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Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Review

This well-outfitted kayak allows for many different paddling applications, all in one super comfortable sit-on-top model
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Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 Review (The Tarpon is a versatile sit-on-top kayak, suitable for a variety of environments.)
The Tarpon is a versatile sit-on-top kayak, suitable for a variety of environments.
Credit: Sara James
Price:  $1,119 List
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Manufacturer:   Wilderness Systems
By Sara James ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Jul 25, 2023
74
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#5 of 15
  • Glide and Tracking - 30% 7.5
  • Stability - 20% 9.0
  • Maneuverability - 15% 6.0
  • Ease of Transport - 15% 5.0
  • Comfort - 10% 9.0
  • Construction Quality - 10% 8.0

Our Verdict

An updated version of a time-tested classic, the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105, scores well in all our testing metrics and holds a clear place at the winner's table. It is an incredibly stable kayak that is well-outfitted, comfortable, and a pleasure to paddle in most conditions. Wilderness Systems has produced a high-quality kayak that transcends the many applications and styles that the best recreational kayaks offer in today's market. Whether fishing, bird watching, exploring coves, creeks, and islands, surfing waves, having fun with the kids, or just taking it out to the middle of the lake to hop off it for a quick dip, the versatility of this kayak means you will never get bored of it. It's easy to enjoy all the extra features and functionality it offers.
REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable
Easy to paddle
Easy to climb in and out
Great storage
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy to carry
Rudder for tracking has to be purchased as extra
Editor's Note: After our spring testing session, we updated our testing metrics in this review on July 25, 2023.

Compare to Similar Products

 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Sit-on-Top Kayak
Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Kayak
Best Buy Award
Great Value for a Sit-on-Top Model
Best Buy Award
Best Bang for the Buck
 
Price $1,119 at REI
Compare at 2 sellers
$1,219 at REI
Compare at 2 sellers
$800 List
$799.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods
$550 List
$422.06 at Amazon
$410 List
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Bottom Line Whether fishing, swimming, taking photos, or just exploring your favorite body of water, this kayak won’t let you downThis sit-inside kayak delivers comfort, storage, and stability while maintaining maneuverability and having plenty of storage to suitIf you are looking for a fun and safe kayak that the whole family will enjoy, then this boat offers a great bang for your buckAn entry-level recreational kayak that can keep you and your bank balance afloatThe Aruba is a stable and easy to paddle beginner's kayak that's easy on your wallet
Rating Categories Wilderness Systems... Wilderness Systems... Ocean Kayak Malibu... Pelican Argo 100X EXO Sun Dolphin Aruba 10
Glide and Tracking (30%)
7.5
8.0
7.5
6.0
5.5
Stability (20%)
9.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.5
Maneuverability (15%)
6.0
7.0
7.0
8.0
8.0
Ease of Transport (15%)
5.0
6.0
5.0
8.5
8.0
Comfort (10%)
9.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
5.0
Construction Quality (10%)
8.0
8.0
8.0
5.5
4.0
Specs Wilderness Systems... Wilderness Systems... Ocean Kayak Malibu... Pelican Argo 100X EXO Sun Dolphin Aruba 10
Measured Length 10.50' 12.17' 11.42' 10.00' 9.83'
Measured Width 32.0" 29.0" 32.0" 28.0" 30.0"
Measured Weight 57 lb 49 lb 59 lb 38 lb 40 lb
Measured Height 15.3" 14.0" 12.0" 14.0" 13.0"
Weight Capacity 325 lb 325 lb 360 lb 275 lb 250 lb
Material/Construction Polyethylene Polyethylene Singler layer polyethylene Polyethylene UV-stabilized Fortiflex high density polyethylene
Features Quick-park paddle holder, rigid carry handles, SlideTrax accessory rails, magnetic water-bottle strap system, removable DryTec dry box, sectioned storage tray, phase 3 AirPro seating system, dog-friendly deck Rigid handles, replaceable skid plate, Orbix hatch with sealed bulkhead, thigh pads, XL foot braces, SlideTrax and 2 mounting platforms, removable dry box, 2 cup holders, lithium battery recess (battery not included), phase 3 AirPro seating system Tri-form hull with an integral keel and sponsons, AirGo molded in seat and seat pad with adjustable AirComfort backrest, molded-in foot wells and calf rest, paddle holders, side/stern/bow carrying handles, molded-in oversized bow and stern tank wells with bungees, splash resistent QuickStash dry hatch, 2 molded in fishing rod holders, 3 water bottle holder, replaceable skid plate Small front storage hatch, rear well with removable ExoChill 17-liter storage compartment, bottle holders, padded backrest with seat cushion, molded footrests Adjustable padded backrest, rear gear compartment with bungee shock cord, adjustable foot braces, water bottle storage, carrying handles, paddle holder, padded thigh braces

Our Analysis and Test Results

Wilderness Systems has been refining the Tarpon sit-on-top kayak design for over 20 years. The current version is available in three sizes: 105, 120, and 140. For this review, we tested the Tarpon 105, which is 10 feet, 6 inches long, and 32 inches wide. It has a large rear storage well and a dry hatch on the bow. There are self-draining holes in the foot well of the Tarpon, which you can choose to seal with scupper plugs if you so choose.

Performance Comparison


wilderness systems tarpon 105 - due to its shorter length and wider hull, the tarpon won't be...
Due to its shorter length and wider hull, the Tarpon won't be winning any speed awards, but it is comfortable to paddle as it glides smoothly and tracks easily.
Credit: Sara James

Glide and Tracking


At 10.5 feet long, this kayak isn't necessarily built for speed, tracking, and gliding for extended distances. It's short compared to longer, more touring-style boats. It's more of a short-range kayak that was designed for maneuverability in tight coves and meandering rivers rather than long-distance journeys.


The hull is flat for the most part, but it has a unique flare at the bow to boost its ability to cut through waves and a pointed stern to assist it in tracking and gliding through the water. The hull has a dual inverted keel design, helping this relatively flush bottom to track and glide more efficiently. It glides well; it's just not the best.

To improve tracking, it is also possible to add a rudder to the Tarpon by purchasing the XL Rudder kit. An expensive accessory, it may well be worth your expense for those looking to improve tracking for comfort, fishing, or photography.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - adding the rudder onto the tarpon is an expensive addition, however...
Adding the rudder onto the Tarpon is an expensive addition, however, the foot-brace controlled system is very enjoyable to use if you want to keep your hands ready for bird watching, fishing, or photography.
Credit: Sara James

Stability


The Tarpon 105 is a podium placer when it comes to stability, thanks to its generous width, relatively flat bottom, and moderate overall length. The seat position is slightly lifted off the floor, which raises the center of gravity an inch, but overall, it is an incredibly steady craft that is suitable for gentle currents.


Larger paddlers will easily fit in the Tarpon 105 but may consider a larger version to maintain the best advantage of stability. If well distributed, loading this kayak with extra weight will actually make it more stable up to its maximum load capacity of 325 pounds. That will give you plenty of space to bring a lot of fishing tackle or camping gear.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - the tarpon's stability makes it an easy option to hop on and off...
The Tarpon's stability makes it an easy option to hop on and off your kayak so you can make the most out of your paddling adventure.
Credit: Sara James

Maneuverability


What the Tarpon 105 lacks in glide, tracking, and speed, it makes up for in maneuverability. The lack of a pronounced V-shaped hull or rigid, defined keel allows the boat to turn easily and quickly. The flared hull and ever-so-subtle rocker at the front and back of the boat promote efficient turning with minimal effort, earning it a top score.


If you do happen to fall off this kayak, its open access makes it easy to climb back on board. In addition, it is easy to re-right after capsizing, as it will self-drain. Not having to empty a capsized kayak saves the user time and energy compared to other sit-in-style kayaks.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - the drain holes in the floor of the tarpon help to avoid water...
The drain holes in the floor of the Tarpon help to avoid water pooling in the bottom of your kayak. This means that if you do capsize, it will be relatively easy to self-rescue and drain this kayak compared to the sit inside models we tested.
Credit: Sara James

Ease of Transport


One big benefit of having a smaller boat is that it can be loaded onto almost any vehicle. The smaller size of the Tarpon 105 also makes it easier to get your boat to and from your launch location and around rocks or other obstacles when portaging. Wilderness Systems gives you plenty of handles to haul this boat around, but several boats were still a bit easier to move.


The Tarpon 105 is considerably heavier than a lot of the other kayaks we tested, and some were only a few inches shorter. We never noticed this weight on the water, but this heavy vessel is awkward to carry. You can't balance it on your shoulder like some kayaks. The handles on the stern and bow are robust, and Wilderness Systems put soft rubber grips on the bow and stern handles to keep the webbing from digging into your hands while carrying.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - the robust handles on either side of the tarpon help with lifting...
The robust handles on either side of the Tarpon help with lifting and transporting this heavy kayak.
Credit: Sara James

Like a few of the other kayaks we tested, there is a replaceable skid plate on the stern of the hull, so you can drag the Tarpon using the bow handle when you don't have a buddy or kayak dolly.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - the skid plate on the tarpon (center), can be removed if it gets...
The skid plate on the Tarpon (center), can be removed if it gets worn through. This can help extend the life of your kayak hull if you intend to drag it.
Credit: Sara James

Comfort


The Tarpon 105 delivers outstanding all-around comfort. Wilderness Systems put a lot of thought and effort into their ergonomic seating system, from contoured seats and backrests to the soft edges of the leg lifter that contours beneath your thighs. They also had the foresight to use multi-sized holes in the special perforated foam padding to promote aeration and help the seat padding air out and dry quickly. This, along with the tight mesh covering, keeps your back safe from sweat and water that may splash inside. This is one of the most comfortable boats in the test.


The Keeper XL foot braces are sturdy and easily adjustable. You just reach down and squeeze the lever behind the foot pedal, slide the foot pegs to the desired slot along the rail, and release it to lock it into the most comfortable position. There are also two handy paddle holders attached to each side of the gunnels by the seat. The company spared no expense with comfort, and this is evident from the first time you sit in one of their boats and take it out for a paddle.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - the keep xl foot braces are easy to adjust and plenty stable to...
The Keep XL foot braces are easy to adjust and plenty stable to provide comfort and support.
Credit: Sara James

Construction Quality


Wilderness Systems doesn't mess around when building their high-density roto-molded linear polyethylene boats. You can tell from your first look at their kayaks that they want to produce crafts that stand the test of time and withstand the normal knocks and scrapes that come with transporting and pulling their vessels on and offshore.


The Tarpon 105 has a large open rear storage well with a mesh cover that is great for stashing dry bags or gear. On the front of the kayak, a 9-inch by 6-inch sealable dry hatch opens up volumes of storage space within the kayak. Not all of this space is easily accessible, and you could definitely lose a small item in its depths. Keeping your gear in sealed bags will help to avoid this. The storage latch on the dry box has a simple and secure twist and latch closure system. We much preferred this to the more flimsy levers used on the Orbix hatch covers on other Tarpon models.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - a sealed dry compartment at the front of the tarpon completes this...
A sealed dry compartment at the front of the Tarpon completes this adventure-ready setup.
Credit: Sara James

An excellent feature only offered on the Tarpon 105 is the accessory rails built into the gunnels at the front of the boat. This allows you to rig fishing pole holders, GPS or fish finder screens, cameras, or anything else you might want to attach to your boat without having to drill holes.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - with attention to the quality of construction, you can expect this...
With attention to the quality of construction, you can expect this durable Tarpon kayak to last you.
Credit: Sara James

Should You Buy the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105?


Though a bit more expensive than its nearest competitor, the Tarpon 105 more than justifies the additional cost with all the cool extra features and dry storage options. Its well-designed hull and high-density roto-molded linear polyethylene plastic will likely pay off in the long term, as the quality manufacturing should add to the life of the boat.

What Other Kayaks Should You Consider?


The sit-on-top Tarpon 105 kayak offers great stability, comfort, and accessibility in a kayak that is also very maneuverable. In these respects, it is unmatched in our lineup. If you'd like better maneuverability and tracking in a lighter package, the Eddyline Skylark is another favorite of ours, though it doesn't come cheap. And if you'd rather have a sit-inside kayak, the Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is one of the best you can get.

wilderness systems tarpon 105 - kayakers looking for a little more comfort and legroom will...
Kayakers looking for a little more comfort and legroom will appreciate the roomy option of Wilderness System's sit-on-top kayak.
Credit: Sara James

Sara James