You’ll like the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 if you want a solo fishing kayak that’s more motorboat than traditional paddle craft; it pairs a Minn Kota trolling motor with GPS Spot‑Lock, gives smooth, efficient thrust for longer runs, and steers crisply thanks to a big rudder and balanced hull. The layout keeps rods, a custom tackle box, and accessories within reach while a comfy Textilene seat and footbraces make long outings pleasant. Keep in mind the battery’s not included, and there’s more on setup, handling, and value ahead.
Some Key Points
- Built-in Minn Kota motor with GPS Spot-Lock delivers reliable power and position-holding for solo anglers.
- Stable, balanced hull plus extra-large rudder offers responsive steering and confident standing casts.
- Solo-focused deck layout, removable seat, and accessory tracks keep essential gear accessible and customizable.
- Requires a separate 12V deep-cycle battery; battery box and secure mounts simplify installation.
- Heavier (152 lb) kayak favors motorized use and needs assistance or a sturdy cart for launches.
Verdict Up Front: Is the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Worth Buying?
If you’re after a solo fishing rig that does the heavy lifting for you, the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is worth a long look—especially if you want a sit-on-top kayak that feels more like a powered fishing platform than a paddler’s craft. You’ll enjoy roomy load capacity and thoughtful gear spots, and the motor console detaches if you need lighter handling. Battery integration is straightforward with the provided battery box, though you’ll plan for a durable battery and secure mounts. Launch logistics are easier than you’d expect for a 152 lb yak, but bring help or a sturdy cart. You’ll love the freedom.
How the AutoPilot 120 Performs on the Water (Motor, Handling, Spot‑Lock)
Now let’s talk about how the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 actually behaves on the water, because a kayak that feels like a powered fishing platform should also perform like one. You’ll notice the Minn Kota motor gives reassuring motor efficiency, pushing you smoothly across flats without gulping battery life, so you can roam longer. Steering responsiveness comes from the extra-large rudder and balanced hull, letting you make crisp corrections while standing or casting. Spot‑Lock holds your position like an anchor when the bite’s on, freeing you to move, laugh, and fish without fighting current. It feels liberating and dependable out there.
Fishing Features and Onboard Setup for Solo Anglers (Rod Holders, Tackle Storage, Tracks)
Because the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 was designed with anglers in mind, its onboard layout makes it easy to get set up and stay organized even when you’re solo, so you spend less time fumbling and more time fishing. You’ll appreciate thoughtful rod placement with multiple holders that keep poles ready without crowding your casting zone, and the included custom tackle box slots into a secured hatch for tidy tackle organization. Accessory tracks let you do track customization on the fly, moving mounts for cameras, electronics, or extra rod clamps. Solo ergonomics keep gear reachable, so you feel free and focused.
Comfort, Stability, and Day‑Long Usability (Seat, Foot Braces, Weight Capacity)
Slide into the cushioned, dual‑layer Textilene seat and you’ll immediately notice the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 was built for long days on the water—the mesh breathes, the padding supports your lower back, and the whole seat is removable when you need the deck clear for casting or a quick gear swap. You’ll appreciate padded footbraces that adjust easily, locking your legs for steady casts and better weight distribution when you move. The hull feels steady under you, so you can stand or reposition without drama. Thermal comfort comes from breathable materials, helping your all day endurance and freedom to roam.
Value, Warranty, and Who Should Buy This Kayak (Cost, Battery Needs, Ideal Users)
If you’re weighing whether the Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is worth the price, think of it as buying a small, dependable fishing platform plus a high-end trolling motor—you’re paying for built-in GPS Spot-Lock, a rugged polyethylene hull, and creature comforts like the cushioned Textilene seat and adjustable foot braces, but you should also budget for a deep‑cycle battery since the motor battery isn’t included. Expect added battery cost of a quality 12V marine deep‑cycle if you want full-day range. The limited hull warranty and two-year Minn Kota motor coverage ease worries, and the ideal target buyer loves independence, comfort, and simple tech.
Some Questions Answered
Can the Autopilot 120 Fit on a Standard Roof Rack by One Person?
Yes—you can often manage single person loading onto a standard roof rack, but plan carefully and use help tools. With the Sportsman AutoPilot 120’s 152 lb hull and removable 24 lb motor console, you’ll want a roller, bow/stern lines, or a kayak cart to reduce strain, and confirm roof rack compatibility with weight limits and crossbar spread. Take your time, lift from your legs, and practice safe, steady moves for confident solo launches.
Is Assembly Required Out of the Box and How Long Does It Take?
Yes — some assembly’s required out of the box, and you’ll handle initial setup in about 30–60 minutes. You’ll mount the removable motor console, slide in the seat, connect the Minn Kota i-Pilot remote and battery box, fit the rudder and accessory tracks, then tighten fasteners. You’ll feel free to tweak foot braces and rod holders for comfort. It’s straightforward, satisfying work, and gives you quick access to the water.
Are Spare Parts and Accessories Widely Available for This Model?
Yes — you’ll find spare parts and aftermarket accessories fairly easy to source for this model, since Old Town and Minn Kota are common brands, and many shops stock replacement batteries, mounts, covers, seats, and tackle gear. Check Old Town dealers, Minn Kota dealers, and major online retailers for parts, and explore specialty kayak outfitters for custom add-ons. It’s smart to confirm fit and warranty before you buy replacements.
Can the Motor Console Be Used on Other Kayaks or Boats?
Yes, you can often fit the motor console to other crafts, but motor compatibility varies by mount type and hull design, so you’ll want to verify bolt patterns and weight limits before you swap it. Watch transducer placement closely, because fishfinder performance depends on clear, vibration-free mounting and correct depth below the hull. With a little adaptating hardware and a mindful drill job, you’ll gain more freedom on different boats.
What Maintenance Is Needed for Winter Storage?
You should winterize by fully charging and removing the battery, then store it indoors on a maintenance charger or at 50–70% charge, checking monthly for voltage; that’s key battery care. Clean the hull thoroughly, rinse salt or grime, dry completely, and store the kayak covered, elevated off the ground to avoid pressure points. Grease moving parts, remove electronics or cover them, and check seals before spring — simple steps to keep freedom afloat.
