You’ll admire steering responsiveness, try spot lock (GPS position-hold) to see if it holds in wind, and judge tracking reliability by circling a marker, adjusting trim and rudder control until the boat drifts predictably, then trust the system to free you to fish without constant corrections. Many Old Town owners also outfit their boats with specialized gear and accessories to enhance comfort and performance on long trips, including tailored storage and mounting solutions for electronics and tackle Old Town kayaks.
Fishing Setup and Storage: Rod Holders, Tackle Box, Accessory Tracks
Though it might seem like a small detail, the way you set up rod holders, the tackle box, and accessory tracks will shape every cast and crank you make, so start by picturing how you fish—do you want rods ready at your side, or tucked away until you need them—and mount the holders and tracks to match that reach and motion. You’ll appreciate purposeful rod storage, positioning rod holders where they won’t tangle your lines, and using accessory customization so things sit where you move, deck mounting tracks for quick swaps. Prioritize easy tackle organization, keep favorites in the custom tackle box, and test placement before locking it down. Consider how a kayak designed for anglers, like those in Double Kayak Adventures’ two paddler kayaks, can influence gear layout and storage options.
Buy or Skip? Practical Pros, Cons, and Buying Recommendations
If you want a versatile, fish-ready solo kayak that handles long days and a lot of gear, the Autopilot 120 is worth a hard look, and here’s how to decide fast: weigh the real benefits—Minn Kota GPS trolling motor with i-Pilot and Spot-Lock means you get hands-free station keeping and precise positioning for casting or playing fish, the roomy 558 lb capacity and 331 lb usable load give you space for your body, battery, and a day’s worth of tackle, and the extra-large rudder plus adjustable foot braces make steering with a motor or paddle feel controlled rather than twitchy.
Buy if you want freedom on open water, value stability, and plan to use motorized positioning, but remember motor battery not included, factor battery maintenance into your routine, and count the removable 24 lb motor console when loading; skip if you need ultralight transport or a lower price point. For resale value, keep gear tidy, document upgrades, and service electronics so you get more back when you move on.
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Some Questions Answered
Does the Kayak Include the Motor Battery?
No, the kayak doesn’t include the motor battery, so you’ll need to pick one that matches battery compatibility and plan for charging options, like a marine deep-cycle battery you can recharge at home or with a portable solar setup. Check the trolling motor voltage and space for size, carry a spare or a charge pack for longer trips, and bring proper straps, a vented case, and a charger that fits shore power or inverter use.
Can the Seat Be Adjusted for Different Heights?
Yes, you can adjust the seat height, you’ll use the adjustable footrests to lock in comfort and brace while paddling or motoring, and if you want more elevation consider swapping in a compatible telescoping stool for extra legroom and sightlines. Check seat rails and mounting points before buying a stool, bring tools and straps for installation, test adjustments on calm water, and keep the seat removable for transport and drying.
Is the Paddle Included With Purchase?
No, the paddle isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own, and check paddle materials like lightweight aluminum or carbon for durability and comfort, plus paddle ergonomics such as shaft shape and blade size to reduce fatigue. Pick a paddle you can adjust for your height and stroke, carry a spare leash or clip, and practice short runs to dial in length and technique, so you’re free to explore without surprises.
How Easy Is Transporting the 152 Lb Kayak Solo?
You can move it solo, but you’ll plan smart: use the molded carrying handles and add trolley wheels under the stern, then lift at hip level, pivot, and walk, keeping knees bent and back straight, okay? Roll it short distances on wheels, carry handles for stairs or tight spots, and enlist a dockmate for long hauls; bring straps, gloves, and a cart, so you stay steady, conserve energy, and enjoy the freedom.
Are Spare Parts for the Minn Kota Motor Readily Available?
Yes, you’ll usually find replacement shafts and propellers availability through Minn Kota dealers and major marine shops, so don’t panic if something fails. Check part numbers before you buy, carry a spare propeller and basic tools, and note shaft length and mount type, because compatibility matters. If you’re remote, order online from trusted retailers, register the motor for support, and keep receipts for warranty, simple and freeing, right?
