The Old Town Sportsman 106 combines adjustable seating and corrosion-resistant hardware for all-day use in brackish waters. Its maneuverability excels around submerged obstacles and docks despite being tailored for calm conditions. Built for practicality over excess, the kayak serves as a reliable choice for anglers prioritizing precision. Those upgrading their setup may consider pairing it with the Minn Kota Endura C2 for enhanced propulsion efficiency.
Adjustable seating and intuitive storage cater to prolonged sessions in the Old Town Kayaks Sportsman 106, while corrosion-resistant accessories withstand brackish environments. Though optimized for calm conditions, the kayak’s maneuverability shines when navigating submerged obstacles or tight docks. For tournament competitors and recreational fishermen alike, the Old Town Kayaks Sportsman 106 prioritizes functional simplicity over flashy add-ons, positioning itself as a reliable tool for those valuing precision over excess.
Specifications of Sportsman 106
| Feature | Specification |
| Length | 10 ft |
| Width | 39 inches |
| Weight | 121lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 525lbs |
| Seat Type | Phase 3 AirPro Seat |
| Hull Material | High-density polyethylene |
| Storage Compartments | 3 (front hatch, rear tank well, internal) |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Features of Old Town Sportsman 106
The Sportsman 106 is a meticulously designed fishing kayak packed with angler-centric features.
Unmatched Stability with Flat Hull Design
The Sportsman 106’s 39-inch-wide flat hull ensures exceptional stability, allowing anglers to stand, cast, and reel confidently—even in choppy waters. The twin-fin tracking system reduces side-to-side sway and improves straight-line paddling efficiency, making it ideal for calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
360° Gear Trac System for Customization
This kayak’s modular accessory mounting system lets you personalize your setup. The tracks run along the gunwales, enabling seamless attachment of:
Rod holders (adjustable angles for trolling or casting).
Fish finders or GPS units (with aftermarket mounts).
Action camera mounts (GoPro-compatible).
Paddle parks for secure storage during fishing.
Phase 3 AirPro Seat: All-Day Comfort
Old Town’s premium Phase 3 AirPro Seat features:
Adjustable height (3 positions): low, medium, high).
Breathable mesh fabric to prevent overheating.
Lumbar support with customizable tension.
Quick-release brackets for easy removal or repositioning.
Smart Storage Solutions
The Sportsman 106 prioritizes practicality with its storage design:
12-inch Front Hatch: Watertight compartment for tackle boxes, dry bags, or electronics.
Rear Tankwell: Bungee-secured area for coolers, crates, or extra gear (fits a 30-liter Yeti Hopper).
Internal Storage: Slots for pliers, line cutters, or small tools under the seat.
Side Pockets: Quick-access mesh pockets for snacks, sunscreen, or a phone.
Built-In Fishing Accessories
Tailored for anglers, the kayak includes:
Flush-Mount Rod Holders: Secure rods while baiting or re-tying.
Paddle Park: Notched cradle-to-stow paddles without losing them overboard.
Bottle Holder: Insulated cup holder for drinks or bait containers.
Durable Construction
Crafted from high-density polyethylene, the Sportsman 106 resists impacts, UV damage, and abrasions. Its reinforced stern and bow handle rough launches, while the molded handles (bow, stern, and sides) simplify transport.
Lightweight Portability
Weighing 121 lbs, the Sportsman 106 is lighter than many competitors in its class. The balanced design allows solo car-topping, and the molded carry handles provide secure grips for two-person carries.
Twin-Fin Tracking System
The dual fins beneath the hull improve tracking in wind or currents, reducing the need for constant paddle corrections. This system pairs perfectly with the kayak’s 8-foot paddle (sold separately) for smooth maneuvering.
Adjustable Footrests
The 3-position foot braces accommodate paddlers of all heights (5’ to 6’5”), ensuring proper posture and efficient paddling strokes.
Versatile Weight Capacity
With a 525-lb capacity, the Sportsman 106 supports:
The angler (up to 300 lbs).
Fishing gear, coolers, and safety equipment.
Optional accessories like a motor mount (compatible with Minn Kota, sold separately).
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Old Town backs the Sportsman 106 with a limited lifetime warranty, covering hull defects and manufacturing issues—a rare perk in the fishing kayak market.
Pre-drilled mounts for Customization
Pre-installed transducer mounts and motor compatibility let tech-savvy anglers add:
Trolling motors (up to 3 HP).
Fish finders with transducers.
Anchor trolley systems.
Old Town Sportsman 106 Pros and Cons
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
| Stability & Hull Design | The DoubleU hull provides exceptional stability for standing casts and retrieves, even in uneven currents. | The shorter length limits open-water performance, struggling in choppy conditions. |
| Maneuverability | Its 10’ft frame and responsive steering excel in narrow waterways, submerged vegetation, and around docks. | Wider models (PDL/MK) sacrifice portability, requiring trailers for transport. |
| Storage & Customization | Modular tracks and sealed compartments accommodate fish finders, rod holders, and tackle systems. | The paddle model lacks dedicated gear mounts, limiting tournament-ready upgrades. |
| Seating & Comfort | The Element seat adjusts on the water for lumbar support during multi-hour sessions. | The high seat position raises the kayak’s center of gravity, affecting balance in winds. |
| Propulsion Options | Pedal and motor models enable hands-free fishing, with minimal splash noise. | Motorized versions demand battery management, adding weight and logistical prep. |
| Durability | Single-layer polyethylene resists abrasion from rocks, logs, and oyster beds. | The textured hull collects algae and debris, requiring frequent cleaning. |
User Experience and Reviews
| Aspect | Positive Review | Negative Review |
| Comfort | Phase 3 AirPro Seat is lauded for adjustable lumbar support and breathable mesh. | Some users report difficulty locking the seat into desired positions quickly. |
| Storage | 360° Gear Trac, front hatch, and rear tank well offer versatile storage solutions. | Accessories (rod holders, mounts) are sold separately, increasing total cost. |
| Durability | High-density polyethylene hull resists impacts, UV damage, and rough environments. | Scratches show visibly on the hull over time. |
| Customization | Pre-drilled transducer/motor mounts and Gear Trac enable effortless upgrades. | Requires additional purchases (e.g., fish finders, motors) for full functionality. |
| Portability | Lightweight (121 lbs) compared to similarly sized fishing kayaks. | Bulky design complicates solo transportation and car-topping. |
| Tracking | Twin-fin system improves straight-line paddling in calm waters. | Struggles in windy conditions; frequent paddle corrections required. |
| Accessories | Compatible with motors, fish finders, and anchor trolleys. | Gear Trac-compatible mounts are not included, adding to the overall expense. |
FAQs About Old Town Sportsman 106
Is the Sportsman 106 stable enough for stand-up fishing?
The DoubleU Hull provides exceptional stability, even during standing casts or retrieves. Anglers report confidence in rough currents and when shifting positions abruptly.
Can taller anglers (6’+) comfortably use the Sportsman 106?
Yes. The adjustable Element seat and snap-lock foot braces accommodate anglers up to 6’6”. Users 6’2” and taller confirm ample legroom, though pedal/motor models may require seat adjustments for optimal reach.
What are the differences between the pedal (PDL) and motorized (MK) models?
PDL: Hands-free pedal drive (forward/reverse), lighter (121 lbs), ideal for tight spaces.
MK: Minn Kota 45 lb-thrust motor, higher weight capacity (525 lbs), easier car-topping.
Is the Sportsman 106 suitable for open-water fishing?
No. Designed for calm inland waters, it struggles in choppy conditions. Its 10-foot length prioritizes maneuverability in narrow rivers, lakes, and sheltered coastal zones over open-water speed.
How does the Sportsman 106 compare to larger fishing kayaks?
The 106 sacrifices speed and open-water performance for agility in confined spaces. While larger models (e.g., Sportsman 120) offer higher storage and speed, the 106 excels in weedy shallows and dockside precision.