Best Fishing Kayak With Motor for Hands-Free Trolling and Longer Reach

Answering the search intent for a motorized fishing kayak, this guide highlights top picks that combine trolling-motor tech with stable platforms for anglers. These models suit different boaters: beginners may prefer steady, easy-to-paddle options with motor assist, while seasoned anglers seek GPS anchoring and ample on-board storage. Below, you’ll find a quick product comparison and detailed sections to help you choose the right motorized kayak for your days on the water.

Product Motor Type / Power Best For Why It Stands Out
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Minn Kota trolling motor with i-Pilot Serious anglers who want precise positioning Spot-Lock and GPS navigation speed up trips to productive spots
Spatium 11.5ft Flipper Pedal Drive Electric assist with Y02 motor Shallow-water and obstacle-rich spots Flipper Fin pedal system reduces tangles and keeps you moving
Pelican Catch Mode 110 Manual paddle with Ergoboost seating Easy-access, all-day comfort-friendly trips Very comfortable seating and solid gear rails for accessories
Old Town Sportsman 106 Minn Kota trolling motor Budget-friendly motorized option Compact size with strong accessory mounting options
Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 GPS-enabled Minn Kota motor with i-Pilot Large-boat feel in a kayak platform Extended cockpit space and robust anchoring capability

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Motorized Kayak

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Kayak

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Best for anglers who want hands-free casting with precise GPS Positioning. The AutoPilot 120 uses a saltwater-ready Minn Kota trolling motor and i-Pilot remote to navigate to spots and hold position via Spot-Lock. Motor battery not included. It includes customizable accessory tracks, cushioned floor pads, a tackle box, and multiple rod holders. Choose this if you want a premium motorized platform with reliable anchoring for long days on the water. Caution: Battery and charging setup vary by model and are not included here.

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Solo

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Solo Kayak

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Best for solo anglers who want to reach productive areas quickly and stay put with hands-free stability. This model features a GPS-enabled Minn Kota motor and Spot-Lock for anchored positioning. It shares the same high-convenience features as other Old Town Sportsman kayaks, including optional accessory tracks and ample rod storage. Limitation: motor battery is not included, which affects the ready-to-run setup.

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136

Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 136 Kayak

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Best for bigger water bodies or longer trips where more space is beneficial. The AutoPilot 136 adds extended cockpit comfort and the same GPS-enabled steering with i-Pilot. It’s well-suited for anglers who want to cover larger areas while maintaining hands-free control. Note: motor battery is not included, so plan for compatible power options and charging.

Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota

Old Town Sportsman 106 Kayak

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Best for budget-conscious buyers who still want motor-assisted propulsion. This 10 ft 6 in kayak provides a compact, maneuverable platform with Minn Kota’s low-profile motor and compatible accessory mounts. Motor battery not included. Choose this if you need a more portable option that still supports hands-free fishing with motor assistance.

Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak

Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak

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Best for anglers who prioritize seating comfort and built-in accessory rails. The Ergoboost seating system offers adjustable height and posture. It includes two 4″ rigging tracks, multiple storage options, and three rod holders. This model is motorless but pairs well with added electric assist in compatible setups. Limitation: lacks standard motor integration in the base package, so you must arrange a motor separately if desired.

Pelican Catch Mode 110 Fishing Kayak – Granite

Pelican Catch Mode 110 Granite

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Best for standing-friendly fishing with premium ballast and storage. The kayak features ErgoBoost seating, front and rear tank wells, and dual paddle/rod tie-downs for hands-free operation when casting. It’s a stable, comfortable option with robust rigging tracks for accessories. Caution: heavier setup may require extra storage space and transport planning.

Buying Guide

What should you consider when selecting a motorized fishing kayak? Start with propulsion type and battery needs. Minn Kota i-Pilot GPS features offer hands-free navigation and precise anchoring, but batteries and mounts vary by model. If you plan to fish in shallow or complex waters, a pedal or electric-assist system like the Spatium can minimize entanglements and provide steady control. Space and weight capacity matter for gear-heavy days, so compare cockpit dimensions and accessory tracks.

Other important factors include seating comfort, standing stability, and the availability of rod holders, storage, and transducer mounting options. For solo trips, a compact model may be ideal, while larger models suit multi-day sessions or bigger lakes. Always verify that the motor and battery configuration matches your local waterway rules and safety requirements.

Quick selection tips by scenario:

  • Best for GPS anchoring: Old Town AutoPilot models with Spot-Lock.
  • Best for shallow or obstacles: Spatium with Flipper Fin pedal drive and electric assist.
  • Best value with strong storage: Pelican Catch Mode 110 family.
  • Best for compact transport: Old Town 106 powered by Minn Kota.
  • Best for larger waters: Old Town AutoPilot 136 with extended cockpit space.

FAQ

  • What is i-Pilot on Old Town kayaks? It is a GPS-enabled remote system that controls Minn Kota trolling motors for automated navigation and position holding.
  • Do these models include motor batteries? Batteries are not included in the listed data; plan to purchase compatible units separately.
  • Is a motor required to use these kayaks? No, many are designed for both pedal or paddle use, but motorized options provide hands-free fishing advantages.
  • What should I consider about weight and transport? Larger models like the AutoPilot 136 offer more cockpit space but require a suitable vehicle and trailer setup for transport.
  • Are there safety considerations with standing while fishing? Many models feature wide, stable decks and anti-slip surfaces to reduce tipping risk; always wear a personal flotation device.
  • Can I mount a fish finder on these kayaks? Several models include through-hull wiring kits and universal transducer mounts for easier installation.