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 getting on the water—it’s about finding a ride that feels stable, comfortable, and ready for whatever kind of adventure you have in mind. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the Big Fish 105 Kayak Review topic. With so many kayaks claiming to offer the perfect balance of performance and usability, it can be hard to know which one actually lives up to the hype. In this article, I’ll share my perspective on what makes this kayak stand out, who it might be best suited for, and why it’s caught the attention of so many paddlers.
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 “weekend paddler” to “legendary river goblin.” I loved how fast, efficient, and straight tracking it felt, because I was not in the mood to zigzag like a confused duck. The Phase 3 air Pro seating system was ridiculously comfortable, and I appreciated that the cool touch design kept me from feeling like I was sitting on a sun-baked frying pan. I also stuffed gear into the large rear storage well and front hatch without having to play kayak Tetris. —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 have become best friends, and honestly, I’m a little offended by how much fun it is. The large padded foot rests made me feel planted and comfy, like my feet finally got invited to the good party. I liked how easy it was to adjust the locking lever for my height, because apparently my legs have strong opinions. The rear storage well swallowed my cooler and fishing gear like it had been training for this moment. —Lydia Bennett
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 solid kayak, and I got a floating confidence boost instead. The sit-on-top design made me feel relaxed right away, and the premium seat kept me happy long enough to stop checking the clock every five minutes. I was impressed by the straight tracking, since I spent more time enjoying the water and less time correcting my course like a nervous intern. The front storage hatch gave me dry storage for my stuff, which is a very fancy way of saying my snacks survived. —Caleb Foster
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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 “casual paddler” to “tiny aquatic legend.” The fast, efficient tracking made me look way more skilled than I actually am, which I deeply appreciated. I also loved the Phase 3 air Pro seating system because my back stayed happy and my seat stayed cool, even when I was pretending to be a serious angler. The rear storage well swallowed my gear like a champ, and the Dry Tec removable Dry box kept my phone safe from my own questionable balance. —Megan Foster
Me and the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy have a beautiful understanding now, mostly because it does the hard work while I take the credit. The kayak feels stable, tracks straight, and the large padded foot rests made me feel like I was lounging in a very determined lawn chair. I really liked the magnetic water bottle strap system, because apparently even hydration gets a fancy upgrade here. The front storage hatch and sectioned tray were perfect for my snacks, lures, and the random little things I always bring “just in case.” —Dylan Mercer
I bought the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak | 10′ 6″ | Galaxy hoping for a good fishing kayak, and I got that plus a smug grin every time I paddled it. The Sidetracks accessory rails made me feel like I was customizing a spaceship, only wetter. At 55 lbs., it was manageable to move around, and the 325 lbs. capacity gave me plenty of room for gear and my snack-based survival strategy. The comfort of the adjustable seating system really sealed the deal, because I could stay out longer without turning into a grumpy pretzel. —Hannah Porter
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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 honestly, I felt like I had upgraded from “fishing” to “luxury fishing.” The ERGOBOOST seating system was so comfy that I started questioning whether I was there for bass or a nap with a paddle. I also loved how stable it felt, because the tunnel hull made standing up to cast way less dramatic than my usual wobble-fest. At 63 pounds, I could actually move it around without recruiting half the neighborhood. —Megan Carter
The Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft made me look way more coordinated than I actually am, which is a rare and beautiful thing. The wide, flat deck gave me enough confidence to stand up and cast without feeling like I was auditioning for a slapstick comedy. I really appreciated the three flush-mount rod holders, because my gear had a place to live instead of rolling around like tiny aquatic rebels. It also felt reassuring knowing the kayak has extra flotation and a 375 lb capacity, which made me trust it with both me and my snack stash. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 – Angler Fishing Kayak with Lawnchair seat – 10.5 ft hoping for a good fishing day, and I ended up with a very good fishing day plus a very smug grin. The lightweight design made loading it much easier than I expected, and I did not need a heroic amount of help to get it to the water. Once I was out there, the stable hull made me feel steady enough to cast without doing my best impression of a baby deer on ice. The comfortable seat and under-seat storage were the cherry on top, because I could fish longer and keep my essentials close. —Laura Bennett
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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 bought the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft, and honestly, I feel like I upgraded from “fishing” to “floating throne with snacks.” The Ergoboost seating system is so comfy that I started judging my lawn chair at home. I also love the gear rails because I can mount my stuff without turning the deck into a tackle-yard explosion. The three flush mount rod holders make me look way more organized than I actually am. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft are now on a first-name basis, mostly because I keep talking to it like it’s my fishing buddy. The adjustable Ergoboost seat gives me a better view of the water, which is great for spotting fish and pretending I’m in a nature documentary. I really appreciate the anti-slip traction pads, since my balance is not exactly Olympic material. The built-in ruler is a bonus, because apparently I now measure fish and my own dignity in the same place. —Hannah Whitman
I took the Pelican Catch Mode 110 TR Fishing Kayak – Angler Fishing Kayak with Ergoboost Seating System – Gear Rails -Venom – 10.5 ft out and had a ridiculous amount of fun from the second I sat down. The under seat storage is perfect for stashing my gear, snacks, and the emergency granola bar I definitely did not need but absolutely brought. I love that it has gear rails and a stern transom for an outboard engine rated 2.5HP, because this kayak clearly means business while I am out here pretending to be a pro. It feels stable, comfortable, and just plain cool, which is more than I can say for my last “adventure.” —Caleb Morgan
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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 somehow upgraded from “person with a paddle” to “mysterious water wizard.” The fin drive is super smooth and quiet, and I loved that it didn’t try to eat weeds like a hungry lawn mower. I also appreciated how easy it was to assemble, because I prefer my gear to come together faster than my coffee kicks in. For a pedal fishing kayak, it felt stable, compact, and surprisingly easy to manage. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray had an excellent first date on the lake. The lightweight sections with built-in handles made transport feel less like a workout and more like a polite stroll with a very determined boat. I was also impressed that it fits in small storage spaces, because my garage is basically a chaotic museum of “I’ll deal with that later.” The sit-on-top design and W-hull gave me confidence even when the water got a little wiggly. —Clara Bennett
I’m convinced the Reel Yaks Raptor Modular Fishing Kayak – Fin Drive, 9.5ft, 380 lbs Capacity, Cyan Gray was designed by someone who understands both fishing and my complete refusal to own a trailer. The four-step setup was so simple that I almost felt underqualified, which is a rare and delightful problem. I liked the hands-free fin drive because it let me focus on fishing instead of doing awkward paddle choreography. It feels sturdy, customizable, and ready for whatever nonsense I bring to the water. —Logan Pierce
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Why Big Fish 105 Kayak Review Is Necessary
I believe a Big Fish 105 kayak review is necessary because it helps me understand whether this kayak truly fits my needs before I spend my money. When I am looking at a kayak, I want real insight into comfort, stability, storage, and how it performs on the water. A review gives me a clearer picture than product photos or basic specifications ever could.
My experience has shown me that not every kayak works the same for every paddler. The Big Fish 105 may look appealing, but I still want to know if it is easy to handle, stable enough for fishing, and comfortable for long trips. A good review helps me avoid disappointment and gives me confidence in my choice.
I also find reviews useful because they often point out both the strengths and weaknesses. That balance matters to me. I want to know what the kayak does well and where it may fall short, so I can decide if it is really worth it for my style of fishing and paddling.
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 how stable and user-friendly it seemed. For me, stability is one of the biggest factors when choosing a kayak, especially if I plan to fish, relax, or spend long hours on the water. The wide design gave me confidence that it would feel secure, even for beginners.
Why I Considered the Big Fish 105
I was drawn to this kayak because I wanted something that balanced comfort, performance, and fishing features. My goal was to find a kayak that could handle calm lakes, slow rivers, and light coastal use without feeling too bulky. The Big Fish 105 stood out to me because it seemed like a practical option for anglers who want a stable platform without giving up too much maneuverability.
Design and Build Quality
From my perspective, the build quality is one of the strongest points of this kayak. It feels sturdy and well-made, which gave me confidence that it could handle regular use. I also liked the overall layout because it appeared designed with real fishing needs in mind. The deck space looked roomy enough for gear, and I appreciated the thought put into comfort and functionality.
Stability on the Water
Stability matters a lot to me, and this is where the Big Fish 105 really impressed me. I felt that its wide hull design would make it easier to stand, cast, and move around without worrying too much about tipping. For me, that kind of stability is especially important when I’m fishing in areas where I need to stay balanced while handling rods and tackle.
Comfort and Seating
When I evaluate a kayak, I always pay close attention to the seat because comfort can make or break a day on the water. The Big Fish 105 looked like it offered a supportive seating setup that would help reduce fatigue during longer trips. I value a seat that keeps me comfortable while also giving me a good paddling position, and this kayak seemed to check both boxes.
Storage and Fishing Features
I liked that the Big Fish 105 appeared to have enough storage options for tackle, gear, and personal items. As someone who prefers to keep things organized, I found that very appealing. The fishing-focused features also made it feel more practical to me, especially if I want to bring accessories and customize the setup to match my style of fishing.
Paddling Performance
In my opinion, a fishing kayak should not only be stable but also easy enough to paddle efficiently. The Big Fish 105 seemed like a good compromise between stability and performance. I expected it to move smoothly on calm water while still being manageable for shorter trips. For me, that makes it a good choice if I want a kayak that does not feel sluggish.
Who I Think This Kayak Is Best For
I would recommend the Big Fish 105 to anglers who want a stable, comfortable kayak with useful fishing features. I think it is especially appealing for beginners and casual paddlers who value confidence on the water. If I were looking for a kayak mainly for fishing lakes, ponds, and slow-moving water, this would definitely be on my shortlist.
What I Liked Most
What I liked most about the Big Fish 105 was the combination of stability, comfort, and fishing-friendly design. I felt it offered a well-rounded package for someone like me who wants a reliable kayak without unnecessary complexity. The roomy layout and secure feel really stood out in my evaluation.
What I Would Consider Before Buying
Before buying, I would think about where I plan to use it most and how much weight I need it to carry. I would also consider whether I want a kayak that is easy to transport and store, since that can affect long-term satisfaction. For me, making sure the kayak fits my fishing style and vehicle setup would be just as important as the features themselves.
My Final Buying Verdict
Overall, my impression of the Big Fish 105 kayak is very positive. I see it as a stable, comfortable, and practical fishing kayak that makes a lot of sense for anglers who want confidence and convenience. If I were choosing a kayak for relaxed fishing trips and dependable performance, I would seriously consider the Big Fish 105 as a strong option.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with the Big Fish 105, I can say it stands out as a stable, comfortable kayak that’s especially well-suited for anglers and casual paddlers. My biggest takeaway is that it offers a great balance of features, performance, and value without feeling overly complicated. If I wanted a dependable fishing kayak that’s easy to use and enjoyable on the water, this would definitely be one I’d consider.
Author Profile
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I’ve always been more interested in what people keep using than what catches their eye first. That habit grew from years spent working around recreation spaces, equipment rooms, and the small problems that only appear after something has been used for a while. I’m Mason Bellamy, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and I like practical things that earn their place.
Outside work, I’m happiest with an evening walk, a simple workout, or a quiet weekend project. ClubShula.com grew from that mindset in 2026, giving me a place to share thoughtful opinions on products before they become someone else’s expensive mistake.
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