You’ll like the Sportsman Autopilot 136 if you want hands‑free fishing with Minn Kota Spot‑Lock and stable solo standing casts, but plan for a heavy setup and a good battery, practice loading the 158 lb hull, and keep weight low and centered for balance; use the i‑Pilot remote, secure tackle and a waterproof bag, and trim gear for launch and pickup—try Spot‑Lock in calm water first, and keep going to learn setup tips, handling tricks, and maintenance steps.
Some Key Points
- Hands-free Minn Kota Autopilot with Spot-Lock provides reliable stationkeeping ideal for solo anglers.
- 136 length favors solo use but requires practice loading and handling due to a heavier hull.
- Usable capacity supports angler plus battery and gear; place heavy items low and centered for stability.
- Comfortable cockpit: mesh seat, padded footrests, and modular storage suit extended fishing trips.
- Cons: motor battery not included, added weight and upkeep; plan transport and battery purchase.
Quick Verdict: Who the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 136 Is Best For
If you want a powered, hands-free fishing platform that gets you to spots faster and holds you steady while you cast, the Autopilot 136 is built for you, especially if you fish alone or mostly solo and can handle a kayak that’s on the heavier side. You’ll love this if you’re a serious anglers-focused explorer or weekend adventurers craving freedom, because the motor and Spot-Lock let you park and fish without wrestling the boat, so bring a strong battery, secure tackle, and plan routes for launch and pickup, practice loading the 158 lb hull, and keep gear balanced for stability. The Autopilot pairs well with Wilderness Systems accessories to outfit your trips for comfort and efficiency.
On-Water Performance and Handling With the Minn Kota Autopilot System
Now that you know what the Autopilot 136 is built for, let’s look at how that Minn Kota Autopilot system actually changes your time on the water. You’ll notice precise stationkeeping holds you over structure without constant adjustments, so you can cast, troll, or net fish hands-free, but always check GPS lock before committing. Practice engaging Spot-Lock in calm conditions, carry a charged battery and the i-Pilot remote, and trim weight for better balance. Responsive steering from the big rudder and motor lets you make subtle course corrections, so steer with gentle inputs, anticipate wind shifts, and enjoy more freedom to focus on the catch. Consider pairing the kayak with pedal drive kayaks for extended range and hands-free propulsion.
Comfort, Cockpit Layout, and Fishing-Friendly Storage
Because you’ll be spending long stretches sitting, casting, and working fish, the Autopilot 136’s cockpit is built to keep you comfortable and organized so you can stay out longer and stay focused; start by settling into the premium dual-layer Textilene mesh seat—its breathability helps you stay cool and the cushioned floor pads cut fatigue while giving better grip when you stand to cast. You’ll notice padded footrests that support your legs on long drifts, modular storage that lets you swap a tackle tray for a cooler, and accessory tracks for rod holders, so pack essentials smartly, trim weight, and set up for the kind of day you want. Paddlers who enjoy extended trips will appreciate the kayak’s focus on fishing-friendly storage.
Specs That Matter: Capacity, Weight, Motor Features, and Accessories
When you look at the Autopilot 136’s specs, pay attention to how capacity, weight, motor features, and accessories work together, since those numbers tell you what you can carry, where you can go, and how you’ll rig the boat for a day of fishing. You’re carrying up to 427 lb usable, so think load distribution first, placing heavy gear low and centered, and account for battery weight since the motor battery isn’t included. The Minn Kota motor, Spot-Lock, and Bluetooth remote give freedom to lock position hands-free, and accessory compatibility lets you add rod holders, tackle boxes, or comfort upgrades for better seat comfort. This review is ideal for anglers who want to compare rigs and gear from brands like Sea Eagle when planning their next adventure.
Final Pros, Cons, and Who Should Buy This Kayak
You’ve already seen how capacity, weight, and motor features shape what you can carry and where you can go, so let’s pull that into a clear take on who’ll get the most from this kayak and what to watch out for. If you crave freedom to reach places fast, enjoy hands-free Spot-Lock anchoring, and can handle a 158 lb hull plus a 24 lb motor console, this is for you, but remember the motor battery isn’t included. Pros: speed, control, comfort, customizable gear tracks. Cons: weight, battery cost, upkeep—follow basic maintenance tips, keep records to protect resale value, and plan transport first. Reel Yaks offers a range of accessories and kayaks suitable for different water adventures.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Motor Battery Fit Inside the Kayak Hull for Storage?
No, the motor battery doesn’t tuck into the hull storage, you’ll carry it separately and mount it under the motor console or in a designated tray, so plan for battery placement outside the main hull. Bring a secure battery box, straps, and gloves, check dimensions against the motor tray, and keep terminals covered to avoid shorts. Stow extra gear forward, balance weight, and practice installing the battery before your first free, confident outing.
Is the Kayak Compatible With Non-Minn Kota Autopilot Remotes?
No, it’s not generally compatible with non-Minn Kota autopilot remotes, so don’t assume third party compatibility; you’ll want remote alternatives that explicitly state Minn Kota or i-Pilot support. Start by checking the motor’s wiring and protocol documentation, carry adapter harness info, and call the manufacturer or a trusted dealer, then consider certified retrofit kits or Bluetooth remotes designed for i-Pilot, to avoid wasting time or frying electronics.
Can the Seat Be Used for Overnight Sleeping Inside the Cockpit?
Yes, you can sleep on the seat inside the cockpit, but check seat comfort and sleeping dimensions first: the premium Textilene seat’s removable design gives a flat-ish platform, though it’s narrower and shorter than a tent pad, so you’ll want a thin pad or inflatable sleeping mat for warmth and length, plus straps to secure the seat, a low-profile sleeping bag, and gear stowed aft to keep space and balance stable through the night.
Are Spare Parts Available Through Local Dealers?
Yes, you can usually get spare parts through local dealer networks, and you should check nearby dealers first for warranty parts, motors, and hull components; ask about aftermarket compatibility too, since some accessories and replacement pieces come from third-party makers, which can stretch options and lower cost. Call ahead with model details, bring photos, carry basic spares like hardware and fuses, and ask dealers about ordering times and fit confirmations.
How Does the Kayak Handle Towing Behind a Vehicle?
Yes, you can tow it, and it tows predictably if you prep it right; check trailer stability by centering the kayak, securing bow/stern straps, and using a 24 lb removable motor console weight to lower the center of gravity, and expect some tow noise from wind and loose accessories unless you stow the motor and secure hatches. Carry spare straps, wheel chocks, and a tarp, drive moderately, and recheck fastenings at stops to stay safe.
