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View Full Version : Hobie--Things to consider


G-Man
06-01-2004, 07:31 PM
Just one person's opinion here.

I'm new with the Outback, yet it seems that the Outback really was not designed for fishing the saltwater conditions we face in the Northeast. Plus when you add sailing it complicates matters.

I have no regrets, I really like this boat. I just think it's worth noting for anyone considering it as their next ocean kayak fishing boat.

Things I have had to do...so far.
1. Fix the leaks of the mast tube.
2. Add pvc to the rod holders
3. Rig strap to hold sail to side of kayak. The paddle strap does not cut it. I leave the sail fully setup, and bring it up and down @ 6 times per trip.
4. Rig better strap for paddle off the side of the boat. I left the paddle in the built in strap, while sailing. A wave got it, pushed it into the water and the back part caught my rod and nearly threw it into the water. "Had to fix that!"
5.Fix the rudder string that broke.
6. Improve my kayak cart for the increased weight.

The pvc extensions to the rod holders have served well to keep my sail and paddle in the boat while underway.

The fins cause drag and a tail wind will try to turn the boat around if your drifting. Pushing fins up does reduce this effect.

Given what I have done and will do to this boat, I still it's worth it for the pleasure of hands free fishing and fun\usefulness of sailing.

No boat has it all, but I'm liking this Outback thing so far.
-G

ralphfr
06-02-2004, 05:51 AM
G-MAN - I agree that this is not a heavy saltwater boat. I would think that ocean fishing would only be an option on the calmest of days. I'm curious if you are launching into the open ocean surf with this boat?

Here on LI I only yak in bays and harbors and never stray too far from land but I'm considering adding outriggers to aid in stability with all the boat traffic we have.

Thanks for the insights.

G-Man
06-02-2004, 10:13 AM
Hey Ralph,

No I don't launch into any real surf, and I also do not stray more than a mile or 2 from shore.

Quite often a 1-2 ft chop will kick up in the afternoon or a few swells will come up over your boat bow. You just don't want to have any worries about water in the boat or rigging issues in those conditions.

Most of our kayaks are ready for those conditions from day one. The hobie has a lot more going on and takes a little more prep to be ready for less than calm ocean conditions that's all. It's still worth the trouble.

Look forward to see your outrigger. Some guy had posted a nice outrigger for his Hobie recently, eh?

psst...get the sail. http://kfs.infopop.cc/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif