Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 Review (2026)
The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 is a pedal-driven fishing kayak built for anglers who want hands-free propulsion and saltwater-ready durability. Designed to handle coastal flats, bays, and larger inland waters, it combines a stable hull, powerful pedal drive, and angler-focused features into a capable platform for serious fishing. In this review, we’ll cover its key features, on-water performance, pros and cons, and overall value.
Key Features Of The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
- Length: 12 ft
- Width: 34.5 in
- Weight: Approximately 117 lbs (hull only)
- Capacity: Around 500 lbs
- Seating: Adjustable framed seat with breathable mesh
- Hull Material: Rotomolded polyethylene for durability
- Kayak Type: Sit-on-top pedal fishing kayak
- Drive System: Saltwater-ready pedal drive with forward and reverse
- Steering: Hand-controlled rudder system
- Storage: Large bow hatch, rear tankwell with bungees, center storage
- Deck Design: Wide, flat deck for stability while fishing
- Accessory Mounting: Integrated gear tracks for electronics and accessories
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Pedal drive allows true hands-free fishing
- Forward and reverse improve control in current and wind
- Stable hull supports confident casting and movement
- Saltwater-ready components resist corrosion
- Comfortable seating for long days on the water
- Generous storage for tackle and gear
Cons:
- Heavy compared to paddle-only kayaks
- Higher price point than basic fishing kayaks
- Pedal drive requires occasional maintenance
- Not designed for standing in rough conditions
- Transport may require a cart or assistance
Ideal For Pedal-Driven Saltwater Anglers
The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 is ideal for anglers who fish coastal waters and want the efficiency of pedal power. It’s well suited for inshore saltwater fishing, trolling, and covering longer distances without fatigue, while still performing well on larger lakes and reservoirs.
Performance And On-Water Experience
On the water, the Salty PDL 120 feels stable and predictable. The pedal drive delivers smooth, quiet propulsion, making it easy to maintain position or cruise between fishing spots. The rudder system provides responsive steering, and the hull tracks well even in light chop or wind, especially compared to shorter fishing kayaks.
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
The pedal system is intuitive, with simple engagement and easy access for cleaning. The open deck layout keeps gear accessible, and rinsing after saltwater use helps preserve the drive and hardware. Routine checks of cables and moving parts ensure consistent performance over time.
Durability And Build Quality
Built by entity[“company”,”Old Town Canoe Company”,”kayak manufacturer”], the Sportsman Salty PDL 120 emphasizes rugged construction and corrosion-resistant components. The polyethylene hull handles impacts and abrasion well, while the pedal drive and seating system feel solid and dependable for frequent saltwater use.
Portability And Storage
At over 100 pounds, the kayak is best transported with a cart or assistance. Its 12-foot length fits well in garages or sheds, but roof loading can be challenging without proper equipment. Many owners opt for trailers for easier transport.
Final Thoughts On The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120
The Old Town Sportsman Salty PDL 120 delivers a powerful combination of pedal efficiency, stability, and saltwater durability. While its weight and price put it in the higher-end category, the hands-free control and fishing-focused design make it an excellent choice for dedicated anglers. For those who want reliable pedal performance and comfort in coastal or large-water environments, it offers strong long-term value and on-water confidence.