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Kayak Fishing Review

Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Aces | Walkthrough

Name: Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD ACES Fishing Kayak
Brand: Wilderness Systems
SKU: 729282116307
Availability: OutOfStock

Video: Mike Zilkowsky

Kayak fishing has taken the angling world by storm, merging the thrill of the catch with the serenity of the open water. As this exciting sport continues to grow, so does the need for innovative and versatile equipment. Kayak fishing is ever-evolving, and so is the Wilderness Systems Recon Series. To give us an in-depth look at the many features and systems at play on the Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Aces, we invited Mike Zokowski from Confluence Outdoors – Wilderness Systems.

Mike provided valuable insights into what makes the Recon 120 HD Aces a standout in the world of kayak fishing. Let's dive into the details!

Key Features

AirPro ACE Seat
Easy Rudder Control
Helix Pedal Drive System
Innovative Storage Solutions
Additional Features
Enhanced Customization & Essential Accessories
Fully Rigged Out

Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD ACES Fishing Kayak

$3,579.00

Shipping calculated at checkout.

A confidence-inspiring fishing machine for both the novice and expert,‚ the Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Fishing Kayak is a factory-loaded boat that you can rig your way. With a fully customizable open platform, a lineup of revolutionary new features, and the freedom to choose the preferred mode of propulsion paddle, pedal, or power the Recon series of kayaks are the future of fishability.

The Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Fishing Kayak comes standard with the tried-and-true, easy-deploy Helix PD Pedal Drive system. With instant forward/reverse, on-a-dime turning, and a lab tested gear ratio for smooth all-day pedaling, the Recon 120 HD packs more performance than other pedal driven kayaks in its class. The Recon 120 comes ready to paddle, or easily install the Helix PD Pedal Drive midship or add an aftermarket motor with a direct-to-boat stern mounting interface.

A supremely wide-open deck affords the angler an abundance of space, freedom of motion, and provides a rock-solid platform from which to stand, cast, and hookset in confidence. The functional layout of the intuitive topdeck interface keeps all your gear and essentials within reach, with ample surface areas for personal modifications.

The Recon series features next evolution of S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology Wilderness Systems' signature design approach that carefully and masterfully combines Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness, and Tracking to deliver the ultimate performance in all waters. This model's hull optimizes any mode of travel be it paddling, pedaling, or motoring with specialized volume distribution and under-the-waterline nuances to keep the boat moving quickly and steadily.

The Recon series also establishes a new paradigm for storage. The StowPro Storage System‚ features‚ an extra-large gasketed hatch and a thoughtfully configured bin to access, organize and defend important gear. Down the boat and atop each gunwale are Dual Rod Troughs a unique horizontal rod storage solution to keep rods close-at-hand and away from wind and breakage. The troughs can hold up to three 7'6" rods on each side, are secured with cross-lashing bungee, and are noise-dampened by Wilderness Systems' celebrated Silent Traction pads. Midship side pockets, tackle box recesses, and a functional under-seat area provides even more gear storage in all the right places, while the expansive and notched tankwell yields a custom-crafted space for popular rear storage items like Wilderness Systems' Kayak Krate.

Wilderness Systems kayaks are renowned for comfort, and the Recon ushers in the next progression of this pillar with the introduction of the all-new AirPro ACE seat. Embodying easy Adjustability, luxurious Comfort, and fine-tuned Ergonomics, the AirPro ACE seat leverages the premium framework and materials of the popular AirPro MAX but with a groundbreaking new feature a one-handed mechanical lever for quick adjusting the trim on-the-fly. Akin to a manual vehicle seat adjustment, though a quantum change in kayaks, this function allows the angler to dial in their unique position for paddling, pedaling, motoring, or to make room for fishing. The Recon's seat has been thoroughly thought-out down to the "nuts and bolts," as even the hardware is clipped in place to mitigate the possibility of getting lost.

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Features

Fully customizable open platform, factory-loaded with room for personalized rigging
Helix PD Pedal Drive‚ system included
Supremely wide-open deck affords the angler an abundance of space, freedom of motion, and provides a rock-solid platform from which to stand, cast, and hookset in confidence
Tri-power optimized with the freedom to choose the preferred mode of propulsion paddle, pedal, or power
S.M.A.R.T. Hull Technology Wilderness Systems' signature design approach that carefully and masterfully combines Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness, and Tracking to deliver the ultimate performance in all waters
StowPro Storage System featuring an extra-large gasketed hatch and a thoughtfully configured bin to access, organize and defend gear
AirPro ACE seat‚ embodying easy Adjustability, luxurious Comfort, and fine-tuned Ergonomics, featuring premium, breathable materials and a one-handed mechanical lever for quick adjusting the seat trim on-the-fly, allowing anglers to dial in their position for paddling, pedaling, motoring, or to make room for fishing
Dual Rod Troughs a unique horizontal rod storage solution to keep rods close-at-hand and away from wind and breakage; can hold up to three 7'6" rods on each side; secured with cross-lashing bungee; noise-dampened by Silent Traction pads
Midship side pockets and tackle box recesses provide gear storage in all the right places
Convenient cup holders to keep beverages close-at-and, yet out of the way
Silent Traction pads throughout the footwell to keep anglers sure-footed and stealth
Comfortable front and rear carry handles for easy transport
Molded-in side handles to assist in managing the boat solo
Expansive and notched tankwell provides a custom-crafted space for popular rear storage items like the Wilderness Systems‚ Kayak Krate
Rear-mounted transducer area to ensure scanners are protected and in position for the fullest range of view
Easily add an aftermarket motor with a direct-to-boat stern mounting interface
Internal steering and lift lines for snag-free rudder or motor operation

Specifications

LENGTH:‚ 12' 2" / 371 CM	WIDTH:‚ 38" / 96.5 CM
BOAT WEIGHT:‚ 115 LBS. / 52 KG	DECK HEIGHT:‚ 15" / 38 CM
MAX CAPACITY:‚ 450 LBS. / 204 KG

Unmatched Comfort with AirPro ACE Seat

One of the key features of the Recon 120 HD is its swivel seat, the AirPro ACE. This thoughtful addition allows you, the angler, easy access to your boat. Turn your seat sideways, and you can effortlessly climb over the side. Need to get into the back? No problem – the swivel seat makes it really easy.

The seat, besides the swivel, also has a sliding option. Much like a vehicle seat, by lifting the little bar at the bottom front, you can slide the seat forward or backward. This means that for very tall anglers, you can slide it all the way back, and for shorter anglers, you can move it all the way up front, making it really nice and adjustable.

Additionally, you can adjust the straps on your seat to tighten up the webbing all around.

Easy Rudder Control: Effortless Navigation and Protection

Located on either sidewall near your seat, there are simple knobs to control your rudder system. Pull the string on one side to lower the rudder into the water; pull the string on the other side to raise it. This feature is particularly useful when you're sliding the boat backward, preventing damage to the rudder. Once you're out on the water, a quick tug lowers the rudder, and you're ready to steer with the hand control.

Helix Pedal Drive System: Versatility and Convenience

The Recon 120 HD stands out with its Helix Pedal Drive system. Lift it up, lock it down with a couple of clicks, and you're ready to go. It draws about 18 inches of water, so low-level waters aren't an issue. When you're coming in, a quick kick with the pedals lined straight up lifts the drive out of the water.

The simple pedal design ensures smooth, hands-free fishing. A nice slow pedaling gets you cruising at about two miles per hour. Need to back up? Just pedal backward – no adjustments needed. The Recon 120 HD's Helix PD Pedal Drive system offers instant forward/reverse capabilities, sharp turning, and a smooth gear ratio for all-day pedaling. Ready to paddle, pedal, or add an aftermarket motor, this kayak adapts to your needs effortlessly.

Wilderness Systems Helix Pedal Drive for Recon

$1,687.00

Shipping calculated at checkout.

Experience true innovation in motion with the Helix PD Pedal Drive. Featuring a 6:1 gear ratio precision-tuned to a 14 x 17 two-bladed fixed pitch prop, the Helix PD is the most efficient and intuitive pedal system ever engineered. Fully deployed, the system is optimized for maximum speed in exchange for less effort so you can be hands-free to fish all day. A groundbreaking auto-raising mast achieves zero draft with a spring-loaded kick pedal, and the unit can be further stowed forward and out of the way to complete the 3-phases of possible positioning. Tuned to the proven performance of Wilderness Systems' S.M.A.R.T. Hull designs, and compatible with the Radar model family, the Helix PD Pedal Drive is the definitive advantage.

Features

Optimized for all-day cruising and hands-free performance

Three-position pedal drive:‚
- fully deployed
- zero draft
- fully stowed
Versatile kayak steering system:
- rudder kit
- steering kit
- noise reduction baffles

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Innovative Storage Solutions

Spacious Front Hatch

Starting up at the front, you'll find a spacious hatch that opens into the boat's interior compartment. Inside, there's a large tray insert designed to hold plenty of gear, including big Plano boxes. Remove the insert, and you'll have access to the full hull. This allows you to slide your fishing rods inside the boat, so when trailering, you can leave them securely stored. This feature provides ample storage space for all your gear and dry bags, and a gasketed hatch ensures everything stays dry.

Dual Rod Troughs

Moving towards the back, each gunwale features rod troughs capable of holding up to three 7'6" rods. Your reels will rest atop padded, noise-dampening silent traction pads and stay secured with cross-lashing bungees perfect for storing rods. This setup is ideal for environments with overhanging branches where keeping your rods low is important.

Convenient Paddle Storage

Every boat needs a paddle, and this one excels with its clever design in the rear and along the sides. You can easily set your paddle down and strap it in place. That way, whether you're navigating shallow waters or pushing off obstacles, your paddle is right there, ready for action.

Additional Storage Features

Midship side pockets, tackle box recesses, and a practical under-seat area offer additional storage solutions. The notched tankwell at the rear is ideal for storing items like the Wilderness Systems Kayak Krate.

Additional Features

Easy Transport Grab Handles

Additional features include a front grab handle and one on each side of the boat. At the rear, two grab handles make lifting easy. These carry handles ensure convenient transport wherever you go.

Replaceable Keel

Like most fishing kayaks, it features a replaceable keel on the bottom, allowing you to swap it out when it wears down.

Enhanced Customization

Sonar System Customization

On this model, you can install your sonar using the Wilderness Systems through-hull wiring kit. This kit lets you drill a hole to feed your wires neatly, keeping battery lines and extra transducer wires securely tucked away inside the kayak.

Moving to the back of the boat, let's talk about the other through-hull option. Here, the transducer mounts underneath the kayak. The front scupper holes in the tank well on both sides feature threaded inserts for easy mounting. This setup allows you to keep everything tidy: mount the transducer, run the wire through the tank well channel, and secure it neatly through here.

Wilderness Systems Kayak Krate-AQ-Outdoors

$250.00

Shipping calculated at checkout.

The Kayak Krate sophisticates the tankwell storage experience with a superior functional interface and sleek look never before seen in a fishing gear storage crate. An open main compartment accommodates larger gear and tackle boxes, while smaller items can be stowed in the secondary lid storage. Functional and durable inside and out, the Kayak Krate is blow-molded, water resistant, is easily lashed within a tankwell, and comes standard with four rod holders.

Features

Large main compartment for tackle storage
Lid serves as additional storage
Comes standard with four (4) rod holders
Blow-molded for durability
Water resistant when latched closed
Universal lash down points
No assembly required
Comes with brackets to raise the position of the rod holders to accommodate narrow tankwells
Weight = 10.9 lb
Capacity = 29 L
Height = 13.25 inches
Width = 12.25 inches
Depth = 18 inches
Compatible with the following Wilderness Systems models:

Radar 115, 135
A.T.A.K. 120, 140
Tarpon 100, 120, 120UL, 130X, 140, 160
Thresher 140, 155
Ride 115, 135
Commander 120

Video

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Essential Accessories

Wilderness Systems Kayak Krate

The Wilderness Systems Kayak Krate is a fantastic fishing accessory. Featuring four rod holders and a one-piece design that keeps water out, it's perfect for securely storing your fishing essentials. Additionally, the top tray offers a convenient spot for small gear like lures, making it a favorite for organizing and accessing tackle during fishing trips.

Seat Accessories

Enhance your setup with versatile seat accessories like the three-pouch pocket, plier system, or single back pocket pouches. These additions provide extra storage and convenient access to gear located on the sides or back of the seat.

Fully Rigged Out

The Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD is your ultimate customizable fishing kayak. Whether you're just starting or a seasoned angler, its versatile design and choice of paddle, pedal, or power propulsion provide a factory-loaded platform ready for any outing.

The wide-open deck ensures plenty of room to move and maneuver, while the smart layout keeps all your gear within reach and allows for personal modifications. Check out all the accessories available to fully rig out your kayak exactly the way you want it.