The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 eliminates the struggle of battling wind, waves, or currents while fishing. Its motorized system adjusts direction and speed automatically, maintaining precise positioning without constant manual input. Anglers no longer waste energy correcting drift or anchoring in shifting conditions—the kayak holds steady, allowing full focus on casting, detecting bites, and landing fish.
This innovation proves most effective in environments where traditional Old Town Sportsman paddle or pedal kayaks falter: choppy coastal waters, deep reservoirs with shifting winds, or fast-flowing rivers. By prioritizing stability over speed and integrating responsive automation, the AutoPilot 120 reallocates effort from vessel management to strategic fishing. For anglers prioritizing efficiency in unpredictable conditions, Old Town Sportsman kayaks redefine expectations of what a solo fishing platform can achieve.
Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Specifications
Specifications of AutoPilot 120
| Specification | Details |
| Length | 12 feet |
| weight | 152 Pounds |
| Weight Capacity | 558 lbs |
| Motor Type | Minn Kota® 45 lb Thrust Electric Trolling Motor |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 hours (varies with speed) |
| GPS System | Spot-Lock Technology with AutoPilot Routing |
| Storage | 2 Hatches, 6 Rod Holders, Rear Tankwell |
| Material | High-density polyethylene (HDPE) |
Feature of Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120
The Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 is packed with angler-centric technology and design.
AutoPilot 120’s Spot-Lock GPS Navigation
The Spot-Lock GPS is the crown jewel of the AutoPilot 120. Using Minn Kota’s advanced technology, it locks your kayak within a 3-foot radius of your chosen location, even in winds up to 15 mph or strong currents. This feature eliminates the need for traditional anchors, letting you focus on casting and reeling without drifting.
Fishing Advantage: Perfect for holding steady over reefs, drop-offs, or brush piles where fish congregate.
Custom Routes: Pre-program up to 6 routes via Bluetooth for hands-free exploration of complex waterways.
AutoPilot 120’s Hands-Free Motor Control
The 45 lb thrust Minn Kota motor offers two intuitive control options:
Wireless Bluetooth Remote: Adjust speed, direction, and GPS modes from up to 100 feet away. Ideal for trolling or repositioning while seated.
Ergonomic Foot Pedal: Instantly switch between forward, reverse, and steering without taking hands off your rod.
Silent Operation: The nearly noiseless motor prevents startling fish, making it ideal for shallow-water species like bass.
AutoPilot 120’s Ultra-Stable Hull Design
Built for standing and casting, the AutoPilot 120’s 34.5-inch-wide polyethylene hull delivers unmatched stability:
Weight Distribution: A flat-bottom design and low center of gravity prevent tipping, even in choppy conditions.
Standing Platform: Textured deck pads provide secure footing for sight-fishing or stretching during long trips.
Weight Capacity: Supports up to 450 lbs, accommodating gear, coolers, and tall anglers with ease.
AutoPilot 120’s 360-Degree Anchor Mode
Unlike fixed anchors, the 360-degree Anchor Mode lets you rotate freely while staying locked in place.
Wind/Current Adaptation: The motor adjusts thrust direction to keep the bow pointed into waves or wind.
Versatility: Spin 360° to cast in any direction without losing your spot—ideal for covering structure-rich areas.
AutoPilot 120’s Modular Storage System
Customization is key with the AutoPilot 120’s FlexPod Storage Ecosystem:
GearTrack Compatibility: Attach rod holders, camera mounts, or tackle trays to the 10+ embedded tracks.
Dual Storage Hatches: Watertight front and rear compartments store electronics, tools, or dry gear.
Rod Management: Six flush-mounted rod holders (4 horizontal, 2 vertical) secure gear during transit.
Rear Tankwell: Expandable bungee cords secure coolers, crates, or large catches.
AutoPilot 120’s Durable Construction
Built to survive harsh environments, the AutoPilot 120 uses:
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Resistant to impacts, UV rays, and saltwater corrosion.
Reinforced Seams: Welded joints prevent leaks, even after years of rough use.
Rudder System: A stainless steel rudder enhances tracking and maneuverability in tight spaces.
AutoPilot 120’s User-Friendly Upgrades
Adjustable Lawn-Style Seat: Padded, high-back seating with multiple recline positions for all-day comfort.
Battery Management: Integrated tray fits 30-100Ah lithium or AGM batteries (sold separately).
LED Readiness: Pre-wired for aftermarket navigation lights or fish finders.
Pros and Cons of AutoPilot 120
| Pros | Cons |
| 45 lb-thrust Minn Kota motor with intuitive wireless remote and Spot-Lock GPS anchoring (5-yard radius) | The high price ($4,000–$4,500) makes it nearly double the cost of pedal-driven models |
| Spot-Lock maintains position in wind/currents, enabling hands-free fishing during casting or landing fish | Heavyweight (152 lbs) complicates transport; requires trailer or truck bed |
| A stable 39-inch hull with a non-slip EVA foam deck allows confident standing in choppy conditions | No hatch storage limits gear protection; relies on open deck storage |
| Tournament-ready features: four 18 accessory tracks, transducer mount, and catch-measurement slots | Battery not included; lithium-ion adds significant cost despite longer lifespan |
| Lift-assist motor deployment simplifies shallow-water transitions | Paddling difficulty if the battery fails due to weight and hull design |
| Comfortable mesh seat with adjustable height for all-day use | Rudder mount bolts were reported to loosen over time, requiring maintenance |
| Lifetime hull warranty and saltwater-ready construction | Limited speed (4 mph max) compared to traditional boats |
AutoPilot 120 Maintenance Tips
- Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use to prevent corrosion.
- Regularly check motor connections and battery terminals.
- Store in shaded areas to protect the HDPE hull from UV damage.
User Experience and Reviews
| Positive Reviews | Negative Reviews |
| Game-changing Spot-Lock GPS – Effortlessly holds position in winds and currents, eliminating anchor hassles. | Bulky and heavy – At 152 lbs, transport requires a kayak cart or two-person lift. |
| Rock-solid stability – Wide 39-inch hull allows confident standing and casting. | High price tag – Costs significantly more than non-motorized or pedal-driven kayaks. |
| Whisper-quiet motor – Minn Kota 45 lb thrust motor doesn’t spook fish in shallow waters. | Battery dependency – Requires frequent charging for multi-day trips. |
| Customizable storage – GearTrack system and six-rod holders adapt to any fishing style. | Limited Bluetooth range – Remote disconnects beyond 80 feet in open water. |
| All-day comfort – Adjustable lawn-style seat with lumbar support for long sessions. | Steep learning curve – Mastering GPS modes and motor settings takes practice. |
| Durable HDPE construction – Resists UV damage, saltwater corrosion, and impacts. | Slow speed – 5 mph max speed limits quick repositioning on large lakes. |
| 360-degree anchoring – Rotate freely while staying locked on prime fishing spots. | No included battery – Requires separate purchase (adds $500+ to cost). |
FAQs About Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120
How effective is Spot-Lock technology in rough conditions?
The Spot-Lock GPS maintains position within a 5-yard radius even in strong winds or currents, allowing anglers to focus on fishing without manual adjustments. Users report reliable performance in choppy coastal waters and fast-flowing rivers.
What is the kayak’s weight, and how do owners transport it?
The AutoPilot 120 weighs 152 lbs (69 kg) without the motor console. Owners recommend using a heavy-duty kayak trailer or truck bed due to its bulk, though some use roof racks with assistance for loading.
Which batteries are compatible, and how long do they last?
The kayak supports lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. A 100Ah lithium battery provides up to 25 hours at low speeds or 8 hours with variable use, while lead-acid batteries gradually lose power.
Are there common motor or electrical issues?
Some users report loose or corroded connectors causing intermittent motor failures. Upgrading to Minn Kota’s MRK28 plug or tightening factory connectors resolves most issues. Regular inspection of terminals is advised.
What maintenance does the Minn Kota motor require?
Rinse the motor with fresh water after saltwater use, lubricate the shaft with silicone spray, and check the prop pin for damage after impacts. Remove weeds or fishing lines from the prop immediately to avoid strain.