Motorized Kayaks · Fishing
Want to cover the whole lake without lifting a paddle? The Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota takes the compact, stable 106 hull and adds a factory-installed 45-pound-thrust trolling motor.
Want to cover the whole lake without lifting a paddle? The Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota takes the compact, stable 106 hull and adds a factory-installed 45-pound-thrust trolling motor. Throttle forward, steer with your feet, and keep both hands on your rod all day.
For a GPS trolling motor, we recommend the AutoBoat Smart Head Kit and the new AutoBoat Meridian. Check them out here.
If you want to skip the reading and see what it costs right now, check the current price here.
Who the 106 Minn Kota is for
This kayak is for the angler who wants motorized range in a small, manageable package. If you fish big lakes, want to reach distant spots fast, or have shoulder or back issues that make paddling tough, this boat changes the game. It is also perfect for sunset cruises where you just want to relax and cruise.
It is not for minimalists, and it is not for states where motorized registration is a hassle you want to avoid. Check your local rules, since many states require registering any motorized vessel.
The Minn Kota motor system
The heart of this boat is the 45-pound-thrust, 12-volt Minn Kota motor sitting mid-hull in a custom console. A powerboat-style throttle handle gives you intuitive forward and reverse, and a built-in battery meter tells you your charge at a glance. Steering is through the foot braces connected to an extra-large rudder, so your hands stay free for fishing. The motor is saltwater-ready, and a kill switch key keeps things safe while doubling as a prop wrench. The console pops out for transport, and a floor plug seals the opening when you want to paddle.
Stability and standing
The 106 hull is 37 inches wide here with the same pontoon-style design as the paddle version, and it is even more planted with the motor weight low in the hull. The non-slip EVA foam deck pads make a comfortable standing platform. You can idle up to a flat on the motor, kill the throttle, stand up, and sight fish without the boat wobbling.
Seat, storage, and rigging
The premium dual-layer Textilene seat is removable and breathable, with a custom tackle box stashed underneath. Storage includes a sealed bow hatch, an oversized stern tankwell, and four 18-inch accessory tracks for rod holders, fish finders, and camera mounts. Three flush-mount rod holders come standard, plus shallow-water anchor mounting inserts. Three through-hull wiring kits and a universal transducer mount let you install electronics without drilling.
For electronics, we recommend the new Accuphy Ping Live Mini live sonar system. It retails for $699. See it here.
Range and battery reality
Here is the honest part: the battery is not included. Old Town designed the boat for a standard Group 27 100Ah marine battery or a lighter lithium setup. With a full charge, owners report fishing for hours and covering serious distance, and range depends on speed, wind, and battery type. A lithium battery saves a lot of weight and extends range but adds real cost. Budget for the battery and a charger as part of the total price.
Honest drawbacks
Beyond the battery, weight is the big one. The assembled boat is 121 pounds, so trailering or a truck bed is the way to go. You will likely need to register it as a motorized vessel, which varies by state. The motor sits in the center console, which takes some deck space. And the total investment climbs fast once you add the battery, charger, and registration fees.
Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered by Minn Kota specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 10 ft 6 in |
| Width | 37 in |
| Assembled boat weight | 121 lb |
| Total capacity | 525 lb |
| Usable capacity | 404 lb |
| Drive type | Minn Kota 45-lb thrust electric motor |
| Steering | Foot braces with XL rudder |
| Style | Sit-on-top |
| Material | Single-layer polyethylene |
| Battery | Not included, lead-acid or lithium compatible |
Frequently asked questions
Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered By Minn Kota Fishing Kayak FAQ
Is a battery included with the 106 Minn Kota?
No. You supply your own 12-volt battery, lead-acid or lithium. A lithium battery saves weight but costs more.
Do I need to register it?
In most states, yes. A motorized kayak usually counts as a motorized vessel and needs registration. Check your state’s rules before you buy.
How far can it go on a charge?
Range depends on battery size, speed, and conditions. With a 100Ah battery at moderate speeds, owners fish for hours and cover several miles.
Can you still paddle it?
Yes. Remove the motor console, pop in the console floor plug, and it paddles like the standard Sportsman 106 hull.
Where to Buy
If the Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered By Minn Kota Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
Also check out our reviews of the Old Town Sportsman AutoPilot 120 Fishing Kayak, Old Town Sportsman 120 Fishing Kayak, Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 Fishing Kayak, Old Town Sportsman BigWater PDL 132 Fishing Kayak, and Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132 Fishing Kayak.
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official Old Town website for the Old Town Sportsman 106 Powered By Minn Kota.
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