I am looking into purchasing a kayak, but I would like a relatively stable boat if possible. I understand the bottom on the Wilderness tarpon is recessed to provide a stable fishing center. The heritage redfisher is also a good looking kayak, but I really cannot tell if the bottom is rounded or also has the recessed feature. I fished out of a 12’ emotion and it fished really good, but the rounded bottom potentially could send you swimming in the right situation. I figured if I was going to buy one, I should get one with the best features.
Other than this, does anybody have any advice on sit on top kayaks. I was looking between a 10 and a 12’ model. I want to put in back of truck and tie in.
Oh yea, if you know any used versions that are available, let me know too.
thanks!
The bottom of the Tarpon isn’t recessed. The shape of the two hulls is very similar. The Ride 135 has the tunnel or pontoon type hull design for extra stability, so do the Commander series hybrids.
There isn’t a ton of difference between a Redfish 12 and a Tarpon 120 in the pre 2009 models. In 2009 the Tarpons got some updates.
Hull redesign for improved speed
Added the Slide Trax accessory system to make mounting things easier without drilling holes
Changed hatches from rubber covers to Orbix
Changed seat to the Phase 3
Added recessed storage areas in the cockpit for small items
To me the single biggest advantage of the Tarpon over the Redfish is the bow hatch. The small round hatch on the redfish makes it pretty much impossible to stow any long items inside the hull.
Keep your eyes on Craigslist. SOT yaks sell fast if they’re priced right.
IMO a 10 - 12 foot yak is a tad small for inshore fishing. The shorter boats don’t track as well and are a good bit slower than their 14 foot brothers. The extra speed makes a difference when the tides are ripping or the wind is blowing.
Who’s ready for a sleigh ride?
www.kayakfishsc.com
Wilderness Systems Kayak Fishing Pro Staff
I had a redfish 12 before I got a Trident 13 and I can agree with TB for sure. The longer boat tracks better, has more speed, and more space. The redfish is a nice stable boat but a bit of a barge. It also doesn’t carry nearly as much weight as the other boats now a days do, but is still quite heavy.
The new Tarpons have a lot of small improvements that make them more comfortable for fishing. On the other hand you should be able to get a redfish used for under 400 unless they have some major modifications or are asking too much.
I am looking hard at the tarpon 12, but the redfishers looked good too. If I could get a redfisher for under 400 rigged with rodholders, etc. I would buy instantly. The tarpon 12’s are practically double the price for a new one. You don’t still have your 12’er do you?
quote:
Originally posted by redfish12
I had a redfish 12 before I got a Trident 13 and I can agree with TB for sure. The longer boat tracks better, has more speed, and more space. The redfish is a nice stable boat but a bit of a barge. It also doesn’t carry nearly as much weight as the other boats now a days do, but is still quite heavy.
The new Tarpons have a lot of small improvements that make them more comfortable for fishing. On the other hand you should be able to get a redfish used for under 400 unless they have some major modifications or are asking too much.
If you find a used Redfish 12 for $400 that isn’t leaking - buy it… right then.
In addition to Craigslist, look on the kayak fishing forums. South Carolina Kayak Fishing, Georgia Kayak Fishing, Jacksonville Kayak Fishing, Kayak Bass Fishing. Each forum has a classifieds section. Some good deals crop up from time to time, just be ready to pull the trigger on a minutes notice.
Let me know if you want to paddle a Ride 135 or a Tarpon 160. Got both of those one the Kayak Fish SC trailer right now.
Who’s ready for a sleigh ride?
www.kayakfishsc.com
Wilderness Systems Kayak Fishing Pro Staff
Na, I added some other features and let mine go with an aluminum paddle & entry level depthfinder for $600. I should have asked more because it sold in 20 mins of being on Craigslist and a guy picked it up that night. Live and learn…
I got mine for $425 after tax at kitty hawk kites in the OBX. I just received a ride 135 as a gift and I’m picking it up on Wednesday. I’m excited to be able to stand up and fly cast easier than I can in my Trident. That being said, I got my Trident for not much more than I sold my redfish for from Appomattox River Co in Farmville, VA. They have the largest inventory of kayaks in the country and they will match/beat any deal. Ask for Tom. If you check their flyers you should be able to find a new redfish in the $500s.