Hobie Outback Kayak Review 3

A little over a year.

2. Why did you choose this boat?

I like the idea of peddling, with hands free to fish. Then when I looked at the boat closely, I was really impressed with the build quality and attention to detail. It is sturdy and very well finished. Built-in rod holders, cup holders, tankwell, tackle trays, it all added up.

3. Have you owned other boats? Which? In what order? Discuss your
progression.

I started ten years ago with an Ocean Kayak Malibu II. Not many people were kayak fishing way back then, and I was a little unsure of myself, so I really wanted a big, stable platform. It has served me well, and I still have it, though it rarely gets used any more.

Next, I won an OK Drifter in one of the tournaments, which was a nice boat, but since the Malibu was all set up with fish finder, live bait tank, rod holders, etc. I didn't use the drifter much. After I fell in love with the Hobie and brought it home, I sold the Drifter cheap to a guy at work, because I don't have storage room for three boats.

4. What are the tradeoffs of this kayak?

As I mentioned previously, it is a slow hull that is overcome thanks to the Mirage Drive system. The lack of decent under-deck storage is the other big negative for ocean fishing.

5. What are the strengths of this kayak?

The Mirage Drive system is the biggie. See question #2 for others. The sail is a neat feature, but I have not used it in conjunction with fishing - yet.

6. What is the one thing that keeps it above the rest in your mind?

The Mirage Drive system is the biggie.

7. Anything else?

See question #2 and #5 for others.

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