Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 Product Review by Ali Williams

Wilderness Systems ­ Tarpon 100
Product Review by Ali Williams
Spec Shortlist
● 10’ long
● sit­on­top style
● 30.5” wide
● 55 lbs
● Made in USA
Type of paddling
● recreation
● fishing
● flat water
Having never tried a sit­on­top boat before, I was really loving the Tarpon 100 on my recent trip to
the Buffalo River (Ponca to Kyles Landing). At 10’ and 55 pounds, it was easy to load onto the
car and the side handles make it manageable for solo loading as well. The open cockpit helps
prevent the water from sitting inside the boat while you are paddling and the “self­bailing scupper
holes” in the footbed area allow the water that does make it in to drain easily. For anyone that
has gone on a trip and been forced to sit in water for 10 miles, you will understand that this
feature alone is a major selling point. Beyond that, the seat is fully adjustable as are the footpegs
and it is a really comfortable ride.
The back of the boat has an open storage area with bungees for strapping down dry bags, tackle
boxes, or coolers, or the can be removed completely if you have an adventurous dog that wants
to come along. There is also a latched dry storage compartment between your legs and at the
bow. There is no shortage of bells and whistles beyond the dry storage compartments as there
are bungees in the foot bed area for sandals and on the bow. In addition, there is a cup holder
and two smaller open, but covered, areas for sunglasses or sunscreen. The seat can be
strapped down in transport to eliminate that annoying “flapping in the wind” sounds.
This boat is great for all kinds of recreational paddling and great for kids and fishing enthusiasts.
30.5” wide = super stable and hard to tip even in faster water and bends. We have a demo
Tarpon 100 at Pack Rat Outdoor Center and I highly recommend that you come try one out on
our pond this spring.