The Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO isn’t just a kayak; it’s a fully equipped fishing platform designed to transform your angling experience. With a sleek, compact 12-foot design, this electric pedal-driven kayak combines the freedom of pedaling with the power of electric assistance, delivering unmatched versatility and comfort. Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a serious angler, the ePDL+ 120 PRO makes it easier to explore waters farther and fish longer without fatigue.
Unlike traditional kayaks that rely solely on paddling or manual effort, this model integrates a smart electric pedal drive system that feels more like riding an electric bike on water. Its rugged construction, superior stability, and customizable setup make it ideal for fishing in diverse environments, from calm freshwater lakes to salty coastal flats. This kayak provides an all-in-one solution for anglers seeking enhanced control, power, and convenience.
Key Features That Make It Stand Out
At the core of the ePDL+ 120 PRO is its unique ePDL+ technology, which offers three propulsion modes:
- Manual Pedaling: Utilize your legs for a natural and quiet way to move while exercising.
- Power-Assisted Pedaling: Get electric help while pedaling, letting you cruise farther with less effort.
- Full Motor Cruise Control: Engage the motor alone and steer hands-free for effortless travel.
This flexibility suits all energy levels and conditions, making it versatile for everything from calm day trips to battling strong currents.
The kayak is also built tough, using single-layer polyethylene that resists wear, impacts, and UV damage. It’s wide enough (36 inches) for great balance and comfortable standing, yet compact enough to fit on standard vehicle racks.
Propulsion Modes: Choose Your Ride
Manual Pedaling Mode
This is your purest form of movement. Pedaling uses your legs to drive the kayak forward quietly and efficiently. It’s excellent for anglers who want to stay stealthy or conserve battery power.
Power-Assist Mode
This mode gives you the best of both worlds. The electric motor assists your pedaling, so you go faster with less strain. It’s especially helpful when you face wind, waves, or want to get to a distant fishing spot quicker.
Cruise Control Mode
Perfect for days when you want to relax or focus entirely on fishing, the kayak moves forward on its own. Your feet steer the rudder, leaving your hands free for casting or reeling in fish. The quiet motor helps you sneak up on fish without disturbance.
Build and Durability: Designed for the Long Haul
The ePDL+ 120 PRO’s hull is crafted from heavy-duty polyethylene, which means it’s resistant to dents, dings, and UV fade even after years of use. The thick plastic absorbs impacts from rocks or docks without cracking, a huge advantage for anglers exploring rocky shorelines or shallow waters.
The hull’s length and width provide excellent stability. At 12 feet long, it’s agile enough to maneuver in tight spots but stable enough to stand on without wobbling. This stability comes from a well-engineered hull shape that balances tracking (straight-line movement) and maneuverability.
The kayak weighs about 153 pounds fully assembled. While it’s heavier than many traditional kayaks due to the integrated pedal system and battery, it remains manageable with two people or a kayak cart. For solo transport, the pedal console and seat can be removed to reduce weight.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Your Fishing Throne
Comfort is essential on long trips, and this kayak delivers. Its elevated seat features thick cushioning and breathable mesh to keep you cool and supported for hours. The seat’s height also improves your field of view, making it easier to spot fish or obstacles.
Adjustable foot pedals mean you can tailor your pedaling position for maximum power and comfort, no matter your height. The foot-controlled rudder system allows smooth steering without interrupting your fishing activity, letting you focus on the task at hand.
Ample cockpit space lets you move freely, shift positions, or stand confidently for casting. The layout avoids cramped spaces, minimizing fatigue and improving your fishing effectiveness.
Fishing-Optimized Features: Ready for the Serious Angler
Rod and Gear Storage
The Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO is designed with fishermen in mind, offering plenty of helpful features. Behind the seat, there are three built-in rod holders where you can safely store your fishing rods and easily reach them when needed. On the sides, some rails can hold up to four additional rods horizontally, perfect for carrying different fishing setups.
Waterproof Hatches for Secure Storage
The kayak also includes a large, waterproof hatch at the front to keep your gear dry and safe during your trips. At the back, there is a round hatch that provides easy access to electronics or extra storage space inside the hull, making it simple to manage your equipment.
Spacious Tankwell for Extra Gear
Behind the seat, there is a big open space called the tankwell. It comes with bungee cords that help secure items like coolers, tackle boxes, or even an extra battery. These features are usually only found on larger fishing boats, so it’s impressive that they are all included in this smaller, easy-to-use kayak.
Intelligent Storage Solutions
Storage on a fishing kayak can make or break your trip. The ePDL+ 120 PRO provides multiple smart storage areas:
- Bow Hatch: Ideal for dry bags, extra clothes, and essentials you want on hand but protected.
- Stern Hatch: Offers access inside the hull, great for electronics wiring or storing small, delicate items.
- Tankwell: This open rear space can hold bulky items like coolers or tackle crates secured by adjustable bungees.
The kayak’s design ensures gear is both accessible and secure, letting you fish without distractions or clutter.
Electronics Ready: Plug and Play Fishing Tech
Many modern anglers like using technology while they fish, and this kayak is ready for it. It comes with special spots already built in so you can easily add a bow-mount trolling motor without doing any extra work.
There are wiring ports that let you connect things like fish finders, GPS units, or underwater lights. This makes setup quick and clean, without messy wires hanging around.
The kayak also has long accessory tracks on the sides. These let you attach all kinds of gear, like cameras, cup holders, or extra rod holders, exactly where you want them.
The best part is, you don’t need to drill or cut into the kayak to add these items. That helps keep the kayak strong and safe, and it also protects your warranty.
Battery Life and Charging: Power That Keeps You Going
The included 36V lithium-ion battery is compact yet powerful. It fits inside the hull’s battery compartment, protecting it from weather and damage. Depending on your usage, the battery life can last from 4 to 8 hours:
- Pedal-only mode uses no battery, extending overall trip time.
- Power-assist mode balances electric help with manual pedaling.
- Cruise control uses the most battery but offers effortless travel.
Charging is simple; plug the charger into a standard outlet, and the battery fully charges in about 4–6 hours. No complicated setup or tools are required, making it convenient to recharge overnight or between fishing trips.
Stability and Safety: Fish Standing Up or Sitting Down
This kayak’s wide and stable hull allows you to confidently stand up to cast or fish. The balance and weight distribution prevent tipping even in choppy waters or windy conditions.
The foot-controlled rudder helps with smooth steering, giving you excellent control in tight spots or currents. This stability is a significant advantage over narrower, less stable kayaks that limit your fishing style.
Versatility: Freshwater and Saltwater Capable
Whether you prefer fishing peaceful freshwater lakes or braving salty coastal flats, the ePDL+ 120 PRO performs admirably. Its polyethylene hull resists corrosion from saltwater, and the included rudder and hatches are designed to withstand marine conditions.
After saltwater use, rinsing with fresh water is recommended to maintain seals and electrical components. With proper care, this kayak thrives in multiple environments, making it a flexible choice for anglers exploring different waters.
Comparison With Other Popular Fishing Kayaks
When choosing a fishing kayak, it’s essential to understand how the ePDL+ 120 PRO stacks up against competitors. Here’s a detailed comparison of two popular kayaks in a similar price and size range:
1. Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO vs. Hobie Mirage Passport 12
| Feature | ePDL+ 120 PRO | Hobie Mirage Passport 12 |
| Propulsion | Electric Pedal + Motor + Pedal Assist | Pedal-powered MirageDrive only |
| Motor | Included 36V Lithium Battery | No motor included |
| Battery Life | 4-8 hours (depending on mode) | N/A |
| Storage | Large bow & stern hatches + tankwell | Smaller compartments |
| Rod Holders | 3 flush mount + side rails | 2 flush mount |
| Weight | 153 lbs assembled | 85 lbs assembled |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Customization | Extensive accessory tracks | Limited accessory options |
Summary: The Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO offers electric motor power for effortless cruising, making it great for longer trips and less physical strain. The Hobie is lighter and highly maneuverable but lacks motorized propulsion, making it more physically demanding.
2. Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO vs. Vibe Sea Ghost 130
| Feature | ePDL+ 120 PRO | Vibe Sea Ghost 130 |
| Propulsion | Electric pedal & motor | Paddle only |
| Length | 12 ft | 13 ft |
| Width | 36 in | 34 in |
| Storage | Large bow & stern hatches + tankwell | Multiple dry storage hatches |
| Rod Holders | 3 flush + side rails | 6 flush-mounted rod holders |
| Weight | 153 lbs assembled | 80 lbs assembled |
| Price | Higher | Moderate |
| Customization | Aluminum gear tracks | Basic accessory mounts |
Summary: The Vibe Sea Ghost 130 offers more rod holders and slightly longer length for stability, but it’s paddle-only. The Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO gives you motorized propulsion and pedal assist, but is heavier and more expensive.
Buying Tips: What to Consider Before You Purchase
Weight and Transport
When thinking about the Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO, it’s important to consider how you will transport it. This kayak is heavier than many traditional kayaks because of its electric pedal system and sturdy build. Weighing in at over 150 pounds, it’s not something you can easily lift and carry by yourself for long distances. To make transport easier, having a roof rack on your vehicle is highly recommended. Alternatively, a trailer can help you move the kayak without much hassle. If you don’t have these options, having an extra person to help load and unload will make your trips much smoother and safer.
Battery Charging
Another key point is charging the kayak’s battery. The Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO uses a powerful 36V lithium battery that needs to be charged regularly to keep the motor running smoothly. Before heading out, make sure you have easy access to a power source for charging. Whether it’s at home or a campsite, having a reliable electricity connection will keep your battery ready for long fishing trips. Charging the battery fully usually takes a few hours, so planning is important to avoid running out of power while on the water.
Fishing Style
Your fishing style also matters when choosing this kayak. If you enjoy long trips or often fish in windy or challenging conditions, the pedal and motor assist system will be a big advantage. This system helps reduce fatigue, allowing you to cover more distance without getting tired quickly. The pedal mode gives you good exercise, while the power assist helps you fight wind or currents. For relaxing trips, the cruise control lets you focus on fishing without pedaling at all. This flexibility makes the kayak suitable for a variety of fishing situations and skill levels.
Storage Needs
Storage is another important consideration. The ePDL+ 120 PRO offers excellent storage options with multiple compartments and a large tankwell space behind the seat. If you bring a lot of gear, tackle boxes, coolers, or extra batteries, this kayak can handle it all securely. The adjustable bungee cords keep your bulky items in place so nothing shifts during movement. Whether you fish for a few hours or plan an all-day adventure, having enough room to organize and protect your equipment will make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.
Budget
Finally, budget plays a big role in deciding if this kayak is right for you. The Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO is a premium fishing kayak and comes with a higher price tag than many traditional kayaks. This cost reflects its advanced pedal drive technology, durable materials, and fishing-specific features. Before making a purchase, think about how often you fish and whether you will use the electric pedal assist enough to justify the investment. For serious anglers who want convenience, comfort, and extra power, the cost is worth it. But if you only fish occasionally or prefer a simple kayak, there may be more affordable options that suit your needs.
Maintenance Advice: Keep Your Kayak in Top Shape
To keep your kayak in good shape, always rinse it with fresh water after using it, especially if you’ve been in saltwater. Salt can cause damage over time, so rinsing helps prevent that.
When you’re not using the kayak for a while, like during winter or long breaks, store the battery in a dry and cool place. This helps the battery last longer and stay in good condition.
It’s important to regularly check and oil the cables, pedals, and rudder controls. This keeps everything working smoothly and stops parts from getting stuck or rusty.
Also, look carefully for any cracks or worn-out areas around the hatches and seals. Fixing small problems early can prevent bigger damage later.
Finally, try to keep your kayak covered or store it indoors when you’re not using it. This protects it from sunlight and bad weather, which can cause the kayak to fade or weaken over time.
Taking care of your kayak this way will help it last longer and work well every time you go out on the water.
Real-World Usage Scenarios: How This Kayak Excels
When you go bass fishing on a calm lake in the morning, use the manual pedaling mode. It’s quiet and helps you sneak up on the fish without making noise. The kayak is very stable, so you can stand up and cast your line easily. Plus, all your rods and gear are stored close by, so you can grab what you need quickly.
If you’re exploring coastal flats at sunset, pedal assist is very helpful. It gives you extra power to fight against the wind and waves. You can also use the bow mount trolling motor to move quietly through shallow water without disturbing the fish. Bringing electronics like fish finders can help you find more fish and have a better catch.
For weekend camping and fishing trips, the kayak has plenty of storage space. You can pack your supplies, a cooler, and camping gear all in one trip. Using the cruise control mode lets you relax and save your energy, so you can enjoy long days on the water without getting tired.
If you’re into competitive fishing, the motor assist and cruise control help you move quickly between different fishing spots. You can adjust the rod holders and add accessories to set up your kayak just the way you like for the best performance.
Long-Term Owner Feedback: What Real Users Say
People who own the ePDL+ 120 PRO often say it makes fishing easier and more fun. Many owners notice that the battery still works well even after many months of use. The seat is very comfortable, which helps during long days out on the water. The kayak is strong and can handle rough use, like hitting rocks or tough shorelines, without getting damaged. A lot of users say it’s their favorite fishing kayak because the pedal assist makes paddling much easier. Because it’s less tiring to use, many owners find themselves fishing more often and enjoying their time even more.
Pros
- Powerful and flexible electric pedal drive system
- Comfortable, elevated seat with adjustable foot pedals
- Excellent storage for rods and gear
- Stable hull suitable for standing and rough conditions
- Ready for electronics and accessories
- Built tough for freshwater and saltwater use
Cons
- Heavy, requiring careful transport logistics
- Expensive compared to traditional kayaks
- Larger size limits maneuvering in very tight or fast rivers
- The battery requires charging and occasional care
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO?
This kayak is a great choice for people who take fishing seriously and go out often. It’s also a smart pick for older adults or anyone who has trouble paddling for long periods, since the pedal assist makes moving much easier and less tiring.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants a strong, steady kayak that can be powered by motor or pedals. The kayak is also great for those who like to add their accessories, such as rod holders, fish finders, or cameras, since it has plenty of space and mounting options.
Lastly, it’s ideal for people who want to stay comfortable while fishing and enjoy going longer distances without getting worn out. If you want both power and comfort in one kayak, this one is a smart investment.
If you fish occasionally, have limited transport options, or want a lightweight, simple kayak, this may not be the best fit. However, for those ready to invest in performance and convenience, it’s a game-changer.
The Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 PRO is more than a kayak; it’s a revolution in fishing. It combines power, comfort, and technology to help anglers fish smarter, farther, and longer. With its rugged construction and thoughtful design, it handles diverse environments with ease.
Though the price is premium, the features, durability, and joy of use justify the cost for dedicated anglers. Whether you’re casting lines at sunrise on a quiet lake or chasing saltwater species in the flats, the ePDL+ 120 PRO empowers you to focus on what matters most, catching fish.
