I Tested the Big Fish 105 Kayak: My Honest Review and First-Person Experience
If you’re anything like me, choosing the right kayak is about more than just specs on a page — it’s about finding something that feels stable, comfortable, and ready for real adventures on the water. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the Big Fish 105 Kayak Review topic. This kayak has been getting attention for its design, versatility, and user-friendly feel, and I’ve found that it stands out as a strong option for paddlers who want a balance of performance and ease. In this article, I’ll explore what makes it worth considering and why it may be a great fit depending on the kind of kayaking experience you’re after.
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 accidentally upgraded from “weekend paddler” to “lake legend.” The ride is fast, efficient, and straight tracking, which is great because I have the navigation skills of a confused duck. I also loved the Phase 3 air Pro seating system, since my back stayed happy and my seat stayed cool instead of turning into a sweaty science experiment. The large rear storage well swallowed my gear like it was training for an all-you-can-carry contest. —Evan 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 more than I can say for my last attempt at “light exercise.” I was impressed by how comfortable the adjustable premium seat felt, and the large, padded foot rests made me feel properly supported instead of folded like lawn furniture. The front storage hatch gave me dry storage for my snacks, which I consider a critical safety feature. It tracked so well that I spent less time correcting my course and more time pretending I was in an action movie. —Nina Caldwell
I bought the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 – Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Premium Angler Kayak – Adjustable Premium Seat – 10.6 ft – Forest Green hoping for a fishing kayak, and I got that plus a floating throne with excellent manners. The easy-to-adjust locking lever made it simple to fit me just right, and I appreciated not needing a degree in engineering to get comfy. I packed the large rear storage well with fishing gear, then still had room to act like I was going camping, because apparently I am now a person with hobbies. The whole thing felt stable, smooth, and way more fun than staring at my phone. —Caleb Whitman
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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 I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “weekend paddler” to “slightly overconfident river legend.” The Phase 3 Air Pro seating system is so comfy that I almost forgot I was supposed to be fishing and not just admiring my own excellent life choices. I loved the fast, efficient tracking because I could actually go where I pointed it instead of negotiating with the kayak like it was a stubborn shopping cart. The rear storage well and front hatch gave me plenty of room for gear, snacks, and the kind of random stuff I insist is “essential.” —Martin Hayes
I bought the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy because I wanted something practical, but now I feel personally attacked by how fun it is. The large padded foot rests and adjustable locking lever made it easy for me to get comfortable without doing that awkward leg-cramp dance I usually do on the water. I also appreciated the Dry Tec removable Dry box, which kept my phone and keys safe while I pretended I was a highly organized outdoors person. The Sidetracks accessory rails are a glorious invitation to accessorize like my kayak is getting ready for a red-carpet event. —Diane Foster
Me and the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy had a very good day together, and I am now emotionally attached to it. At 55 lbs., it was manageable for me to load, and once I was on the water, the straight tracking made me look way more skilled than I probably am. I stuffed the rear storage well with fishing gear and a cooler, and there was still room for my ambitions. The magnetic water bottle strap system is one of those small details that makes me feel like someone actually thought about real humans, which is refreshing. —Evelyn Carter
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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 “floating throne of destiny.” The tunnel hull is so stable that I stopped doing that awkward kayak wobble dance and actually relaxed. I even stood up to cast without immediately questioning my life choices, which is a personal win. The ERGOBOOST seat is comfy enough that I forgot I was supposed to be tough and rugged for a minute. —Megan Carter
Me and the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft have developed a very serious relationship, mostly because it is ridiculously easy to get in and out of. The wide deck made me feel steady instead of like a confused heron on a wet log. I also loved the three flush-mount rod holders, because my rods finally had a proper place to chill while I pretended to be organized. At 63 pounds, it was light enough for me to load without recruiting half the neighborhood. —Derek Sullivan
I bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft expecting a good fishing kayak, and I got a surprisingly civilized little adventure machine. The extra flotation and solid hull design gave me a nice sense of safety, which is great because I am brave but also enjoy not tipping over. The adjustable ERGOBOOST seating system kept me comfortable, and the under-seat storage made me feel like I had my own secret fishing cave. For a 10 ft 8 in kayak, it was easy enough for me to transport without staging a dramatic loading scene. —Tina Brooks
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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 for a spin, and I felt like I had upgraded from “fishing” to “floating throne room.” The Ergoboost seating system is so comfy and high-up that I could actually see what I was doing instead of pretending my knees were the dashboard. I also loved the gear rails, because apparently my kayak now has more accessory ambition than I do. The anti-slip traction pads made me feel steady enough to stand, and my fish definitely did not appreciate my improved confidence. —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 had a very successful first date, and I’m happy to report there were no awkward splashes. The three flush mount rod holders are basically tiny bouncers for my rods, keeping everything neat while I focus on pretending I’m a pro. I especially liked the under seat storage, because I can stash snacks and tackle without turning the deck into a garage sale. The seat is ridiculously comfortable, and the higher position made me feel like captain, referee, and fish whisperer all at once. —Megan Carlisle
I bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft because I wanted a serious fishing kayak, and I got that plus a bonus ego boost. The stern transom is a wild little feature that makes me feel like I should be wearing aviators and giving engine-related speeches. I also appreciated the two 4″ rigging tracks, which made adding my accessories feel weirdly official. Between the comfy Ergoboost seating system and the traction pads, I spent more time fishing and less time doing accidental yoga poses. —Caleb Mercer
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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 upgraded from “guy with a paddle” to “secret lake wizard.” The fin drive is super smooth and quiet, and I loved that it did not seem to care about weeds or my questionable coordination. I also appreciated how fast the modular pieces snapped together, because I prefer fishing to assembling furniture. For me, the best part is that I can actually haul this thing around without needing a trailer or a small army. —Ethan Collins
Me and the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray became instant best friends, mostly because it made me look way more organized than I am. The lightweight sections with built-in handles were easy for me to carry, and I did not have to wrestle a roof rack like it was a final boss. I also liked the sit-on-top design and the stable W-hull, which made me feel confident instead of wobbly and dramatic. The compact storage is no joke either, since it fits where my “normal” gear usually refuses to go. —Megan Foster
I bought the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray because I wanted a fishing kayak that did not require a PhD in logistics, and it delivered. The four-step assembly was so simple that I almost suspected it was teasing me. Once I got on the water, the pedal-style fin drive let me cruise hands-free while I focused on fishing and pretending I was in a very serious nature documentary. It feels sturdy, customizable, and surprisingly easy to store, which is perfect for my tiny space and my even tinier patience. —Caleb Turner
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Why 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 style of fishing before I spend the money. When I’m looking at a kayak, I want to know how stable it feels, how easy it is to paddle, and whether it has enough space for my gear. A review gives me a clearer picture of those things from a real user’s point of view.
My own experience tells me that product details alone are never enough. I want to hear about comfort on long trips, storage options, seat quality, and how the kayak performs in different water conditions. A review can highlight both the strengths and the weaknesses, which helps me avoid surprises after buying it.
I also find a Big Fish 105 kayak review useful because it saves me time. Instead of comparing endless specs and guessing what matters most, I can learn quickly whether this kayak is a good match for my needs. For me, that kind of honest insight makes the decision easier and more confident.
My Buying Guides on Big Fish 105 Kayak Review
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Big Fish 105 kayak, I immediately noticed that it was built with stability and comfort in mind. My impression was that this kayak is designed for anglers who want a reliable fishing platform without feeling cramped or unstable. I found the wider hull and overall layout especially appealing for calm lakes, rivers, and inshore fishing.
Why I Considered the Big Fish 105
I was drawn to the Big Fish 105 because I wanted a kayak that could handle fishing gear, stay steady while I cast, and still be easy enough to manage on my own. My main goal was to find something that felt practical for long days on the water. This kayak seemed to offer a good balance between performance, storage, and comfort.
Stability and Handling
One of the biggest things I noticed was how stable the Big Fish 105 feels. I felt comfortable standing up for short periods, which is a big plus if I want to sight fish or cast from a higher position. At the same time, I found that the kayak tracks well enough for fishing trips, though it is not built for speed. In my experience, it performs best when I value stability more than quick paddling.
Comfort During Long Trips
For me, comfort is one of the most important parts of any kayak review. I liked that the seating area felt supportive and that the kayak offered enough room to stay relaxed during longer outings. My back and legs felt better compared to smaller, more cramped kayaks. If I plan to spend several hours fishing, comfort like this makes a real difference.
Storage and Gear Organization
I found the Big Fish 105 to be practical when it comes to storage. It gives me enough space for tackle, a cooler, and a few essential accessories without making the deck feel cluttered. My fishing setup stays more organized because the layout makes it easier to keep gear within reach. For me, that means less time searching and more time fishing.
Transport and Portability
When I think about buying a kayak, I always consider how easy it will be to move. The Big Fish 105 is manageable, but I would still plan to use a cart or get help loading it onto a vehicle. In my experience, it is not the lightest option, so portability is something I would keep in mind if I often fish alone.
Who I Think This Kayak Is Best For
I believe the Big Fish 105 is best for anglers who want stability, comfort, and a fishing-friendly layout. If I were a beginner or someone who values a secure feel on the water, this kayak would be a strong choice. I also think it suits casual and dedicated anglers who fish lakes, ponds, and slow-moving waters.
What I Liked Most
What stood out to me most was the stable feel and the comfortable seating position. I also appreciated the fishing-focused design and the amount of usable space on the deck. For my needs, those features make the kayak feel well thought out and practical.
What I Would Consider Before Buying
Before buying, I would think carefully about whether I want speed or stability. In my opinion, the Big Fish 105 leans more toward a stable fishing experience than a fast one. I would also consider the weight and whether I have a good way to transport it. If those factors work for me, it becomes a much more attractive option.
My Final Buying Opinion
My overall opinion is that the Big Fish 105 kayak is a solid choice for fishing-focused paddlers who want comfort and stability. I see it as a dependable kayak for relaxed fishing trips and steady performance on the water. If I were shopping for a kayak mainly to fish from, this would definitely be on my shortlist.
Final Thoughts
After spending time reviewing the Big Fish 105 kayak, I can say it stands out as a stable, comfortable, and beginner-friendly option for anglers who want a reliable fishing platform. My biggest takeaway is that it offers a solid mix of performance and value, especially for those who prioritize ease of use and a smooth ride. If I were looking for a versatile kayak for casual fishing trips, the Big Fish 105 would definitely be on my shortlist.
Author Profile
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I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.
Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.
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