Old Town Fly Fishing Essentials

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why choose the Old Town Sportsman ePDL+ 120 Pro for fly fishing?

  The ePDL+ 120 Pro pairs a pedal-first platform with Old Town’s battery-assisted ePDL+ drive (manual, assisted and cruise modes) to deliver long, hands-free propulsion for accurate casting. A 36-inch beam, flat-bottom hull, EVA deck pads and vertical rod storage create a stable stand-and-cast platform with easy access to 9-foot fly rods.
• How does the Autopilot series compare to the Sportsman ePDL+ for covering water and stealth?

  Autopilot models integrate Minn Kota motors with GPS Spot-Lock and higher thrust for long-range running and precise position-holding, whereas the Sportsman ePDL+ relies on pedal propulsion with battery assist for quieter, low-profile stalking. Pick an Autopilot 136/120 for big flats, current or long-distance touring, and choose the ePDL+ 120 Pro when stealth, maneuverability and hands-free casting are priorities.
• How do I choose between the Sportsman PDL 106, 120, and Autopilot 136 based on size, portability, and standing room?

  Shorter boats like the Sportsman PDL 106 (about 10.6 ft) are easier to car-top and maneuver in tight water, while 12–13.6 ft models such as the ePDL+ 120 Pro or Autopilot 136 offer greater gear capacity, tracking and stability in wind or open water. All Sportsman hulls use a wide, flat design (roughly 36-inch beam) that supports standing and casting, so prioritize length for storage and range needs. Choose a 106 for portability and tight-water fishing, a 120 for a balance of stability and transportability, and a 136 for extended trips or bigger-water conditions.
• What maintenance should fly anglers expect for Old Town’s PDL and ePDL+ systems?

  PDL pedal drives are sealed and designed for minimal maintenance beyond rinsing after salt or freshwater use, and the ePDL+ battery-assisted system requires routine battery care and corrosion-avoidance practices. The rotomolded polyethylene hull and robust hardware make the kayaks durable, and pre-drilled mounts simplify servicing or replacing accessories.
• What fly-fishing features and accessories are available or compatible with Old Town Sportsman kayaks?

  Sportsman kayaks include fly-focused features like vertical rod storage, four thru-hull rod tubes that accommodate 9-foot rods, forward-facing rod holders, full-length accessory tracks, molded hatches and padded decks to reduce line tangles. They’re set up for accessories such as Minn Kota motors, Power-Pole Micros, fish-finder rails, custom seats that double as line baskets, and a wide range of angler-focused track-mounted gear.