Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Fishing Kayak Review
Posted by Rindy Stalley on 2024 Mar 14th
I have had two full seasons now under my belt, running the Recon 120 HD by Wilderness Systems . I have walked and waded small creeks with it, I have been in big water, with some of the most challenging fishing conditions you could ever imagine. From 3-4 ft rollers, to gale force thunderstorm winds, and pelting heavy rain. Chasing and hauling lake trout from the depths of Cold Lake with brutal waves. Trolling for Walleye in heavy winds on Lake Diefenbaker. Not once, have I ever felt like I was going to roll it. It is crazy stable.
The Specs:
- Length: 144 in ( 365.76 cm)
- Height: 16.5 in ( 41.91 cm)
- Width: 38 in (96.52 cm)
- Weight: 122 lb (55.34 kg)
- Max Weight Capacity: 450 lb (204.12 kg)
Storage: The Recon 120 HD comes with the StowPro Storage system, which is also Gasketed. I can easily fit all my tackle for the day in the bin, as well as my portable battery for charging my phone, and running my sonar. I have taken water over my bow, and everything stays nice and dry. It also has a stern access hatch, as well as a large stern tank well with bungee, to hold crate, or any spare gear or cooler.
Mounting System: SideTrax Accessory Rails for track mounting rod holders, fishfinder mounts, etc.
Steering: Adjustable rudder, as well as a replaceable skid plate. This kayak tracks well, even without the rudder and paddling.
Rod Storage: Dual Rod Troughs that can hold 3 rods each side.
Silent traction padding, which is especially helpful in situations requiring me to be stealthy and quiet while standing and sight fishing.
Drive: Helix Pedal Drive, instant forward/reverse.
Stability: Pontoon Style Hull: I can stand up, make a cast, and set the hook home without feeling like its going to roll.
Seat: Sit on top
All in all I am quite pleased with the Recon. Its durable, reliable, and it gets me into areas other anglers may not be able to reach. I can stand up, stretch my legs, and if it gets too shallow for the pedal drive, I can easily pop the pedal drive up and out, paddle, and or pole my way through extremely shallow water to reach the next honey hole, and then redeploy the helix drive when needed. I highly recommend The Recon 120 HD for anyone that fishes big water, or skinny water, and everything in between!