The Old Town Topwater 120 PDL pedal-driven kayak stakes its reputation on unshakable stability and hands-free precision, luring anglers with its saltwater-ready design and tunnel-hull agility. Built for stealth in shallow backwaters, this lightweight craft cracks open the debate between budget-friendly value and rugged performance, boasting a 500 lb capacity, whisper-quiet hull, and Old Town’s maintenance-free PDL drive.
Its cult following praises this fishing kayak with pedals for stand-up fishing confidence and customizable storage, yet beneath the hype lies a clash of trade-offs: the 82 lb frame challenges solo portability, while minimalist gear tracks spar with rivals like the upgraded Sportsman 120. This review dissects its shallow-water dominance, real-world durability, and hidden flaws, revealing whether the Topwater’s blend of power and practicality anchors it as a trophy-hunting titan.
Key Points of Old Town Topwater 120 PDL
Specifications of Old Town Topwater 120 PDL
| Specification | Details |
| Length | 12 feet |
| Width | 36 inches |
| Weight | 82 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Hull Material | Rotomolded polyethylene (single-layer) |
| Propulsion | Old Town PDL Drive (forward/reverse) |
| Warranty | Lifetime hull warranty, 5-year PDL drive warranty |
| Storage | Bow dry hatch, stern tank well, under-seat tackle storage |
| Seat | ElementAir™ adjustable seat |
| Additional Features | 3 flush-mount rod holders, YakAttack gear tracks, universal transducer mount |
Features of Old Town Topwater 120 PDL
From a Pedal-driven system to durability, here are its detailed features:
Pedal-Driven PDL Drive System
Maintenance-Free Design: The Old Town PDL Drive uses a corrosion-resistant, chainless system for smooth forward/reverse motion, ideal for hands-free fishing in saltwater or freshwater.
Instant Reverse: A foot-operated lever allows quick directional shifts to maneuver around obstacles or reposition during fights with fish.
Shallow-Water Agility: Retracts easily in 12” of water, minimizing drag over submerged structures like oyster beds or weed lines.
Ultra-Stable Double U Hull Design
Tunnel Hull Stability: Dual U-shaped chines create secondary stability for standing casts, with a 36” beam ensuring minimal wobble even in choppy conditions.
Rugged Construction: Rotomolded single-layer polyethylene resists impacts from rocks, docks, or accidental drops during transport.
Sharp Keel & Rudder: Enhances tracking in wind or currents, while the low-profile rudder knob provides precise steering adjustments mid-pedal.
Angler-Focused Storage Solutions
Bow Dry Hatch: A 17” waterproof compartment stores phones, keys, or emergency gear, with a silicone gasket to block splashes.
Stern Tank Well: Open 48” x 15” space accommodates coolers, crates, or dive gear, secured with bungee tie-downs.
Under-Seat Tackle Storage: Two slim, shallow trays keep lures, pliers, or line cutters within arm’s reach.
Gear Track Compatibility: YakAttack ACE and M-Lock tracks flank the cockpit, allowing modular mounting of rod holders, camera arms, or GPS units.
Stand-Up Fishing Readiness
Low-Center Gravity: The recessed standing deck and padded EVA foam reduce fatigue during all-day sessions.
ElementAir™ Adjustable Seat: A 4-position reclining seat with breathable mesh and lumbar support adapts to sitting or standing transitions.
Flush-Mount Rod Holders: Three horizontal holders (two behind the seat, one forward) secure rods during trolling or bait swaps.
Electronics Integration
Universal Transducer Arm: A pre-installed mount near the stern simplifies adding fish finders like Garmin Striker or Lowrance Hook.
Wiring Channels: Internal conduits keep power cables tidy and protected from snags or water exposure.
Portability & Transport
Bow/ Stern Handles: Reinforced nylon grips enable two-person lifts, though the 82 lb weight demands a kayak cart for solo users.
Scupper Hole Design: Compatible with aftermarket carts for easy launch/retrieval on uneven terrain.
Durability & Warranty
Lifetime Hull Warranty: Cracks or defects in the polyethylene hull are covered indefinitely, reflecting Old Town’s confidence in its build.
Saltwater Resilience: Stainless steel hardware and sealed bearings prevent corrosion in brackish or coastal environments.
Stealth-Focused Performance
Whisper-Quiet Hull: The polyethylene construction dampens vibrations and noise, preventing spooked fish in clear, shallow waters.
Low-Profile Deck: Minimal protrusions reduce wind drag and snag risks when navigating tight mangrove tunnels or overhangs.
User Experience and Reviews
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
| Unmatched stability for stand-up fishing, even in choppy or shallow waters. | Heavy weight (82 lbs) complicates solo transport without a cart or trailer. |
| Smooth, reliable PDL drive system with instant reverse for precise maneuvering. | Minimal included accessories (e.g., no paddle or fish finder) increase upfront costs. |
| Rugged rotomolded hull withstands rocky shores and accidental impacts. | Single-layer polyethylene lacks the premium feel of higher-priced competitors. |
| Ample storage (bow dry hatch, stern tank well) for gear-heavy trips. | Short gear tracks limit customization compared to newer models. |
| Budget-friendly price for a pedal-driven kayak with a lifetime hull warranty. | Basic ElementAir™ seat lags behind padded seats in upgraded models like the Sportsman 120. |
| Quiet hull design enhances stealth for spook-prone fish in clear water. | Competing kayaks (e.g., Hobie Compass) offer faster speeds for long-distance paddlers. |
| Saltwater-ready construction with corrosion-resistant hardware. | Rudder knob placement can feel awkward during rapid directional changes. |
Who Should Buy Old Town Topwater 120 PDL?
The Old Town Topwater 120 PDL carves its niche as a rugged, stability-first pedal kayak tailored for anglers prioritizing shallow-water agility and hands-free control. Its robust tunnel hull, reliable PDL drive, and stealth-focused design excel in backwater environments, while the lifetime warranty underscores enduring quality.
However, the weight and sparse accessories remind users that this is a purpose-built tool, not a luxury craft. For budget-conscious fishers seeking stand-up confidence and saltwater readiness, it delivers unmatched value. Those craving speed or plush upgrades may lean toward pricier rivals, but for precision in tight quarters, the Topwater remains a steadfast ally in the hunt.
FAQs About Old Town Topwater 120 PDL
Is the Old Town Topwater 120 PDL suitable for saltwater fishing?
Yes, the Topwater 120 PDL is saltwater-ready, featuring corrosion-resistant stainless steel hardware and sealed bearings. Its PDL drive is designed for brackish or coastal use, though rinsing after outings is recommended to prolong longevity.
How does the Topwater 120 handle solo transportation?
At 82 lbs, the kayak requires a cart or trailer for solo transport. While bow/stern handles aid tandem lifting, their weight makes it challenging for single users without assistive gear.
Can you stand and fish comfortably on the Topwater 120?
The tunnel-hull design and 36” width provide exceptional stability for stand-up fishing. Anglers report confidence even in choppy conditions, aided by the recessed EVA foam deck for grip.
What accessories are included with the kayak?
The Topwater 120 PDL ships with the ElementAir™ seat, rudder system, and PDL drive. Accessories like paddles, fish finders, or gear tracks must be purchased separately.
How does it compare to the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL?
The Sportsman 120 PDL offers upgraded seating, more storage, and longer gear tracks, but at a higher price. The Topwater prioritizes budget-friendly stability, making it ideal for shallow-water anglers over open-water enthusiasts.