Pedal Fishing Kayak#4 of 10 in Pedal & Motor Drive

Old Town Sportsman PDL 120

by Old Town Canoe & Kayak

4.6
PaddleProw scoreEditorial rating out of 5, based on specs, build and fit for purpose

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a purpose-built pedal fishing kayak that delivers excellent stability, intuitive forward/reverse pedal drive, and smart angler-focused rigging.

  • Hands-free pedal propulsion
  • Stand-up stable platform
  • Built-in fishing rigging
Length
12 ft
Weight
104 lbs
Capacity
500 lbs
Width
36 in

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01The review

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a pedal-driven fishing kayak built for anglers who want hands-free propulsion without sacrificing the stability and storage needed for a full day on the water. At the heart of the kayak is the PDL Drive, a pedal system equipped with a reversible, flat-blade propeller that lets paddlers move forward and backward with precision, making it easy to hold position near structure or navigate shallow water without constantly picking up a paddle. The pedal drive is fully removable and stows inside the hull, so the kayak remains versatile enough to paddle in skinny water or launch from tight spots where a bulky drive unit would be a liability. Old Town engineered the PDL system with a lightweight, low-maintenance design, meaning anglers spend more time fishing and less time fiddling with gears or cables.

Stability is a defining feature of the Sportsman PDL 120, thanks to its wide, flat-bottomed hull that creates a solid, standing-capable platform even when casting, reeling in a fighting fish, or shifting weight to reach gear. The kayak's cockpit is designed with an angler's workflow in mind, featuring an adjustable, high/low seating system that lets users switch between a relaxed lounging position for long paddles and a elevated perch for better sightlines while sight-fishing or scanning for structure. Multiple rod holders, including flush-mounted and recessed positions, keep tackle organized and within reach, while the open bow and stern tankwells provide ample space for crates, coolers, or additional rigging without cluttering the cockpit.

Built from durable, impact-resistant polyethylene, the Sportsman PDL 120 is designed to handle the rigors of freshwater fishing on lakes, rivers, and calm coastal waters, resisting scratches and UV damage season after season. The kayak includes integrated accessory tracks and mounting points compatible with fish finders, GPS units, and other electronics, allowing anglers to customize their setup to match their fishing style. Convenience features like molded-in cup holders, a tackle management system, and a comfortable paddle park ensure that every inch of the kayak serves a purpose. Whether targeting bass in a quiet cove or working a river current for trout, the Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 delivers a dependable, feature-rich platform that blends efficient pedal power with the practical demands of serious kayak fishing.

02Spec sheet

Length12 ft (120 in)
Width36 in
Weight104 lbs
Weight Capacity500 lbs
PropulsionPDL Pedal Drive with reverse

Manufacturer specifications. Dimensions and weights can vary slightly between production years and outfitting packages.

03Pros & cons

What we like

  • Hands-free pedal propulsion frees you up to fish
  • Extremely stable platform, great for standing and casting
  • Reverse pedal function makes maneuvering easy
  • Comfortable, adjustable seat for long days on water
  • Ample storage and rigging options for electronics/gear

Watch out for

  • Heavier than paddle-only kayaks, harder to transport solo
  • Pedal drive unit requires occasional maintenance and rinsing
  • Higher price point compared to standard fishing kayaks
  • Can be overkill for casual/non-fishing paddlers

04Key features

  • PDL Pedal Drive System with forward/reverse propulsion
  • Rudder control with console-mounted lever
  • Lightweight hull design, 120 length class
  • Element Seating System with adjustable high/low positions
  • Multiple flush-mount and universal rod holders
  • Full-length Accessory Track for mounting electronics and gear
  • Dry storage hatch and stern tankwell with cargo net
  • Stand-assist strap and stable pontoon-style hull

05Verdict

4.6

The Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 is a purpose-built pedal fishing kayak that delivers excellent stability, intuitive forward/reverse pedal drive, and smart angler-focused rigging. It's an outstanding choice for serious anglers who want hands-free mobility and a rock-solid platform to stand and fish, though its weight and price mean it's best suited to dedicated fishing enthusiasts rather than casual paddlers.

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Old Town Sportsman PDL 120Score 4.6 / 5Check price