Wilderness Systems Ride 115 Review (2026)
The Wilderness Systems Ride 115 is a versatile and stable sit-on-top kayak designed for anglers and recreational paddlers who enjoy both stability and comfort during their time on the water. With its wide, open design, ample storage, and fishing-friendly features, the Ride 115 excels in calm to mildly choppy waters, making it a great choice for everything from fishing to leisurely paddling. In this review, we’ll explore its key features, performance, pros and cons, and overall value.
Key Features of the Wilderness Systems Ride 115 Kayak
- Dimensions: 11’6″ L × 33″ W
- Weight: 65 lbs
- Capacity: 500 lbs
- Material: Tri-laminated polyethylene for durability and lightweight performance
- Hull Type: Flat, wide hull for excellent stability and tracking
- Storage: Large rear tank well, front hatch, and side storage pockets
- Seats: ComfortMAX seat with adjustable backrest for long paddling sessions
- Fishing Features: Two flush-mount rod holders and one swivel rod holder, gear tracks for customization
- Extras: Adjustable foot pegs, paddle holder, and side handles for transport
- Max Speed: 3-4 mph (depending on conditions)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 500 lbs weight capacity, perfect for anglers and paddlers with extra gear or larger paddlers
- Flat, wide hull provides excellent stability and tracking, ideal for fishing and recreational use
- ComfortMAX seat offers support and comfort for long hours on the water
- Ample storage space with a rear tank well, front hatch, and additional pockets for gear
- Fishing-friendly with multiple rod holders and gear tracks for customizable setups
- Durable tri-laminated polyethylene construction ensures long-lasting performance
- Easy to maneuver and control, even with the larger size, making it great for beginners and experienced paddlers
- Suitable for both fresh and saltwater fishing
Cons:
- At 65 lbs, the Ride 115 is on the heavier side and may require assistance when transporting
- Larger size can make it less maneuverable in tight spaces or narrow waterways
- Not the fastest kayak due to its design, but this is offset by its stability and comfort
- Limited storage for larger expeditions or multi-day trips
Ideal for Fishing and Leisurely Paddling
The Wilderness Systems Ride 115 is ideal for anglers who need a stable, spacious kayak with plenty of fishing features. Its wide hull ensures stability, making it perfect for fishing, while the adjustable ComfortMAX seat allows for comfort during long paddling sessions. It’s also great for recreational paddlers who want a reliable, stable kayak for casual trips on calm or mildly choppy waters. While it’s not designed for speed or extreme portability, it excels in comfort and versatility, making it a perfect choice for fishing and leisurely paddling.
Performance and Paddling Experience
The Wilderness Systems Ride 115 offers an exceptionally stable paddling experience thanks to its wide, flat hull. This design helps it stay steady on the water, making it ideal for anglers who need a secure platform for casting and reeling in fish. While the kayak isn’t built for speed, it performs well in calm to mildly choppy conditions and offers smooth tracking. The wide hull also makes the kayak easy to maneuver, although it may be slightly more difficult to turn quickly in narrow or tight spaces. Overall, the Ride 115 offers great control and a comfortable ride for fishing and general recreational use.
Easy to Use and Maintain
The Ride 115 is easy to use, even for beginners, thanks to its simple design and stability. While it’s a bit heavier than some other kayaks (65 lbs), it features side handles that make it easier to carry, especially if you have assistance. The ComfortMAX seat is adjustable and provides excellent support, making long paddling sessions more comfortable. The kayak’s durable polyethylene construction ensures that it holds up well to regular use, and maintenance is minimal—just rinse it off after use, particularly if you’ve been paddling in saltwater, and store it in a dry place.
Durability and Build Quality
Constructed from tri-laminated polyethylene, the Wilderness Systems Ride 115 is designed for durability and impact resistance. The material is known for its ability to withstand rough conditions, making it an excellent choice for paddling in rocky rivers, coastal waters, or other rugged environments. The kayak’s robust build ensures it will last for many years with minimal upkeep, providing anglers and recreational paddlers with a reliable, long-lasting platform for their adventures.
Portability and Storage
At 65 lbs, the Wilderness Systems Ride 115 is heavier than some smaller kayaks, so it may require assistance when transporting. However, its large size provides excellent storage space, including a rear tank well, front hatch, and side storage pockets for all your fishing gear, personal items, or lunch. While it’s not designed for multi-day trips, the Ride 115 is perfect for day trips or short excursions where you need to bring along some extra gear. The kayak’s spacious design ensures that you’ll have plenty of room for everything you need for a comfortable day on the water.
Final Thoughts on the Wilderness Systems Ride 115 Kayak
The Wilderness Systems Ride 115 is an excellent choice for anglers and recreational paddlers who want a stable, comfortable, and feature-rich kayak for leisurely paddling and fishing. Its flat, wide hull provides exceptional stability, while the ComfortMAX seat ensures comfort on long paddling trips. The large weight capacity and ample storage make it a versatile option for those with extra gear or larger paddlers. Although it’s not the fastest kayak and can be a bit heavy for solo transport, the Ride 115 offers excellent stability, comfort, and durability, making it a top contender for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable kayak for fishing or casual paddling.