I spent a few hours this morning test driving the Hobie Mirage Outback (3 years old). Loved it and bought it. Had to go out and pickup a crab pot for a friend, so fished a couple of hours. Caught 4 trout including 2 keepers and my largest trout so far (on Zman PaddlerZ). Also, caught my first trolling a DOA as I was heading to the crab pot. Awesome day on the water. Crab pot was empty which will disappoint my buddy who is new, and is anxious to feast on blue crab. Any tips? Had it fairly shallow today, but had it deep (15 feet) yesterday. Well, at least I got the skunk out of the boat. Caught first trout about 10 minutes in the boat.
Many go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.
Congrats! Welcome to the Hobie family!
-Lewis
So ironically I take a test drive at Elliott Cut because it was close to where the yak was. Had no idea of the whole current thing and was trying for the Stono. After battling the current (with paddle and peddle), almost got run over. Turned around and ‘flew’ to the Crabhouse which was fun and checked out Wappo Cut landing. Anyway, I have not intention on puttin in Elliot Cut again. Still had a great time.
Many go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.
Elgeebee, what flavor of Hobie do you own? Probably got one of them fancy PA boats that come with sleeping cabin and cooking galley?
Many go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.
Wow…sounds like a hell of a test-drive. Fortunately you made it back safely!
-Lewis
I have an Outback too! Papaya yellow…
I don’t know how yours is equipped - but if you want to unleash the real potential of your Outback - upgrade to the turbo fins for your Mirage Drive, and get the bigger sailing rudder. Maneuverability and speed is noticeably increased…
-Lewis
No turbo fins, and actually one fin is a little dinged up. Can I replace just fins, or do I need kit? What is draft of turbo? Already been hung up in shallows lookin for reds.
Many go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.
I haven’t had too much of a problem with hitting the fins on the bottom - I have a fish finder on my rig, and when I get into really shallow places, I either pull the drive out, or do the half-strokes to keep the fins up next to the hull and still be able to pedal.
I have the big turbo fins on mine - but you can get ST fins, which are shorter versions on the turbo fins, that will fit on yours without having to change the guide pins.
-Lewis
If your Outback is three years old I’m not sure I would go with the Turbo Fins. Hobie had some issues with the older hulls cracking when the turbo fins are used. The turbos put more pressure in the drive well than the standard fins. I always used the Turbos, but be aware there have been some issues.
quote:
Originally posted by s1tpilot
If your Outback is three years old I’m not sure I would go with the Turbo Fins. Hobie had some issues with the older hulls cracking when the turbo fins are used. The turbos put more pressure in the drive well than the standard fins. I always used the Turbos, but be aware there have been some issues.
Good point…might want to look further into this to see if your year would be affected.
-Lewis