Hobie Pro Angler 12

Saltwater Kayak Fishing
1

I was lucky enough to be able to get out in a Hobie Pro Angler 12. What an amazing fishing machine. It was like having an all inclusive flats boat all to yourself.

My first impression of the PA was WOW!! What a well built machine. The Pro Angler is built top to bottom with the fisherman in mind. Everything is laid out in such a way that all tackle, gear, rods are at a hands reach. I could not believe how easy and accessible they made this Kayak. I could clip my boga grip, trout net, & otter box on one of the 2 eye hooks on port side right below the chair. This was ultra convenient for landing fish as I brought them to the side of the PA wether it be a trout, red, or flounder & all tools had a place to return too on the left side. On the right side by the chair I keep my Tervis tumble w/lid filled with swamp water (sweat tea & lemonade), two rods/reels with easy access for immediate fishing if I felt the need which was most of the time!!

I started by leaving the same area I usually fish on my side of the town, James Island. I have a landing in my neighbor hood that makes it easy for me to get out. The difference with the Pro Angler was immediate! My hands were free for fishing and my attention, after the short learning curve with the mirage drive, to the water was so much more elevated then when in a traditional sit on top kayak. I could focus all of my energies of my upper extremities to the water which meant more visual fishing. With traditional kayaking you get more focused on your upper body rhythm as a whole and this distracts from possible visual fishing that can lead to being more productive with your fishing, the Hobie Pro Angler fixes all of that. I was able to find at least 3 more fishing spots on my two trips I was able to get out that I do not think I would have found without the PA. The ability to maneuver on a dime in the 12’ and to barley pump the peddles a few times to stay in position was brilliant. I can’t wait to get in one again very soon! Go try one and Im sure you will feel the same wa

2

I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your first experience in a PA 12. They are differently purpose built and done right. When compared to the older models the seat is in a whole other category. I have even taken it out and sat on the bank and fished from that seat when its time for lunch.

3

sounds like you’d say it’s a keeper!!

4

How do you think speed compared to the traditional kayak? Did you catch more wind by sitting up more, thus making it harder to make headway, or did the pedal drive make up for the difference?

5
quote:
Originally posted by stonefly

How do you think speed compared to the traditional kayak? Did you catch more wind by sitting up more, thus making it harder to make headway, or did the pedal drive make up for the difference?

Speed was average or better than a 14’ traditional paddle kayak. Wind was not a factor because the pedal drive made up for the difference. Slow and steady rhythm and current + wind was not an issue.

6

The seat also has two height settings. High and low. The lower seat position is better suited when you would like to cover distance. It also shifts your weight back reducing the bow bounce you might encounter when pedaling hard in the high seat position. The higher position is at its best when you ateare sight fishing or when you are not experiencing less than ideal conditions.

7

I second your enthusiasm of the PA, I have had one around two years, been out in 20 mph winds and paddled it against the tide. Never once did I feel worried about tipping. Even I can stand up in one (67 yoa). but now they have a contraption that can be installed to brace yourself. I normally stay out 5 to 6 hours and no back or dead problems and I have the older seat.