Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot Kayak Review: Ultimate Power, Precision & Experience
April 23, 2021
By Jeff Weakley
IDEAL APPLICATION: The ultimate rig for precise, hands-free positioning in waters too deep for a traditional stake pole. Think dropshot fishing or deep-running crankbaits over ledges and submerged timber in a reservoir. Jigging for snapper on a saltwater reef. Posting on a current-swept point to throw for snook. Better yet: Lazy man's magic carpet ride on any waters posted “no combustion engine.” The Minn Kota iPilot propulsion system is proven technology, and the drive that comes with this kayak was designed specifically for this kayak.
Spot-Lock technology holds your kayak in position despite wind and current.
OVERVIEW: For starters, this is a big boat, and while it may be paddled, it's probably best thought of in terms of “boat” instead of “kayak.” Most state fish and wildlife departments will classify this is a power boat, and you'll need to register it accordingly and perhaps qualify for a boater safety license. You will also probably want a trailer for it, given the weight and dimensions. You will also need to spend a few days getting acquainted with the many features accessible via the remote control. Those caveats aside, the AutoPilot 136 does things no ordinary kayak or powerboat can accomplish—and when you get it wired, we promise you will be the envy of both cultures.
Lift assist helps deploy and stow motor quickly in shallow water or when launching and landing.
The removable propulsion module is a 45-pound thrust propeller drive, powered by a lead acid or (lighter, more expensive) lithium ion cell. Company testing using a 100 amp hour battery indicates about 8 hours of typical use at full charge, 2 hours full throttle. Not only can you steer and adjust speed to get where you're going, you can hit the anchor key and “Spot-Lock” yourself exactly where you want to stay—the motor uses an internal GPS receiver to determine its own thrust and steerage to hold position. You can save Spot-Lock positions. You can also save up to 16 full tracks—meaning you could carve out productive routes on a local lake and river, and then simply hit “Go To” and select the pattern for the day.
Large open cockpit and aft tank well provides a platform that is easy to organize with plenty of room to fish!
NOTABLE: It's a one-person boat whose technology amounts to having a professional captain onboard! What else? Features out the wazoo, as they say— breathable high-low seat, gear tracks, rodholders, oversize rudder, universal transducer mount. For $3,999, this is a lot of boat. Or kayak. Check with your state fish and wildlife department or DMV for title and registration requirements. — Jeff Weakley
The 132 is the perfect set up for offshore fishing, with a stable 13'2" hull.
Length: 13'6” Width: 37” Weight: 158 lbs Overall Capacity: 502 lbs Propulsion: 12V Minn Kota Electric Trolling Motor, Paddle
The 120 on the other hand is recommended for anglers who prefer to stay closer to shore or enjoy lake and river cruising.
Length: 12' Width: 37” Weight: 152 lbs Overall Capacity: 406 lbs Propulsion: 12V Minn Kota Electric Trolling Motor, Paddle www.oldtowncanoe.com
For $3,999, this is a lot of boat. Or kayak.
Old Town has redesigned the carrying handles to make transport easier and more comfortable.
The saltwater-ready 45 lb. thrust 12V Minn Kota motor gets you effortlessly there and back
24 lbs. motor console can be removed for transport.
Console floor plug can be used to keep water out when the motor is removed or you want to paddle.
Command the kayak with a touch of your thumb using the Bluetooth connected i-Pilot remote.
You can also save up to 16 full tracks—meaning you could carve out productive routes on a local lake and river, and then simply hit “Go To” and select the pattern for the day.
Non-slip EVA foam deck pads provide traction and stand-up comfort.
Kill switch key holds the spare prop pin and doubles as a prop wrench.
Motor combines with foot brace steering for truly hands-free fishing and exceptional maneuverability.
Four 18" tracks enable easy on/off mounting of accessories.
Premium seating for all day comfort. Dual-layer Textilene is durable, UV resistant and easy to clean. A mid-layer of 3D mesh adds comfort without inhibiting Textilene's natural breathability.
The AutoPilot gives you the option to position the seat high or low.
Below the seat sits the battery box which is lead-acid or lithium-ion compatible.
Sealed cubby keeps your essentials close by.
The spacious stern well can accommodate large coolers and tackle crates.
Two forward-facing and two rear-facing flush mount rod holders are there when you want them, and out-of-the-way when you don't.
Console floor plug stores in the tank well, tucked away until you need it.
Extra large rudder provides excellent boat control in forward and reverse
Rudder can be tucked away for transport.
Equipped with shallow water anchor mounting inserts.
Want more kayak content? Be sure to pick up a copy of Kayak Fishing Fun magazine available on newsstands now.
