BKC TK181

Size and Weight 

The BKC TK181 has a length of 12 feet 8 inches / 386 cm, a width of 34 inches / 86 cm, and a height of 14.25 inches / 36 cm. 

It has a dry weight of 68 lbs / 31 kg, which makes it easy for two people to handle the kayak when transporting and launching. Lighter than many other kayaks of similar size, one person can handle the TK181 relatively easily.

The TK181 is similar in size and weight to another one of BKC’s tandem fishing kayaks, the TK122, which is the same length but slightly heavier at 74 lbs / 34 kgs. The TK181 is way lighter than other kayaks of similar length like the FeelFree Lure II Tandem or Jackson Big Tuna, both of which weigh 92 lbs / 42 kg.

Capacity

Despite its light weight, the TK181 can accommodate up to an impressive 595 lbs / 270 kg, which is plenty for two large people and all the gear. 

It is significantly less than the TK122 whose maximum payload is an incredible 770 kg / 350 kg, but way more than the heavier Jackson Big Tuna’s 500 lbs / 227kg. 

Features

Like all other BKC kayaks, the hull is a sturdy, rotomolded single-piece High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). It is built to last, but it is still recommended that you coat UV protectant and marine silicone sealant at the start and end of every season to prolong your kayak’s lifespan.

At the bow of the boat is a t-handle for easy carrying. Right behind that are molded footrests that can accommodate kayakers of all heights. In between the footrests is an articulating rod holder. 

The TK181 has a total of seven rod holders, three of which are articulating and removable and four of which are flush-mounted for more stability. 

Moving down the kayak, there is a waterproof circular hatch right in front of the seat with a removable dry bag where you can stash a phone, wallet, keys, and snacks all within easy reach. 

The padded seats have multiple straps to adjust your seating position and the angle of your backrest. Behind the front seat are two flush-mounted rod holders with covers to keep the water out.

Moving down the kayak is where the second paddler sits, also with molded footrests, a circular hatch with a dry bag, and an articulating rod holder. In the middle of the kayak on both sides are rubber-lined carry handles so you can carry the craft from left to right in addition to front and back. 

The carry handles come with built-in paddle parking systems for you to secure your paddles with bungees when not in use. The TK181 has a total of eight scupper holes with plugs for draining out water. 

Towards the stern behind the back seat, there is a storage area that can be secured by the bungee tie-down system for you to stow a dry bag or something else that you don’t mind getting wet. 

At the very back is the second t-handle for carrying and transporting the kayak. The TK181 comes with two 2-piece, aluminum paddles.  

Performance 

The BKC TK181 performs well even in bad weather. It is decent to maneuver and tracks relatively straight even with currents and waves. 

However, it has a relatively short height (14.25 inches / 36 cm) compared to other kayaks this size, and when fully loaded, you’ll be sitting quite low in the waterline. If the big waves come, it is likely that water will get all over the kayak and you’ll have to use the scuppers to constantly drain it. 

While the padded seats are comfortable for short trips, they are the standard BKC seats and you might not be too happy after a long day of paddling

In addition, some reviewers have said that when the kayak is loaded up to about 80% of the maximum payload, the stern area takes in water and the storage area is submerged. You might want to keep the TK181 loaded to a maximum of 400 lbs / 182 kg instead of the stated 595 lbs / 270 lbs. 

Overall, the TK181 is a budget-friendly option that guarantees a fun day out on the water with a friend or family member. With a few lacking features, it might not suit the serious angler but for the casual paddler that wants to drop a few rods in, it’ll do just fine.