Pungo 120 vs Pungo 125 Sit-In Recreational Fishing Kayak

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Within the past decade, recreational kayaking has become increasingly popular as a way to enjoy nature and get some exercise.

The Pungo 120 and 125 kayak are two models of kayaks that are quite popular due to their low prices. The 120 is shorter which is great for beginners, while the 125 is long with more stability that is better suited for experienced paddlers.

Both of these are sturdy, lightweight, and affordable, recreational and fishing types of kayaks, but there are also some differences. We’re here to help you decide which kayak is right for you.

There are two kinds – recreational and fishing. Recreational kayaks will fit more people comfortably, but take up more space on the water. Fishing kayaks are narrower and lighter but require bracing against waves to keep them stable.

Stay till the end of the article to know the similarities and differences in detail.

The Specs and Features of Pungo 120 vs Pungo 125 at a Glance

Specs and FeaturesPungo 120Pungo 125
StructureRigid / Hard ShellRigid / Hard Shell
Seating ConfigurationSoloSolo
Weight Capacity325 lbs425 lbs
Ideal Paddler SizeSmaller Person or ChildAdult
Cockpit TypeSit InsideSit Inside
Skill LevelBeginnerIntermediate
Weighs49 lbs53 lbs
Width12′ 2″12′ 6″
Length29″29.5″

Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 Sit-Inside Recreational Kayak (Best For Kids & Beginners)


Wilderness Systems PUNGO 120 | Sit Inside Recreational Kayak

The Pungo 120 kayak is perfect for fishing, and camping. The cockpit is narrower, which makes the kayak more maneuverable in small areas or narrow waterways. It also has 6-paddle blades, which are great for paddling through choppy water.

The 120 Pungo kayak is easy to assemble, comes with easy-to-follow instructions, and can be taken apart quickly when not in use. It is also easy to transport when not assembled because of its lightweight design, made of durable, reinforced polyethylene.

  • It includes double-carrying handles for easy transport
  • Compact when deflated
  • Compatible with multiple accessories
  • Quick inflation time

pungo 120 kayak
A man enjoying kayaking with Pungo 120

Limitations of Pungo 120

  • It doesn’t track well in any direction
  • Pungo 120 is not suitable for Big paddlers such as those over 210 pounds weight kayakers
  • This kayak can not handle windy conditions perfectly

Wilderness Systems Pungo 125 Sit Inside Recreational Kayak (Best For Adults)

Wilderness Systems Pungo 125 | Sit Inside Recreational Kayak

The Pungo 125 kayak is also a beginner-friendly kayak but it has a wider cockpit opening and 8-paddle blades to paddle through rougher waters.

Pungo 125 kayak is one of the best recreational kayaks on the market. It is built to support up to 500 lbs and it is perfect for fishing, paddling, and most other water activities. It is designed with fishermen in mind: they can carry a lot of gear and equipment without making it too heavy or difficult to handle.

It has plenty of storage space to hold your gear, doesn’t take up much space when stored, and is lightweight enough for just about anyone to carry. The hull design allows the boat to be very stable, even in choppy or rougher water.

Pungo 125s are made with a hardy, durable design so they won’t be destroyed when it gets knocked over. The upgraded scupper design on the Pungo 125 ensures that it tracks straighter in waves with fishing gear.

Limitations of Pungo 125

  • It has tracking limitations in strong wave conditions
  • After long use, the thermoplastic elements started cracking easily

The Key Difference Between Wilderness Systems Pungo 120 vs. 125 Kayak

The Pungo 120 kayak is the smaller, lighter, and less expensive of the two. The Pungo 125 kayak is a more rugged and durable boat with a higher weight capacity. The smaller size also makes it a great boat for a child. 

The Pungo 120 kayak is ideal for paddlers of all skill levels, while the Pungo 125 is made for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The Pungo 125 is designed to travel in rougher water conditions than the Pungo 120 and is also fitted with a rudder for better tracking control.

However, both offer great stability thanks to their high-volume hulls that are constructed from rigid polyethylene.

The Pungo 120 kayak is the perfect size for smaller people but does not come with a rudder. This kayak is lighter and easier to paddle, but it will require more strength because of its size.

The Pungo 125 kayak has a rudder that can make the kayak easier to paddle, but it’s wider and heavier than the Pungo 120 kayak.

Which features do kayakers are looking for to find out whether the kayaks are best or not?

The top features make a kayak at its best.

  • Stability and safety
  • Gear space
  • Long-lasting
  • Tracking ability in any water and weather condition

Pungo 120 vs 125: Who is the winner?

Both Pungo 120 and 125 have some similar and innovative features. It’s hard to choose between the two as both sit inside and solo kayaks.

I will choose Pungo 125, which offers the best fishing experience and is more stable than 120. The increased deck size, extra gear space, maximum weight capacity unlike 120 makes it fit for the big paddler who likes fishing, camping. Pungo 125 has better tracking ability in water and weather conditions.

Though, both the kayaks cockpit type is sit-inside, and sit inside kayaks have the best stability over any kayak category. The improved stability will result in less time spent fighting the kayak which will translate to more time spent fishing. These kayaks are designed for fishermen of all levels, whether you have just begun or are an experienced angler.

Generally speaking, the Pungo 120 kayak is ideal for fishing, camping, exploring shallow waters, and anything recreational. The Pungo 125 kayak is more suited for higher speeds, surfing, and anything racing-related.

You can go for Pungo 120 if you are trying to find a stable kayak for kids. Pungo 120 is a great kayak for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.

Takeaways

The Pungo 120 and Pungo 125 kayaks are both excellent choices. However, for people looking to get into the sport of kayaking, the Pungo 125 is a better choice.

The Pungo 120 is a great beginner kayak, making it the go-to choice for many. More experienced water enthusiasts will find that the Pungo 125 caters to their needs better with its longer length and increased maneuverability.

Hopefully, you can now choose the suitable one for yourself. You should go with your need and comfortability.