Within the first five minutes of pedaling the patented Mirage Drive I had made up my mind. Getting to use my legs as an alternative to using only my upper body added dimension to the level of exercise I was looking for. That wasn't the only benefit though, it was really fast! I also found fishing much easier while using the Mirage drive because I didn't have to keep putting my rod down to pick up my paddle. I actually demo-ed the Revolution but opted for the Outback because of the wider side rails. The added width gives you two cup holders and tray-type moldings to lay things in while in the middle of a quick lure change.
The Outback also comes with four rod holders, a bow hatch, two 8" twist and seal hatches, a small mesh stowage pocket, an adjustable high back padded seat with inflatable lumbar support, a twist and stow rudder and easy access rudder controls. It also boasts a large rear cargo area with bungee tie downs and four carrying handles.
As equally awesome as the standard features are the optional add-ons. I added the bimini sunshade due to skin cancer concerns and for more versatility and fun I had to add the 20' sail. Talk about a blast! They also offer a great live well which I plan on getting next, and some day I hope to add the eVolve electric motor by Torqueedo for really big lakes. It can be mounted in place of the Mirage Drive, or as an addition to your twist and stow rudder which enables you to use the motor and pedals together for even more speed.
Even though the Outback weighs 62 pounds I don't have any trouble handling it by myself because of the cart that comes with it. After I've rolled it to where I'm going, I can store the cart on the rear cargo area where it fits into the same holes as when it's mounted to the bottom. It's not a bad deal because two stow-away boxes will fit between the back of my seat and the cart and the wheels hold them in place.
Remember, you can read about the experience of others, but you’ll find you’re best served by finding a shop that will let you demo some of the models you may be interested in. The best decision you can make is the decision to take your time. Weigh the options available and decide which ones are most important to you.
Things to Consider
- Think about the demands of your own fishing style what features will be the best for you.
- Comfort. It's nothing for me to stay on the water 8 or 10 hours so I demanded a comfortable seat and fit.
- Storage for all the gear you'll want to take with you.
- Weight; both the weight of the kayak and the weight capacity of the kayak.
- Tracking; is the kayak built right to track straight while paddling? Sometimes a shorter model may not track as well unless it's made well.
On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate my Hobie Mirage Outback a 9. The only reason I don't give it a 10 is because I find it doesn't track real well unless I have the rudder down. This isn't a problem unless I'm in particularly shallow water.
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Specifications
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About the Author: Pam is a Pro Staff Member at Yakangler.com and a member of Canoe Kentucky's Pro Team, co-sponsoring her along with Team Hobie. She is the new Director of Kentucky Kayak Fishing where they're working to set up a non-profit organization to help "Yaks Give Back" to our citizens, the environment, and to promote the growth of kayak fishing in our state. Pam is also the author of ShesAManiYak.com
Comments
Rob you should stop by and see Jimmy at Tackle Shack, they are the ones who hooked us up with the revo and outback on our last day in Tampa! Great guys!!!
LOL yeah but the PA is a Boat not a Yak!