Hobie Outback Kayak Review

Answers by Marty Walsh (Iron90)

How long have been fishing the Hobie Outback?

I have been fishing with my Hobie for about 18 months.

Why did you choose this boat?

I come from a Triathlon background and often road my bike for up to 400-500 miles a week (since retired) and the pedal system made since. I felt very comfortable peddling all day long. I also liked the workmanship of the boat, the quality of the plastic, and the steering system. It frees up my right hand to troll with.

Have you owned other kayaks? Which? Discuss your progression to the Outback.

No other boats.

What are the tradeoffs of this kayak?

It cost a lot more then other Yaks, it weight 57 lbs without gear! Very heavy! Friends run from you so they don’t have to help you lift it. The drain plug is too small, hard to drain the water out. Very little storage space. Hard to control on surf landings, it will pearl on you if you don't lean back. Still trying to perfect it! The boat will get stuck in the kelp if you go over it, THIS SUCKS!

What are the strengths of this kayak?

The best functions of the Hobie are the speed and endurance. If a person is in Biking shape you could arguably out peddle any standard fishing Kayak. It’s a simple fact that you legs will out perform your arms and shoulders. Just ask a distance swimmer to keep up with an ultra distance cyclist. Your legs recover faster than your arms. The Hobie does very well in windy choppy weather, just plows through it. The boat has two very useful beer holders, thank you! The boat rides high in the water, keeps you warm and dry. The boat has a lot of accessories to choose from. It comes with a hole in the middle, to “release bladder” if needed.

What is it that keeps the Hobie Outback above the rest in your mind?

The peddle system is tops for me

Read another Hobie Outback review: Review 1 - Review 2 - Review 3