Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty: Review & Features

by Alex Braham 52 views

Alright, let's dive deep into the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty! If you're like me, you're always on the hunt for the perfect kayak that blends stability, performance, and a dash of luxury for those long days on the water. This kayak has been making waves, and for good reason. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting into kayak fishing, understanding what makes this particular model tick is crucial. We’ll cover everything from its design and features to its performance on the water, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your aquatic adventures.

Design and Features

When it comes to kayak design, the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty screams thoughtful engineering. The hull design is optimized for stability without sacrificing speed, making it a reliable choice for various water conditions. The 'salty' designation hints at its suitability for saltwater environments, meaning corrosion-resistant components and a build that can withstand the harsh marine environment are part of the package. The kayak features a pedal drive system, which we'll delve into shortly, but it's worth noting that the integration is seamless and contributes to the overall sleek profile of the kayak.

Storage is a huge factor for any kayak angler, and the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty doesn't disappoint. It includes ample storage compartments, both open and closed, strategically placed throughout the kayak. The bow and stern offer larger storage areas for bigger items like tackle boxes or even camping gear for those overnight trips. A center console provides quick access to essential tools, snacks, or your phone. Additionally, accessory tracks run along the sides of the kayak, allowing you to customize your setup with rod holders, fish finders, or camera mounts. These tracks are robust and allow for easy adjustments, so you can tweak your setup based on the day's fishing conditions.

Comfort is another area where this kayak shines. The seat is designed for all-day comfort, featuring adjustable height and recline. It's made from breathable mesh material that helps keep you cool and dry, even on hot summer days. The ergonomic design ensures proper back support, reducing fatigue during long hours of paddling or pedaling. The cockpit is spacious, offering plenty of legroom for paddlers of various sizes. This thoughtful design makes the kayak accessible and comfortable, regardless of your body type.

Pedal Drive System

Let's talk about the heart of the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty: its pedal drive system. This isn't just any pedal drive; it’s engineered for efficiency and ease of use. The PDL (Pedal Drive System) allows you to propel the kayak using your legs, freeing up your hands for fishing. This is a game-changer when you need to maintain a specific position or slowly troll along a promising stretch of water. The pedal system is incredibly intuitive, making it easy to maneuver the kayak with minimal effort.

The system is also designed for durability. The components are made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of saltwater use. Regular maintenance is still important, but the robust construction means you won't be constantly tinkering with it. The pedal drive is easily removable, which is a huge plus for transport and storage. It also simplifies cleaning, ensuring that salt and debris don't accumulate and cause problems down the line. The ability to quickly remove the pedal drive also means you can easily switch to paddling if you prefer or if you're in shallow water where pedaling isn't feasible.

One of the standout features of the PDL system is its instant forward and reverse capability. This gives you exceptional control over the kayak, allowing you to quickly adjust your position or navigate tight spots. The rudder system is integrated with the pedal drive, providing precise steering. You can easily steer with one hand, leaving the other free to manage your fishing rod or other gear. The combination of the pedal drive and rudder system makes the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty incredibly maneuverable, even in windy conditions or strong currents.

Stability and Performance

Stability is paramount, especially when you're standing up to cast or reeling in a big fish. The Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty excels in this area, thanks to its wide hull and carefully designed pontoons. The kayak feels incredibly stable, even in choppy water. You can confidently stand and fish without feeling like you're going to tip over, which is a huge advantage for sight fishing or when you need a better vantage point.

In terms of performance, the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty strikes a great balance between speed and maneuverability. The pedal drive system allows you to cover water quickly, whether you're heading to your favorite fishing spot or exploring new areas. The kayak tracks well, meaning it stays on course with minimal effort. This is particularly important when you're dealing with wind or currents. The hull design minimizes drag, allowing you to maintain a good pace without wearing yourself out.

The kayak is also surprisingly agile for its size. The rudder system provides precise steering, allowing you to navigate tight turns and maneuver around obstacles with ease. This is particularly useful in rivers or narrow channels where you need to be able to quickly change direction. The combination of stability, speed, and maneuverability makes the Sportsman 120 PDL Salty a versatile kayak that can handle a variety of fishing conditions.

Fishing Experience

Okay, let’s get down to what really matters: the fishing experience. The Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is designed with anglers in mind, and it shows in every detail. The stability of the kayak allows you to focus on fishing without worrying about tipping over. The pedal drive system frees up your hands, allowing you to cast, reel, and manage your gear more effectively. The ample storage space ensures you have everything you need within easy reach.

The kayak features multiple rod holders, strategically placed to keep your rods secure and accessible. The accessory tracks allow you to customize your setup with additional rod holders, fish finders, or other accessories. The center console provides a convenient place to store your tackle, bait, and other essentials. The spacious cockpit gives you plenty of room to move around, making it easy to reach your gear or fight a fish. The comfortable seat ensures you can fish all day without getting fatigued.

One of the standout features for fishing is the ability to stand and fish comfortably. This gives you a better vantage point for sight fishing and allows you to cast more accurately. The stable platform inspires confidence, even when you're dealing with choppy water or strong currents. The pedal drive system allows you to maintain your position in the water, even when you're fighting a fish. This is a huge advantage when you need to keep your line tight or prevent the fish from running into obstacles.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty so you have a clear picture.

Pros:

  • Stability: Incredibly stable, making it easy to stand and fish.
  • Pedal Drive System: Efficient and easy to use, freeing up your hands for fishing.
  • Storage: Ample storage space for tackle, gear, and personal items.
  • Comfort: Comfortable seat and spacious cockpit for all-day fishing.
  • Maneuverability: Easy to steer and maneuver, even in tight spots.

Cons:

  • Price: It's an investment. This kayak sits at a higher price point compared to paddle-only models, which might be a barrier for some.
  • Weight: Can be heavy, making it challenging to transport and launch alone. Consider a kayak cart if you're often solo.
  • Maintenance: The pedal drive system requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This isn't a huge issue, but something to keep in mind.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty isn't quite the right fit, don't worry! There are other kayaks out there that might better suit your needs. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12: Known for its superior pedal drive system and a wide range of features. It's a premium option with a higher price tag, but it offers exceptional performance and comfort.
  • Jackson Kayak Coosa FD: A great choice for river fishing, with a stable platform and a pedal drive system. It's designed for maneuverability in tight spaces.
  • Perception Pescador Pro 12.0: A more affordable option with good stability and storage. It doesn't have a pedal drive system, but it's a solid choice for paddlers who prefer a traditional kayak.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty? Overall, it's a fantastic kayak that offers a great combination of stability, performance, and comfort. It's designed with anglers in mind, and it shows in every detail. The pedal drive system is a game-changer, freeing up your hands for fishing and allowing you to cover water quickly. The ample storage space ensures you have everything you need within easy reach, and the comfortable seat allows you to fish all day without getting fatigued.

Yes, the price point is higher than some other kayaks on the market, and the weight can be a challenge for solo transport. However, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, especially if you're a serious angler who spends a lot of time on the water. If you're looking for a kayak that will enhance your fishing experience and provide years of enjoyment, the Old Town Sportsman 120 PDL Salty is definitely worth considering. So get out there, hit the water, and tight lines, guys!