Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 review: versatile fishing kayak

Searching for fishing kayaks and want to know the Review of Wilderness Tarpon 120? Here you are going to find the best informational review based on the facts!

No doubt, choosing a fishing kayak might be a bit difficult if you do not get to know the complete information about each product.

Problems related to stability, maneuverability, transportation, dimensions, and many others, can destroy your kayaking experience. And this can happen just because of choosing the wrong kayak!

But don’t worry!

For your ease, here is the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 Review, where I will talk about the positives as well as the negatives that this fishing kayak has had!

Tarpon 120 by Wilderness Systems is a fishing kayak that is well-known for its speed, size, and maneuverability. Also, it is one of those kayaks which glide so well in the water. On the other hand, it has a lot of features which makes it a perfect buy.

The kayak is quite spacious which is 12’ 3” long and 30” wide. With easy handling and maneuvering, Tarpon 120 is really a good choice to invest.

There is much more:

Let’s have a look upon the prominent features this remarkable Kayak has have:

Table of Contents

Wilderness Tarpon 120 Review - 5 Reasons Why Should You Buy it?
More Prominent Features that Would Let You Get a Perfect Kayaking Experience:

Length	12’3” (373 cm)
Width	30” (76 cm)
Weight of the boat	29 kgs.
Maximum weight capacity	159 kgs.
Height of the deck	13.75” (35 cm)
Type	Sit-on-top

Pros

Adjustable foot paddles for your comfort.
Multiple storage compartments.
Good speed.
Not heavy-weight which makes its transportation easy.
SlideTrax Accessory System for your fishing accessories.
The most manageable size.
Great glide and stability.
Maneuverable and versatile in its design.
Phase 3 Air Pro (Seating System).
Perfect length and weight.

Cons

The seat is a bit uncomfortable.
A bit expensive.
The storage compartments are not 100% waterproof.

CHECK PRICE

Wilderness Tarpon 120 Review - 5 Reasons Why Should You Buy it?

Kayaking is fun but finding a good kayak is not a joke!

People even spend a lot to get a good kayak, still, they are not able to get what they pay for. We, on the other hand, value your time, patience, and also your hard-earned money. Therefore, we have listed all the main features you can find in Wilderness Tarpon 120:

1. Construction:

This kayak is made up of polyethylene material which makes it more durable than other kayaks that are made from metals. Polyethylene increases the life span of the kayak because of its rust-free and corrosion-free nature which, on the other hand, is a common issue in kayaks made of metals.

So, now don’t worry about getting the parts of your kayak to get damaged by corrosion or UV rays!

2. Sit-on-top Fishing Kayak:

Sit on top fishing kayak has less stability when compared to sit-in fishing kayaks. Tarpon 120 is also a sit on top kayak which gives quick back and leg support in case you trip over. This is why it is most people’s choice regardless of its less stability.

3. Price:

Tarpon 120 is a bit on the expensive side, but considering the features, you get it can be compromised. However, You can get other kayaks with similar features (not all) at affordable prices in the market as well.

4. Front Storage Hatch:

The storage space at the front is quite spacious. You can easily fill in your luggage if you are planning to travel for a day or two.

Plus, it has two levers that ensure it’s properly locked. Although it has a rubber rim for blocking water to enter the hatch, still it is not completely waterproof.

So, make sure to wrap your essentials in plastic wrap, to avoid getting them wet.

5. Bungee Cord:

The bungee cord which is also at the front side is actually designed for keeping your paddle at easy access. Moreover, it has a wheel that helps to glide your paddle under the bungee quite easily. So, it is a perfectly great feature, no doubt!

More Prominent Features that Would Let You Get a Perfect Kayaking Experience:

Not only this but also there are more features that would let you get a unique kayaking experience. Let’s take a look:

Handles at the Bow and the Sterns:

This is another good feature of Tarpon 120 that makes its transportation easy and not tiring at all. The handles at the bow and the sterns are of extremely nice and comfortable grip. Hence, pulling the kayak is quite easy. Thus, you can easily pull the kayak out of the water and drag it to where you want!

Adjustable Foot Paddles:

You would be overwhelmed to know about this feature if you want your fishing kayak to be very comfortable. The foot paddles can be adjusted and locked to your requirement so you can spread your legs as much as you want without getting pain.

Hence, you can adjust your kayaking easily to get the maximum comfort level with this feature!

Storage Compartments around the Seat:

There is another storage hatch at the seat between your legs for storing either your fishing gears or other easily accessible items.

In fact, this hatch is also protected by a lever. On either side of the storage hatch, there are small open storage compartments where you can keep your keys, wallet, and even gears too.

Moreover, there is a cup holder so you can keep your water bottle or enjoy any other drink while kayaking. What else you want to go for the memorable kayaking moments!

The Not-so-comfortable Seat:

The seat, on the other hand, is good only if your trip lasts for 6 hours or so. For longer trips, it might give you backache or make your body stiff.

Also, the seat is a little uplifted from the deck which makes the seat wet and also the kayaker. Otherwise, it is a pretty good looking seat.

SlideTrax Accessory System:

This is a must-have in a kayak especially if you are going to use it for fishing. The track system is very useful for attaching different fishing gears including fish rod holders, fish finders, and other such items. Thus, you can attach the accessories more easily and without any damage to the design of the kayak!

Tank well with Bungee:

On the back, you get another ample space for storage. The bungee cord in the tankwell keeps your accessories well-protected. Although it is a one-man kayak still the multiple storage compartments are quite spacious.

Scupper Holes For Drain:

The tank well has scupper holes for quick water drainage. Also, there is space for a rudder at the back if you want to attach one. Moreover, the drain plug is also an additional feature that is small but not negligible.

These holes help to drain the excess water weight when you are on the water. Hence, kayaking makes it easier and more fun for you!

Weight of the Kayak:

Are you fed up with the heavyweight kayaks that make it difficult to drag and transport them?

No worries!

Tarpon 120 weighs 69 pounds. Yes, you read it right; just 69 pounds. This makes its transportation and maneuvering very easy. Although it is very light-weight, still, its performance in water is not affected.

FAQs About Wilderness Tarpon 120:

Q. Is it only for calm waters?

No, Tarpon 120 is that fishing kayak which you can easily take to lakes, bays or even rivers. It is well-known and quite popular because of its versatile nature.

Q. Will I get the rudder with the kayak?

No, the rudder is not included. You will have to buy it separately.

Q. How many storage compartments are there in the kayak?

The kayak has two storage hatch compartments which are locked by levers. Additionally, the tank well also provides good storage space that is well-protected with bungee cords. Other small compartments include a cup holder and two small spaces on either side of the seat.

Conclusion:

So, Wilderness Tarpon 120 is an amazing kayak with all the top features that make a good kayak. Moreover, it can be used for fishing as well as for recreation. The storage spaces are excellent, providing you with enough storage where you can easily store your belongings and also fishing accessories.