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To be frank, the Hobie Lynx lacks a lot of what other modern fishing kayaks offer, especially from the same producer. But a Hobie is a Hobie, and the Lynx is exceptionally specialized to offer lightweight fishing performance.

Here’s why the Lynx is the best in its class, that is, among ultra-lightweight fishing kayaks.

Stability

Small as it is, the Hobie Lynx wants little in the way of stability. In fact, it offers more than you’d even have a right to expect.

Not only does this thing resist tipping (it handles sort of like a SUP), but it’s so stable you can stand in it.

This is no accident. Hobie engineered it that way, and in fact, the Lynx is equipped with non-slip, EVA deck pads that are designed to provide you with extra stability and traction when standing.

Expandability

The Lynx might be lightly equipped and lack the built-in rod holders and other features of more advanced fishing kayaks, but it is no slouch.

The Lynx comes rigged with integrated accessory mounting tracks so you can mount your preferred Hobie fishing accessories, and even comes ready for an H-bar standing support.

Moreover, the Lynx comes ready with a cavity that’s perfect for mounting a fishfinder transducer, which you might need on deep or unfamiliar waters.

Maneuverability

Since it’s so lightweight and draws so little water, the Lynx can go where other vessels, even fishing kayaks, can’t.

Also, on the note of maneuverability, the Lynx is powered by Hobie’s MirageDrive 180 (more on that below) as well as a rudder that allows for easy, effortless, pinpoint control, even in less than ideal conditions.

Comfort

The cockpit of the Hobie Lynx is defined by comfortable, elevated seating with a strong, lightweight aluminum frame, and outfitted with quick-drying, ultra-comfortable mesh.

It will keep you comfortable and well-supported even during long days on the water, and it is cool, comfortable, and removable - you can even use it as a beach chair!

Versatility

The Hobie Lynx, as a result of its remarkable lightweight nature, power, and stability, is useful in a wide range of environments. You can take it in shallow freshwater chasing bass, or out in the salt. It even makes for a stable ocean yak.

But beyond this, the Lynx is compatible with sail kits also sold by Hobie, which can convert it into a capable sailing vessel, whenever you need to give your legs a rest.

Extremely Lightweight Design

One of the main selling points of the Hobie Lynx is, of course, its lightweight design. The Lynx is made with “ACE-TEC” construction that consists of a molded, watertight, EPS foam core that is sandwiched between layers of woven fiberglass. The exterior is a thermoformed plastic skin.

This makes the hull watertight, light, and wide. Since it does not require air in the hull to displace water, it is effectively impossible to sink, making it highly seaworthy, and moreover, the wide, flat hull is very light.

How light, you might ask? How does every ounce of 47 pounds sound? It’s almost light enough to carry with one arm.

Easy Landing

The Hobie Lynx has a rear rudder that easily attaches and detaches from the hull, as well as rear loading skid pads. The MirageDrive system is also easily removable, making it a snap to beach and land the kayak. The lightweight nature does the rest, and this yak, with its fore and aft carry handles is easier than most to land.

A Superior Drive System

All in all, the Hobie Lynx is one of the best pedal-driven fishing kayaks on the market, largely as a result of the Hobie MirageDrive 180 that powers it.

This pedal drive system is efficient, fast, powerful, and enables complete control in forward and reverse. Moreover, the fins can be feathered (retracted up) making the craft perfect for shallow water pursuits. Moreover, fins are superior to props in weedy water as they resist tangling.

But Hobie has gone further. These pedal drives are equipped with “kick-up” fins that automatically retract on impact with an obstacle, protecting the mast and preventing damage to the system, making them even more ideal for use in shallow water.

More Room for Gear

Small and light as it is, the Hobie Lynx has a ton of room for accessories and gear, and includes wide open, capacious gear wells at the front and stern with plenty of tie down points, making the Lynx a yak that has your back. Whether you’re taking it fishing, camping, or just on a day outing, it has room for what you need to bring.

Want to Learn More About the Hobie Lynx Before Buying? Get in Touch with Us

In terms of ultralight fishing kayaks, there’s not much out there that’s better than a Hobie Lynx. But, if you still want to learn more about it before buying, get in touch with us and we’ll find the best fishing yak for you - we’ll even make personalized recommendations.