Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 Kayak - Product Reviews
SRP: $899.00
$764.00 You Save: $135.00(15%)
In-stock: Ships Monday if ordered today!
Description:
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is the most popular Tarpon ever. The Tarpon 120 is a versatile sit-on-top that offers stunning performance for surf play, ponds, lakes, and bays.
Customer Rating: 4.9 of 5
Reviewer:
thebushpilot
Rating:
5
Date:
8/22/2011
Review:
It's great. Tracks great,
stable, and seems to be almost
infinitely customizable. The
first time I took it out I
spent about 6 hours on the
lake without getting fatigued
or sore. There was a decent
amount of wind and some
@#!*tards blowing through the
no wake zone and had no
stability issues. 2nd time was
on a super calm lake and it
cruised like a dream. I'm
super happy with this thing
and am looking foreward to
going out on the bay with it.
(Bodega, San Pablo, SF Bay
area).It's also really nice
that the rail system and
accessory blanks are sized for
common mounts/accessories. The
only complaints I have are
that the seat bottom could be
a little rearward in relation
to the seat back and the cup
holder would be more
convenient closer to the seat.
Reviewer:
BJ Taylor
Rating:
4
Date:
7/27/2011
Review:
Love them... we've been out
twice and really love the. We
accidentally found out though
that there's a $75 rebate on
the kayaks, and wonder why no
one from Austin called that to
our attention.
Reviewer:
Chuck Thoma
Rating:
5
Date:
5/8/2011
Review:
Kayak as it arrived and inspected is almost too pretty to use. I haven't had a chance to get it on water yet because of high water levels on Allegheny River. The Tarpon 120 has the features I need to fully enjoy the recreation opportunities afforded by the local waterways. But I'm still trying to figure out what scupper plugs are all about.
Reviewer:
westTXyakker
Rating:
5
Date:
5/6/2011
Review:
I had my selection narrowed down to 2 kayaks and I picked the Tarpon for the Phase-3 seat. Best decision I have made. That seat is unbelievably comfortable. I didn't get the angler version but I put rear facing Scotty rod holders on the tankwell slidetrax and like it better because I can have my rods horizontal to keep them from snagging on trees/docks. I like the slidetrax because it sure is a relief not to have to cut into the hull. The hatches lock tight and are easy to open and close. It tracks really straight and it pretty quick for a 12 footer in my opinion. Everything on it is high quality and you will not be disappointed.
Reviewer:
Bill
Rating:
5
Date:
3/28/2011
Review:
I really like the Tarpon 120, it's very stable and
turns very well. The ride is dry and I only leave the
footwell plugs out to drain water from your feet. The
customer service from ACK is great and the shipping
is super fast. HIGHLY RECOMENDED!!
Reviewer:
yakker
Rating:
5
Date:
10/10/2010
Review:
this is my first kayak, so I was a bit nervous about expending this amount on something that I had no experience with. It has turned out to be an excellent purchase. I had several criteria in mind when deciding which kayak to purchase. I read every review I could find online and did as much research as I could. My criteria narrowed down to a comfortable and adjustable seat, easy to open hatches, adjustable foot pegs and lots of storage. The Tarpon 120 meet those needs and more. I really like the track system so I can mount fishing pole holders and other accessories with out having to drill holes in the kayak. And I can take them off when I want to use the kayak for recreation and not for fishing. The orbix hatches are great. Easy to open and no bungees or straps to mess with. I have used this kayak on small lakes and on rivers and have enjoyed every minute. The seat is very comfortable and is adjustable and have no problems sitting for long periods of time. The Tarpon 120 tracks very well, is stable and paddles well with minimal effort. I would definitely recommend this yak. I am planning on getting the Tarpon 100 next spring so my girlfriend can go on trips with me. The only negatives on this product are: 1. The owners manual is worthless, it has very little detail for instructions and for the most part is a safety manual. 2. The scupper plugs that come with the Tarpon are not the best design and can be kicked out accidentally with your feet or they can get caught on your fishing line. These two negatives are pretty minimal. Overall this is a great Kayak! I'm having a blast!
Reviewer:
Desiree
Rating:
5
Date:
9/12/2010
Review:
After wanting a kayak for years hubby and I decided to go for it and did much research and comparing as well as asking friends that owned kayaks. Our friends urged us to go with the sit-on style and we're so glad they did. They are remarkable in all aspects for us. They track well, are very stable, hold lots of gear and are great for recreation or fishing. Our Tarpon 120's are at the top of our list! We're hoping to get one for our son as soon as possible!
Reviewer:
Shirley
Rating:
5
Date:
8/13/2010
Review:
Great kayak. I have somewhat impaired balance and the Tarpon 120 is very stable, even in choppy water with rude water skiers all around.
Reviewer:
Ozarkwoods
Rating:
5
Date:
8/8/2010
Review:
I have had a chance to take the 120 out two times now. The first was a lake with some chop. I found without the scupper plugs in a 1/2inch of water at my heals and a about an inch of water in the rear storage area. I weight 270lbs and I did have a cooler with water and our lunch in rear storage area. The Tarpon is very stable easy to get in and out of, and the seat was very comfortable (I have had two back surgeries) the second trip we traveled from Rockaway Beach to Branson and back on Lake Taneycomo water was smooth with some boat traffic. With plugs in no water in rear storage and only a small amount from footwear. The Tarpon tracked well. Love it
Reviewer:
Andy
Rating:
5
Date:
8/7/2010
Review:
Great ride with the ability to fish out of. Very sleek cutting through the water.
Reviewer:
TJ
Rating:
5
Date:
7/26/2010
Review:
The kayak was everything they said it was and a little more compared to other kayaks. well done
Reviewer:
re2camp
Rating:
5
Date:
7/20/2010
Review:
I absolutely love this kayak. Best price and great service.
Reviewer:
JP
Rating:
5
Date:
4/25/2013
Review:
I bought the fishing package and
a rudder with my Tarpon120.
Great kayak. Easy to order, easy
to configure, fast, affordable
shipping. Thanks!
Reviewer:
yakbassin87
Rating:
5
Date:
4/18/2013
Review:
I ordered this from ACK and received it in just 3 days!
Their customer services is unbelievable. It doesn't get
any better. They also had about the lowest price I could
find. Add in $19 shipping to a commercial address and
you really get a lot of bang for your buck.
This kayak tracks well and is relatively fast. It is also
very stable. The seat is really comfortable with all the
adjustment options. I have had no problem sitting in it
for 7+ hours at a time.
The storage hatches feel well made and sturdy. They're
not completely waterproof, but do keep water from
splashes or paddle drip from getting inside the hull.
It is also relatively light. It's balanced very well and the
comfortable handles make it easy to carry, even by
yourself.
Rigging this kayak for fishing is really easy. I opted for
the plain kayak so I could outfit it myself (I'm not a fan
of the recessed rod holders). Scotty 344 flush mounts fit
nicely behind the seat and Scotty 244 flush deck mounts
fit the center console. The center point for mounting the
344 is marked on the hull by a small molded-in star.
Using this star and a hole saw makes install rod holders
really quick and easy. The hull is also thick and sturdy
enough to support the stress from a rod holder with bolts
or rivots. The slidetrax system is really handy and easy
to use and there are plenty of places to mount rod
holders. I made a backplate for the rear mounts, but
intend on using them with Scotty outriggers in the future.
It's probably not necessary, but I like a little bit of extra
strength. The tank well is big enough for a milk crate
and a cooler with some space left over. Add in the
storage hatch up front and the center hatch and you've
got plenty of storage for your gear. I usually keep a
small tackle box and tools in the center hatch for easy
access.
The only thing that I might consider negative, is that the
scupper plugs are not included with the kayak. You can
order them from ACK for $8 a pair though. It's not really
a big deal as this kayak is a dry ride and foam practice
golf balls do the trick.
Overall a very nice kayak that is very comfortable and
very capable of fishing or just paddling around.
Reviewer:
JBolliger
Rating:
5
Date:
3/26/2013
Review:
Sold my old kayak and went
with a Tarpon 120. Have been
out twice already and
absolutely love it! Very
comfortable, moves through
the water with ease and so
many options for adding
accessories. Already have my
fishfinder mounted using a
RAM mount. Arrived from ACK
on time and well protected.
Couldn't be happier! Thanks
ACK!
Reviewer:
billromany
Rating:
5
Date:
9/2/2012
Review:
Foolishly sold my first tarpon
120 due to lack of use. Second
tarpon 120 used for sailing
w/rudder. What a blast!!!
Reviewer:
Yakkety Yak
Rating:
5
Date:
8/27/2012
Review:
After extensive reviewing
online and at various stores,
my
husband and I decided the
Tarpon 120 was for us. We
found
Austin Kayak online and have
to say they were extremely
helpful
and knowledgeable.
We ordered mine first, and it
arrived within a week right to
our
door. It was wrapped so
well, it was practically
hermetically-
sealed. lol. We ordered the
package with paddle, paddle
holder
and PFD. All were great.
Within a week, we ordered one
for my husband and again, were
happy with our purchase.
We have taken it out twice and
it is stable, maneuverable and
comfortable. We are first
time yakkers, so we learn
something
new each time out.
Would definitely recommend
this one!!! In fact, told
friends and
they have purchased them also.
Happy Kayaking!!!
Reviewer:
Ben B
Rating:
5
Date:
7/18/2012
Review:
I believe that the tarpon 120
is probably the best all round
sot on the market. Good speed,
tracking, and the seat is very
comfortable. There isnt a
perfect kayak, but I think
this is
about as close as it gets. As
far as ack, they were great to
work with through the entire
process.
Reviewer:
Ben B
Rating:
5
Date:
7/2/2012
Review:
I took this boat on a 12 mile
trip the day I got it, and
have
made several fishing trips
since. It is everything I
hoped for
and more. Its plenty stable
and fast, tracks well, and the
layout and hatches are great.
The most pleasant surprise is
the comfort of the phase 3
seat, zero back pain or numb
rear end.
Reviewer:
Judy
Rating:
5
Date:
6/16/2012
Review:
Am use to an inflatable double
kayak. It was fine, but Im a
control freak. I wanted a
single. I was amazed at the
short shipping time and it got
here wrapped up like a little
baby. Cant say enough good
about the help I got before
and still get after I ordered
mine from ACK. This kayak
tracks wonderfully, the seat
adjusts and is so comfortable
and it is extremely solid
feeling. I look forward to
many years of fun with this
one.
Reviewer:
ethan trizzino
Rating:
5
Date:
6/7/2012
Review:
i am 10 years old i am buying
this bot an i cant
wait to get on the water
Reviewer:
Mark
Rating:
5
Date:
6/1/2012
Review:
I got the Tarpon 2 days after
ordering. The next day we
were on the water catching
fish! This is a high quality
boat, and I especially like
the slidetrax system and the
new hatches. I have been out
several times now, including
lakes, rivers, and on the
coast fishing for trout and
redfish. This yak is a great
all-around performer and we
are very happy with the
purchase.
Reviewer:
Bob Petrovic
Rating:
5
Date:
12/28/2011
Review:
I haven't had a chance to put
my Tarpon 120 in the water yet
- it's still kinda cold out
there. The kayak was in
perfect order when it arrived.
The packing and packaging were
a wonder of their own. The
kayak is very solid and seems
to have every convenience I
can think of for an off-the-
shelf unit. I'm extremely
pleased with my purchase.
Reviewer:
Sam S
Rating:
5
Date:
8/29/2011
Review:
Great boat, well designed and
very stable on the water.
Reviewer:
thebushpilot
Rating:
5
Date:
8/22/2011
Review:
It's great. Tracks great,
stable, and seems to be almost
infinitely customizable. The
first time I took it out I
spent about 6 hours on the
lake without getting fatigued
or sore. There was a decent
amount of wind and some
@#!*tards blowing through the
no wake zone and had no
stability issues. 2nd time was
on a super calm lake and it
cruised like a dream. I'm
super happy with this thing
and am looking foreward to
going out on the bay with it.
(Bodega, San Pablo, SF Bay
area).It's also really nice
that the rail system and
accessory blanks are sized for
common mounts/accessories. The
only complaints I have are
that the seat bottom could be
a little rearward in relation
to the seat back and the cup
holder would be more
convenient closer to the seat.
Reviewer:
BJ Taylor
Rating:
4
Date:
7/27/2011
Review:
Love them... we've been out
twice and really love the. We
accidentally found out though
that there's a $75 rebate on
the kayaks, and wonder why no
one from Austin called that to
our attention.
Reviewer:
Chuck Thoma
Rating:
5
Date:
5/8/2011
Review:
Kayak as it arrived and inspected is almost too pretty to use. I haven't had a chance to get it on water yet because of high water levels on Allegheny River. The Tarpon 120 has the features I need to fully enjoy the recreation opportunities afforded by the local waterways. But I'm still trying to figure out what scupper plugs are all about.
Reviewer:
westTXyakker
Rating:
5
Date:
5/6/2011
Review:
I had my selection narrowed down to 2 kayaks and I picked the Tarpon for the Phase-3 seat. Best decision I have made. That seat is unbelievably comfortable. I didn't get the angler version but I put rear facing Scotty rod holders on the tankwell slidetrax and like it better because I can have my rods horizontal to keep them from snagging on trees/docks. I like the slidetrax because it sure is a relief not to have to cut into the hull. The hatches lock tight and are easy to open and close. It tracks really straight and it pretty quick for a 12 footer in my opinion. Everything on it is high quality and you will not be disappointed.
Reviewer:
Bill
Rating:
5
Date:
3/28/2011
Review:
I really like the Tarpon 120, it's very stable and
turns very well. The ride is dry and I only leave the
footwell plugs out to drain water from your feet. The
customer service from ACK is great and the shipping
is super fast. HIGHLY RECOMENDED!!
Reviewer:
yakker
Rating:
5
Date:
10/10/2010
Review:
this is my first kayak, so I was a bit nervous about expending this amount on something that I had no experience with. It has turned out to be an excellent purchase. I had several criteria in mind when deciding which kayak to purchase. I read every review I could find online and did as much research as I could. My criteria narrowed down to a comfortable and adjustable seat, easy to open hatches, adjustable foot pegs and lots of storage. The Tarpon 120 meet those needs and more. I really like the track system so I can mount fishing pole holders and other accessories with out having to drill holes in the kayak. And I can take them off when I want to use the kayak for recreation and not for fishing. The orbix hatches are great. Easy to open and no bungees or straps to mess with. I have used this kayak on small lakes and on rivers and have enjoyed every minute. The seat is very comfortable and is adjustable and have no problems sitting for long periods of time. The Tarpon 120 tracks very well, is stable and paddles well with minimal effort. I would definitely recommend this yak. I am planning on getting the Tarpon 100 next spring so my girlfriend can go on trips with me. The only negatives on this product are: 1. The owners manual is worthless, it has very little detail for instructions and for the most part is a safety manual. 2. The scupper plugs that come with the Tarpon are not the best design and can be kicked out accidentally with your feet or they can get caught on your fishing line. These two negatives are pretty minimal. Overall this is a great Kayak! I'm having a blast!
Reviewer:
Desiree
Rating:
5
Date:
9/12/2010
Review:
After wanting a kayak for years hubby and I decided to go for it and did much research and comparing as well as asking friends that owned kayaks. Our friends urged us to go with the sit-on style and we're so glad they did. They are remarkable in all aspects for us. They track well, are very stable, hold lots of gear and are great for recreation or fishing. Our Tarpon 120's are at the top of our list! We're hoping to get one for our son as soon as possible!
Reviewer:
Shirley
Rating:
5
Date:
8/13/2010
Review:
Great kayak. I have somewhat impaired balance and the Tarpon 120 is very stable, even in choppy water with rude water skiers all around.
Reviewer:
Ozarkwoods
Rating:
5
Date:
8/8/2010
Review:
I have had a chance to take the 120 out two times now. The first was a lake with some chop. I found without the scupper plugs in a 1/2inch of water at my heals and a about an inch of water in the rear storage area. I weight 270lbs and I did have a cooler with water and our lunch in rear storage area. The Tarpon is very stable easy to get in and out of, and the seat was very comfortable (I have had two back surgeries) the second trip we traveled from Rockaway Beach to Branson and back on Lake Taneycomo water was smooth with some boat traffic. With plugs in no water in rear storage and only a small amount from footwear. The Tarpon tracked well. Love it
Reviewer:
Andy
Rating:
5
Date:
8/7/2010
Review:
Great ride with the ability to fish out of. Very sleek cutting through the water.
Reviewer:
TJ
Rating:
5
Date:
7/26/2010
Review:
The kayak was everything they said it was and a little more compared to other kayaks. well done
Reviewer:
re2camp
Rating:
5
Date:
7/20/2010
Review:
I absolutely love this kayak. Best price and great service.
Reviewer:
Magilla Gorilla
Rating:
3
Date:
6/28/2010
Review:
I like the looks of this kayak although it is slower than my WS160. Bought it for my 13 yr. old son in hopes that he could keep up with me on my 160 but it did not work out. I switched kayaks with him I was on the 120 and he was on the 160 and I could not keep up. Great kayak for short distance paddling.(under 3 miles)
Reviewer:
Sean Taber - N.Y
Rating:
5
Date:
1/19/2010
Review:
In spring 2009 I purchased 2 tarpon 120 packages that had all I needed to get out on the water. The kayaks are pretty stable, enough to stand up in although you might want to consider something more stable if you plan on sight casting. I do plan on fishing with the tarpon but really bought them for recreation on the local pond and great swamp in Patterson N.Y…By recreation; I mean standing up in it and jumping into the water. Tipping it over and sitting on the bottom side with my feet in the water. Flipping it right side up, climbing back in and paddling away (Just make sure the hatch covers are locked and “all” but seat scupper plugs are out). I’m sure it’s not recommended and may sound reckless but the kayaks are very durable. After my reckless venture all I had stowed away inside the tarpon stayed fully dry. I found a 2009 Tarpon 100 for a really great price and could not pass it up. Now I’m the proud owner of 2 tarpon 120’s and 1 tarpon 100. The tarpon 100 is surprisingly fast although slower than the 120 by a fraction. It does however, turn a bit easier. I will purchase another tarpon 100 for my daughter this spring. We were a family of four kayaking with 3 tarpons. I would sit in the back storage area while one of my kids did the work. I can’t wait until spring to use these awesome yacks.I'm 5'11" about 170 lbs. and remember I said I sat in the back. The tarpon 100 and 120's are more than enough kayak for my weight and size. The smallest is my son weighing at 75 lbs. and under 5' did as well as me in all the tarpons.
Reviewer:
L D Van Meter
Rating:
5
Date:
11/3/2009
Review:
This is the 2nd kayak that I have purchased, the first one is a whitewater kayak, I discovered this kayak last January, and fell in love with it. Looks to be the best fishing kayak on the market today, after 10 months of research, I finally decided on the Tarpon 120. I want to tell anyone that is in the market for this kind or any kind, the guys at Austin Canoe and Kayak are the very best, they customized it for me just the way I wanted and it got here in record time, I ordered late Friday afternoon, they had to fix it up I guess on Saturday, and shipped it on Monday and I got it on Tuesday, unbelievable, great job guys.
Very happy with my comlete experience with ACK.
Reviewer:
Doc in Missouri
Rating:
5
Date:
10/12/2009
Review:
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 is everything all of the other reviews have said and more. This is my first SOT and it is outstanding for stability. The storage hatches are great and this yak will hold a three day tour worth of gear easily both dry inside and in the well. The seat is very comfortable and the ride is as dry as claimed even without the plugs although I recommend them on the moderate rivers of MO. First rate design is both stable and a straight tracker. This will not be my last Wilderness Systems yak.
Reviewer:
AC in Santa Barbara
Rating:
5
Date:
11/24/2008
Review:
I agonized over (and tested) many makes and models before settling on the Tarpon 120 as a 70/30 fishing/recreational platform. I think it is easy to get sold on more kayak than you need on the theory that you really need half your garage out on the water with you when you're fishing. But I remembered how much fun I have with minimalist float tubing inland, and got the Tarpon.
The Tarpon is fast and incredibly stable. Blind folded I'd guess it's a 13 footer easy. I like the minimal width because it lets me dig deep on my paddle stroke without banging the gunwales all the time like I did on the big Prowler models. And no flippers to retract in the kelp beds. Besides Hobie, I want an upper body workout! I am a big enough guy, well over 200#, and I still manage to keep my butt dry, even without scupper plugs.
My FAVORITE part is that at 12 feet even, the Tarpon fits INSIDE my VW van! That puts me out on the Pacific in less than 20 minutes door to surf, including loading.
My only complaint is that the space between my legs doesn't have room for much more than one small tackle tray. I may opt for a vest PFD like I use on my float tube.
Reviewer:
Marvin Blystone
Rating:
5
Date:
7/29/2008
Review:
Well, we started with two Tarpon 100's, but the wife's long legs cried for the adjustable footrests of the 120. All of a sudden, four (that's right, FOUR) 120's had been purchased for members of the family and the 100's sold to a friend who is planning on buying a 120 for his wife. The boats are very stable and seem to be a bit faster than the 100's. The only complaint would be the pinetree plugs that hold the seats to the hull. We've lost two already, but since the hulls are threaded, they might just get replaced with some stainless steel screws! All in all, great boats with lots of value for the money. Buy yourself a couple and go get on the water!
Reviewer:
Josh - San Antonio
Rating:
5
Date:
2/26/2008
Review:
This kayak is extremely stable and easy to fish out of. It is the best kayak I have ever been in. I can't see myself in any other kayak. The first time I had it out I went on a 4 day, 26 mile adventure and couldn't have been happier.
Reviewer:
Paul Schmidt
Rating:
5
Date:
4/17/2007
Review:
After agonizing over reviews and brochures, I finally got to try the T120 at ACK's demo day, and drove straight over to the shop to make one mine. We've been out on Lake Travis on a big boating day, and Lake Austin with wakeboard boats blasting by, and this boat is totally stable. Took wakes on the side just to see what would happen, no problem. It's my first kayak, so it seems plenty fast for me, tracks very well, and handles a big cooler with lots of stuff. Did I mention I LOVE this boat?
Reviewer:
Craig Lollar
Rating:
5
Date:
9/27/2006
Review:
I've had several boats from 14' to 17'. This is the sweetest fishing vessel you'll ever own. I heard about the Tarpon 120 from a friend of mine and then I just had to try one out. I think this will revolutionize the river fishing in Florida. If you like to fish, this is your ticket to freedom.
Reviewer:
Jeff in Austin, TX
Rating:
5
Date:
5/31/2006
Review:
Love this thing. Terrific fishing vessel and a great overall kayak. Does great on the big lakes and handles just fine on narrow fast moving rivers. Lots of storage and it just looks cool. Get a lot of compliments on this boat.