Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak. 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak. 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

The Old Town Sportsman 106 powered by Minn Kota is one of the most popular fishing kayaks on the market for good reason. This versatile boat combines the stability and comfort of Old Town’s trusted Sportsman hull with the power and convenience of an electric trolling motor.

Overview of the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota kayak

When Old Town partnered with Minn Kota to create the Sportsman 106 Minn Kota, they took an already well-designed kayak and made it even better. This 10’6″ sit-on-top kayak has ample stability thanks to its 34.5-inch width and large footprint. The hull tracking is excellent, aided by the skeg and rudder system. The padded seat can be adjusted to fit any size paddler comfortably for long days on the water.

Of course, the main attraction is the Minn Kota trolling motor mounted to the stern. This quiet, freshwater transom mounted motor allows anglers to cruise across the water and precisely control speed and direction. With a 45 lb thrust motor, speeds up to about 3 mph are possible. Run time depends on speed, but up to several hours is common from the included battery.

This kayak has plenty of versatility beyond fishing too. The large open cockpit has abundant storage for tackle, gear, or camping supplies. With the Minn Kota motor, paddlers can easily explore coves and backwaters at a relaxed pace. The 400 lb carrying capacity means there is room for another passenger too.

Pros of the Sportsman 106 Minn Kota

• Very stable 34.5″ wide hull
• Comfortable padded seat with adjustable footrests
• Motor allows hands-free fishing and cruising
• Excellent tracking with skeg and rudder
• Plenty of open storage and carrying capacity

Potential Drawbacks

• More expensive than paddle-only kayaks
• Battery requires charging after each use
• Slightly heavier than standard kayaks when loaded
• Motors have more maintenance than paddles

While the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota comes at a premium price, it opens up the ability to fish and explore areas that would be difficult by paddle power alone. The motor system is innovative yet easy to operate, even for first time users. For anglers who want a powered advantage on the water, it’s easy to see why this versatile kayak remains a top choice.

Top speed and battery life with the Minn Kota motor

One of the key factors to consider with any electric kayak is how fast it can travel and how long the battery will last before needing a recharge. With the Sportsman 106 Minn Kota’s 45 lb thrust saltwater transom mounted trolling motor, you can expect a top speed around 3 mph depending on conditions.

This allows you to cover water much more quickly than by paddle power alone. It’s perfect for cruising across a large lake to your favorite fishing spot or exploring up rivers and creeks. The variable 5 speed settings let you dial in just the right pace.

As for battery life, that too depends on your speed. At top speed you may only get 1-2 hours run time. But by keeping it in lower gears and minimizing starts and stops, you can stretch it to 4+ hours typically. The Minn Kota power center includes a 12v, 45Ah AGM battery that delivers reliable performance.

Charging the battery takes 5-10 hours on average depending on remaining power. One tip is to store the battery indoors and charge it fully the night before heading out. Just be sure not to leave it plugged in continuously when fully charged.

It’s also a good idea to bring the battery inside after each trip rather than leaving it in the kayak. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can impact battery life if left exposed for long periods.

While the battery capacity may not allow full days of continuous use at top speeds, it’s more than enough for most anglers’ needs. The electric motor allows covering water quickly and having extra power when you need it, while still allowing you to paddle and fish peacefully.

Overall the Minn Kota system is thoughtfully designed for real world fishing and recreation. With a little planning, the battery life won’t limit how you use and enjoy the Old Town Sportsman 106 kayak.

Stability and tracking of the 106 hull

A stable, well-tracking hull is crucial on any kayak, but especially one meant for fishing. You need a platform that will remain upright and straight even when landing a big fish or dealing with sudden waves and wake.

Old Town designed the Sportsman 106 as a very stable kayak, even with the motor mounted on the back. At 34.5 inches wide, it has a broad beam that keeps it steady. The hull has lots of rocker at the bow and stern to aid in slicing through waves smoothly.

This width does not hinder the excellent tracking capability though. The pronounced keel helps the 106 stay on course when paddling or under power. There is also a removable skeg that can be lowered to improve directional control.

Finally, Old Town equipped this kayak with their patented easy-adjust foot-controlled rudder system. This allows fine tuning the steering as needed for truly effortless tracking. It comes in handy when navigating through current or wind.

Between the stable hull and multiple steering aids, the Old Town Sportsman 106 tracks more predictably than almost any other fishing kayak. Even in challenging conditions, it holds its line well and stays stable.

This gives anglers confidence when reeling in fish from a distance or spending long days covering water. You can focus on the fishing without worrying about stability or tracking.

For navigating small rivers, fishing open bays, or anywhere in between, the Sportsman 106 has the versatility and fishability that makes it a go-to choice for serious kayak anglers. It goes where you point it, and stays upright no matter what you hook into.

Comfort features like the padded seat and adjustable footpegs

When spending long days on the water fishing, comfort is a major factor. The Old Town Sportsman 106 has a number of features to keep paddlers relaxed and pain-free during extended trips.

The Element Seat System includes thick contoured padding on the bottom and backrest. This allows shifting positions without pressure points. The seat is mounted on a rail system that enables adjusting it fore and aft to fit any leg length.

There are also adjustable foot braces to dial in the ideal leg room. For taller paddlers, this helps avoid cramped knees and poor circulation on long jaunts.

The cockpit opening is nice and wide, allowing easy entry and exit. At 34.5 inches across, even larger individuals have plenty of room to maneuver. Once seated, the ComfortFlex padded thigh braces keep you locked in place securely.

Smaller details like the molded knee pads, adjustable grip handles, and bungee rigging points also contribute to a comfortable fishing platform. Anglers can stand and sight fish with confidence thanks to the stability.

Overall, Old Town clearly put a lot of thought into the ergonomics and fishability of the Sportsman 106. You can focus on the action of catching fish rather than discomfort from poor seat design or lack of adjustability. This leads to more time efficiently on the water during each trip.

For kayak anglers looking for stability, power, and versatility – but not wanting to sacrifice comfort – the Old Town Sportsman 106 delivers everything needed for a full day of fun fishing.

Carrying capacity and storage with the open cockpit

One of the advantages of a sit-on-top fishing kayak like the Old Town Sportsman 106 is the versatile open cockpit design. This provides ample carrying capacity for your gear, and makes loading and unloading quick and easy.

The Sportsman 106 has a total weight capacity of 400 pounds. That’s enough room for a large angler and all their tackle and supplies with room to spare. The kayak itself weighs 78 pounds without any accessories.

Inside the cockpit is generous dry storage space to keep essentials handy but protected. There’s a large bow hatch and a smaller one behind the seat. You can easily stow a backpack, tackle boxes, rain jacket, phone, keys, and other items.

There are also plenty of places to rig accessories like rod holders, fish finders, anchor systems, and more. Molded-in slots accommodate mounting gear securely. Large bungee tie downs provide additional external storage right at your fingertips.

With the open deck layout, you can also load a milk crate or cooler and secure it almost anywhere with straps. Between the hatches and ample exposed deck space, bringing all your fishing and camping equipment is no problem.

The Sportsman 106 gives you versatility in loading the kayak how you want for each trip. No need to overload the kayak – just take advantage of all the smart storage options Old Town built in.

How does the Minn Kota mount and detach from the kayak

One of the most innovative features of the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota is the patent-pending mounting system. This allows quickly and easily attaching and detaching the motor as needed.

The Minn Kota motor itself stays attached to a special mounting bracket that Old Town designed specifically for this kayak. To install it, you slide the vertical bracket poles into receptacles built into the hull and twist to lock in place.

Old Town includes the required tools to tighten and loosen the mount. Once it’s locked down, the motor stays firmly attached even when running at full power. The cables route cleanly through special conduits in the hull.

When ready to remove the motor, it only takes a minute or so to loosen the mounting poles and lift off the entire unit. You don’t need any tools in the field to detach it once the poles are loose.

This quick and easy mount system means you can take the Old Town Sportsman 106 out paddling without the motor when desired. It’s the best of both worlds – motorized and paddle powered – in one kayak.

Old Town clearly put a lot of R&D into designing this system for simplicity and convenience. Being able to go from motorized to paddle-only so quickly maximizes the versatility of the Sportsman 106 for both fishing and recreational paddling.

Pros of having an electric motor for a kayak

The main advantage of the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota is obviously the included electric trolling motor. While not for everyone, having power propulsion does offer some nice benefits compared to paddle-only kayaks.

First, it allows covering longer distances more quickly and easily. The motor can maintain 3+ mph cruising speed with less effort than manual paddling. This lets you explore farther and access new fishing spots.

An electric motor also enables precise boat control for positioning and holding steady while fighting fish. You don’t have to worry about drifting when focused on landing that trophy bass.

You can use the motor to work structure thoroughly and hit the most productive-looking areas of a lake or river. No need to only fish what’s conveniently within range of paddling.

Having onboard power allows getting home more quickly if needed, such as when bad weather rolls in. It also helps fight wind and current when returning to the launch after a long day.

While not a requirement, a trolling motor greatly expands the functionality and Fishability of the Sportsman 106. It’s a tool to get the most out of your time on the water. When combined with Old Town’s stable hull design, the versatility is tough to beat.

Cons to consider about powered kayaks

While electric trolling motors offer some nice benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider as well before purchasing the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota.

First is the higher cost compared to a paddle version of the Sportsman 106. You’ll pay around a $1000 premium for the motor add-on. It’s not an insignificant expense.

Operating and maintaining the motor system also requires some added knowledge and effort. You’ll need to monitor battery charge, replace propellers occasionally, and keep cables and connections clean.

The motor and battery do add considerable weight to the kayak compared to a paddle setup. At around 100 pounds fully rigged, you sacrifice some portability. A cart is highly recommended for transport.

Some paddlers simply prefer the quietness and serenity of human-powered kayaks rather than using a motor. It’s a very personal choice to make.

While the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota opens up some great possibilities, it does come at a cost both monetary and in terms of simplicity. Make sure the benefits outweigh the compromises for your needs before deciding if it’s worth the investment.

Alternatives like the Vibe Sea Ghost 110 or Perception Pescador Pro 120

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

The Old Town Sportsman 106 kayak powered by a Minn Kota trolling motor is a popular fishing kayak for good reason – it’s stable, versatile, and has the ability to go places where other boats can’t. But with so many kayak options out there, how do you know if the Old Town Sportsman 106 is the right choice for you? Here are 14 key things to consider before buying this Minn Kota-powered kayak:

1. Stability

With its 36-inch beam, the Old Town Sportsman 106 provides excellent stability for standing and fishing. The tri-hull design gives it great initial and secondary stability, even in choppy water. For comparison, wider sit-on-top kayaks like the Vibe Sea Ghost 110 or Perception Pescador Pro 120 may offer a bit more wiggle room for big guys, but the Sportsman 106 still ranks among the most stable options.

2. Customizability

One of the best features of the Old Town Sportsman 106 is the ability to customize it. With the universal Minn Kota motor mount, you can outfit it with any Minn Kota trolling motor from 30 to 112 lbs of thrust. You can also accessorize it with fishfinders, rod holders, anchor systems, and more to create your ideal fishing setup.

3. Speed and Power

What good is a pedal kayak without speed and power? The Sportsman 106 delivers both when paired with a quality trolling motor. A 70 lb thrust Minn Kota can propel it at speeds over 5 mph, plenty fast enough to cover water in search of fish. The 24V system provides ample power for navigating currents and winds.

4. Shallow Water Access

One of the biggest advantages of the Old Town Sportsman 106 is the ability to reach shallow areas that other boats can’t. With the trolling motor raised, it only drafts a few inches of water. This allows you to sneak into skinny backwaters and hidden coves where fish seek refuge.

5. Hands-Free Fishing

The best thing about fishing from a pedal-powered kayak? Keeping your hands free to fish! The Sportsman 106 lets you navigate, anchor, and sight-fish completely hands-free thanks to the easy-to-use Minn Kota motor system. No more laying your rod down to paddle.

6. Seating Comfort

You’ll appreciate the comfortable Kingfisher seat when spending long days on the water. It’s adjustable, well-padded, and designed to provide proper back support. The Element Seating System is also designed to keep you dry by allowing water to drain through the mesh fabric.

7. Large Open Deck

From casting to landing fish, the open deck layout of the Sportsman 106 provides ample room to work. The cockpit area is also clear of any obstructions, allowing you to stand up with ease. There’s plenty of flat space to secure a crate or cooler too.

8. Versatile Fishing Platform

From ponds to rivers to bays, the Old Town Sportsman 106 is at home in nearly any fishing environment. Its stability and maneuverability make it ideal for fishing calmer waters, while the speed and pedal power let you cover distance across large lakes. And it’s nimble enough for navigating rivers and streams.

9. Carrying Capacity

With a generous 500 lb carrying capacity, the Sportsman 106 provides ample room for gear and fish. The bow hatch is large enough for tackle boxes and bags, while the stern tank well can handle a milk crate for extra storage. There’s also plenty of space for mounting rod holders and electronics.

10. Pedal Drive System

The hands-free propulsion comes courtesy of Old Town’s easy-to-use PDL Drive system. Simply pedal to move forward and reverse, just like a bicycle. The pedal mechanism is smooth and efficient, even allowing you to “coast” when needed. It’s less physically demanding than paddling yet provides good speed.

11. Motor Control

Control of the Minn Kota motor is made easy with the wireless foot pedal. Step on the left or right side to turn, or press both sides to go forward or reverse. This allows you to precisely steer and maneuver the kayak while keeping your hands free. An optional wireless remote is also available.

12. Portability

At 106″ in length and weighing under 100 lbs, the Old Town Sportsman 106 is reasonably easy to transport. The kayak is lightweight enough to car-top, and the center carry handles make it manageable for one person. For longer walks, an optional wheel kit adds portability.

13. Durability

Old Town is known for building kayaks to last, and the Sportsman 106 is no exception. The three-layer polyethylene hull is impact-resistant and designed to handle years of abuse on the water. The overall construction and components are built to withstand constant fishing use and minor bumps and scrapes.

14. Price

With an MSRP starting around $2,200 for the base kayak, the Sportsman 106 sits in the mid-range of fishing kayak prices. Add a trolling motor and accessories, and the complete rig can run from $3,000 to $5,000 or more. So it’s certainly an investment, but with all it offers, many anglers find it worthwhile compared to the price of a comparably equipped bass boat.

When comparing top fishing kayaks, the Old Town Sportsman 106 with Minn Kota trolling motor takes the top spot for many anglers. Its stability, customization, shallow water access, and pedal system make it a versatile and well-rounded fishing machine. While wider options like the Vibe Sea Ghost 110 and Perception Pescador Pro 120 do provide a bit more room for larger kayakers, the Sportsman 106 still reigns as one of the most popular choices for serious kayak anglers. So if you’re looking to access remote waters and fish all day from a stable, hands-free platform, the Old Town Sportsman 106 is hard to beat.

Common accessories to enhance the kayaking experience

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

The Old Town Sportsman 106 kayak powered by a Minn Kota trolling motor opens up exciting possibilities for kayak fishing. But like any hobby, accessories can take your kayaking experience to the next level. Here are some must-have add-ons to make the most of your Old Town Sportsman powered kayak.

Fish Finder

A fish finder allows you to see below the water’s surface to locate fish, structure, and bait. Models like the Garmin Striker 4 work well for kayaks. Mount it to the deck or a Scotty mount to help you find the fish.

Rod Holders

Rod holders keep your hands free and rods secure while paddling or pedaling. Scotty and RAM make versatile mounts that can be positioned rod tip up or down. Good for baitcasting, spinning, and fly rods.

Anchor System

A drift sock or anchor like the Anchor Wizard helps keep you in place when currents are strong. Achieve stealthy presentation by locking into the hot spot. Useful for both shallow and deep water anchoring.

Crate and Tackle Storage

Milk crates are popular for accessing gear and securing your catch. Or get a kayak-specific crate for organized tackle storage. A YakAttack VisiCarbon Pro is a lightweight option.

Safety Equipment

A whistle, flashlight, paddle leash, dry bags, and PFD are essential safety items. Flares, flags, and bright colors also improve visibility. Don’t overlook the importance of safety when rigging your Sportsman 106.

Seat Upgrades

The Sportsman’s Kingfisher seat is decent, but seat pads and suspension kits can add comfort for long days. Or opt for a high-end kayak seat like the Ocean Kayak Comfort Plus for premium support.

Stakeout Poles

Stakeout poles allow you to anchor without ropes or weights. Simply stick them vertically into soft bottom and leverage them to stay put. Great for casting into shoreline cover.

Pedal Upgrades

For easier pedaling, upgrade the stock pedals to Turbo Fins or Flex Pedals. Or add pedal extenders to get better leverage if you have longer legs.

Rod Leashes

Leash your rods to the kayak as an insurance policy against an accidental overboard. Avoid losing gear with leashes like the YakAttack Park-N-Pole leash system.

Depth Finder

A simple fish finder isn’t required, but a handheld depth finder helps you learn depths and bottom contour. Hawkeye’s H20 or Garmin’s Striker Vivid are quality choices.

Drift Chute/Drogue

Slow your drifting speed in wind and current with a drift chute/drogue off the stern. Makes it easier to maintain position for more effective fishing.

Trolling Motor

The Minn Kota trolling motor that comes standard gives ample propulsion. But you can always upgrade models for faster speeds and longer run times.

Paddle Clip

A paddle clip or holder keeps your paddle secure when fishing. No more paddle floating away if you accidentally drop it. Let’s you stow it hands-free.

Electronics Battery

Power fishfinders and electronics with a dedicated battery like a Bioenno Power. Prevents draining the trolling motor battery when running electronics all day.

This covers some of the most useful accessories that can take your Old Town Sportsman 106 fishing kayak to the next level. With the right additions, you can customize it into your dream fishing kayak. Consider which accessories match your needs and fishing style to get the most out of this versatile kayak.

Safety tips for using electric motors on the water

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

The Minn Kota trolling motor makes the Old Town Sportsman 106 a powerful fishing machine. But anytime you use an electric motor on the water, safety should be a top priority. Here are some key safety tips when operating your Minn Kota-powered kayak:

Learn the Controls

Before hitting the water, familiarize yourself with the trolling motor’s controls. Know how to start/stop, adjust speed, steer, tilt, and stow the motor. Having confidence operating it is key.

Clear Propeller Area

Make sure there are no fishing lines, vegetation, or other debris around the propeller before starting the motor. Strikeing objects can damage the prop.

Consider a Wireless Kill Switch

A wireless kill switch allows you to immediately shut off the motor if needed for safety. A great backup if you accidentally fall overboard.

Watch Speed Near Other Boats

Be courteous and aware of your wake when passing anchored or slow-moving boats. Excessive speed/wake can destabilize other watercraft.

Have a Paddle Onboard

Carry a spare paddle in case your motor fails or you need emergency propulsion. You don’t want to be stranded without a way to get back.

Use the Proper Safety Gear

Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Carry safety items like a whistle, throw rope, bilge pump, and flashlight in case of emergency.

Mind Battery Level

Keep an eye on your battery charge level to ensure you have enough power to return. Conserve battery by using pedal power when possible.

Avoid Propeller During Entry/Exit

When entering or exiting the kayak, take care to avoid contacting the propeller blades with your body. Tilt it out of the water if needed.

Learn Emergency Stopping

Know how to emergency stop the motor if needed. Practice the quick sequence of putting in neutral, hitting the kill switch, and stowing.

Have Backup Propulsion

Bring spare batteries, pedal power, or a paddle to avoid being stranded without propulsion. Electronics can fail, so be prepared.

Watch Your Wake Near Shore

Use caution when operating near shore. Excessive wake can disturb sediment and shoreline vegetation. Be courteous.

Keep Hair/Clothing Clear

Make sure shoe laces, loose clothing, hair, etc. stays well clear of the propeller when operating. Anything can snag.

Stay Alert

Pay close attention to your surroundings at all times. Watch for other boats, obstacles, changes in weather, or anything requiring quick reaction.

Following basic electric motor safety goes a long way in preventing accidents and injuries when using your Old Town Sportsman 106. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the equipment and always make safety a priority. Responsible use of the Minn Kota trolling motor allows you to have a fun and safe time on the water.

Cost breakdown and value comparison

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

When evaluating the Old Town Sportsman 106, it’s important to look at the costs involved and how it compares to other fishing kayak options. Here’s a breakdown of pricing and a look at the value you get with this pedal-powered kayak package.

Base Kayak Price

The starting MSRP for the Old Town Sportsman 106 kayak itself is around $2,200. This gets you the bare kayak with no accessories. So for the base price, you’re getting a durable, stable, and customizable pedal fishing platform.

Trolling Motor Cost

Next you’ll need to add a trolling motor. Minn Kota models range widely in price from $150 to $1,300 based on thrust power and features. A common choice like the 70 lb Minn Kota Riptide ST runs around $400.

Fish Finder Expense

While optional, most anglers will add a fish finder like the Garmin Striker 4 for around $100. Other electronics like GPS plotters are also available at an additional cost.

Accessories and Customization

Rod holders, storage crates, lighting, and other fishing accessories can quickly add $500 or more. Customizing with your preferred accessories enables complete personalization.

Estimated Total Investment

When fully rigged out with a trolling motor, fish finder, and accessories, expect to invest $3,000 to $5,000 or more in a complete Old Town Sportsman 106 setup.

Value Compared to Other Fishing Kayaks

Compared to similar setups from Hobie, Wilderness Systems, or Perception, the Sportsman 106 holds its own in value. You get top-notch quality and components for the price.

Value Compared to Bass Boats

For features and versatility, the Old Town Sportsman 106 powered kayak provides tremendous value compared to a $30,000+ bass boat. The lower cost makes it accessible to more anglers.

Cost of Operation and Maintenance

With no engine maintenance, the Sportsman 106 is very affordable to operate long-term. Occasional battery and accessory replacement is the main expense after initial purchase.

Resale Value

Old Town kayaks hold their value well, should you ever want to sell. The Sportsman 106’s resale value remains relatively high due to popularity and demand.

Loan Options

If financing your purchase, the Sportsman 106 can be financed at lower rates than a bass boat since it is not classified as a boat. Extended terms are available.

When you break down all the costs and compare value across other fishing vessels, the Old Town Sportsman 106 delivers capabilities and features that rival much more expensive boats. No question, it’s an investment – but one that can pay off for years to come if you take advantage of everything this pedal-powered fishing machine has to offer.

Where to buy the Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

Once you decide the Old Town Sportsman 106 is the right fishing kayak for you, the next step is figuring out where to buy it. Here are some of the best places to purchase the Sportsman 106 and popular Minn Kota trolling motor combinations:

Local Outdoor Stores

Many local outdoor, fishing, and boating retailers carry the Old Town Sportsman 106, especially in regions where kayak fishing is popular. This allows you to see the kayak in person before purchasing.

REI

While limited on trolling motor options, REI stocks the Old Town Sportsman 106 on its website and in select stores. You can use REI membership perks if purchasing here.

Austin Kayak

The online retailer Austin Kayak has a wide selection of Old Town Sportsman 106 bundles with various Minn Kota trolling motors. Provides discounted pricing when bundled.

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Dick’s offers limited Sportsman 106 kayak options on its website and in stores, but stocks various Minn Kota motors for pairing.

West Marine

Specializing in boating and watersports gear, West Marine is a go-to for Minn Kota trolling motors to outfit the Sportsman 106. Brick and mortar stores and online ordering available.

Amazon

Amazon provides the convenience of home delivery for Sportsman 106 orders. Trolling motors can also be bundled or purchased separately on Amazon.

Old Town Dealers

Finding an authorized Old Town dealer gives you expert advice and customer service on Old Town kayak purchases. The dealer locator on OldTownCanoe.com helps find retailers near you.

Minn Kota Dealers

Those looking for the best deal on Minn Kota trolling motors can check with local Minn Kota retailers. Their expertise helps find the best motor for your needs.

Craigslist

Sometimes you can find lightly used Sportsman 106 setups for sale on Craigslist from individuals or dealers. Provides potential cost savings on the package.

It’s worth exploring all available options to find the best Old Town Sportsman 106 and Minn Kota combination at the price you want. Consider convenience, selection, product expertise, and costs when choosing a retailer. And don’t hesitate to negotiate – most are willing to wheel and deal to earn your business!

Helpful resources for new kayak owners

Is The Old Town Sportsman 106 The Best Minn Kota Kayak? 14 Must-Know Things Before Buying

Purchasing your first fishing kayak like the Old Town Sportsman 106 can be both exciting and daunting. To help you learn the ropes, here are some of the best resources for new kayak anglers:

Instructional Videos

Video platforms like YouTube offer a wealth of free instructional content for getting started. Search “kayak fishing basics” or the specific topic you need help with.

Kayak Fishing Forums

Join forums like Kayak Bass Fishing or Kayak Fishing to connect with experienced anglers. Read threads or ask the community questions.

Facebook Groups

Join local and regional kayak fishing groups on Facebook to meet nearby anglers. Great for getting area advice.

Magazines and Books

Publications like Kayak Fisherman Magazine, Kayak Angler Magazine, and books like Kayak Fishing: The Ultimate Guide provide a wealth of knowledge.

Kayak Fishing Seminars

Attending free or paid seminars are a great way to gain hands-on advice from the pros. Check your local kayak shops for classes.

Meetups and Clubs

Join a kayak fishing meetup group or club to find fishing buddies and learn from their experience.

Guided Trips

Book a guided kayak fishing trip to see techniques in action and gain personal advice from a guide.

retailers

Shops that sell kayaks are go-to resources for advice on gear, accessories, local spots, and getting started.

Paddling Clubs

Joining a kayaking or paddling club helps you gain skills and meet helpful mentors to learn from.

Online Forums

Places like paddling.com and paddling.net have dedicated forums for asking questions and getting tips.

State Agencies

Your state’s wildlife, fishing, boating or parks agency often provides info on registering your kayak, fishing regulations and more.

Getting into kayak fishing has a learning curve, but thankfully there are plenty of resources to shortcut the process. Take advantage of free online videos, forums, clubs, retailers and publications to get up to speed.