Unleash your inner angler with the Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak – an upgraded version of our renowned Tarpon series, aptly nicknamed "The Silver King." Crafted with comfort, stability, and space in mind, this fishing kayak is tailor-made for the avid fisherman seeking exceptional performance on both saltwater and freshwater excursions.
Unparalleled Comfort and Stability:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak lives up to its reputation as "The Silver King." Designed for seamless long-distance journeys, this 12-foot kayak effortlessly conquers vast stretches of water, from oceans to estuaries, lagoons, lakes, and rivers. Experience unparalleled comfort during your fishing escapades, thanks to the deluxe aluminum, removable, padded mesh seat. Whether you're reclining while waiting for the perfect catch or paddling with ease, this versatile seat ensures your comfort throughout the journey.
Enhanced Features for Ultimate Convenience:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak boasts a range of upgraded features to elevate your fishing experience. Embrace a newfound level of convenience with the revamped storage system. Say goodbye to limited space – we've replaced the original round storage hatches with larger rectangular ones, offering ample room for your gear. The center console hatch, complete with dry lining, safeguards your electronics and valuables, while the rear hatch provides a dedicated spot for your prized catches.
Unleash Your Fishing Potential:
Experience the thrill of multitasking with the Tarpon's impressive accessory tracks. Featuring five strategically positioned accessory tracks, including two with adjustable bungee slider latches, this kayak empowers you to customize your fishing setup. Attach accessories effortlessly, thanks to the innovative slide-on design that replaces conventional inserts. Engage in efficient angling with the included swivel rod holder and two molded-in rod holders – ensuring you're prepared for every fishing scenario.
Precision and Control:
Navigate with precision using the Tarpon fishing kayak's advanced rudder system. Adjust the foot pedals for enhanced maneuverability and effortlessly maintain a straight course. For an extra boost, take advantage of the optional electric propeller, seamlessly mountable on the stern's inserts. Propel your kayak with ease, giving you the edge in challenging conditions and against strong currents.
Built for All Fishing Enthusiasts:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak caters to a diverse range of paddlers and anglers. Whether you're a beginner exploring the waters for the first time, an intermediate angler honing your skills, or an advanced adventurer seeking the ultimate fishing vessel, the Tarpon's versatility accommodates your needs. With a width of 30 inches, a weight of 61lb, and an impressive max weight capacity of 551lb, this kayak ensures stability and performance for anglers of all levels. Are you paddling distance? Then this is te kyak for you. Stream-lined and stable.
Elevate Your Fishing Experience:
Are you ready to embrace the Tarpon's unwavering fighting spirit against the elements? Whether you're a weekend warrior seeking thrilling escapades, a dedicated angler aiming to conquer daily fishing challenges, or a commercial entity striving to provide unparalleled outdoor experiences, the Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak is your ideal companion. Embark on your next fishing expedition with confidence, comfort, and unmatched performance – the Tarpon awaits your command.
Let's go over the key specifications:
- Length: 360 cm / 12 ft
- Width: 77 cm / 30 inches
- Height: 30 cm / 12 inches
- Weight: 28 kgs / 62 lbs
- Maximum Weight
- Capacity: 250 kgs / 550 lbs
The Tarpon kayak is designed for both touring and fishing in saltwater and freshwater environments, providing users with the ability to embark on adventures with ease and endurance. The kayak’s sleek and slender build allows for comfortable and efficient paddling during long-distance trips, whether in the ocean or in estuaries, lagoons, lakes, or rivers.
- Seating: Single Seater
- Style: Sit on Top
- Roto-molded: 5mm Polyethylene Design
- Hardware: Marine Graded stainless steel fittings.
- Inserts: Brass
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND EXTRA’S INCLUDED:
- 1 Two-Piece paddle with three-position adjustment features. The shaft made of heavy-duty black EDC coated aluminum, built-in handgrips, and PVC anti-drip rings
- 1 Aluminum adjustable seat
- 3 Accessory tracks
- 1 Water-resistant hatch cover
- 2 Storage hatches
- 2 Side tackle box compartments
- 2 Side handles with bungees to secure your paddle
- 2 Rubber carry handles
- 8 Scupper plugs
- Bungee at the back storage area
- 1 Swivel rod holder
- 2 Integrated Fishing rod holders
- Rudder system (Foot pedal & Fin)
OPTIONAL EXTRA’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Motor Mount
- Electric Motor
KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS:
- Length: 360 cm / 12 ft
- Width: 77 cm / 30 inches
- Height: 30 cm / 12 inches
- Weight: 28 kgs / 62 lbs
- Maximum Weight
- Capacity: 250 kgs / 550 lbs
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Ask a Question-
Do I need to add stabilizers?
The kayak is very stable due to its flat-based bottom hull, but should you wish to stand and fish, you are a taller, bigger paddler then by adding the stabilizers you will enhance that stability.
-
Can I remove the rudder system?
Yes, you can but why would you need or want to? The rudder greatly assists with direct tracking (straight line) paddling, and this will save you from having to constantly counter steer to keep the kayak straight. The rudder can also be elevated should you reach shallow or rock conditions by pulling the rudder adjusting paracord on the side of the kayak and clipping it into the side cleat.
-
How do I secure the seat from falling out?
The tarpon has four seat clips secured to the deck of the kayak. Lining up the seat with the clips and gently pushing down the base of the seat will slip into the clips, and this will secure them in place.
-
Can you leave the kayak in the sun?
The Tarpon is made from Polyethylene and has UV lining infused in the manufacturing process, so the kayak is manufactured to maintain its shape in hot conditions, however leaving the kayak exposed to the elements. for long periods of time may cause the kayak harm so wherever possible stow your kayak in a shady area.
-
Can I mount an Electric Motor on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can. At the back of the kayak, you will notice that there are four brass inserts molded into the deck in front of the rudder. These brass inserts are in place so you can attach a rear motor mount by securing the mount to the deck using four T-knobs that screw into the deck. Once the mount is secure you can easily mount your electric motor by securing the G-clamps securely onto the mount. The second option would be to make use of the side motor mount mold attachment area which is situated in the tank well area (Storage)at the back of the kayak, you will see that there are pre-molded grooves in the shape of the kayak, and these have three brass inserts installed in either groove. This area can either be used to mount a stabilizer or a side motor mount and both attach easily making use of the mounting plate that secures over the mounting bar and connects the sidebar with butterfly screws to the deck.
-
Why are there Scupper Plugs on the kayak?
The Scuppers work exactly like bath plugs and allow for the drainage of water from the deck area. When traveling in choppy water or waves it is always best to remove the scupper plugs as water can easily find its way onto the deck of the kayak from rain, waves, or drip from paddles. The plugs are there so that your surface can be drained and cleaned easily.
-
Are the hatches waterproof?
The word waterproof or watertight implies that no water whatsoever will be able to get into a hatch. As water is very resilient and tends to always find a way our hatches are splash proof and this means that water will splash off and flow over, but some water may get inside the hatch. When putting your valuables in a hatch it is always best to stow your valuables in a waterproof container or Ziplock bag for extra protection.
-
Is the Tarpon fast enough for catching game fish?
The Tarpon is built for speed and has an easy cruising speed of between 5.5km and 6.5kms/h and this is more than fast enough to troll for game fish or get to that favorite fishing hole.
-
Can I install a Fish Finder on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can but you will be limited by what size transducer you can install as there is no dedicated transducer port as per the other kayak models. You would need to mount your transducer in one of the scupper ports under the kayak as they rest directly in the channels under the kayak, and this ultimately gives you more space to work with. Once you have mounted the transducer safely and securely then run your cables up through the scupper port and onto the deck. Once on the deck, you can decide where to place your battery and your LCD screen. The best possible mounting is just behind the central hatch as that way you can store your battery pack in the hatch.
-
Do I need to add stabilizers?
The kayak is very stable due to its flat-based bottom hull, but should you wish to stand and fish, you are a taller, bigger paddler then by adding the stabilizers you will enhance that stability.
-
Can I remove the rudder system?
Yes, you can but why would you need or want to? The rudder greatly assists with direct tracking (straight line) paddling, and this will save you from having to constantly counter steer to keep the kayak straight. The rudder can also be elevated should you reach shallow or rock conditions by pulling the rudder adjusting paracord on the side of the kayak and clipping it into the side cleat.
-
Can you mount a Fin or Prop Drive to the Kayak?
Unfortunately, not as the deck design doesn’t allow for a drive box to be installed as there is a central hatch in place and not a toolbox.
-
Can I stand and fish on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can, the kayak is designed around stability and buoyancy and in order to get this right we used a V-shaped keel nose and tail which flows into a flat bottom hull design with deep channels or grooves that assist with the stability. The grooves let the water flow through the bottom of the hull and the flat deck shape keeps the kayak still in the water allowing for easy standing.
-
How do I secure the seat from falling out?
The tarpon has four seat clips secured to the deck of the kayak. Lining up the seat with the clips and gently pushing down the base of the seat will slip into the clips, and this will secure them in place.
-
Can you leave the kayak in the sun?
The Tarpon is made from Polyethylene and has UV lining infused in the manufacturing process, so the kayak is manufactured to maintain its shape in hot conditions, however leaving the kayak exposed to the elements. for long periods of time may cause the kayak harm so wherever possible stow your kayak in a shady area.
-
Can I mount an Electric Motor on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can. At the back of the kayak, you will notice that there are four brass inserts molded into the deck in front of the rudder. These brass inserts are in place so you can attach a rear motor mount by securing the mount to the deck using four T-knobs that screw into the deck. Once the mount is secure you can easily mount your electric motor by securing the G-clamps securely onto the mount. The second option would be to make use of the side motor mount mold attachment area which is situated in the tank well area (Storage)at the back of the kayak, you will see that there are pre-molded grooves in the shape of the kayak, and these have three brass inserts installed in either groove. This area can either be used to mount a stabilizer or a side motor mount and both attach easily making use of the mounting plate that secures over the mounting bar and connects the sidebar with butterfly screws to the deck.
-
Why are there Scupper Plugs on the kayak?
The Scuppers work exactly like bath plugs and allow for the drainage of water from the deck area. When traveling in choppy water or waves it is always best to remove the scupper plugs as water can easily find its way onto the deck of the kayak from rain, waves, or drip from paddles. The plugs are there so that your surface can be drained and cleaned easily.
-
Are the hatches waterproof?
The word waterproof or watertight implies that no water whatsoever will be able to get into a hatch. As water is very resilient and tends to always find a way our hatches are splash proof and this means that water will splash off and flow over, but some water may get inside the hatch. When putting your valuables in a hatch it is always best to stow your valuables in a waterproof container or Ziplock bag for extra protection.
-
What water conditions best suit the Tarpon?
The Tarpon’s design and shape allow it to travel easily in all types of water conditions from seas to rivers and dams. The kayak has a spear shape with a sharp nose and tail and then flattens out in the center of the kayak allowing for stability. The narrow V Keel design in the front of the kayak allows it to push and part water easily and by doing so maintains speed in any conditions.
-
How much weight can the Tarpon carry?
The Tarpon has a mass carrying capacity of 250kgs, so the weight limit is not an issue. However, when looking at weight capacities you need to keep in mind what you are going to use the craft for, So, for example, a fisherman will carry additional gear plus possibly a few fish in the hatch, and this will add to the carrying weight.
-
Is the Tarpon fast enough for catching game fish?
The Tarpon is built for speed and has an easy cruising speed of between 5.5km and 6.5kms/h and this is more than fast enough to troll for game fish or get to that favorite fishing hole.
-
Can I install a Fish Finder on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can but you will be limited by what size transducer you can install as there is no dedicated transducer port as per the other kayak models. You would need to mount your transducer in one of the scupper ports under the kayak as they rest directly in the channels under the kayak, and this ultimately gives you more space to work with. Once you have mounted the transducer safely and securely then run your cables up through the scupper port and onto the deck. Once on the deck, you can decide where to place your battery and your LCD screen. The best possible mounting is just behind the central hatch as that way you can store your battery pack in the hatch.
Unleash your inner angler with the Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak – an upgraded version of our renowned Tarpon series, aptly nicknamed "The Silver King." Crafted with comfort, stability, and space in mind, this fishing kayak is tailor-made for the avid fisherman seeking exceptional performance on both saltwater and freshwater excursions.
Unparalleled Comfort and Stability:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak lives up to its reputation as "The Silver King." Designed for seamless long-distance journeys, this 12-foot kayak effortlessly conquers vast stretches of water, from oceans to estuaries, lagoons, lakes, and rivers. Experience unparalleled comfort during your fishing escapades, thanks to the deluxe aluminum, removable, padded mesh seat. Whether you're reclining while waiting for the perfect catch or paddling with ease, this versatile seat ensures your comfort throughout the journey.
Enhanced Features for Ultimate Convenience:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak boasts a range of upgraded features to elevate your fishing experience. Embrace a newfound level of convenience with the revamped storage system. Say goodbye to limited space – we've replaced the original round storage hatches with larger rectangular ones, offering ample room for your gear. The center console hatch, complete with dry lining, safeguards your electronics and valuables, while the rear hatch provides a dedicated spot for your prized catches.
Unleash Your Fishing Potential:
Experience the thrill of multitasking with the Tarpon's impressive accessory tracks. Featuring five strategically positioned accessory tracks, including two with adjustable bungee slider latches, this kayak empowers you to customize your fishing setup. Attach accessories effortlessly, thanks to the innovative slide-on design that replaces conventional inserts. Engage in efficient angling with the included swivel rod holder and two molded-in rod holders – ensuring you're prepared for every fishing scenario.
Precision and Control:
Navigate with precision using the Tarpon fishing kayak's advanced rudder system. Adjust the foot pedals for enhanced maneuverability and effortlessly maintain a straight course. For an extra boost, take advantage of the optional electric propeller, seamlessly mountable on the stern's inserts. Propel your kayak with ease, giving you the edge in challenging conditions and against strong currents.
Built for All Fishing Enthusiasts:
The Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak caters to a diverse range of paddlers and anglers. Whether you're a beginner exploring the waters for the first time, an intermediate angler honing your skills, or an advanced adventurer seeking the ultimate fishing vessel, the Tarpon's versatility accommodates your needs. With a width of 30 inches, a weight of 61lb, and an impressive max weight capacity of 551lb, this kayak ensures stability and performance for anglers of all levels. Are you paddling distance? Then this is te kyak for you. Stream-lined and stable.
Elevate Your Fishing Experience:
Are you ready to embrace the Tarpon's unwavering fighting spirit against the elements? Whether you're a weekend warrior seeking thrilling escapades, a dedicated angler aiming to conquer daily fishing challenges, or a commercial entity striving to provide unparalleled outdoor experiences, the Vanhunks Tarpon fishing kayak is your ideal companion. Embark on your next fishing expedition with confidence, comfort, and unmatched performance – the Tarpon awaits your command.
Let's go over the key specifications:
- Length: 360 cm / 12 ft
- Width: 77 cm / 30 inches
- Height: 30 cm / 12 inches
- Weight: 28 kgs / 62 lbs
- Maximum Weight
- Capacity: 250 kgs / 550 lbs
The Tarpon kayak is designed for both touring and fishing in saltwater and freshwater environments, providing users with the ability to embark on adventures with ease and endurance. The kayak’s sleek and slender build allows for comfortable and efficient paddling during long-distance trips, whether in the ocean or in estuaries, lagoons, lakes, or rivers.
- Seating: Single Seater
- Style: Sit on Top
- Roto-molded: 5mm Polyethylene Design
- Hardware: Marine Graded stainless steel fittings.
- Inserts: Brass
ADDITIONAL FEATURES AND EXTRA’S INCLUDED:
- 1 Two-Piece paddle with three-position adjustment features. The shaft made of heavy-duty black EDC coated aluminum, built-in handgrips, and PVC anti-drip rings
- 1 Aluminum adjustable seat
- 3 Accessory tracks
- 1 Water-resistant hatch cover
- 2 Storage hatches
- 2 Side tackle box compartments
- 2 Side handles with bungees to secure your paddle
- 2 Rubber carry handles
- 8 Scupper plugs
- Bungee at the back storage area
- 1 Swivel rod holder
- 2 Integrated Fishing rod holders
- Rudder system (Foot pedal & Fin)
OPTIONAL EXTRA’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Motor Mount
- Electric Motor
KAYAK SPECIFICATIONS:
- Length: 360 cm / 12 ft
- Width: 77 cm / 30 inches
- Height: 30 cm / 12 inches
- Weight: 28 kgs / 62 lbs
- Maximum Weight
- Capacity: 250 kgs / 550 lbs
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Ask a Question-
Do I need to add stabilizers?
The kayak is very stable due to its flat-based bottom hull, but should you wish to stand and fish, you are a taller, bigger paddler then by adding the stabilizers you will enhance that stability.
-
Can I remove the rudder system?
Yes, you can but why would you need or want to? The rudder greatly assists with direct tracking (straight line) paddling, and this will save you from having to constantly counter steer to keep the kayak straight. The rudder can also be elevated should you reach shallow or rock conditions by pulling the rudder adjusting paracord on the side of the kayak and clipping it into the side cleat.
-
How do I secure the seat from falling out?
The tarpon has four seat clips secured to the deck of the kayak. Lining up the seat with the clips and gently pushing down the base of the seat will slip into the clips, and this will secure them in place.
-
Can you leave the kayak in the sun?
The Tarpon is made from Polyethylene and has UV lining infused in the manufacturing process, so the kayak is manufactured to maintain its shape in hot conditions, however leaving the kayak exposed to the elements. for long periods of time may cause the kayak harm so wherever possible stow your kayak in a shady area.
-
Can I mount an Electric Motor on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can. At the back of the kayak, you will notice that there are four brass inserts molded into the deck in front of the rudder. These brass inserts are in place so you can attach a rear motor mount by securing the mount to the deck using four T-knobs that screw into the deck. Once the mount is secure you can easily mount your electric motor by securing the G-clamps securely onto the mount. The second option would be to make use of the side motor mount mold attachment area which is situated in the tank well area (Storage)at the back of the kayak, you will see that there are pre-molded grooves in the shape of the kayak, and these have three brass inserts installed in either groove. This area can either be used to mount a stabilizer or a side motor mount and both attach easily making use of the mounting plate that secures over the mounting bar and connects the sidebar with butterfly screws to the deck.
-
Why are there Scupper Plugs on the kayak?
The Scuppers work exactly like bath plugs and allow for the drainage of water from the deck area. When traveling in choppy water or waves it is always best to remove the scupper plugs as water can easily find its way onto the deck of the kayak from rain, waves, or drip from paddles. The plugs are there so that your surface can be drained and cleaned easily.
-
Are the hatches waterproof?
The word waterproof or watertight implies that no water whatsoever will be able to get into a hatch. As water is very resilient and tends to always find a way our hatches are splash proof and this means that water will splash off and flow over, but some water may get inside the hatch. When putting your valuables in a hatch it is always best to stow your valuables in a waterproof container or Ziplock bag for extra protection.
-
Is the Tarpon fast enough for catching game fish?
The Tarpon is built for speed and has an easy cruising speed of between 5.5km and 6.5kms/h and this is more than fast enough to troll for game fish or get to that favorite fishing hole.
-
Can I install a Fish Finder on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can but you will be limited by what size transducer you can install as there is no dedicated transducer port as per the other kayak models. You would need to mount your transducer in one of the scupper ports under the kayak as they rest directly in the channels under the kayak, and this ultimately gives you more space to work with. Once you have mounted the transducer safely and securely then run your cables up through the scupper port and onto the deck. Once on the deck, you can decide where to place your battery and your LCD screen. The best possible mounting is just behind the central hatch as that way you can store your battery pack in the hatch.
-
Do I need to add stabilizers?
The kayak is very stable due to its flat-based bottom hull, but should you wish to stand and fish, you are a taller, bigger paddler then by adding the stabilizers you will enhance that stability.
-
Can I remove the rudder system?
Yes, you can but why would you need or want to? The rudder greatly assists with direct tracking (straight line) paddling, and this will save you from having to constantly counter steer to keep the kayak straight. The rudder can also be elevated should you reach shallow or rock conditions by pulling the rudder adjusting paracord on the side of the kayak and clipping it into the side cleat.
-
Can you mount a Fin or Prop Drive to the Kayak?
Unfortunately, not as the deck design doesn’t allow for a drive box to be installed as there is a central hatch in place and not a toolbox.
-
Can I stand and fish on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can, the kayak is designed around stability and buoyancy and in order to get this right we used a V-shaped keel nose and tail which flows into a flat bottom hull design with deep channels or grooves that assist with the stability. The grooves let the water flow through the bottom of the hull and the flat deck shape keeps the kayak still in the water allowing for easy standing.
-
How do I secure the seat from falling out?
The tarpon has four seat clips secured to the deck of the kayak. Lining up the seat with the clips and gently pushing down the base of the seat will slip into the clips, and this will secure them in place.
-
Can you leave the kayak in the sun?
The Tarpon is made from Polyethylene and has UV lining infused in the manufacturing process, so the kayak is manufactured to maintain its shape in hot conditions, however leaving the kayak exposed to the elements. for long periods of time may cause the kayak harm so wherever possible stow your kayak in a shady area.
-
Can I mount an Electric Motor on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can. At the back of the kayak, you will notice that there are four brass inserts molded into the deck in front of the rudder. These brass inserts are in place so you can attach a rear motor mount by securing the mount to the deck using four T-knobs that screw into the deck. Once the mount is secure you can easily mount your electric motor by securing the G-clamps securely onto the mount. The second option would be to make use of the side motor mount mold attachment area which is situated in the tank well area (Storage)at the back of the kayak, you will see that there are pre-molded grooves in the shape of the kayak, and these have three brass inserts installed in either groove. This area can either be used to mount a stabilizer or a side motor mount and both attach easily making use of the mounting plate that secures over the mounting bar and connects the sidebar with butterfly screws to the deck.
-
Why are there Scupper Plugs on the kayak?
The Scuppers work exactly like bath plugs and allow for the drainage of water from the deck area. When traveling in choppy water or waves it is always best to remove the scupper plugs as water can easily find its way onto the deck of the kayak from rain, waves, or drip from paddles. The plugs are there so that your surface can be drained and cleaned easily.
-
Are the hatches waterproof?
The word waterproof or watertight implies that no water whatsoever will be able to get into a hatch. As water is very resilient and tends to always find a way our hatches are splash proof and this means that water will splash off and flow over, but some water may get inside the hatch. When putting your valuables in a hatch it is always best to stow your valuables in a waterproof container or Ziplock bag for extra protection.
-
What water conditions best suit the Tarpon?
The Tarpon’s design and shape allow it to travel easily in all types of water conditions from seas to rivers and dams. The kayak has a spear shape with a sharp nose and tail and then flattens out in the center of the kayak allowing for stability. The narrow V Keel design in the front of the kayak allows it to push and part water easily and by doing so maintains speed in any conditions.
-
How much weight can the Tarpon carry?
The Tarpon has a mass carrying capacity of 250kgs, so the weight limit is not an issue. However, when looking at weight capacities you need to keep in mind what you are going to use the craft for, So, for example, a fisherman will carry additional gear plus possibly a few fish in the hatch, and this will add to the carrying weight.
-
Is the Tarpon fast enough for catching game fish?
The Tarpon is built for speed and has an easy cruising speed of between 5.5km and 6.5kms/h and this is more than fast enough to troll for game fish or get to that favorite fishing hole.
-
Can I install a Fish Finder on the Tarpon?
Yes, you can but you will be limited by what size transducer you can install as there is no dedicated transducer port as per the other kayak models. You would need to mount your transducer in one of the scupper ports under the kayak as they rest directly in the channels under the kayak, and this ultimately gives you more space to work with. Once you have mounted the transducer safely and securely then run your cables up through the scupper port and onto the deck. Once on the deck, you can decide where to place your battery and your LCD screen. The best possible mounting is just behind the central hatch as that way you can store your battery pack in the hatch.
