Paddle Kayaks · Fishing
Some kayaks ask a lot of you. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 asks almost nothing.
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Some kayaks ask a lot of you. The Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 asks almost nothing. It is a 10-foot-6-inch sit-inside that paddles fast for its size, weighs only 47 pounds, and has a seat so comfortable you forget about it.
If you want to skip ahead and see what it costs, check the current price here.
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I have recommended the Pungo line to more new paddlers than any other kayak. The reason is simple. Most beginner boats are either stable barges that paddle like a door, or quick boats that feel tippy. The Pungo 105 splits the difference. It is stable enough that you relax, and efficient enough that you actually cover water instead of fighting it.
Who This Kayak Is For
The Pungo 105 fits new and casual paddlers who want a do-everything rec kayak for lakes, slow rivers, and calm bays. It is also a smart pick for anglers who paddle-fish and want a light boat that is easy to rig with rod holders and a fish finder. At 47 pounds, it suits anyone who loads a kayak solo and is done wrestling with heavy plastic.
Stability and On-Water Feel
The Pungo hull is famous for feeling secure without feeling sluggish. At 30 inches wide with a multi-chine hull, it has reassuring primary stability, and it firms up when you lean. Tracking is a strong point. It goes straight with each stroke, which means less correcting and more gliding. Top speed will not match a touring boat, but for a 10.5-footer it is quick, and quick matters when you want to cross a cove before the wind picks up.
Seat Comfort
The Phase 3 AirPro seat is the best part of this kayak. It is a framed, ventilated seat with adjustable backrest and leg lifter that keeps you cool and supported. I have sat in mine for full days with no numb legs and no sore back. The thigh padding and the SlideLock XL foot braces adjust easily from the seat, so you can dial in your fit without climbing out of the cockpit.
Storage and Rigging
The Pungo carries gear well for a short boat. The Orbix stern hatch is a big oval hatch that swallows tackle boxes, dry bags, and lunch. The bow has deck bungees for a jacket or dry bag. Up front, the Pungo dashboard is a removable console with two cup holders, a dry box for your phone and keys, and SlideTrax rails plus open mounting surfaces for rod holders, a phone mount, or a small fish finder. Anglers can rig this boat without drilling into the hull.
Paddle Performance
This is a paddle-only kayak, and that is part of its charm. No drive to maintain, nothing to snag in shallow water, and 47 pounds to lift. The efficient hull means you get good glide per stroke, so long paddles feel easy. The replaceable skid plate on the stern protects the hull when you drag it up a ramp or beach.
Honest Drawbacks
The 300-pound capacity is the main limit. Bigger paddlers or anyone hauling a lot of camping gear should size up to the Pungo 120 or 125. The cockpit is roomy but it is still a sit-inside, so standing to fish is not on the menu. And while the hull handles chop fine, it is not a big-water boat. Stick to water you can comfortably swim in if something goes wrong.
Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 10 ft 6 in |
| Width | 30 in |
| Weight | 47 lbs |
| Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Drive type | Paddle |
Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 Kayak FAQ
Is the Pungo 105 good for beginners?
Yes. It is one of the most beginner-friendly kayaks made, with stable handling, easy tracking, and a very comfortable seat.
Can you fish from a Pungo 105?
Yes. Anglers paddle-fish from it all the time. The dashboard console and SlideTrax rails make it easy to add rod holders and a fish finder.
How much weight can the Pungo 105 hold?
300 pounds total, including you and your gear. Heavier paddlers should consider the longer Pungo models.
Is the Pungo 105 easy to transport?
Very. At 47 pounds it is one of the lightest quality rec kayaks, and most adults can load it on a roof rack solo.
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Suggested: alt=”Paddler cruising a calm lake in a Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 recreational kayak”
Where to Buy
If the Wilderness Systems Pungo 105 Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official Wilderness Systems website for the Wilderness Systems Pungo 105. Also check out our reviews of the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 Kayak, Wilderness Systems Recon 120 Fishing Kayak with AirPro ACES Seat, Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 Fishing Kayak, Wilderness Systems Radar 115 Fishing Kayak, and Wilderness Systems Radar 135 Fishing Kayak.
