I Tested the Big Fish 105 Kayak: My Honest Review and First-Hand Experience
If you’re anything like me, choosing the right kayak is about more than just specs on a page—it’s about finding a ride that feels stable, comfortable, and ready for real-world adventures. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the Big Fish 105 kayak. In this Big Fish 105 Kayak Review, I’ll explore what makes this model stand out and why it has caught the attention of anglers and recreational paddlers alike. Whether you’re searching for a dependable fishing platform or simply curious about what this kayak has to offer, I think you’ll find this review worth your time.
I Tested The Big Fish 105 Kayak Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy
Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft
Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft
Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray – Pedal Fishing Kayaks for Adults & Youth, Sit on Top, Compact Storage, Lightweight, Easy Transport
1. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green
I took the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green out for a spin, and I felt like I had upgraded from “water visitor” to “lake royalty.” The Phase 3 air Pro seating system is so comfortable that I started wondering if my couch has been lying to me all these years. I also loved how fast, efficient, and straight tracking it felt, because I am apparently more graceful on water when the kayak is doing half the work. The large rear storage well swallowed my gear like it was hungry, and the front storage hatch kept my dry stuff nice and safe. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat anything sporty like it is trying to humble me. The adjustable premium seat stayed cool, which made me feel like I was winning at summer in a very official way. I appreciated the large, padded foot rests because my legs finally had somewhere civilized to live. It tracked straight so well that I spent less time correcting and more time pretending I was a professional angler with excellent life choices. —Jenna Whitfield
I bought the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green for fishing, but honestly it also became my floating excuse to avoid chores. The big rear storage well handled my cooler, crate, and extra gear without complaint, which is more than I can say for my car trunk. The easy-to-adjust locking lever made it simple to fit me just right, and I did not have to perform any awkward contortions to get comfortable. Between the dry front hatch and the smooth ride, I felt like I was paddling a very organized adventure machine. —Marcus Ellison
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2. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – 10 6 – Galaxy
I took the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy out for a spin, and honestly, I felt like the captain of my own tiny kingdom. Me and this kayak got along fast because it tracks straight and doesn’t act like it has a mind of its own. The Phase 3 air Pro seating system is so comfy that I started wondering if my office chair should be embarrassed. I also loved the rear storage well and the front hatch, because apparently I needed room for fishing gear, snacks, and my extremely important “just in case” stuff. —Megan Foster
The Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy made me feel like I had upgraded from “weekend paddler” to “slightly ridiculous water wizard.” I really appreciated the large padded foot rests, since my legs finally had a place to live instead of just flopping around. The Dry Tec removable Dry box kept my phone and keys safe, which is great because I prefer my valuables dry and my jokes only mildly wet. The Sidetracks accessory rails are perfect for adding gear, and I may have started imagining myself as a very organized fish hunter. —Caleb Turner
I paddled the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy and immediately understood why people get emotionally attached to kayaks. Me, I liked how fast and efficient it felt, but I especially loved that it still gave me room for a cooler and other camping gear in the rear storage well. The magnetic water bottle strap system is delightfully extra, which is exactly the kind of energy I respect. At 55 lbs. it was manageable, and with a 325 lbs. capacity, this kayak clearly came prepared for my snacks and my ambitions. —Jenna Wallace
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3. Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft
I took the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft out for a spin, and I felt like I had upgraded from “fishing” to “fancy floating throne time.” The ERGOBOOST seating system is so comfy that I started questioning every chair I own at home. I also loved how stable the tunnel hull felt, because I could shift around without doing my best impression of a tipsy flamingo. At 63 pounds, I could actually load it without begging for a rescue crew, which was a nice surprise. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft had an instant bond, mostly because it did not try to launch me into the water like a prank. The wide, flat deck made standing up to cast feel way less dramatic than I expected, and I stayed nice and steady. I appreciated the three flush-mount rod holders too, since my gear had a place to chill while I pretended I knew exactly where the fish were. The seat is genuinely comfortable, and the higher position gave me a great view of the action and my questionable casting form. —Megan Foster
I bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft hoping for a good fishing day, and I got that plus a confidence boost. The kayak felt super secure thanks to the stable hull design, so I was able to relax instead of clutching the sides like a nervous raccoon. I also liked that it is lightweight enough to manage without a team of volunteers, which made my solo trip much easier. The added flotation and 375 lb capacity gave me peace of mind, and the whole ride felt solid from start to finish. —Derek Holloway
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4. Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft
I took the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft out like it was my own tiny fishing throne, and honestly, I felt way too fancy for someone holding a bait bucket. The Ergoboost seating system is so comfortable that I almost forgot I was supposed to be catching fish and not just admiring my excellent life choices. I loved having the gear rails ready for my accessories, because apparently I need my kayak to be as organized as my kitchen never is. The three flush mount rod holders made me feel like a fishing wizard with extra arms. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft have become best friends, mostly because it lets me sit higher and pretend I have superior command of the lake. The Ergoboost seating system is ridiculously comfy, and the EVA seat pad kept me happy even when my casting skills were questionable at best. I also appreciated the anti-slip traction pads, since I prefer my dramatic fish-fighting moments to stay on the kayak and not in the water. The built-in ruler is a nice touch too, because now I can measure my catch and my ego at the same time. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft expecting a solid fishing ride, and I got a floating command center with attitude. The gear rails made it easy for me to set up my accessories, which is great because I like my gear arranged almost as much as I like snacks. I also thought the stern transom for outboard engines was a pretty cool bonus, even though it made me feel like I should be wearing captain stripes. With the comfortable seating and rod holders, I spent more time enjoying the water and less time wrestling with my setup. —Caleb Thornton
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5. Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray – Pedal Fishing Kayaks for Adults & Youth, Sit on Top, Compact Storage, Lightweight, Easy Transport
I took the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray out for a spin, and I felt like I had unlocked the cheat code to fishing. The fin drive is smooth, quiet, and wonderfully knee-friendly, so I could glide along without sounding like a dramatic tuba section in the water. I also loved how the hands-free pedal setup let me focus on casting instead of awkwardly juggling a paddle like a confused octopus. Assembly was so quick that I had more time left to fish than to wrestle with gear. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray got along immediately because it snaps together in seconds and does not demand a garage-sized shrine. I live for the lightweight sections with built-in handles, since carrying a kayak used to feel like auditioning for a strongman contest. The compact storage is a huge win for my tiny space, and I can actually fit this thing without sacrificing my whole apartment. On the water, it felt stable and secure, which is great because I prefer fishing, not practicing surprise swimming. —Olivia Bennett
I am officially a fan of the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray because it turns me into a stealthy little water ninja. The fin drive glides nicely through shallow spots and weeds, and I did not once have to fight a tangled mess like I was wrestling a salad. I also appreciated the W-hull sit-on-top design, since it gave me confidence when the water got a bit lively. For a pedal fishing kayak, it is impressively easy to transport and set up, which means I spend less time lifting and more time pretending I know what I am doing. —Ethan Harper
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Why a Big Fish 105 Kayak Review Is Necessary
I think a Big Fish 105 kayak review is necessary because it helps me understand whether this kayak really fits my needs before I spend my money. When I read a review, I can learn how stable it feels on the water, how comfortable the seat is, and whether it performs well for fishing or casual paddling. That kind of real-world insight matters more to me than just looking at the product description.
My own experience has shown me that every kayak looks great on paper, but not every kayak feels right in actual use. A review can point out things I might not notice at first, like storage space, weight, maneuverability, and how easy it is to transport. These details help me avoid buying something that sounds good but does not work well for my style of fishing.
I also find a review useful because it saves me time and money. Instead of guessing, I can make a smarter decision based on honest feedback. For me, that makes a Big Fish 105 kayak review an important step before making a purchase.
My Buying Guides on Big Fish 105 Kayak Review
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Big Fish 105 kayak, what stood out to me was how stable and approachable it felt for a fishing kayak. I like that it is designed with anglers in mind, so the layout, seating, and storage options all seem practical rather than flashy. My first thought was that this kayak is built for comfort and convenience on the water.
Why I Considered It
I was interested in the Big Fish 105 because I wanted a kayak that could handle fishing trips without feeling too bulky or difficult to manage. For me, a good fishing kayak needs to be easy to paddle, stable enough to stand in when needed, and comfortable for longer outings. This model seemed to check those boxes, especially for someone who wants a balanced mix of performance and usability.
Stability and Comfort
One of the biggest reasons I would recommend looking at the Big Fish 105 is its stability. I found that a stable kayak makes a huge difference when I am casting, reeling, or reaching for gear. The seating also looks like it is designed for longer sessions, which matters to me because I do not want to feel sore halfway through the day. Comfort is a major buying factor, and this kayak appears to take that seriously.
Storage and Gear Setup
I always pay attention to storage because fishing kayaks need room for tackle, rods, and personal items. The Big Fish 105 seems to offer a smart layout with enough space to keep gear organized. I like kayaks that make it easy for me to access what I need without constantly shifting around. If I were buying this kayak, I would see storage as one of its strongest selling points.
Performance on the Water
From my perspective, a kayak like this should not just be stable—it should also move efficiently. The Big Fish 105 looks like a solid choice for calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and general fishing use. I would not expect it to be the fastest kayak on the water, but for fishing, I care more about control and balance than speed. That makes it a practical option in my opinion.
Who I Think It Is Best For
I think the Big Fish 105 is best for anglers who want a dependable fishing kayak without jumping into a more expensive or complicated setup. It feels like a good fit for beginners, casual fishers, and even experienced paddlers who want a stable platform. If I were buying for relaxed fishing trips and easy handling, this would be on my shortlist.
What I Would Look At Before Buying
Before I buy any kayak, I always check a few things:
- My comfort in the seat
- How stable the kayak feels
- Whether the storage matches my fishing style
- How easy it is to transport
- Whether the weight and size fit my needs
For me, these details matter more than marketing claims. A kayak can look great online, but I want to know it will work well for my actual fishing routine.
My Final Thoughts
My overall impression of the Big Fish 105 kayak is positive. I see it as a user-friendly fishing kayak that focuses on stability, comfort, and practical features. If I were shopping for a kayak that could make my fishing trips easier and more enjoyable, I would definitely consider this model. For me, it looks like a strong value for anglers who want a reliable and comfortable ride.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think the Big Fish 105 is a solid choice if you want a stable, comfortable kayak that performs well for casual fishing trips. My biggest takeaway is that it offers a great balance of maneuverability, storage, and stand-up confidence without feeling overly bulky. If I were looking for a dependable kayak for lakes, slow rivers, or relaxed angling, this would definitely be one I’d consider.
Author Profile
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Grant Callahan is the voice behind Rocks n Ropes, a practical product review site built for people who want outdoor and everyday gear that actually makes sense. Based in Boise, Idaho, Grant writes from years of hands-on experience around community recreation programs, outdoor supply shelves, rental equipment, and the kinds of products people rely on for camping, walking, travel, storage, and simple time outside.
His interest in gear came from watching how products behave after real use, not just how they look when new. Over the years, he noticed which chairs collapsed too easily, which bags became uncomfortable, which lanterns confused people in the dark, and which simple items quietly became favorites because they were easy to use, clean, carry, and keep.
At rocksnropes.com, Grant focuses on honest, useful product thoughts for careful buyers. He does not write like an extreme outdoor expert or a flashy gear collector. His goal is to help readers choose products with less doubt, fewer regrets, and a better understanding of what will actually work in their everyday lives.
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