Looking for my first kayak on craigslist and found a field and stream Eagle talon 120 for $300 and a wilderness systems tarpon 120 for 600. Which one would be better? Thanks

I can't say I know much about the talon but I know the tarpon very well.

It's one of the most versatile and reliable platforms ever made.

As long as that tarpon hasn't been completely thrashed, I feel pretty comfortable telling you that it is a pretty safe bet.

What year is the tarpon?

Tarpons are good, I have the 140. Is the Talon rotomolded PE or thermoformed? Thermoformed kayaks are more prone to leaks around the seams and the plastic is much thinner. They also cost less.

Regardless of the price, either boat mentioned may or may not be for you. Buying on price alone can sometimes end up very costly.

To get any accurate answers to your question, you need to give a few details about yourself. The most important answers would be your weight and height. Kayaks are like shoes, no one size fits all. You need to look at the kayaks payload capacity and the cockpit size. Regardless of brand, any kayak that is near its rated capacity will become less and less stable and will become sluggish when paddling.

Also, be sure to demo the boat before you make the actual purchase. What looks great on land just may not be a good fit for you on the water.

I would recommend that you visit several your local dealers who primarily specialize in kayaks. They can give you sound advice on what best fits your specific see and usage. Getting a good matchup up front will maximize your enjoyment of the sport.

Talon: new 600.00
Roto-molded polyethylene
12' length
28" beam
60 pounds

wilderness systems tarpon 120: new $940.00
Length: 12 ft 3 in / 3.73 m
Width: 30 in / 76.2 cm
Weight: 63 lb / 28.58 kg
Capacity: 350 lb / 158.76 kg
Material: Polyethylene
Made in: USA

I'll bet there isn't a big difference between the two but paddling/fishing one or both is the only way to know.
I'd spend $300 and live with it.. cause I'm liquid cash poor..