12'
Length
27.75"
Width (in)
49
Weight (lb)
$829.99
MSRP

Dirigo 120 Description

One of the most popular recreational kayaks we have ever sold. The award winning Dirigo 120 is beloved for its optimal size and easy-to-paddle design. A roomy cockpit and excellent initial stability make this a perfect choice for almost anyone. Easy grip thigh pads help make the Dirigo 120 efficient and easy to control and maneuver on the water. Equipped with a comfortable seat and a stern Click Seal Hatch with bulkhead, the durable Dirigo 120 is all you need to get started in the sport of kayaking.

Dirigo 120 Specs and Features

  • Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
  • Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
  • Seating Configuration: Solo
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Additional Attributes

  • Contoured Poly Seats
  • Glide Track foot brace system
  • Click Seal hatch with bulkhead
  • Glove box hatch for cell phone, keys, etc.
  • Safety perimeter line
  • Deck bungee
  • Retractable carry handles
  • Paddle keeper
  • Thigh pads
  • Cup holders
  • Stabil-form™ hull design
  • Drain Plug

Old Town Canoe and Kayak
Dirigo 120 Reviews

Read reviews for the Dirigo 120 by Old Town Canoe and Kayak as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

Embed these reviews on your site

3

I am somewhat disappointed…

Submitted by: paddler2890887 on 5/17/2024

I am somewhat disappointed in my new kayak. I bought a Dirigo 106 and 120 back in 2008 or 2009. I usually use the 120 and have always loved it. I just bought the new version as my old one was starting to seem a little thin/flimsy on the bottom. Still a smooth ride and tracks well with a roomy cockpit, but I wish I had just stayed with the old one. Honestly, I may keep using it. The only pro to the new version is drainage around the hatch, so water does not pool around it. Cons: the kayak seems cheaply made. The seat is actually less comfortable and less adjustable than the older one. The thigh pad areas are very narrow so the edge presses into your legs. The worst change is the hatch. The old hatch was hinged with two handles you turned. It was easy to use and stayed dry. With the most recent hatch you have to remove the whole thing. It is difficult to do with the kayak sitting on the ground and me standing over it. There is no way I will be able to reach behind me while sitting in the cockpit to open or close that hatch. You cannot return it once you try it so beware...if you loved your old dirigo, the new one has changed for the worse.

4

I have taken it out on…

Submitted by: paddler1615976 on 7/28/2021

I have taken it out on lakes, rivers, and bays. They have to improve the seat though. I bought an Old Town seat that has thigh support and more padding. This style of seat should be included with this kayak. It is a great kayak other wise.

5

this is a fantastic kayak…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/3/2021

this is a fantastic kayak that I bought at Saco Bound up in Conway New Hampshire. Tracks very well. It’s rather heavy compared to a Pungo but then again it’s a lot faster and I don’t have to concentrate as much to keep them on track. As I get older I find it’s a little more difficult to get the thing up on the car rack, But other than that it is a fantastic ride. You won’t be disappointed.

5

Bought 2 for husband and I.…

Submitted by: paddler835614 on 7/26/2020
Bought 2 for husband and I. Very happy with quality. Going 70 mph. On interstate. Both flew off the truck sailed through the air, hit the road,and slid about 100ft down the road. Still intact. Scuffed up but that is it. Good quality product. Great on the water. Impressed with tracking and stability.
4

Have had 2 of these kayaks…

Submitted by: paddler773828 on 5/9/2020
Have had 2 of these kayaks for over 12 years. I have had no issues and always my goto ride when the water is just opening up. I live in South East Ontario. I have taken the kayak out early May late April just as the ice has come off the water. The large cockpit, is easy in and out. The seat is comfortable, the dry well is great for car keys and small amount of cash if required. I have taken the kayak out on a 12 hour paddle and portage trip down the Barron Canyon in Algonquin Park. It is hard to carry for a portage for long distances, but super comfortable for long day trips. I am 6'2, 250 pounds. I have let my young children paddle in the Dirigo and had no issues of them paddling alone in the boat. I like the stable, the comfort and after 12 years of paddling it. Still in great shape, this year I am going to replace the bungy cords, that is all the work i have done to them other then clean the hull each season
5

I was looking a for a good…

Submitted by: paddler427926 on 5/4/2020
I was looking a for a good all around boat for paddling most places in the lower peninsula of Michigan. Types of paddling I was looking for with this boat are small to medium sized rivers class 1, and small lakes and inlets. I wanted something better than a big box store brand with a good reputation. It also needed to carry me a 6 foot 235 lbs man with some extra gear. I love this boat! It is well made, tracks well, has plenty of room for short trips, and is very stable. It does not turn on a dime but what 12' boats do? The only thing I would have taken a half star away for is that there is a rough edge under the front edge of the cockpit that sometimes scrapes my legs but I have learned to avoid it. I would recommend this boat to anyone looking to paddle the same type of waters. This boat is my baby!
5

Review - Short version- I…

Submitted by: paddler524178 on 7/8/2019

Review - Short version- I bought this kayak a few weeks ago. It tracks/paddles well, feels stable, has nice features, and is roomy and comfortable during a day of paddling. Long version- I've wanted a "utility" sit-in kayak for fishing and lighter weight when I need to get into isolated ponds and river accesses. I chose this kayak because usually 12 foot kayaks track better than 10', At 12', the weight of this boat is still very manageable considering its size. I've since paddled on flat water, significant upstream current, and some tough technical rocky and swift river sections (Class 2ish); spending hours at a time in the seat fishing and paddling. Stability- It is very stable and confidence inspiring. I paddled it with a weight of about 240lbs; me, tackle, and daily provisions. There's no issues with room for gear or drafting too deeply. The stability is very "natural" feeling; It rolls to a very definite point where my center of gravity stops further roll with the water line well below the cockpit opening. My impression; after experiencing flat water, and some more challenging sections, is the stability benefits from the width and low center of gravity in the water. Overall, It was very stable while fishing, and all the activities that come with fishing in currents. Tracking- It seems to track very well even with my sometimes poor paddle technique. It does not randomly wander or have any apparent tracking quirks. Comfort - The seat was one of my main criteria when I was looking at kayaks, and I was seriously looking at more expensive sit-in kayaks with frame seats. The seat is very good, but is where I would knock maybe a half star. Why? Compared to some similar competition at this price point, the seat has less padding and lacked thigh support and back rest height adjustments. The seat back was fine for me, but the bottom is where some padding could be added. Still, it is not uncomfortable at all, but just could be improved slightly. Other features- The storage in the stern is ample and stayed dry when the boat got frequently swamped. The smaller storage in the cockpit is nice for storing your keys and some essentials, but the size does not allow storing your phone. The footrests outshine competitors for ease of adjustment. The adjustment is very easy to reach with your hands and works flawlessly. My boat came with rod holders which are located within easy reach. The cockpit is roomy and allows you to keep items manageably near. I put a small 6 can cooler behind the seat and I had room to unzip and retrieve items without too much effort while still in the seat. Even with a cooler there, I had room to easily store more items in the area like an anchor a. Entry and exit is as easy or easier that a canoe. I found it comfortable to enter this way since that worked well because the boat is stable, has a large open cockpit, and worked well getting unpinned in swift shallows. My experience paddling is on flat water and open water. I've had competing brand sit-on-top kayaks for 20 years and an Old Town Camper canoe for 25 years.

2

I purchased this kayak about…

Submitted by: paddler517487 on 6/24/2019

I purchased this kayak about 3 years ago. I have a camp on a small lake and have used it fewer than 15 times for usually a half-hour at a time. We decided to buy this one instead of a cheap one we could buy at a big store because we thought it would last.

This year, I got the kayak out to use for the first time and the seat is completely broken. The plastic did not hold up. It is unusable. I contacted Old Town and they basically said, "too bad" and suggested I contact the retailer where I purchased it to see if they would help me.

I will never purchase any Old Town product again.

1

Look at the plastic hinges…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/24/2019

Look at the plastic hinges connecting the seat. It's a very fragile design. Mine broke after 3 years (maybe 15 outings) and old Town told me they would not do anything for me. I had to spend 150 dollars on a replacement seat. I'll never buy old town again.

4

We have never kayaked before…

Submitted by: paddler237065 on 8/29/2016
We have never kayaked before and went to a location in Oromocto, NB Canada and talked with the owner. He let us try two different kayaks and we both purchased the one we tried. I purchased the Dirigo 12, really like it, sometimes does steer as well as the Necky Rip 12 that my BF bought, but I really do enjoy mine.
5

Borrowed this boat and loved…

Submitted by: DaMP on 8/28/2016
Borrowed this boat and loved it. Have said if owner was ever interested in selling them I'd happily take at least one off his hands.
Very durable and comfortable boat.
Felt good in the seat, which was excellent quality.

Paddled very well, had no struggle to go where I wanted, and the added length really helped with the tracking as I'm used to 10 ft boats.
I really enjoyed this boat and it may well be my next purchase.

4

My wife and I have started…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/11/2016
My wife and I have started kayaking in the past couple of years. In the past we would either rent or borrow. I was looking for a good Kayak as a entry level for use mainly on flat water. I had a Old Town Canoe 30 years ago and so that is where I went looking. I found the Diringo 120 at the Gander Mtn. It had the capacity I was looking for and was priced right. The Kayak is great. If I have one problem is it seems to track right some times. I have had it through some Class 2 rapids and it preforms very well. It is a stable boat and I would recommend it to anyone.
4

I've owned two Dirigo 120s.…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/10/2016
I've owned two Dirigo 120s. They're not the sleekest kayaks, but I'm convinced that they're ARE the most comfortable kayaks. They track just fine and there's plenty of room for you and all of your gear.
5

Additional thoughts: I…

Submitted by: RikJohnson on 6/28/2016

Additional thoughts: I reviewed this boat a few years ago and have a few additional comments.

First of all, I STILL prefer this as my Default Kayak. It is small enough to get into places the larger boats cannot such as that maze to reach Island Lake on the Colorado River. I made it through while the longer boats waited in the current for me to explore and return. And it is large enough to carry whatever I need with a large stern hatch opening.

I have taken this down the Colorado River and Apache Lake and such on any number of trips from day-trips to week-long camping events and it hauls what I need easily and even with 172# of gear plus me, it performs well.

I have since purchased a Perception Carolina-145 and a Current Designs Whistler-145 for extended camping trips for only one reason, and this is the one failure of the Dirago... The Dirago is NOT made to paddle upriver against the current. Downriver, no problem at all. So I needed a longer & narrower boat to paddle up the Colorado.

Even when I take a group on a lake, I let my paddle-buddies use the Carolina and Whistler as I prefer the Dirago.

Frankly, I have treated this boat terribly and made many mods to the thing and STILL, it paddles well and remains my favorite Kayak.

note & disclaimer: tis review refers to the older Dirago-12 and not the newer ones.

5

We have had our kayaks for 5…

Submitted by: paddler236890 on 6/22/2016
We have had our kayaks for 5 years. Two years ago we bought a 10 foot one for our daughter. We wish we would have stuck with another 12. The 10 is fine, but the 12 tracks better. We absolutely love our kayaks! They are extremely sturdy & durable! We bought a cheap box store one for our daughter before buying the Old Town 10 ft. That thing is junk, flips all the time and the material is very thin. We stack all of our kayaks for hauling in our camper and they hold their shape well. Some of our friends that are first time kayakers want to buy their own kayak after using ours. These kayaks are awesome!
5

This yak is awesome; floated…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/6/2016
This yak is awesome; floated buffalo in ar. and am going back; this yak drew attention every where i went; it is so good, I cant give enough kudos; it is that good; I have used and owned a lot of canoes and yaks; this one is at the top; it is that good; wont track straight for a long haul, but its not supposed to; will turn on a dime, and is very stable; will turn when u want and will glide too. My friends kept wanting to use it. I love it.
4

Wife & I have had ours for 5…

Submitted by: paddler236611 on 4/29/2016
Wife & I have had ours for 5 yrs.,and have them rigged for fishing. We also do some fast waters in lower peninsula of MI-Pine,Sturgeon,Pere Marquette-etc. Except for the weight issue, we couldn't be happier with them. In a way-the weight is what will keep them from wearing out on rocks-sand bars etc. Great yaks.
4

I am relatively new to…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 4/25/2016
I am relatively new to paddling. Typically rent tandems two to three times a year to get out with the kids. In the market for single kayaks now that the kids are little older and we all enjoy it. We recently tested the Dirigo 120 while camping (thank you fellow camper) and we loved it. The family we borrowed it from raved about it and I can see why.

The cockpit is large enough and didn’t feel confining. It was easy enough to get in and out of with no issues. We were on a flat lake and it tracked very well and was easy to paddle. Stability was great and the kayak moved well through the calm waters. Plenty of room for storage and seemed to be well built. My wife and I were both able to load this onto our vehicle without trouble. We were very impressed and are considering these for purchase.

5

I am new to kayaking. After…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/15/2015
I am new to kayaking. After renting a few rec kayaks and tons of research, I purchased a new Dirigo 120 Angler. It suits my needs perfectly. Set up just right for fishing, adequate storage space. Good initial and secondary stability and better on-water speed and responsiveness than I expected. Well-built without being too heavy.
4

Bought this for the wife 2…

Submitted by: padlfut on 9/14/2015
Bought this for the wife 2 years ago, it was a blem but I couldn't see any problems, got it for half price off new. She is very happy with it. This is her second kayak, her first was a 10 foot Otter. She could never keep up with me in that, now she can keep up with me no problem. I paddle a 14 foot Dirigo and like it very much. Nice lines, tracks straight, plenty of room, great little boat.
4

I purchased an Old Town…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/9/2015
I purchased an Old Town Dirigo 120 Angler as my first kayak. Although it is my first kayak, I am not a new paddler. Most of my experience has been paddling tandem canoes both tandem and solo. I wanted this yak for fishing but also all-around paddling and it has fit the bill perfectly. For its size it paddles effortlessly and responsively. Its big enough to hold a small, soft side cooler behind the seat, drybag with extra cold weather clothing in the bow beyond my feet, a tackle box on the deck under the supplied bungee system and there is ample space in the rear dry storage hatch for sleeping bag, small tent and overnight supplies. Even with all of this space, I am able to fit the footrests and seat to fit me snug, with good knee and thigh contact inside the cockpit so I am able to control it easily in rougher flat water and slow streams/rivers. So rather than a recreational/fishing kayak, it is more like a cross-over. I have outfitted it with a spray skirt that keeps me dry in cooler weather.

It is a plastic boat but it is sturdy, with thicker material than the bargain boats I've seen at the box stores. At 50# its still manageable in loading onto my vehicle roof rack. The deck lashing and dry storage are put together well and secure. The hatch stays in place and keeps water out, even when I dump it intentionally to practice deep water re-entry. The deck cubby with screw-on lid is not really dry, I'm still working on placing a rubber o-ring to try to keep my phone and other small items dry there. The rod holder is your standard adjustable one like is available at Cabelas and such.

I was not impressed with the anchor trolley system because it only came with stern to cockpit trolley system. That was easy to modify by rearranging the installed eyelets to rig a full-length of boat system. That way I can anchor from either the bow or stern which suits my needs more readily.

As for stability, both initial and secondary are superb and much better than most rental recreation yaks I've used. And speed? Yes, it has some, effortless paddling and good tracking and I've learned to heel the hull over to each side with my strokes and it really flies. I didn't realize it until people, strangers really, have been at my take-out and commented on how fast I move across the water.

So I would definitely recommend this as a beginner to moderate paddler.
I should mention I guess that I am 5'9", 200# and it fits me great. Lots more room for a taller person.

4

I won this kayak from…

Submitted by: BVJimmy1969 on 9/8/2015
I won this kayak from Paddling.net just about a year ago, but only had 2 times to take it out before this summer. I live in Michigan off a lake so I primarily use it there and as some other users have mentioned, it tracks fine on flat water. As soon as you hit waves it takes a little more muscle to move about. I also own a Vapor 10 and compare this to that one all the time. The differences between the two are noticeable such as the seat which in the Vapor is fine but you need something behind your back as a soft rest while in the Dirigo 120 the seat back has a soft area while the seat part is comparable to the Vapor. The cup holder between your legs is oddly shaped and I had quite a time finding something to fit it, but never fear because the front cup holder fits most standard bottle/can shapes, is sturdy and is easily reachable. Next to the front cup holder is the watertight glove box which fits my iPhone, keys and lighter with space to spare. Behind the seat is a small storage area which is smaller on this than the Vapor due to this one having the locking hatch - plus mine is the angler version so the rod holders take up some space as well. The hatch took a couple of times to work it in so it closes quickly but is basically "water tight", but I would advise using the glove box or bring a dry bag as well for important stuff. Also, the thigh pads on this are better and thicker than the Vapor.

Overall I like this rig because I can fish out of it for a long period of time or take it out for a paddle on the lake and be very comfortable the entire time. I put this in a race at Belle Isle and put up a respectable (but nowhere near winning) time, so if you want speed this is not your rig. However if you want a quality stable rig with some added bells and whistles this should be right for you.

5

The Dirigo kayak is a great…

Submitted by: Coopb117 on 8/19/2015
The Dirigo kayak is a great kayak. It is easy to paddle. The cockpit is big and doesn't feel confining, and it is easy to get in and out of. The kayak tracked well in the flat water that a paddled it in. It has plenty of storage for day trips, and a dry hatch that stays relatively dry. This is a great kayak and if you decide to buy one this should be an option.
5

The Dirigo is a nice kayak.…

Submitted by: Coopb117 on 8/19/2015
The Dirigo is a nice kayak. It has good stability, good storage, is easy to get in and out of, has good tracking, and is easy to paddle. It tracks well in flat water, I have not used it in rougher waters but I imagine that it would be fine. I would definitely buy this.
4

I have the 2007 version of…

Submitted by: Japi on 7/7/2015
I have the 2007 version of the Dirigo 120, which was back when they still used the poly link 3 construction method. This made for a heavier boat then currently available (54 pounds compared to the current 50), but it has stood up to many years of abuse.

This is not a fast boat, and it isn't the best at turning when going downstream. In non-moving water it is easier to turn. It does track fairly straight, but if you try to paddle much over 4 mph (which takes quite a bit of effort), it really is pushing a ton of water. You will want a big blade paddle if you will need to make quick turns going downriver.

It is very stable, and the huge cockpit makes entry/exit easy. I primarily use this on NJ pine barrens rivers and the easy entry/exit is useful for climbing over obstacles. The boat has a very flat bottom, but it is sufficiently stiff that it pops back into the correct shape after going over semi-submerged trees.

The back hatch is great, I can easily open/close it while sitting in the boat. I have never had a problem with the bulk head leaking, and the back hatch is reasonably dry. The primary cup holder is a weird size, it won't fit a nalgene bottle, but it is large for smaller bottles. A 1 liter steel bottle is what fits the best. The seat is comfortable, the back rest is as well. The deck rigging is basic, but sufficient.

Overall a nice boat for lazy rivers and strong enough to take the abuse of uncleared rivers, just don't expect to win any races or be able to maneuver like the cross-over boats.

5

I bought my 120 Dirigo in…

Submitted by: jar6300 on 7/5/2015
I bought my 120 Dirigo in late march of this year. I paddle up and down creeks and rivers here in central Indiana, and it handles great even in high water. I like to hunt sandbars for things like arrowheads, old bottles etc. So as you can imagine I'm in and out of the kayak a lot. The Dirigo 120 is a dream to get in and out of. I also use it on local lakes. I only wish that I had bought one years ago.
5

Just recently purchased this…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 7/1/2015
Just recently purchased this as my first Kayak. I really do like this boat. My wife and I have used a tandem many times but it was time to get individual kayaks. It tracks well and is very stable. Old Town makes a very good quality kayak.
5

Love this kayak, use it all…

Submitted by: paddler235860 on 9/29/2014
Love this kayak, use it all year round for hunting fishing and just enjoying nature highly recommend this boat as a fisherman
5

This kayak is very smooth and…

Submitted by: paddler235993 on 9/18/2014
This kayak is very smooth and fast, I feel like I have so much control of it while paddling or even floating. I'd recommend this kayak to all of my friends plus I'd love to have another.
4

Purchased a year ago and used…

Submitted by: Wonderjohn on 9/10/2014
Purchased a year ago and used 4 times. Some manufacturing quality issues such as leaking rear bulk head and seat, back strap tearing out. Contacted customer service and they are in process of sending repair items.
+ they are sending out repair items free
- poor initial manufacturing
- repairs have to be performed by owner
4

Used this kayak on a few…

Submitted by: mixie3stp on 9/9/2014
Used this kayak on a few lakes and rivers and it handles extremely well. It is very stable and tracks very good. I am 180lbs and 5'10" and this kayak is perfect form me. Very effortless to paddle. Only set back form me was the price, but then again I guess you get what you pay for, because this is truly a nice kayak.
4

Great all around kayak.…

Submitted by: 3dogpaddler on 9/7/2014
Great all around kayak. doesn't handle chop the best and not well suited for smaller paddlers because of the width. This is a tough boat, tracks good and turns good and it's comfortable. Holds enough gear for a couple days worth of camping although not a speed demon by any means but holds it's own.

I've had this kayak for 5+ years and it has served me very well. Just bought the angler version Dirigo 120. I paddle big slow rivers and small rivers like the Mississippi, Wisconsin and Kickapoo rivers.

I highly recommend this kayak for beginners or anyone who needs a tough all around kayak.

5

After much research, I…

Submitted by: tsincorona on 9/6/2014
After much research, I purchased my first kayak....an Old Town Dirigo 120....about 1 1/2 years ago. I was looking for that just-right balance of speed, stability, comfort, durability, and multiple use. I have been very pleased. The hull design gives the boat good initial and secondary stability. It is reasonably fast, tracks well, and the seat is very supportive. The "dashboard" feature is convenient and I use it all the time.

Now that I have had it for a while and continue to compare to other kayaks, I am convinced I made the "just-right" choice.

4

Just bought an Old Town…

Submitted by: bluto_3 on 9/5/2014
Just bought an Old Town Dirigo 120. It is the best paddling kayak i have ever paddled. I had a Future Beach 144 before this one, I got the Dirigo because it is easier to paddle and is much faster and lighter for an old geezer (72)to handle. I use an old jet ski trailer to haul it around; works great truck box is too short.
Very satisfied with the kayak.
4

The Dirigo 120 is a great…

Submitted by: guslane on 9/5/2014
The Dirigo 120 is a great multi-purpose boat. It is stable with a large (40 inch)cockpit. It is rugged on the rocks, adequate for most class 2-3 rapids. The boat has a good turning radius but it also tracks well on flat water. The seat is comfortable compared to most kayaks and can be adjusted for individual preferences. The boat has good control w/ foot, knee and back control points. Storage is adequate for day trips but comes up short for overnight tours. The biggest drawback is lack of speed on flat water. It requires stamina to keep up with the longer and faster boats. It is a GREAT multi-purpose kayak.
5

very good stable kayak, I am…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/23/2014
very good stable kayak, I am a beginner paddler, and this is my first kayak....I paddle in a large river that can turn choppy quickly and have never had a problem!! as far as comfort have done a few 20 kilometer trips in it and have always been comfortable, very much leg room and a nice comfy seat...which is stock to this kayak. Have bass fished many times out it as well, and was very pleased with the room I had...the dash at the front of the cockpit was a awesome idea!!...as far as storage goes...there is all kinds of room in the dry storage area in the back..a dry well in the dash is nice for the truck keys and of course the on deck storage with bungee tie downs front and back on the deck.

In parting, I would say for all around fun on the water the Dirigo is the complete package....easy to paddle and very responsive..light to carry with a lot of room for your day on the water!!!!

4

First of all, Old Town Canoe…

Submitted by: bikejockey on 8/5/2014
First of all, Old Town Canoe is a brand you can believe in. They produce quality products in every line of product. The Old Town Dirigo 120 Angler is another example of their dedication to quality, function, and value. They think about everything. This kayak is not only comfortable, stable, easy to paddle, but also extremely functional for every angler. It is fully equipped with all the anglers need, plus more.
4

The Old Town Dirigo 120 is a…

Submitted by: paddler235674 on 7/3/2014
The Old Town Dirigo 120 is a solid entry level fishing kayak. I've been fishing out of this kayak for 5 years and the cockpit layout is fantastic. I've done several river runs with the Dirigo 120 with no issues.

The Dirigo is way lighter than my fancy sit-on-top kayak, and I can carry it quite a ways if needed to. I need a cart for my sit-on-top kayak because it weighs a ton. You still have the option of attaching a skirt with the Dirigo and staying dry. That's something that the newer sit-on-tops lack. Although this kayak doesn't have all the bells and whistles that the newer sit-on-top fishing kayaks have, the Dirigo will still get the job done at half the price.

4

Bought this Kayak used a few…

Submitted by: ScoutWalden on 8/9/2013
Bought this Kayak used a few years ago and it is excellent! Paddles easy and fast, compared to a similar sized Walden. Storage is good, enhanced with the dash pocket. There is plenty of room for a 250-pounder and some gear.
The bungee lines add value and are well placed for on-board and shore access. Carry handles are the best of my small fleet.

This boat is easy to steer and to cover distance without frequent correction strokes. I prefer an along boat paddle holder to the across-boat holder on this on. It is, however, easy to add.
Dirigo 120 is an easy boat to recommend.

4

I bought the Old Town Dirigo…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/8/2013
I bought the Old Town Dirigo 120 kayak about 8 years ago and it has been great fun. I like the big cockpit and rear hatch and the 4" hatch, it is also very stable. It paddles good for a 12 foot kayak. I put 2 flush rod holders behind the seat and a Scotty rod hold on the dash. The crosslink 3 material is stiff and tuff. See you on the water.
5

What a great kayak! I bought this kayak to add to a growing…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 7/31/2013
What a great kayak!
I bought this kayak to add to a growing addiction for kayaks. My husband already has the Old Town Adventure 139 and I have the Old Town Cayuga 130 that we use for touring mostly. I actually bought this kayak for my mom to use. She has a bit of trouble with her kness. I wanted a kayak that had a large cockpit and was easy to get into/out of. Also it needed to be around 12 feet long. And also easy for mom or other friends to try. The Old Town Dirigo 120 fit the bill perfectly.

Since my mom lives far away I thought I'd just have to try out the Dirigo for myself. I love it. It has the deluxe seat and it is so comfortable. I love the cockpit roominess. I usually just take a small lunch cooler and toss it between my feet and it is easy to get.

Lately I have been using the Dirigo on some local rivers. These rivers are not wide and before I was using the Cayuga 130. I now prefer the Dirigo 120 on these rivers. The Dirigo turns so quickly. I like the length and the turning aspect of the recreational kayak.

The only negative is that my husband decided to try out the Dirigo and now we have to flip a coin to see who gets to use it.

5

Having purchased far more…

Submitted by: RikJohnson on 7/30/2013
Having purchased far more used kayaks than I care to remember, I decided to take the plunge and purchase a new Old Town Dirigo 120 from a sporting goods store that was going out-of-business. Now, years later, quite a few years later, I find that the Dirigo has gone through a few modifications. But as far as I can see, it is essentially the same boat.

Basically, the Dirigo is a mid-sized rec-boat with excellent stability and decent cargo capacity. The soft seat (useful on long trips) adjusts in two directions allowing you to individualize your comfort. The cockpit is large enough to hold my small dog (the newer ones have that terrible over-sized cockpit opening).

Basically, I purchased the Dirigo because I like OT construction. Their multi-ply hull is incredibly strong and refuses to deform even in the Arizona heat. This also allows the boat to take incredible punishment like beaching or striking an underwater rock as the speedboat wakes lift and drop you.
The stern dry-hatch is large enough to hold almost anything, a good deal when most boats require you to unload your dry-bag to get the tent stuffed within.

The boat keeps up with 14-footers easily though a 16-foot will leave you behind. A multi-day trip down the Colorado River kept me in the middle of the fleet, slower than the Sea-kayaks, faster than the other 12-foot kayaks plus I could get into areas that the longer boats could not reach and it carried everything I needed and more.

So, why this one?
Because I wanted a boat that would do a multi-day trip and still do day-trips and the Dirigo 120 did both. I've done 5 days out of that boat (hauling 170# of gear with no problems) and I've taken it on a day trip with much smaller boats.

I HAVE made a few modifications that the Dirigo forgives easily. I shoved some closed-cell foam under the seat to prevent wear. Shoved the same under my heels for comfort. Added Pad-eyes and deck line all over the thing and even added a bow bulkhead and dry-hatch and the Dirigo took every one in stride. Even cutting a 9" hole in the fore-deck didn't harm the integrity or strength of the hull. My only problem is that after too many years of punishment, I finally broke the seat-back. But a phone call and $30 and I received the new unit a few days later which installed easily.

I do wish that they would put a bulkhead and hatch in the bow as most lunch breaks would allow my food to be on the beach instead of wading into the water to reach the stern hatch. But that is rare on a 12-foot boat so I added one myself. NOTE, do NOT try this unless you are very good at this sort of thing. I am, so could, and did but my warranty ran out long ago so no problem. Still, after what, a decade or more of punishment (I am very hard on my boats), my Dirigo is still as strong as ever, so why replace it?

5

Purchased this boat in March.…

Submitted by: Moyez10 on 7/27/2013
Purchased this boat in March. I have the 120XT Blackcherry. I love this kayak. I've taken her to some places a rec kayak should go, but she went anyway. In the end, she was scratched a little, but in better condition than I. A little sunshine fixed her dings.

My only complaint is the placement of the paddle keeper. It's fine when leisurely paddling, but in a sprint or draw the button seems to be where it doesn't belong.
Overall- 9.5 outta 10.

4

The Dirigo 120 is a great…

Submitted by: YakinHick on 7/27/2013
The Dirigo 120 is a great kayak. (I owned the older model with the silver-looking foam seat and often kick myself for selling it.) The rigidity of the three-layer plastic was unmatched by anything I have paddled other than a royalex canoe. Even the cockpit rim was firm enough to use as a handle when loading and to brace against when exiting the kayak.

The kayak was very stable, handled well, and gave me peace of mind when I found myself in nasty, churning, wind and boat-wake conditions. At 12 feet, the kayak made navigating stumps and swampy areas easy. The seat was comfortable for hours of fishing or paddling and my model had knobs on the side for easy seat adjustment. The cockpit was bigger than some sit-inside kayaks, so I had some wiggle room! A small waterproof hatch with a screw-on lid was a really nice feature. The rear latching hatch provided a nice dry seal for storage.

My only complaint with the Dirigo 120 was that my "wingspread" forced me to make shorter paddling strokes due to the short length of the kayak. A Dirigo 140 might have fixed that for me...

4

I've had the Dirigo for about…

Submitted by: savorydave on 7/24/2013
I've had the Dirigo for about 2 years. I wasn't sure I needed the "advanced comfort seat", but it is way better than the seats in other boats. At 12' she tracks well and outpaces the sit ons that go fishing with me. She didn't come with any rod holders, but I rigged her with three rod holders and an anchor trolley for less than $100. She does pick up a lot of scratches on the bottom, but they're only cosmetic and it is plastic. I use her to fish mostly but I have taken her down rivers and in mild surf without any issues. She is a great all around kayak.
5

I've had the opportunity to…

Submitted by: paddler235135 on 7/23/2013
I've had the opportunity to ride in three different kayaks, this Dirigo 120 was a real gem to ride in. A friend of mine knew I was looking for a stable ride and let me try his out. It was great! It tracked well, was quick and responsive and made me feel in complete control. I loved it and would love to own one of these kayaks! I rode it down a stretch of the Huron River, near my home. Great ride!
4

The Dirigo 120 is one of the…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/13/2013
The Dirigo 120 is one of the best do it all boats out there for the money. It's not the fastest boat but it tracks nicely, it's stable but handles well and has a comfy seat with a roomy cockpit to boot. It also comes with a lot of nice standard features and lots of storage for a recreational boat.

I kitted mine out for fishing myself (quite a bit cheaper than buying the angler version) and it works great! It always feels stable and rides the chop pretty well if I'm paddling or at anchor. The weight isn't too bad for a 12' rec boat either. I can carry it on my shoulder for 50 yards if I need to without too much trouble.

All and all, a great boat at a good price for the beginning to intermediate paddler. It comes in a 10' version, but spend the few extra bucks and buy the 12'. You won't regret it.

5

I have owned many kayaks:…

Submitted by: paddler233134 on 4/30/2013
I have owned many kayaks: Otters, Loons, Castine, Necky Manitou 13, Cayuga 13 and 14.6 - this rates up there with the Cayuga; it's far from a Cayuga, but for the money you can't go wrong. Anyone who rates this low does not know much about kayaks, this can be used on rivers or lakes, and very comfy, if you are a fisherman or woman this is the boat for you. A lot of room, great for fishing, paddles great, tracks very well.
5

great kayak for large guys…

Submitted by: paddler234748 on 8/31/2012
great kayak for large guys has a cup holder and lots of storage
4

good for large boys

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/2/2012
good for large boys
4

Last year I bought a new 2009…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/26/2011
Last year I bought a new 2009 model XT after selling my Twin Otter because I no longer take April (my pooch) along. It is a great kayak for around the bay, lakes and up to class 2 rivers. Plenty of room to enter and exit, good foot room for long legs and big feet (size 12) with water shoes on.

It has many good features: Twist locks on rear hatch, front dash with cup holder and small storage compartment, paddle holder, good deck rigging,drain plug and best of all, a fantastic seat. It's two downsides are weight(55lbs), and tracking in the wind. A skeg would make this boat a 10! My boat in particular, tends to track off to the right when not paddling which is really annoying. Yet, reading other reviews, it may be unique to my boat. For its may good features I would recommend this kayak to friends.

4

Tried out the Dirigo 120 a couple of weeks ago. Pros:…

Submitted by: santora on 9/20/2011
Tried out the Dirigo 120 a couple of weeks ago.

Pros:
The angler version comes with just about everything. No need to modify. The seat is very comfortable. The hatches can be accessed while on the water. The drain plug is very useful.

Cons:
Seat set forward more so than the Pungo 120 I own, which was a bit odd. I felt like I had little forward room, but it is my perception only, there certainly is enough room. The boat I tried out did not track well, it drifted to the right which I found to be distracting enough that I would not want to use it. It is priced high enough that it should track straight, I was disappointed. The knee padding is cheaply constructed. The carrying handles are attached to the deck bungees which stretches out the deck bungee every time you carry it.

I would have given the angler version of this boat a 9 had it tracked straight, because of all the added features. Unfortunately, the poor tracking is something I cannot accept.

4

Pretty good boat for rec…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/25/2010
Pretty good boat for rec use...very stable, comfy seat, easy access rear hatch. I can even reach the rear hatch while on the water and the cam locks make it easy to open/close. Never any issues with water tightness, but front 'day hatch' can get a few drops. Not very fast, but makes up in roominess.

One drawback is weight. Old Town made an attempt to lighten in 2009 models by going to what they called a 'variable layer' design (as opposed to the traditional 3 layer). It does save maybe 6 or 7 pounds, but because it is thinner and uses less plastic, I can actually feel the hull flexing in the water at times. Much different from the 3 layer Old Town 'Loons' we used to rent that were very stiff. If weight is an issue, go with the 2009 variable layer. If you prefer better build quality, check for the tri-layer (easy to spot as it will have a beige-colored interior layer). Looks as if Old Town has gone back to the 3 layer design from the looks of their website.

I give this boat an 8 out of 10 due to its moderate speed and fair build quality. Perhaps a different model year and I would give it a 9. Does very well for its intended purpose (small to medium sized flatwater lakes, slow rivers; do not recommend Great Lakes). Very stable and virtually indestructible. Even with those good qualities, I feel the rear hatch is one of its best features...lots of storage space and cam lock system is super easy even from a seated position. Some earlier models did not come standard with a paddle holder, but this one did; it is well positioned (much more so than my touring boat that cost twice as much).

Even though there are less expensive rec boats out there, this one is a pretty good value for the price; 12 feet of boat is more than enough for anyone in the novice/intermediate stage and it's hard to damage the rotomolded plastic.

5

The angler version is a near…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/14/2010
The angler version is a near ideal. Tracks well, has tons of storage space, stable. Several have asked for a rudder but the stern has a narrowed tail that acts like a stabilizer rudder without the additional weight, controls. Just a good all around lake and river kayak. Great for the novice as well. The weight can be a little intimidating but with a bit of practice becomes a non issue. Would recommend a pneumatic wheeled carrier if you have a distance to carry from vehicle to water, spend your energy paddling!
5

i have had my boat for a…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 3/29/2010
i have had my boat for a couple of years and this thing is great. its very stable has a lot of storage room and make one heck of a fishing platform. i have been out in 10 degree weather busting ice and going over rocks and this thing is a tank. it tracks well and and is a good size for open water and even smaller rivers.
4

The Dirigo 120 is nearly a…

Submitted by: Bloss on 6/6/2009
The Dirigo 120 is nearly a perfect kayak for the intended purpose. I've now had it on both rivers and lakes and can report that it has excellent initial stability, tracks straight, turns easily and while not a speedster is reasonably fast for a 12 foot boat. The stern hatch is extremely easy to access and appears to be water tight. The seat is large, very adjustable (from within the kayak except for the backrest height), and probably as comfortable as you'll find in a kayak.

It has plenty of deck rigging for a rec boat and handy grab handles. It features a very rugged hull and the boat handles my 5'10" 220 LB frame easily and safely. The built in dashboard and cup holders are a great addition and it's easier to get in and out of than any kayak I've tried. It's the kind of boat you can relax in as opposed to a skinnier faster boat that is designed to cover more distance. You can also get a pretty good leg tan in this thing.

If you're looking for a true recreational kayak give this a test paddle-it will probably fit the bill! I'd give it a 10 except that it weighs 55 LBS. But at the price it is you're not going to find a new 40 LB boat.

4

One of the best yaks that I…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/15/2008
One of the best yaks that I have paddled in so far. I still don't own my own yak yet, but have been renting for a couple of years now. I recently kayaked in the dirigo on vacation in Canada and loved it. It was really fast and I was able to cover a lot more area than normal. Downfall is the seat was not the most comfortable, but that could be the wear and tear of it being a rental. The seat adjustments kept unwinding. But overall, I really like it. It is more on the heavier side than I would initially like, but if it great in the water, then that great for me.
4

Just bought Dirigo from REI;…

Submitted by: paddler232872 on 9/9/2008
Just bought Dirigo from REI; paddled Sand Harbor at Tahoe and totally enjoyed the day. Tracks great for a non-rudder boat. Did the Truckee river (Class II-III) Went through the whitewater park without incident.

Does take work to paddle through low-water rocks. Need a spray skirt for river work due to open cockpit. Would not take it on class IV EVER.

My 9 rating is due to the front water-proof compartment - LEAKS as mentioned. Back compartment is truly water tight.

5

I LOVE my Dirigo 120. I was…

Submitted by: paddler232844 on 8/27/2008
I LOVE my Dirigo 120. I was looking at buying this kayak when I found it on Craigslist in Feb of this year. What luck! I have had it on several rivers in TN. Most of the time I am out 2-5 hours at a time. I have back trouble and the padded seat helps tremendously. The only negative - I have to have someone help me load it on my car. It is a little heavy to do by myself. Other than that... no complaints!
5

I love the Dirigo! I am a 45…

Submitted by: paddler232823 on 8/23/2008
I love the Dirigo! I am a 45 year old woman and less than tiny! I get in and out easily and find the Dirigo very easy to move across the water.

I am fairly new to paddling (some canoeing and kayaking with my husband in a tandem)and after trying a shorter, wider kayak that I found too tippy - I bought the Dirigo and just love it.

I am a semi-professional landscape and wildlife photographer and I take my camera with me all the time. The Dirigo is very stable and I don't fear dumping and losing my camera. It has proved invaluable for sneaking up on wildlife in and near the water.

I've read comments about how difficult it is to turn but I don't find that to be a problem at all. For recreational purposes I would recommend this kayak to anyone.

3

I did SO much homework before…

Submitted by: paddler232830 on 8/19/2008
I did SO much homework before picking up a Dirigo 120, and yet I probably still made a mistake.
Don't get me wrong -- lots to like. Great storage, stability, very comfy seat, and tracks well. But this thing turns like a semi and weighs more than about any boat in its class at 55 lbs. Trying to load it alone on the cartop has mostly caused me lots of aggravation and some vehicle paint damage, and getting it to the water is also surprisingly cumbersome.

I am just looking for something both easier to handle solo and more maneuverable on the water, so honestly I'll be putting this baby on Craig's List come spring. It was just not the right call for me (44 y/o active female, kayaking with a club but otherwise solo, and wanting more maneuverability for easy rivers than straight lines across the local lake).

4

Old Town Dirigo 120 Anglers…

Submitted by: paddler232735 on 7/10/2008
Old Town Dirigo 120 Anglers Edition. Purchased this in fall of 2007 after tons of research. Have logged a lot of hours in this craft. Very well made, as I would expect from Old Town. Good amount of storage, excellent weight capacity, stable and tracking is great. There is no reason to add a rudder to this craft. I find it moves along at a very good clip with an easy stroke. I have no problem throwing it up on top of the car or carrying it some distance to the water. I have added a few accessories like additional rod holders, paddle holder and depth finder. I would highly recommend you take a look at this kayak.
4

A huge step up from an Otter.…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/19/2008
A huge step up from an Otter. Very comfortable seat with great back support. A good amount of dry storage (that really stays dry) for an overnight trip. Turns are slower and require a good size radius because of the length. Tracks extremely well, even in rough waters.

I've used the kayak on lakes with winds from calm to 40+ miles an hour. Even with the larger waves from the strong winds, the kayak proved very stable. The small dry storage in the front could use a better seal: don't put electronics on the bottom. You will collect a little water in it. There is a lot of leg space. The foot pedals are great and very adjustable. They help a lot with stability in strong winds and waves. The wide body keeps your speed down, but is great for kicking your feet over the edge and pulling out a book on flat water and just relaxing. I couldn't be happier with my new kayak!

4

Took up kayaking in summer of…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 3/20/2008
Took up kayaking in summer of 2006. Started with an entry level kayak and last summer I upgraded to a Dirigo 120. Living along a river and retired, I enjoy going first thing in the morning with a mug of coffee. I usually paddle for a couple of hours. I also truck my kayak to other lakes and rivers occasionally.

The Dirigo 120 is just great. I love the dry well in front for small items like keys, cellphone etc. as well as the adjustable seat and large waterproof hatch at the rear. I was out fifty some times last summer and even tried it out in whitecap conditions to test it's stability. Handled the waves perfectly. This boat tracks well, is comfortable and super stable. I would recommend it to anyone and the only reason I gave it a nine instead of a ten is I wish it was a little lighter for transporting.

4

I purchased the Dirigo 120…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 3/6/2008
I purchased the Dirigo 120 after about two months of research, comparing, checking load capacities, and reading other reviews.
My biggest concern was the maximum load being that at the time I was over 275lbs. The Dirigo is perfect for what I want to do. Day and overnight trips with room to store camping gear and supplies on water from flat rivers to ocean shoreline.

I have been on two trips so far, one 12.6 mile and one 15.2 mile and the Dirigo performed just fine. I had a bit of trouble tracking at first due to my inexperience at paddling, but on the second trip I noticed a considerable difference for the better. The wind has a bit of effect on the kayak, and a rudder would be nice (why I gave a 9 instead of a 10) but all in all this has worked out perfectly for me.

The Dirigo is stable, responsive, and quite difficult to flip. I put it in the pool and practiced wet exits and entries. I realized how far I have to push to get this boat to flip....amazing.

I am completely satisfied with the purchase, other than the lack of a rudder.

4

This is the first kayak I…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 10/18/2007
This is the first kayak I have ever owned and the second I have ever paddled and I love it. The primary stability and tracking are great but it can be a little ponderous to turn. I use it for fishing lakes and slow rivers. I've spent more than 125 hours in it this summer. Some of the trips have been 6-8 miles and several hours and I can always get out of bed the next morning. It's a keeper.
4

I've had many kayaks, various…

Submitted by: paddler232334 on 9/25/2007
I've had many kayaks, various lengths and types: whitewater, sea, rec. This is my favorite.
The seat controls are on the outside of the cockpit so if you are using a spray skirt you can still adjust the seat. The footpegs are easy to adjust while sitting in the cockpit. The cup holder and dashboard hatch are great. It tracks well, isn't too heavy and responds well. It does a great job doing what it was built for: paddling calm water and lakes. I'm very happy with it.
4

I bought my Dirigo 120 3…

Submitted by: paddler232239 on 8/8/2007
I bought my Dirigo 120 3 months ago. It is a good boat but it is heavy. We usually canoe rivers and on slow moving rivers it takes a lot of effort to stay up with a Old Town Penobscot 16ft canoe. On rapids that are shallow, it is not a good boat. But on swift deep water it is a nice boat. I would never get another one.
4

After trying a few models, I…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 7/6/2007
After trying a few models, I decided to get a his and hers set of Dirigo 120s. As our first kayak they are very stable with enough room for a comfortable overnight trip or an extended picnic. The cockpit is large enough to place our 30lb Brittany in with my wife and paddle for hours. Its speed is ok for your average rec/touring and tracking is about average to. One great advantage is the cam locks on the dry hatch and the extra dry space for keys/electronics in the cockpit.
4

I bought the Dirigo 120 about…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/5/2007
I bought the Dirigo 120 about three weeks ago at a paddle event in Chester, CT. I tried several models and liked the 120 best of all. Yesterday my wife and I went out with my friend to the Houssatonic River and paddled around for 3 miles. I have read about the tracking of the boat and I did see a bit of that yesterday, but it was just a matter of adjusting your paddling. In regards to the speed, I was able to keep up with my wife who was on a Perception kayak and my friend who was on an Eddyline. Besides, I kayak for leisure not speed and racing.
Overall, I enjoyed my trip. It is a very sturdy kayak and feels very stable.
4

After paddling a couple of…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/17/2007
After paddling a couple of times in my old town otter I decided I needed something bigger. I choose the dirigo 120, and I'm happy I did, but it is heavy weighing in at 55 pounds, but the tracking is great. Recently I took it out on the Potomac and it handled the wind and 1.5 foot waves great. Personaly I don't think it's comfortable - well, not compared to my mom's perception sundance - but I find all my gear fits in the rear storage including my PFD.
Highly recomend for the beginner and the intermediate paddler.
4

This is the first kayak I…

Submitted by: jimlorn on 2/21/2007
This is the first kayak I have owned or been in, so I don't have much to compare it to, but I have been very satisfied with the stability, speed, and handling. I got it last summer and took it out every weekend the weather would permit until it got too cold in Connecticut. The first time I put it in the water I was a little shaky for the first five minutes. Since then I have had no problems even in some pretty stiff wind and white caps. It is definitely worth the price.
4

I purchased the Old Town…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 10/12/2006
I purchased the Old Town Dirigo 2 years ago new and haven't been sorry. One of the reasons I chose this boat was for the weight. I'm 5'3", 125 pounds and can load and unload this boat on my Saturn without problem. It's a great length for river-running, handling Class I or II rapids well, as well as a great boat for calmer lakes. On the ocean or larger, choppier lakes waves will kick up over the bow quite a bit and the tracking leaves something to be desired, but for a smaller, wider boat, that's to be expected. The biggest bonus is the great dry storage and comfort. A very nice beginner boat. Old Town offered a free Camelback with the purchase of their kayak when I bought it. I sent in my rebate and they told me they were out of Camelbacks and that I could expect none. I was not impressed with the company's customer relations, because the free camelback was also a factor in me purchasing the boat. It took them an entire year, but this past summer I did finally receive a camelback in the mail. I'm guessing a lot of customers were just as unhappy as I was, which is why they came through on the deal. So...be wary of deals offered by this manufactorer.
4

I just bought one of these…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 9/5/2006
I just bought one of these for a ridiculously low price (there's apparently a blemish somewhere on it, which I've yet to find!), and have so far been more than pleased with it. Tracking is very good, if not perfect, comfort is very high (I spent three hours in it today and felt great), and stability is great.

It does feel SLIGHTLY big. It crashes a bit on waves (which I find fun, personally, but could imagine others not liking so much) and can feel a bit heavy. This does not, however, mean that it's slow. It take a bit to get going, and I'd hardly call it a sprinter, but one can get a really good pace up, and keep it up easily. The only minor problem I've found is that wind seems to act a bit more heavily on the back end, and this can sometimes affect turning.

All in all though, it's a great boat, and I expect to keep it for years and years.

4

I bought my dirigo 120 about…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/28/2006
I bought my dirigo 120 about a month ago. I also own an otter which is the only other kayak i have ever been in. The dirigo is a great boat, comfortable, and good storage. I have only had it on flat water and it performed very well. it had good speed. faster than the otter. it tracked well. it turned well. the side kneepads are great. i am going to buffalo river in TN this weekend so i will report how it does in some current later.
4

I purchased my Dirigo 120 in…

Submitted by: darkstarr on 6/21/2006
I purchased my Dirigo 120 in September of 2005. Since then, I've had it out numerous times in rivers, lakes and bays. I honestly couldn't be happier. The Dirigo tracks well and I have no difficulties keeping up with other recreational boats when I am in a group - in fact, they usually have to keep up with me! The cockpit is comfortable and roomy without being overly large, the seat is comfy and allows me to change positions on the fly throughout the day. The dry storage is just that, dry! And the smaller front dry well is great for all those little necessities. Having paddled WS Pungos and Pamlicos, I have to admit that their Phase 3 seating can't be beat, thus the score of 9. Overall, I couldn't be happier with my choice. When you add in the fact that I got it at an end of season sale and got a great deal on it, well it doesn’t get any sweeter than that!
4

Have been paddling this…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 6/20/2006
Have been paddling this around on the lake that I live on and am very satisfied with the performance. I finally got put on a day trip this weekend and was even more impressed. I also own a ot jolt and had a pungo 100 and think both had a more comfortable seat so took 1 point off.
4

As you've all ready read, the…

Submitted by: cf0x2 on 6/19/2006
As you've all ready read, the Dirigo 120 is VERY comfortable, tracks well, handles well, has decent speed, very good cargo storage/capacity, and is just overall a great kayak. My only reason for giving it a 9 out of 10 is because the knobs for adjusting the seat sometimes catch me in the elbow, but that's pretty rare. All things considered, this kayak is well worth the investment.
5

I bought this boat last april…

Submitted by: natss on 6/7/2006
I bought this boat last april got it in the water first time yesterday. This is a great boat stable, tracks well, nice adjustable seat room for lunch fishing gear, and nice dry storage for small items, keys, camera, ect. drink holder, one nice boat!
4

The Dirigo 120 is the first…

Submitted by: paddler231599 on 6/2/2006
The Dirigo 120 is the first kayak I have ever bought. The quality and price were the deciding factors. After a trip to the lake, I was convinced I picked the right one. The boat was easy to get into and out of, paddled easily and tracked very well. Unloading the kayak out of my pickup and carrying it to the water was no problem. I was surprised at the stability. Waterproof storage is great. I would recommend the Dirigo to anyone.
5

This is a great all around…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/31/2006
This is a great all around boat. It has descent speed for a recreational kayak. Tracks and turns well, and is very stable. The roomy cockpit is nice for relaxing sightseeing or fishing. I use it quite a bit in local narrow rivers and it is easy to maneuver through obstacles. Love it!
5

We just purchased two Old…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/31/2006
We just purchased two Old Town Dirigo 120's and tested them out yesterday. We love them! As soon as I was in the boat I immediately felt it's tremendous stability. Also, it's extremely comfortable. The seat can be adjusted for lumbar support as well as height, which really made for a comfortable paddle. Also, the foot pegs along with the thigh pads helped me to feel right at home. I was instantly comfortable and ready to paddle. Lots of room in these boats. My husband is 6 feet tall and had plenty of room to move around. The boat track very well, lots of control. Also, I was able to move a very good speed. Overall I could not be happier that these are the boats we purchased. I kept reading in the reviews that the Dirigo was 'slow' and 'heavy' and I don't agree at all. I wouldn't want to have to carry this boat by myself too far, true, but my husband and I found them to be easy to load and launch. Excellent boat, can't recommend it enough!
4

Let me start off by saying…

Submitted by: paddler231580 on 5/22/2006
Let me start off by saying that I'm the epitome of novice! I've only been in a kayak once before in Tacoma, WA back in 2003. I bought the Old Town Dirigo 120 this morning, and had it out on the Potamac this afternoon. I must say that it is extremely stable. It's not too fast, but it tracks very well. I'm not sure wether it was the current, the wind or my lack of experience, but any weaving was easily corrected. It was quite windy today and there was a little chop, but the boat did great. It was pretty cool haveing the waves break over the bow and the spray in my face. The Dirigo is heavy though. I don't have too much trouble carrying it, but my girlfriend says it is very heavy to her. Overall, it's a great boat for a beginner like me. I paddled around for a couple of hours and it was very comfortable. I would give it a 7 for speed and weight, a 9 for comfort, and a 10 for stability.
5

I bought 2 Drigo kayaks end…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 5/8/2006
I bought 2 Drigo kayaks end of last season both were angler kayaks. I live in Kansas and both kayaks proved to be very stable in high wind conditions, with very little if any water getting into the kayak. I purchased the 10'6 kayak and can get anywhere on the lake I want to go, mostly far away from all the boats and people. Looking forward to trips to Colorado to go to all my old fishing places.
4

I purchased this model this…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 12/28/2005
I purchased this model this past summer after getting tired of battling to put my 16' Dagger on top of the Jeep alone. I love it! Granted it is not as fast, but since I am a fair weather, recreational paddler that is fine. It is comfortable! I used to have numb feet after awhile in the Dagger, but there is room to spare in the OTC. I am looking forward to years of exploring with my newest addition!
5

I was very impressed with…

Submitted by: ghriver on 10/22/2005
I was very impressed with this boat. Tracks nice, handled the 1 foot wind waves with no prob. First time out in it I paddled 8 miles in good wind and felt great afterwards. All the seat adjustments make a nice change up after miles of paddling.
5

I have an old town otter but…

Submitted by: Tangomike on 10/15/2005
I have an old town otter but after paddling the dirigo 10.6 I bought the dirigo 12 for the comfort, tracking, dry storage and am loving it two friends just bought identical boats too.
5

For the market that they…

Submitted by: paddler231347 on 10/9/2005
For the market that they cater to I can't imagine this kayak any better. Comfy plenty of dry well storage space. 2 Beverage holders. Adjustable seats. Relatively inexpensive. I bought 2 of these and have been extremely happy with them. For the casual kayaker or beginner I don’t think you can beat this model.
5

Exceptional comfort and…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/30/2005
Exceptional comfort and stability, particularly for photography.
4

I took advantage of an L.L.…

Submitted by: guest-paddler on 8/2/2005
I took advantage of an L.L. Bean Paddlefest at the beach in front of the Cheasapeake Bay Foundation Headquarters near Annapolis Maryland. I tried a number of boats, including the Dirigo 10, 12, and 14. I found a lot to like about all these boats, they were extremely stable and easy to maneuver in the 1.5' swells on the bay that day. The seat was very comfortable and the built in knee pads were great. There was a generously sized dry well in the rear and a handy little dry well in the front of the cockpit, along with a usable cupholder. The handling was competent, but not very exciting. They were all a little ponderous although I disagree that they were slow. They seemed to get right along for me. I agree that these are definitely not boats for folks who cannot lift a little weight. If you had to haul these guys very far you will get some serious exercise.
4

After a lot of research, I…

Submitted by: paddler231155 on 6/23/2005
After a lot of research, I decided on the Dirigo 120 for me, and the Blackwater 11.5 for my husband. The Dirigo wins on comfort and space, I love the cupholder, and the dog loves to ride with me, but there is a big difference in tracking and speed compared to the Blackwater. We are planning on doing a lot of paddling, so I am returning my Dirigo. If you want a nice stable cruiser with tons of comfort and room, the Dirigo is the one, no doubt.
4

I wanted an OTC Dirigo from…

Submitted by: paddler231147 on 6/20/2005
I wanted an OTC Dirigo from the first time I heard about them. I purchased my OTC Dirigo at LL Bean and it was the Angler Edition. So far I really like it. After adjusting some of my equipment to fit better (soft tackle bag vs hard tackle box, etc.) I have used my Dirigo at least 6 times. It is rugged, stable, and I really enjoy it. Even caught quite a few fish!

Down side. It is heavy and slow, slow, slow. Wish I had known about how slow it was. The weight I can handle but my wife in her Zydeco and almost everyone leaves me behind. I have never been physically taxed paddling, but I really have to work hard to keep up.

4

This is a great value and…

Submitted by: paddler231131 on 6/12/2005
This is a great value and performer. The kayak tracks and turns very well. It has water tight storage front and back. It also has a cup holder. The cockpit is large enough to paddle with your knees bent. The seat is very comfortable with the ability to make lumbar and back rest adjustments. This boat is a keeper after buying and returning two other models.
4

I just bought one of these…

Submitted by: paddler231119 on 6/8/2005
I just bought one of these kayaks, and in my initial paddles on the Chesapeake Bay, I was impressed. The boat tracks well, it is comfortable, and there is plenty of storage space....dry storage in the rear and plenty of room on deck to put packs, etc. And the dry well for wallets and keys/cellphones is welcome. I also have a Perception Sierra.....and I really like it....but this boat is better.
4

I just bought 2 of these…

Submitted by: rdunek on 4/26/2005
I just bought 2 of these kayaks for my son and I to use on flat Midwest water. I've paddled Pungo 12s, LiquidLogic, Loon and other boats in its class, and this one is a keeper. I love the secondary stability, while still being able to turn well. Tracking is nice and steady. It comes with a good seat and you cannot beat the standard hatch, front billfold holder and the bungy cords on deck. The cloud color is even pretty, too!