The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL stands out as one of those kayaks that immediately feels built for real fishing, not just specs on a page.
From the first time it hits the water, the pedal drive system makes a big difference, offering smooth, hands-free movement that’s perfect for casting, adjusting lines, or exploring new spots without losing control.
Its compact size, stable platform, and thoughtful layout make it a strong match for anglers who want a pedal kayak that’s easy to manage both on and off the water.
Whether the goal is covering distance, working a shoreline slowly, or holding position in the wind, the Sportsman 106 PDL has a balanced feel that fits a wide range of fishing styles.
It’s the kind of kayak that delivers reliable performance without feeling overwhelming, even for paddlers moving into pedal kayaks for the first time.
The Story Behind the Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL
Old Town has been around for more than a century, starting back in 1898 with handcrafted canoes made in Maine.
Over time, the company shifted from traditional paddling designs to modern, fishing-focused kayaks, while still maintaining the same attention to durability and real-world use.
The Sportsman 106 PDL was created to bring pedal power to anglers who wanted a compact, stable kayak that’s easy to control on lakes, rivers, and calm coastal water.
It blends Old Town’s long history of boatbuilding with newer fishing technology, giving anglers a hands-free way to move, hold position, and stay focused on the water instead of the paddle.
It’s a kayak designed for people who want something steady, efficient, and ready for serious fishing while still being manageable for everyday paddlers.
Key Specifications of The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL
Before diving into the performance and on-water experience, these core specs give a clear picture of how the Sportsman 106 PDL is built and what you can expect in terms of power, stability, and convenience.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 10 ft 6 in |
| Width | 36 in |
| Weight | 107 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 450 lbs |
| Material | Single-layer polyethylene |
| Propulsion System | PDL Pedal Drive (hands-free, forward + reverse) |
| Seat Type | Premium adjustable mesh seat |
| Storage | Bow hatch, rear tankwell with bungee, small accessory trays |
| Gear Tracks | Accessory-ready rails for rod holders, mounts, and electronics |
| Footrests | Integrated with pedal drive (no manual braces needed) |
| Style | Sit-on-top pedal fishing kayak |
Key Features of The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL
The Sportsman 106 PDL comes with features that make pedal-driven fishing smoother, more efficient, and far more hands-free. Every part of the design is meant to support anglers who want stability, comfort, and easy control on the water.
1. Ultra-Stable, Wide Fishing Hull
The 106 PDL has a wide, incredibly stable hull that makes standing, casting, and shifting your weight feel safe and controlled. Even when the water gets a bit choppy, the kayak stays steady and predictable.
This kind of stability is a huge help during long fishing sessions or when fighting strong fish. It gives a solid platform you can trust, doesn’t matter if you’re on a calm lake or dealing with light wind and waves.
2. Smooth, Hands-Free PDL Pedal Drive
One of the biggest advantages of this kayak is the PDL pedal drive. The pedaling feels smooth, efficient, and easy to maintain over long distances.
Since the drive offers both forward and reverse instantly, it’s perfect for maneuvering around cover, holding position, or getting into tight spots without needing to pick up the paddle. It adds a level of convenience that makes fishing feel more focused and less tiring.
3. Premium Adjustable Seating System
The seat on the 106 PDL uses a breathable, supportive mesh design that makes long hours on the water much more comfortable. The frame-style seating stays cool in the sun and keeps its shape nicely, even on longer days.
Because it’s adjustable, it fits different body types and lets you switch between upright pedaling and relaxed fishing positions without any discomfort.
4. Spacious, Practical Storage Layout
This kayak has plenty of room for gear, from the bow hatch to the large rear tankwell. There are small accessory trays around the seat for quick-grab items, plus rod holders and gear tracks for customizing your setup.
The layout keeps important items within reach while still giving enough space for crates, coolers, or tackle boxes. It works well, doesn’t matter if you’re heading out for a short morning trip or a full day on the water.
5. Accessory-Ready Deck With Gear Tracks
The Sportsman 106 PDL makes adding fishing gear simple. Built-in gear tracks make mounting rod holders, fish finders, cameras, and more easy.
It’s beginner-friendly because you don’t need major modifications, yet it’s still appealing to more experienced anglers who want a fully customized, dialed-in setup.
On-Water Experience
The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL feels steady and responsive from the moment it hits the water. Its pedal drive, stability, and maneuverability all work together to make each trip feel controlled and enjoyable, especially during active fishing sessions.
- Smooth pedaling in all conditions – The PDL drive stays efficient whether cruising across open water or moving slowly along the shoreline.
- Excellent stability for standing – The wide hull keeps the kayak balanced when shifting weight or standing to cast.
- Strong tracking in wind and light chop – It holds a straight line well, making long stretches easier and less tiring.
- Quick and easy maneuvering – Forward and reverse pedaling helps control tight turns, docks, and narrow areas without grabbing a paddle.
- Comfortable for long hours – The seat, pedal positioning, and deck layout work together to reduce fatigue during long fishing days.
Sportsman 106 PDL vs Other Kayaks: How It Compares
Choosing a pedal kayak becomes much easier when you can see how each model performs side by side. This comparison shows where the Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL shines and where other kayaks might be a better fit depending on your fishing style, water conditions, and comfort needs.
| Model | Length × Width | Weight Capacity | Key Strengths | Trade-Offs | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL | 10’6″ × 36″ | ~450 lb | Extremely stable, smooth pedal drive, compact, and easy to control | Heavy for its size, slower than longer pedal kayaks | $2500–$3000 |
| Hobie Mirage Passport 10.5 R | 10.5′ × 34″ | ~325 lb | Fast, lightweight hull, smooth MirageDrive GT system | Less stable for standing, fewer storage options | $1500-$2000 |
| Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 | 12’ × 36″ | ~500 lb | Affordable pedal option, good deck space, solid capacity | Louder drive system, heavier to pedal in the wind | $2500-$3000 |
| Native NEW Slayer Propel 10 Max | 10′ × 34.15″ | ~400 lb | Stable hybrid hull, pedal/paddle/motor-ready | Heavier load weight, seat not as premium | $2500–$3000 |
Pros & Cons of the Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL
After spending time with the Sportsman 106 PDL, a few things stood out right away. Some features made my fishing trips easier and more enjoyable, while a couple of details felt like areas for improvement. Here’s the straightforward breakdown of what I noticed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The stability is outstanding, especially when standing to cast. | It’s quite heavy for a 10-foot kayak, especially with the pedal drive. |
| The PDL pedal system is smooth, fast, and great for hands-free fishing. | Not as quick as longer pedal kayaks over long distances. |
| The seat is comfortable for long days and stays cool in warm weather. | The weight makes roof-loading tough without help. |
| The wide deck gives plenty of space for tackle, crates, and gear. | It can feel bulky in narrow rivers or tight backwater areas. |
| Tracking is solid, even in wind or light chop. | The price may be high for beginners or casual paddlers. |
| Instant forward and reverse make maneuvering incredibly easy. | The tankwell could be larger to accommodate larger crates or coolers. |
Who the Sportsman 106 PDL is best for
The Sportsman 106 PDL suits paddlers who want a compact yet performance-oriented pedal kayak with the confidence of wide-hull stability.
It works especially well for anglers who do day trips on lakes or slow rivers, who stand to cast frequently, and who carry gear but value a manageable size.
For someone transitioning from a paddle-only kayak to a pedal-driven setup, it offers a great blend of hands-free propulsion and stability without requiring a major leap.
It’s less ideal if someone prioritizes ultra-light transport, high-speed touring, or frequent multi-day expeditions far from shore access.
But for those looking for a dependable, stable, gear-friendly platform for focused fishing sessions, the Sportsman 106 PDL delivers in a way that feels ready from the first outing.
Buying Options
The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL is one of the most popular pedal-drive fishing kayaks on the market, so finding one is usually straightforward.
It’s sold through many local paddle shops, major sporting goods stores, and trustworthy online retailers, making it easier to compare deals and check availability.
Doesn’t matter if you prefer to see the kayak in person or order it directly from a reliable website; there are plenty of accessible places to buy the 106 PDL.
Where to Find Sportsman 106 PDL
- Eco fishing shop – Offers the Sportsman 106 PDL for $2,159.99 with dependable shipping and a wide selection of fishing-focused kayaks.
- Johnson Outdoors – Provides the Sportsman 106 PDL for $2699.00 directly from the parent company behind Old Town, ensuring authenticity and the latest models.
- Kayak Centre – Sells the Sportsman 106 PDL for $2,157.99 with helpful staff support and reliable gear add-on options for anglers.
What to Consider Before Buying the Sportsman 106 PDL
Before choosing the Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL, there are a few key points the consider. These considerations help you understand whether this pedal kayak is the right fit for your fishing style, storage situation, and comfort needs.
- Weight & Transport: The 106 PDL is heavy for a compact kayak, especially with the pedal drive included. Lifting it alone can be challenging, so a cart makes transport much easier.
- Storage Needs: At 10’6”, it’s easier to store than longer pedal kayaks, but still requires garage, shed, or rack space. Keeping it out of direct sunlight helps extend its lifespan.
- Where You’ll Use It: This kayak shines on lakes, ponds, slow rivers, and calm coastal waters. If you plan to run fast rivers and do long-distance touring, a different hull style might be better.
- Budget & Value: The 106 PDL is a premium kayak. While the price is higher, the pedal drive, stability, and build quality make it a strong long-term investment for frequent anglers.
- Fishing Style & Experience Level: Beginners love the stability and hands-free control, while experienced anglers appreciate the efficiency and deck layout.
Bringing It All Together
The Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL brings together stability, comfort, and hands-free control in a way that feels built for real fishing.
Every part of its design, from the wide standing deck to the smooth pedal drive, works together to make time on the water easier and more enjoyable.
It’s compact enough to manage off the water, yet strong enough to handle long days loaded with gear.
What stands out most is how confidently it performs, doesn’t matter if you’re creeping along a shoreline, holding position in the wind, or pedaling across a lake to reach a new spot.
It’s not the lightest or the cheapest option, but the performance, durability, and reliability make it a kayak that feels worth the investment.
