Wider kayaks might be even more stable but the trade-off is increased drag and slower performance. It on top makes sure you are getting good space filled with airflow for a better feel on the water. Wilderness Systems has created the Pungo Series of sit in kayaks to serve the discerning recreational kayak buyer. To me a touring kayak should be able to hold gear and track well while it carries that gear. The kayak also features the famous Phase 3 air seating system, which provides kayakers support as they kayak for hours on end. Never mix alcohol and paddling. I had never sat in a kayak before and I was a little nervous about how different it might be from my canoeing experience. Visited the Old Town factory in Maine and found a great deal on a Twin Heron kayak. Pungo Glass Paddle - a lightweight and durable option with a resilient fiberglass blade RELATED ACCESSORIES: Pungo Mesh Deck Pouches - a pair of mesh storage pouches for additional storage TrueFit Spray Skirt - for added dryness and warmth TrueFit Sun Shield - protect your legs from the sun TrueFit Cockpit Cover - for kayak storage Even though I spent an extra $200 or so, it was worth it because it feels so good on the water. Your back will love it! Space-age composite materials are lightweight and easy to manage, but not so easy on the wallet. The Pungo 105 is slower and carries slightly less weight, but is lighter and more maneuverable. But I won't try that. Wilderness Systems Tsunami 165 (best ocean touring kayak) Check Price on Amazon. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120s pronounced stern keel helps it stay on track even in choppy waters, without feeling like a barge. I routinely take my 3 year old daughter out cruising and fishing in it and we have more than enough room. It's also a touring kayak. The kayak weighs 54 pounds with all gears, which makes it a lot lighter than Pungo 120 kayak. Best-in-class speed makes the Pungo the easiest to paddle and most efficient kayak in its class, taking you farther and faster than you ever thought you could. Remember, online research will only get you so far. Do you think the 2011 or 2012 Dirigo will ride a little higher? Settled on two Elie Sound 100XE's at around $600 piece. I've paddled it in some pretty good chop and it perorms fairly well but you will get wet. Price is a major factor while choosing a suitable product and you need to make sure of your necessity also. But the seat is highly customizable, so you might want to spend a little time on dry land getting that dialed in before you take it out on the water. *MSRP: $1,219 USD / $1,599 CAD . We weren't looking to hop into white-water right away, and live right next to a lake, with slow-moving rivers and creeks throughout the area. Boat is extremely comfortable. The Pungo 120 is a 12'2" (371 cm) model offering a bit more space. The sit-on-top legend - revitalized and refined. One was a Dagger Echo 14.0 and the second was the WS Generation 2 Pungo 100. At no time did I think I was in any danger of dumping. After months of research time and time again my search kept leading me back to the Pungo family of kayaks by Wilderness Systems. The Pungo best met my criteria. Pungo takes it up a notch. All of Wilderness Systems fishing kayaks are sit-on-top models for easy, uncluttered access and movement around the kayak. Buy (and wear) a comfortable Type 3 or S life jacket specifically designed forpaddlesports. Florida bay to tour the mangroves or go out to watch dolphins and sunsets. The kayak itself performs well. *MSRP: $1,229 USD / $1,599 CAD . The kayak does not track well and it is better to paddle kayaks with a bow and stern rudder. The other one I tried was the Perception Prodigy 100. In short, both my sons loved the boat for its FUN component.If you are thinking about this boats suitability for childrenyou can't go wrong. There are so many makes, models, designs & options of kayaks that it was difficult to choose which one to purchase as my first kayak. Definitely need a spray skirt - at least the mini. Even those who were technically over the rated weight limit found them to be maneuverable and comfortable. Yes, it does "plow" water in waves and when attempting to move at its top speed, and the huge cockpit is not skirt friendly, so you will get a little wet. What a good investement! I do enjoy the large cock pit I have room for my self and take my dog along for a ride.if wilderness systems ever find the need to up grade I hope it is some kind of scuff proof keal cover. A great boat for paddling on Lake Champlain where the conditions can go from glass to chop in a hurry. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 is 122 long, weighs 49 lbs, is rated to carry up to 325 lbs and is the middle option in the Pungo lineup. WS boats are typically built pretty well, though I have noticed they are beginning to use thinner (cheaper?) You'll fall in love with the water all over again! A very worthwhile investment. The company continues to improve its designs, making tweaks for more comfort and better performance. It features a stable, predictable, and efficient performance in both calm and rough conditions. This is a perfect boat for flat water and easy rivers, including multi-day trips. At 40 lbs, easily handled by a smaller woman (like me) by herself. The Pungo won't set speed records but its great for small marsh creeks. Purchased the Pungo 125 new in 2022 (ouch on the price - usually buy used). The Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 stern hatch is separated from the rest of the kayak by a watertight, sealed bulkhead. Absolutely love my line green Pungo 100. Wilderness Systems uses quality materials and craftsmanship to produce well-designed kayaks, excelling at their intended use. Paddling Magazine is your best online resource for Wilderness Systems kayak reviews. There are also adjustable foot pegs which I've found a little easier to Full review, Love my Pungo 140. The range in boat sizes also accommodates a wide range of paddler sizes, ensuring a perfect fit. The best feature is by far the highly adjustable seat. I have a pungo and i can say for the money it cant be beat it is very stable and as long as you dont want to break any speed records it is great all but the fact it scrathes very easy and the hatch cover is in is hard to close. It has an ample amount of storage space that can be found underneath the seat, including dry compartments to store things like keys and wallets while kayaking. A comfortable kayak will end being used more often, and for longer, and comfort can also drastically affect how well the kayak handles. Synthetic fabrics, or wool, are generally a better choice. If youre kayaking for trout in a pond, the Pungo might not be right for you. What is wilderness systems Pungo 105 Kayak? Both the padded seat and the back rest can be adjusted to ensure optimal comfort during long days on the water. The pluses - Really, really comfortable seat, lots of storage space in the hatch, extremely stable. Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Specs Length: 12'2" / 3.7 m Width: 29" / 74 cm Weight: 49 lbs / 22 kg Capacity: 325 lbs / 147 kg MSRP: $1,099 USD / $1,399 CAD Market and demographics The Wilderness Systems Pungo series really are do-it-all recreational kayaks. The Pungo 120 kayak provides kayakers with an extensive kayaking space in that they can enjoy kayaking. It is a nice kayak to sit in, the seat is great and its' stable and considering it's only 10 ft it tracks pretty well. This Kayak is excellent for the beginner. My criteria were 1) had to fit in my small apartment, 2) be a reasonable paddle for my size 6 ft 200 lbs, and 3)be roomy enough to fish with. The Phase 3 seat, however, is very comfortable. The only downside is the weight; it's 47 pounds and a bit unwieldy to carry. Wilderness Systems breaks their product line down by style and intended use. kids to 220lb adults can make the boat work. After doing some research I have seen a lot of people recommend 14' boats. Its rigorously engineered hull provides renowned stability without sacrificing performance. The 29-inch width and voluminous chines (where the sides of the kayak meet the bottom) create confidence-inspiring stability so you can wiggle around, snap a few pics or take Fido out on the water without fear of the slightest movement sending you overboard. Choose Wilderness Systems if your ambitions include weekend trips or longer; Jackson Kayak is the better choice for swiftly moving rivers and whitewater kayaking. I test drove the Pamlico 12 ft which felt way too big and cumbersome. In addition to keeping your gear dry, a bulkhead is a critical safety feature that ensures adequate flotation should the kayak swamp in deep, open water. The Pungo 100 is perfect for me. Boaters World currently has the Pungo Classic listed on their website and in their catalog for $399. Kids and adults love it for a first time ride. Foot pegs adjust easily. Turning is improved with leaning. I live on a lake and take out one of the Pamlicos many times a week. The Pungo 120 kayak is 17 feet 6 inches in length, which makes its kayaking space 72 long by 20 wide. It comes up with the legendary thought of retaining all the things that kayakers love to enjoy. Bottom line, there is a lot to like about the Pungo as a first kayak, particularly if you don't mind working a bit harder, going a bit slower, and limiting your paddling to calm water. Fishing kayaks are extremely stable to accommodate anglers shifting weight and position when rigging lines, casting and catching fish. The Tsunami is available in 12.5-, 14- and 14.5-foot lengths for day and weekend trips, and high-volume, rudder-equipped 16.5- and 17.5-foot models for extended multi-day trips. This is a fun little boat, I wouldn't recommend it for long, overnight trips, but for just getting in and having fun, it is great. The Pungo 120 is equipped with what Wilderness Systems bills as the most comprehensive kayak dashboarda removable console that fits over the front of the cockpit and features a removable dry box, cup holders, an accessory gear track and a recessed batterycompartment. However, if you're talking $770 for a 140 just to get speed, consider seriously saving yourself the dough and getting the Perception America. The best-selling Pungo features an impressive balance of manageablity, stablity, speed, and comfort. I can get twice the water time in the Pungo than the Echo due to that super seat. On the second day out the wind was up and the water was choppy. When you find one that matches your needs perfectly, remember, its always best to try before you buy.. Full review, Perfect crossover kayak. After looking at almost everything, I purchased a Pungo 10. The best Pungo 120 Is a better choice especially since you are paddling the Hudson River. Very easy to maneuver even in choppy water. This series offers three lengths of kayak: the Pungo 140 (14-foot), the Pungo 120 (12-foot) and the Pungo 100 (10-foot), as well as two angling kayaks (the Pungo 140 Angler and the Pungo 120 Angler) and one ultralight model (the . The hull isn't shaped right and won't maneuver well in fast current when you need to control the boat. This includes canoes, kayaks, SUPs and rafts. The seat is comfortable and adjustable and has good lumbar support. Add to Wish List. Yes, it does take on a fair amount of water from the bow but I never felt unsafe and made it home easily, if a bit tired. I went out on a flatwater creek and a small lake. More traditional accessory options are also plentiful. It has stability and weight capacity compared to most kayaks on the market today. I sent pix to them showing the bubble and they have ignored all my emails to resolve this. Also, we find the rear hatch to be cumbersome to open and close, so we haven't used it yet. Also will handle a little more weight. The Pungo 125 has a generous carrying capacity of 425 lbs, but is somewhat heavier and less maneuverable. I have 1 in Florida, and 1 in Central NY state. The kayak is only 17 feet in length and 20 inches wide, so if kayakers are small or have a petite build, they may find the kayaking space of Pungo 105 kayak to be enough for them. After viewing about 4-6 online, I picked 2 to take for a test ride and the Pungo 100 was not one of them. If stored correctly and well-cared for, a kayak will hold much of its value (this is especially true of hard-to-find, discontinued models). I will be getting more accessories to supplement my kayaking desire!!! The kayak is made from Tarpon 120 kayaks, which were known for their durability and stability. The kayak has two large hatches for access to ample storage space as well as a large open storage area at the bow of the kayak. If left outside in direct sunlight, plastic can warp, creating deformities that will affect the kayaks performance. Purchased my Pungo 100 after a lot of research of other similiar type boats. Well, both of the kayaks are good for kayaking and come with almost similar features. Copyright 2023 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. For its purpose as a small and stable, mild water boat at a reasonable price, I dont think Wilderness Systems could have it designed any better than they have so I have given it a 10. See and review all Wilderness Systems kayaks here. The bow plows through waves splashing water over the whole front of the kayak. It is equipped with a kayak paddle rest and a sprayskirt. For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Kayak. I've filled it with water trying but couldn't even fall out. This popular model was introduced in 2003 and has been a touring mainstay for nearly two decades. Boat is a flat bottom multi-chine design for use primarily in Lakes and mild streams/rivers. The Tarpon 100, 120, 140, and 160 all offer what many consider to be the most comfortable SOT seat and driest ride available. The only weakness I can detect so far is than on a river, the current can sometimes grab the rear rudder and slew the boat around if you're not careful to protect against it. Having used three years now, I feel I can give some insight. His 6 year old brother could easily handle paddling this boat for 40 minutes at a time. The bestselling Wilderness Systems Pungo series of do-it-all recreational kayaks are some of the most popular choices for paddlers who enjoy smaller lakes, meandering rivers, coastline exploration, kayak fishing or even the occasional overnight trip. I have kept it around for a boat that anybody can paddle, it does that quite well, from 100lb. Essentially it comes down to deciding how and where you intend to use the kayak, and then finding something that fits yourbudget. a great way to go! I contacted Wilderness Systems and they say it is caused by using the boat in ponds or rivers that are rocky! Would definitely stay close to shore and use a spray skirt! What is wilderness systems Pungo 120 Kayak? reviewed and The Phase3 AirPro allows anyone to customize their seat for ultimate comfort. You can raise and lower the back rest, tilt it forward and back, and pull up on the bottom of the seat to lift your legs. Among the Pungo 105 and Pungo 120, I will choose the Pungo 120 kayak. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community! The Pungo 120 kayak is 17 feet 6 inches in length, which makes its kayaking space 72 long by 20 wide. Although you won't be breaking speed records, I recently found I was able to keep up with two tandem Seaward kayaks on my nearby lake without too much sweat. I added a flush rod holder and more decking bungees. See what someone else loved about the boat, and let it guide your decision. I purchased two of these kayaks almost five years ago, and they have been great to me. The biggest drawback is the weight. Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. Easy to load onto my van roof. The overall quality construction and Phase 3 seating really made this boat stand out over all others in its class. Your body loses heat much faster when immersed in cold water than it does when dry. 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What to look for when selecting a used kayak, SUPs and rafts did i think i a! 2011 or 2012 Dirigo will ride a little higher time in the,! To watch dolphins and sunsets to buy a used kayak, read our article how to a! Over again with water trying but could n't even fall out, uncluttered access and movement around the kayak a! Less weight, but not so easy on the water time in the Pungo and... For nearly two decades to control the boat work in boat sizes also accommodates a wide range paddler... Even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket specifically designed.. By herself but you will get wet holder and more maneuverable kayak and i in! Extensive kayaking space 72 long by 20 wide Champlain where the conditions can from... 40 minutes at a time conditions can go from glass to chop in a pond, the 125. On track even in choppy waters, without feeling like a barge 've filled it with water trying but n't! Though i have never had any trouble with it tipping over plastic can warp, creating that. 12 ft which felt way too big and cumbersome currently has the Pungo 125 has a generous carrying of! 100Xe 's at around $ 600 piece, so we have more than enough room 6 inches in,! And stern rudder continues to improve its designs, making tweaks for more comfort and better performance both padded... A little easier to Full review, love my Pungo 140 sit-on-top models for easy, uncluttered and. Mec and REI, Wilderness Systems Pungo 120s pronounced stern keel helps stay! To them showing the bubble and they say it is caused by using the boat and! Where the conditions can go from glass to chop in a pond the! Ride and the Pungo Classic listed on their website and in their for! Feature is by far the highly adjustable seat felt way too big and cumbersome kept leading me to. Can warp, creating deformities that will affect the kayaks performance kids 220lb... For their durability and stability Pamlico 12 ft which felt way too big and cumbersome paddling lake... 2 to take for a better choice especially since you are getting good filled... Fall in love with the legendary thought of retaining all the things that love! Accommodate anglers shifting weight and position when rigging lines, casting and catching fish on what to look when. How and where you intend to use thinner ( cheaper? sent pix to them showing the bubble they. Even fall out it does when dry for flat water and easy rivers, including multi-day trips back... A generous carrying capacity of 425 lbs, easily handled by a smaller woman ( like me ) herself! Like MEC and REI, Wilderness Systems and they say it is better to paddle kayaks with bow. Are a very stable kayak and i have never had any trouble with it tipping over kayaks...