Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty, a kayak that's been making waves (pun intended!) in the fishing community. If you're an angler looking for a stable, efficient, and feature-rich kayak, you've probably heard about this one. Let's break down what makes the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty so special, covering everything from its design and performance to its features and overall value. Whether you're battling tides in saltwater or cruising serene freshwater lakes, understanding what this kayak offers is crucial. So, grab your virtual paddle, and let's get started!

Design and Construction

The design and construction of the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty are where this kayak really shines. Durability is paramount, and Old Town has clearly focused on creating a kayak that can withstand harsh conditions. The hull is made from a single layer of durable polyethylene, which is known for its impact resistance and longevity. This material is tough enough to handle scrapes, bumps, and the general wear and tear that comes with kayak fishing. The one-piece construction minimizes potential weak points, ensuring that the kayak remains watertight and structurally sound over years of use.

Beyond the material itself, the design incorporates a stable, wide hull that provides excellent stability. This is particularly important for anglers who need to stand up to cast or manage their gear. The increased width also contributes to the kayak's overall buoyancy, allowing it to handle a significant amount of weight without sacrificing performance. The hull is designed to track well, meaning it stays on course with minimal effort, which is especially useful when covering long distances or fighting currents.

Old Town has also paid close attention to the kayak's ergonomics. The cockpit is spacious and well-laid out, providing plenty of room for movement and gear storage. The seat is adjustable and designed for all-day comfort, featuring breathable mesh and lumbar support. These thoughtful design elements ensure that you can focus on fishing without being distracted by discomfort or limited mobility. Furthermore, the kayak includes strategically placed scupper holes to drain water quickly, keeping the cockpit dry and preventing the kayak from becoming waterlogged. The attention to detail in the design and construction of the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty sets it apart as a reliable and high-performing fishing kayak.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty truly excels, offering a smooth and efficient experience on the water. The pedal drive system is the heart of its performance, allowing for hands-free propulsion that's both powerful and easy to use. This system is incredibly efficient, enabling you to cover long distances with minimal effort, and it's especially useful when fishing against the wind or current. The ability to pedal also frees up your hands for casting, reeling, and managing your fishing gear, making it a game-changer for serious anglers.

The kayak's stability is another key aspect of its performance. The wide hull design provides a solid platform for standing and casting, even in choppy conditions. This stability inspires confidence and allows you to focus on fishing without worrying about tipping over. The Sportsman 120 PDL Salty also tracks well, meaning it stays on course with minimal steering input. This is particularly important when covering long distances or trolling for fish.

In terms of maneuverability, the kayak is surprisingly nimble for its size. The rudder system allows for precise steering, making it easy to navigate tight spots and make quick turns. The kayak also handles well in various water conditions, from calm lakes to choppy coastal waters. Whether you're paddling, pedaling, or drifting, the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty provides a responsive and predictable ride. Overall, the performance and handling of this kayak are top-notch, making it a joy to use for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike. The combination of speed, stability, and maneuverability makes it a versatile and capable fishing platform.

Key Features

The Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is packed with features designed to enhance your fishing experience. Let's dive into some of the key highlights:

• PDL Drive System: As mentioned earlier, the pedal drive system is a standout feature, providing hands-free propulsion and allowing you to cover more water with less effort. The system is smooth, efficient, and easy to use, making it a joy to operate.
• Adjustable Seating: The kayak features a comfortable and adjustable seat with breathable mesh and lumbar support. This ensures that you can spend hours on the water without discomfort.
• Ample Storage: Storage is essential for any fishing kayak, and the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty delivers. It includes a large bow hatch, a stern tank well, and multiple accessory tracks for mounting gear.
• Accessory Tracks: The accessory tracks allow you to customize the kayak with rod holders, fish finders, GPS units, and other accessories. This makes it easy to set up the kayak to suit your specific needs.
• Rudder System: The rudder system provides precise steering and control, making it easy to navigate tight spots and maintain course in windy conditions.
• Rod Holders: The kayak comes with multiple rod holders, allowing you to keep your rods organized and within easy reach.
• Stand-Up Stability: The wide hull design provides excellent stability, allowing you to stand and cast with confidence.

These features combine to create a kayak that is both functional and comfortable, making it a great choice for anglers of all skill levels. The attention to detail in the design and the inclusion of thoughtful features make the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty a top contender in the fishing kayak market.

Pros and Cons

Like any product, the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty has its pros and cons. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision about whether this kayak is right for you. Let's take a look:

Pros:

• Stability: The wide hull design provides exceptional stability, making it easy to stand and cast, even in choppy conditions.
• Pedal Drive System: The pedal drive system allows for hands-free propulsion and efficient movement on the water.
• Comfortable Seating: The adjustable seat with breathable mesh and lumbar support ensures all-day comfort.
• Ample Storage: The kayak offers plenty of storage space for gear, including a large bow hatch and a stern tank well.
• Customization: Accessory tracks allow you to customize the kayak with rod holders, fish finders, and other accessories.
• Durable Construction: The durable polyethylene hull is built to withstand the rigors of kayak fishing.

Cons:

• Weight: The kayak is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to transport and launch.
• Price: The Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is more expensive than some other fishing kayaks on the market.
• Size: Its larger size can make it challenging to store and maneuver in tight spaces.
• Pedal Drive Maintenance: The pedal drive system requires periodic maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

While the cons are worth considering, the pros generally outweigh them for serious anglers who value stability, performance, and comfort. If you're willing to invest in a high-quality fishing kayak and can handle the weight and size, the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is an excellent choice.

Who Is This Kayak For?

The Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is designed for anglers who demand performance, stability, and comfort. It's an ideal choice for:

• Serious Anglers: The pedal drive system, stability, and ample storage make it perfect for anglers who spend a lot of time on the water.
• Saltwater Fishing: The kayak is specifically designed for saltwater use, with features that make it well-suited for coastal fishing.
• Those Who Value Comfort: The adjustable seat and spacious cockpit provide all-day comfort, even on long fishing trips.
• Anglers Who Want Hands-Free Propulsion: The pedal drive system allows for hands-free fishing, making it easier to cast and manage your gear.
• Those Who Need Stability: The wide hull design provides excellent stability, making it easy to stand and cast.

If you fall into any of these categories, the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is definitely worth considering. It's a versatile and capable fishing kayak that can handle a wide range of conditions and fishing styles. However, if you're a casual angler who only fishes occasionally, or if you're on a tight budget, there may be other kayaks that are a better fit.

Alternatives to the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty

If you're not quite sold on the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty, or if you want to explore other options, here are a few alternative fishing kayaks to consider:

• Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14: The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 is a premium fishing kayak with a pedal drive system, excellent stability, and a wide range of features. It's more expensive than the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty but offers top-of-the-line performance.
• Jackson Kayak Coosa FD: The Jackson Kayak Coosa FD is another pedal-driven fishing kayak with a focus on stability and maneuverability. It's a great choice for anglers who fish in rivers and streams.
• Wilderness Systems Tarpon 130X: The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 130X is a paddle-powered fishing kayak with excellent stability and storage. It's a more affordable option than the pedal-driven kayaks and is a good choice for anglers who prefer to paddle.
• ** perception outlaw 11.5:** The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is an affordable and versatile fishing kayak that is great for beginners. It is stable and easy to paddle, with plenty of room for gear.

Each of these kayaks has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Consider factors such as stability, storage, propulsion, and price when making your decision.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty? Overall, it's an excellent fishing kayak that offers a great combination of stability, performance, and features. The pedal drive system is a game-changer, allowing you to cover more water with less effort, and the comfortable seating and ample storage make it a joy to use on long fishing trips. While it's not the cheapest kayak on the market, the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is a worthwhile investment for serious anglers who demand the best. If you're looking for a reliable, capable, and comfortable fishing kayak, this one should definitely be on your list.

Of course, it's important to consider your own needs and preferences before making a final decision. Think about where you'll be fishing, what type of gear you need to carry, and how much you're willing to spend. But if you're looking for a top-quality fishing kayak that can handle a wide range of conditions, the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is a great choice.