As an obsessed kayak angler and Hobie owner myself, I couldn‘t wait to put this comprehensive Hobie fishing kayak guide together to spare others the tireless research.
Over my many years kayak fishing, I‘ve tested my fair share of vessels in real world conditions. Through it all, I‘ve stuck with Hobie because nothing beats their innovative MirageDrive pedal system for hands-free fishing! Their commitment to designing kayaks specifically for anglers is truly unmatched.
In this guide, you‘ll get my honest take on Hobie‘s most popular fishing models along with tips to select your perfect match. I‘ll break down all the need-to-know details from key specs to features to performance. You can trust this review will spare no details because it‘s coming from a fellow Hobie addict!
Let‘s start by looking at what makes Hobie so special…
Why Hobie is the Cream of the Crop
As soon as you witness a Hobie glide seamlessly across the water driven by only the angler‘s feet, you quickly realize the ingenious advantage. Their iconic MirageDrive pedal system sets Hobie apart in the fishing kayak realm.
See, paddling and fishing don‘t mix well. As soon as you pick up that rod, your paddle gets tossed aside. Then hook a fish and good luck maneuvering one-armed! Forget landing feisty fish while keeping the kayak positioned.
The brilliance of MirageDrive allows anglers to actively fish WHILE simultaneously steering hands-free. Its efficient flipper design makes covering long distances a breeze without fatigue. I can easily troll for hours!
Beyond revolutionary propulsion, Hobie stuffed its boats with purposeful features for anglers. Rod holders, tackle storage, raised seats with kick-up foot rests…they sweat the details so we can focus on catching.
Over decades on the water, I‘ve landed everything from 10-pound bass to 100-pound sturgeon from the comfort of my Hobie without issue. These vessels absolutely shine for fishing, plain and simple.
Let‘s dig into the specific models…
My personal best smallmouth bass caught from my Hobie Outback!
Hobie Pro Angler Series
When I say these boats are stuffed to the gills with fishing features, I‘m not exaggerating. Hobie‘s largest Pro Angler (PA) models blur the line between kayak and bass boat!
Mirage Pro Angler 12
- Length: 12‘
- Width: 36"
- Weight: 103 lbs
- Hull: Tri-Hull SOT
- Capacity: 500 lbs
- MirageDrive: 360
- Price: $4,300
Serious kayak tournament anglers flock to the PA12 as their indestructible fishing fortress. Despite the muscular profile, it planes faster than you‘d expect thanks to the Turbo Fins.
Hobie pulls out all the stops on the PA12 to create the ULTIMATE stable fishing platform. You can stand and sight fish with confidence as the hardy tri-hull cuts through chop with ease. The PA12 brought me my 30 lb striper pictured above!
Every inch of this beast contains fishing advantages. Rod holders galore, immense storage capacity, transducer mounting location – you name it. Line tangles become a thing of the past with smart pole storage.
The PA12 employs Hobie‘s top-tier MirageDrive 360 which maneuvers incredibly responsive in tight spaces and currents. This pedal system changed my fishing game forever!
For serious anglers chasing trophies in big water, look no further than the mighty Hobie Pro Angler 12. An offshore fishing fortress ready to do battle!
Pros:
- Unrivaled stability for stand up casting
- MirageDrive 360 offers incredible maneuverability
- Cavernous cargo capacity
- Can handle incredibly heavy loads
Cons:
- Heavy and cumbersome for solo loading/unloading
- High price tag
Mirage Pro Angler 14
- Length: 14‘
- Width: 36"
- Weight: 118 lbs
- Hull: Tri-Hull SOT
- Capacity: 550 lbs
- MirageDrive: 360
- Price: $4,450
When the PA12 just doesn‘t offer quite enough real estate, upgrade to the elongated Pro Angler 14. This unprecedented monster floating fish camp makes other boats look miniature in comparison!
Climb aboard this hulking craft and prepare to never wish for more room again. The standing area could host a dance party! Take on relatives or chase feisty billfish from this trusty vessel without concern.
Outfitted to the nines with the same awesome fishing advantages as the PA12, the 14 simply provides more surface to roam about. Bring ALL your gear thanks to the cavernous hatch storage and countless rod holders.
Despite mammoth proportions, the PA14 tracks impressively straight courtesy of the pronounced rear skeg. The pedal-powered MirageDrive 360 grants this beast surprising nimbleness for its size when navigating crowded marinas and inlets.
Make no mistake – hauling around the PA14 requires serious commitment. You‘ll need a trailer or strong kayak cart, but then the world‘s your oyster! This floating fortress opens unlimited offshore possibilities.
Pros:
- Massive standing platform for sight fishing
- Astounding load capacity
- MirageDrive 360 enables easy maneuvering
- Serious big water performer
Cons:
- Requires kayak trailer
- Significant investment
Hobie Outback Series
For anglers wanting enhanced portability without abandoning fishability, Hobie Outbacks find the ideal balance. These rugged vessels thrive everywhere from mangrove tunnels to rough surf.
Hobie Outback
- Length: 11‘ 6"
- Width: 33.5"
- Weight: 69 lbs
- Hull: Tunnel Hull SOT
- Capacity: 400-500 lbs
- MirageDrive: 180
- Price: $3,449
Despite compact proportions, the Outback packs plenty of purposeful advantages. This lightweight kayak eats up distance quickly thanks to the efficient MirageDrive 180. The pedals flip seamlessly in reverse allowing precise positioning.
Clever design choices make the Outback a functional fishing machine. Plentiful tackle storage, rod holders, a kick-up rudder system, transducer mounting location – everything anglers need!
The proven tunnel hull shaped like an airplane wing lifts the bow at speed. This reduces drifting in crosswinds while granting ample glide. The 34" width enhances stability considerably over less generous beams.
While limited standing room keeps this model more seated-friendly, accessories like stakeout poles and a folding stand up assist bar provide occasional upright flexibility.
For a solo paddler wanting a strapping vessel not overburdened by size, the Outback shines bright. Its amalgamation of portability, speed and stability make easy work of otherwise tricky waters. This angling accomplice will never let you down!
Pros:
- MirageDrive 180 offers reversing
- Fast yet stable tunnel hull design
- Lightweight but high capacity
Cons:
- Standing room limited
- Less bait storage than PA models
Outback Camo Edition
- Length: 11‘ 6"
- Width: 33.5"
- Weight: 69 lbs
- Hull: Tunnel Hull SOT
- Capacity: 400-500 lbs
- MirageDrive: 180
- Price: $3,600
For anglers wanting to blend into surroundings, the camo-clad Outback allows stealthy concealment without sacrificing signature performance.
This variant of the Outback features Realtree MAX-5 camouflage pattern to match everything from mangroves to marshes. Enjoy the same functionality and stability of the original while going incognito!
Compass Series
The budget-friendly Compass keeps newbies and casual pedalers happy with wallet-friendly pricing packed with usability.
Hobie Compass
- Length: 10‘
- Width: 32.5"
- Weight: 54 lbs
- Hull: Dual V Hull SOT
- Capacity: 500 lbs
- MirageDrive: 180 (optional)
- Price: $2,600
Proving kayaks can be affordable AND functional, the Compass brings lots of versatility. Its nimble size paired with the optional MirageDrive 180 proves a pleasure to scoot around in.
Despite compact proportions, the dual-V hull keeps this ride stable and splash-free. The generous capacity means packing for a weekend trip remains no issue. Angled foot wells provide solid footing when sight fishing.
While falling short of premium Hobies in fishing amenities, the Compass contains ample essentials. Rod holders and a rear storage hatch keep gear orderly. The MirageDrive can be removed to paddle classic style when feeling nostalgic!
For new paddlers not sold on pedal drives or those seeking a budget-saving cruiser, the Compass charts an enjoyable course!
Pros:
- Optional MirageDrive 180
- Excellent stability in smaller package
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Limited standing room
- Less fishing extras than premium models
Eclipse Pedalboard Series
Unique watercraft bridging SUP maneuverability with pedal-power, Hobie‘s Eclipse line offers next-level sight fishing potential from atop these elevated boards.
Hobie Eclipse 12
- Length: 12‘
- Width: 30" tip to tip
- Thickness: 6"
- Weight: 96 lbs
- Hull: Triple V Hull
- Capacity: 275-300 lbs
- MirageDrive: 180
- Price: $2,550
Perching anglers 12 feet above the depths in stealthy silence, the elongated Eclipse 12 unlocks uncharted casting potential. Its low profile shape won‘t alert skeptical fish below thanks to the noiseless fins.
This crow‘s nest casting platform reveals fish hiding spots with crystal clarity. Agile maneuvering lets me subtly reposition for the perfect sight fishing angle. Chasing fish feels entirely new from this vantage point!
Despite tall stature, the Eclipse 12 feels reassuringly stable during long hours thanks to extra flotation built into its sides. Plentiful leg room lets me finesse the pedals with precision.
While limited capacity keeps these boards best for solo missions, the Eclipse 12 has hauled some gorgeous trout, snook and flounder aboard during my sunrise adventures! Certainly not an overnight barge, but wow does it unlock a cool niche.
Pros:
- Elevated perspective for spotting fish
- Smooth MirageDrive 180 propulsion
- Surprisingly stable at height
Cons:
- Poor weight capacity
- Less protection from elements
Closing Thoughts
And there you have it – a comprehensive guide to Hobie‘s top fishing kayak models! From the mammoth Pro Anglers to the unique Eclipse boards, hopefully you‘ve got a handle on choosing your perfect Hobie partner.
I know the buying process can feel overwhelming…but here‘s the key things to consider:
First– Match the boat length/capacity to your common fishing environments. Smaller kayaks for rivers and calm waters, larger vessels for big lakes/offshore needs.
Next– Factor in transportation logistics. Larger Hobies become challenging for solo loading without a trailer. Go smaller if truck space is limited.
Lastly– Compare fishing layouts to your style. Do you need ample standing room or rod storage? Will pedals improve your fishing mobility?
There‘s no universally "best" Hobie – each model aims at different needs. Hopefully breaking down those specifics here provides clarity.
I wish you tight lines and memorable adventures ahead in that new Hobie once you decide! Our passionate owners group is always here to cheer you on with advice along the way.
Now enough typing – I‘ve got some trout calling my name from the Outback this weekend! Happy Hobie hunting my friend 🙂
