Blog

You ever heard of the Hobie Outback? It’s one of the better fishing kayaks on the market right now, with tons of features that improve safety, stability, handling, maneuverability, and general angler-readiness.

Here are some of the top questions about the Outback and why it’s great for kayak fishing, answered.

Can You Stand in It?

Yes, and in fact the Outback is expressly designed with an extra-wide standing deck with an enhanced casting platform that gives you advanced stability and visibility. It’s also outfitted with non-slip EVA deck pads that offer sure traction even in adverse conditions. Sighting, casting to, and fighting fish has never been easier - unless you count standing on the shore!

Can You Pedal It Backwards?

Yes, the Hobie Mirage Outback has been designed with Hobie’s MirageDrive 180 pedal drive with kick-up turbo fins. It is one of the most unique pedal drives on the market that offers operators full power in both forward and reverse.

What Happens If You Hit a Submerged Obstacle?

In the past, pedal drive systems could be damaged due to incidental contact with submerged obstacles. In the case of a fin drive, the mast could get bent, ruining the drive. That is no longer an impediment with the MD 180, which is made with kick-up fins that automatically retract on impact. Also, you can fold both fins up by pressing one of the pedals on the system forward.

Why Are Fins Better Than Propellers?

It’s not so much that fins are better than propellers as that each has advantages. In the case of fins, one of the main, massive advantages is that since they don’t spin, it’s a lot harder to get tangled in weeds or fishing line, which can be a serious problem with pedal drives that have propellers. Also, the fin drive of the Hobie Outback has retractable fins which automatically retract on impact - something you won’t get with a pedal drive.

Is It Comfortable?

The Hobie Outback is engineered for comfort, with an adjustable Vantage CTW Seat that is both supportive and made with quick-drying mesh, to keep you cooler and drier even through long, hot days on the water.

Is It Expandable? What Gear Systems Does It Have?

The Hobie Outback is exceptionally expandable, with a wide range of features that support you and your gear. In addition to 4 flush mounted rod holders, it also has several dry storage areas for gear, along with Dual Deluxe H-Tracks and H-Rails that are designed for expanding with Hobie fishing accessories (and other gear). You can rig the Outback the way that works for you and your lifestyle.

Is It Electronics Ready?

The Hobie Outback is rigged for a fishfinder, with a Guardian Transducer Shield that delivers an exceptional multidimensional view beneath the waves - letting you get right on top of the bait, the fish, the structure - or whatever else you seek.

How Much Does It Weigh?

Lightweight design has never been a strong suit of sit-on-top fishing kayaks with pedal drives, but the Outback could be way worse. Fully rigged, it still only weighs 103 pounds, no more than most canoes, and still light enough to be transported via cartop.

Is It Compatible with Other Modes of Transportation?

It definitely is. The Hobie Outback is configurable with an optional Hobie sail mount that will give you the flexibility to take advantage of a favorable wind, but with a bimini mount that will help shield you from the sun. The latter isn’t related to transportation but it still merits a callout of Hobie’s thoughtful and ingenious design.

What About Shallow Water Anchoring?

There are situations in which conventional kayak anchors are not ideal for holding a position. Hobie understands this plight. That’s why the Outback is compatible with Power Pole shallow water anchoring systems, so you can hold your spot in shallow water even in the face of a stiff breeze or current.

What Storage Does It Offer?

The Hobie Outback is loaded with storage features, including a large bow hatch, a separate vertical hatch just ahead of the cockpit, and a huge tie down area astern which is more than capacious enough for coolers, traps, tackle bags and boxes, and even camping gear.

What Sorts of Water Conditions Can the Hobie Outback Handle?

The Hobie Outback is capable of taking on shallow pocket water and big open water alike, not just lakes and rivers, but inshore salt and even the ocean. Wherever you fish, the Outback can take you there.

Want to Learn More About the Hobie Outback? Get the Answers to Your Questions Here

Want to learn more about whether a Hobie Outback fishing kayak is for you? Want to see other options in Hobie kayaks before you buy? Check them out in our online catalog and if you need help with questions or want personalized recommendations, get in touch with us at 512-229-0560.