I Didn’t Expect This! Fishing with the Old Town Autopilot

[@ramiromendez2514]

When you’re fishing in a bass boat using spot lock you learn to go to the opposite side of the hole so you are facing the wind and your boat is positioned in the right direction so you can effectively fish the spot. It’s all about boat position

[@Obxhatman]

The Spot Lock , spinning you around is inevitable however it is something they can possibly fix. The head of the trolling motor has the GPS locator built into it. Thus the difference between I Pilot and I Pilot Link. They could Program in a forward heading , IE the direction the kayaks nose is pointed and the direction of the head to push it true forward. If they can match those so they are in sync per say , then under windy conditions , when you hit spot lock , it can always keep the kayak in the correct orientation , while compensating for nose heading adjustments. That way you always point the direction you want to fish as well.

[@medeiros3610]

Just bought the same boat. Itching to get it slimy post icefishing season. Thanks for the video.

[@walte99]

So the issue you are having with GPS is just the nature of the GPS system. It will keep you on a spot...period. If you are in wind due to seasonal or geographic factors, you'll need to adjust. When you find a place you want to fish, approach from the downwind side and you should be good. I don't think there is anything reasonable they can do. Is there any other kayak that you can stay in one place, broadside to the wind? Also, I think Aliex has a source for lithium batteries that are less than the price you mentioned but I don't know the amp hour rating.

[@jerrypauling7809]

Using Aliex coupon code on his site gets you 5% off

[@MudDuckFishing]

Spotlock uses the least resistance. It’s just like using a single power pole. If your kayak/boat is sideways in current the front end is going to spin around and be down current. The motor is up front so if you do the same thing the back end will be down current. So both a pole and the trolling motor is a pivot point in those situations. I love having ipilot on my boat but the difference is I can just walk to the back of my boat when that happens. Kayak obviously you would have to stand up and turn around which could be annoying. There can be no fix for those situations unless you had another trolling motor in the back like you would have to have 2 power poles or use your power pole with spot lock to keep direction to prevent spinning. Not sure how well I worded that but I think you will know what I mean. 👍🎣

[@RXAngler]

Yes! Well explained.

[@arsan3686]

SPOT LOCK : Well one thing you can do is once spot lock is activated and you’re facing the direction you want, drop your micro anchor to keep the wind from spinning you.

[@jasontheryan]

Or, I thought this was the whole purpose of the rudder system, no?

[@ChoirAnthony]

I totally agree with you Arsan365👍. Not to criticize the tubers video, I just think *respectfully: this is a very unrealistic complaint.

[@michaelbandeko3519]

Pro and cons are subjective to the user. I have 4 Autopilots. 2 136's and 2 120's. Definitely get a lithium battery. Take a look at Ampere Time lithium batteries. Less than 1/2 the price of a Dakota Lithium. I use the 136's to fish from my sailboat in the Bahama's and I carry an extra 50 Amp battery as a ''Get Home" battery. Or use the petrol powered dinghy to tow the Yaks to where we're going to fish. It my understanding that OT wanted a stiff boat to stand up to the electric motor. If you look, you have 5 scuppers under your feet, those scuppers stiffen the deck. Minn-Kota has a hockey puck that works in conjunction with the trolling motor that is supposed to address the heading problem you mention and also gives you a jog function.

[@WestMichgolf44]

When facing the wind the let the kayak stop from forward motion then hit spot lock. Spot lock is best facing into the wind. If the wind is at your back it tends to 180.

[@jimbeauxjimenez1850]

Will that apply to the micro anchor also? Is it best to come to a standstill? I think that could be my issue. I've been poling down as i'm in that forward motion.

[@claudiaweber2127]

I liked your video, but not so keen on you lack of care for the fish you throw back. The “slime” on the fish is vital to protecting it from disease. Also, when returning the fish to the water, never go back and forth in the water, while you still have it in your grip, ONLY forward. The way to drown a fish, is to flood the gills going backward. No worries, I see a lot of fishermen make this mistake. Congratulations on your NEW kayak! 👍😎🎣💦🐟

[@mattfryar5171]

Glad you’re being honest about the pros and cons.

[@RXAngler]

Thanks my man! Just trying to be helpful as much as I can.

[@glenncolaco]

Also for spot lock, the direction of current and rudder direction makes a difference on which way the motor turns. You may need to use your rudder to make heading adjustments. I have gone through similar things with a boat.

[@RXAngler]

yea, its a learning curve for me...ill get the hang of it soon.

[@90Garfield]

BTW, I would think Spot Lock & the power pole and an anchor would give you a solid three points to hold you in position?

[@wolfdue2236]

I think you need a boat, even a small one...where you can seat, stand, walk about, and fish comfortably....hahaha

[@nickfrancipane2763]

Good job Nick ! Got him on your go to bait looks like the swimming Jack

[@Weshopwizard]

So does the hummingbird communicate with the trolling motor? Can you create tracks and save them in the gps?

[@sameh239]

Where did you purchase the power pole mount from?

[@BallisticSamFishing]

Dude nice Videos. My AP 120 will be to my dealer Sept. 6th!!! I can't freaking wait!!!

[@andrewmoe1192]

Try and use the heading feature in conjunction with the spot lock

[@jasontheryan]

and/or the rudder.

[@RJUnleashedVideos]

In a vid a saw if you hit the north button while on spot lock you will stay facing the direction when you hit the N.

[@Calamiti999Fine]

Curious, could you fit 2 lithium batteries in that big battery box (and rig it with a battery switch so you have a spare battery in case you need it to get back to shore) instead of that heavy deep cycle lead acid battery? Hoping to demo this kayak in the future. A couple of cheap 2-3# dumbbells with rope works better for me instead of fiddling with a power pole anchor or losing a grab handle, because I can anchor more quickly & hold my spot per the fish finder during current & wind....works great & saved a ton of money to use for fishing. That was a nice red you caught!

[@RXAngler]

Yes

[@PAKOREGON]

Do you know if the trolling motor is a brushed or brushless motor? Minn Kota has just started putting brushless motors in some of their high-end setups so I am guessing for this setup they are still using their old school brushed motor.

[@daviddura1172]

Hardcore David here........yup, even on my Topwater 120 pdl the back end "GRAB AND LIFT" has a lot to be desired... part of it is the rudder assembly area, and part of it is the simple cheaper to manufacture stern design. I guess ? N V US of the Hobie stern grab bars, but they put the rudder assembly UNDER and FORWARD of the stern,..... Not too many fish today but that unicorn was specially nice....a grand + for a battery? I may be pedaling for a while...... great video as usual......

[@RXAngler]

Thanks David!

[@BiggameTechJourney]

Awesome video def get this kayak once I move to California. Keep it up

[@PAKOREGON]

When you deploy the motor do you have to align the prop up/down so it fits through the slot? I am guessing when you stow the motor the hull is designed to align the prop so it will go through the slot.

[@RadReelingFishing]

Awesome edit. Your video transitions are so smooth. I'd love to find Redfish like that in my area. Good review of your first impressions. It will be interesting to see which of the negatives you've overcome by changing your approach to fishing from the kayak after the next ten times. I was just talking to a friend of mine today about how human nature tends to focus on the negatives more than the positives of something, crazy how that works. Keep them coming.

[@RXAngler]

Thanks buddy 👍

[@bigo8714]

Can you do a demonstration by flipping it over and re-entering it while on the water? Great video as always!!

[@fengrs]

Good vid but Im confused. Are you saying the spotlock motor is turning you around purposely when you start out facing the wind? Could you show us this on your next video? I would have thought spot lock would do the opposite of what you are saying. Just like tying an anchor to the front of your kayak, it would hold you facing the wind/current. Does sound annoying that it's happening to you and wouldn't be as nice as some are anticipating.

[@60jsumner]

How often do you use the power pole

[@robertkilburn3342]

Does your power pole contact the rudder when turning left?

[@MamboB]

Can you provide what this tailgate extension is?

[@slikrik6098]

Didn't they have side pocket for I think he said 3Plano boxes. Great honest review.

[@RXAngler]

Yes, the side slot carries the Plano boxes. But, I would prefer to have a hatch right in the middle near the feet for extra storage.

[@darylgranger9484]

Navarre Fishing Charters has a setup for that kayak to mount fish finder. I just went fishing with Nick & he showed me that. Also he makes transducer mounts for Kayak’s. Go to his KZbin channel & check it out.

[@FishATX]

Awesome review man! I've had my eyes on these kayaks ever since they were announced. I agree on every kayak needing a front hatch/storage. I'm currently missing that on mine too. But I'm definitely going to have Old Town as a possibility once I can upgrade. 🤘

[@RXAngler]

Sweet bro. It’s a hell of a platform. There’s always going to be room for improvements on all product that come out. But, make no mistake, it’s a fishing machine.

[@FishATX]

RX Angler Oh I can tell! No fish is safe! 😂

[@ronniekotler9265]

Hi I really enjoy your videos, what type of lithium battery are you thinking ?

[@jdeatherage27]

Another great video! Nice yak too. What do you use to beat the mosquitos? I went to Lagoon last the other day and sprayed a whole can of off and still the mosquitos covered me like a blanket. I had to quit. It was just too frustrating.

[@RXAngler]

Mosquitoes are annoying.

[@jerrypauling7809]

I found SPF 50 roll on sunscreen works better for mosquitos than off

[@jerrystephenson1172]

@@jerrypauling7809 Sunscreen & mosquito repellant will leave a chemical odor on your terminal tackle that fish can easily detect if you are not careful w/applying it. Fish have odor detection that works many times as well as a dog's.

[@lukeg3098]

Hey bro. I am new to watching your stuff but have quickly become a fan. If you dont mind me asking, where so you put in at in Gorda? I live in Richmond and I pretty much only want to go to Matagorda for bay fishing but am super new to it. I have tried the 3 mile cut once so far but got skunked. Just curious if you had a better spot to put in as I ran into issues of the water being super shallow for most of trip (6 to 12 inches). Thanks and keep up the awesome work.

[@RXAngler]

There’s a kayak launch right off of Beach Road.

[@latitude4517]

Been there dealing with that weight 80 lb boat and 40lbs of gear ... soon you will have a trailer

[@90Garfield]

A powered yak is the best of all worlds for fishing on a budget and getting into back waters and channels Let's be clear, it takes power to run the Minn. The Minn has power and efficiency curve data, that tells you where to run the motor most efficiently, to get the longest battery life. However, running the motor most efficiently will translate to speeds that are vastly different for each individual craft based on gross weight/displacement including; battery, gear, and person in the craft, plus wind and drag. So there's no question that a lithium battery provides power density and lower weight/amp. hour. It's just can the bank afford it. OK, good to know about the rear tracks, I thought just by looking at it, they didnt come close enough to the seat for easy access. What about the tackle storage area to the left of the seat, or under the seat. certainly rear handles are an issue, although I have not thought of a good solution. Also good to know about rod holder placement. I think side imaging would help when you are in slightly deeper water.

[@RXAngler]

good stuff on the battery information. the rear track mounts need to be closer to the seat in my opinion. also, the storage on this kayak is sufficient enough. the side of the seat can hold 3 plano boxes and there's no room under the seat for extra storage since the battery box sits there. the tank well is huge tho. putting stuff back there is a way to manage your tackle. but, i prefer a front hatch like the hobie's have. in my opinion, it makes changing out baits and lures easier. fish finder with side imaging cost more money so i had to settle with a regular helix 7.

[@FishingFloridaWithKO]

I'll stick to my Hobie Mirage outback 😘😁 this one seems like too heavy, too much tech to worry about, nightmares with battery weight and life while you fish,... And too much money. Almost 5 grand with battery plus stuff. Someone might want to invest in a Jon boat or aluminum boat for that price with a decent motor and much more room and comfort.. Great videos my brother 😎 👍

[@tailslapexplore6887]

How much is the 360 ?

[@FishingFloridaWithKO]

@@tailslapexplore6887 360 is expensive as well. I have the 180 turbo, 2017 Camo edition and very happy with it. They are not worth the price for extra max 2 hrs life while on the water! It's not like you can go 5 plus miles out and fish and cong back.. Technology not there yet for kayaks. Batteries makes it too heavy and it's still too slow with 45lb thrust.. 3.5 mph, i do that with my 180 turbo drive. . The best feature, Spot lock, doesn't work the way it suppose to either looks like.. No bueno in my opinion. I just find a great spot to unload the kayak so I don't have to cover long distance to get to my fishing spot.. Plus high winds and waves, takes water from the front too. So not safe for ocean either.. 🙈Watch Aleix video he just put out...

[@RedfishInc]

Its actually closer to $4000 with the battery.

[@FishingFloridaWithKO]

@@RedfishInc it is advertised $3799 without the battery. Only the battery box. That's the 120 model with auto pilot. Battery is almost a grand if you get the best Lithium Ion battery 👀🙈😁 nice kayak.. But in my opinion, it's not ready yet..

[@Huflung]

Kaan what issues does spot lock have ?

[@jerry-381]

I'm with ya on the center hatch. I won't buy a kayak without one lol. How was the drive through the sand to get to the launch?

[@RXAngler]

center hatch makes my life easier

[@neal4reel723]

I need a fishing trip with you !

[@johnsarabia6001]

Great video. Is hobie coming out with a motor as well? Also, is the lighter lithium battery have more storage capacity and when you going to get yours?

[@RXAngler]

Lithium will be lighter and smaller in profile. The battery goes into its own box on the kayak.

[@tkk85]

Install the motor after the boats in the water

[@danieledwards2296]

Like the layout but battery doesn’t last long put a pedal drive on it would be awesome

[@RXAngler]

Hopefully we will see something like that in the near future.

[@nikiahenderson2047]

Nice Work and Super Nice Kayak!

[@RXAngler]

Thanks!

[@brokeandbored85]

The Tesla of water

[@dominickzappola2429]

Great information thank you

[@tonetone111222]

What's the name of that song

[@bucmcmaster]

Spot lock is nothing more than an anchor and just like with any anchor the boat will pivot to face wind and/or current. Boat positioning is the secret.

[@chrisaguirre7018]

Always clip that paddle. Lost mine once.

[@romeroharris6008]

LIFEPO4 batteries are even better then lithium ion batteries and you get more cycles out of them. Just a suggestion in my opinion.

[@andrewilliams1518]

I may get one next year

[@RXAngler]

Sweet! You’ll enjoy it if you did.

[@rmedina8171]

Thought it might be too expensive, but compared to a used bass boat and all the problems you might end up with, this doesn't seem too bad

[@joseurena5247]

One thing I don’t like about my old town autopilot it doesn’t support ipilot link so I can network my kayak

[@andrewilliams1518]

Your Jonny never had the 8 ball Steering trolling motor

[@gabrielm.4554]

plano 3600 box should solve your isssues... just put under your seat.

[@johnnycopus211]

My view is that this kayak defeats the purpose of having a kayak in the first place, too heavy, too much “gear” on it and battery life and speed is not impressive. Simplicity is the reason a lot of people got into kayak fishing to begin with. The boat, a paddle and a rod and reel, that is being in touch with the water

[@jerrypauling7809]

A motor helps us older folks get along

[@RXAngler]

indeed...

[@andrewh.8848]

I agree with you johnny. I used a regular kayak many times while fishing. Then I toyed with the idea of upgrading and buying a kayak and all the "necessary gear" to make it easier to fish from. I just ended up buying a small center console boat for about the same amount of money. Now I dont have to fight the wind with a paddle or mirage drive to get back to the boat launch. Anyhow, to each their own. Buy what works for you. I love this channel and support what these guys are doing. RX Angler , you and MDLR do a fantastic job. Peace.

[@paulf9653]

This is a great option for getting to and from a more remote spot but I think my Outback is a FAR superior fishing platform. Way too heavy and hard to handle in skinny water and tight spots. Not enough storage and poor ergonomics from what I'm seeing. Great idea but needs improvements.

[@kirkshammett94]

Do u ever take the Outback on rivers? That’s what’s holding me back and I mainly fly fish

[@paulf9653]

@@kirkshammett94 never been in a “river” per say, as I mainly fish marsh, but definitely been in some high current channels. It does really well but you’ll get some splash over the bow in the bigger waves.

[@glenncolaco]

Why don't you look at an AGM battery for now, much cheaper than Li battery, and lighter than a flooded lead acid.

[@RXAngler]

I’ll take a look at it.

[@glenncolaco]

@@RXAngler Shallow water guys use Optima deep cycles in their super shallow boats. That's prob what I will get next.

[@jerrypauling7809]

@@glenncolaco I have one going on 10 years but they are 100 dollar more now than what I paid

[@glenncolaco]

@@jerrypauling7809 ya, but still way cheaper than a li ion battery! Will take it.

[@luketw2818]

Get a Dakota lithium battery pack. It will cut down your weight to under 100 again.

[@RXAngler]

I would if it was waterproof

[@chuckratcliff2429]

Everything your talking about can be fixed with mods and a little getting used to your trolling motor controls...

[@johnodell2074]

get a NuCanoe