[backlash]

Anybody own a Hobie. The new Fly Shop here in Fayetteville just got a bunch of Hobies. I stopped in to take a look and I'm real impressed with the layout of their boats. I don't know if I'm completely sold on the Mirage drive but I like the Quest model. I might give up my T120.

 

[sinker man]

Backlash, if you are shopping for a new yak, one thing I would keep in mind is the fact that for fishing on the east coast you are more likely to come back in a boat designed by someone who paddles the east coast. Westcoast waves are big, slow and further between. East coast weather is much different and the Atlantic is much smaller so our waves are steeper, faster and much closer together. If you are buying for use on large resovoirs the same principals apply but in a slightly different proportion, but for sheltered water use either coast's designs should be considered. Just my .02 cents worth. AL

 

[lefty]

The mirage-drive Hobies are very popular on some of the forums, but I did notice a complete absence of either style of Hobie at this weekend's Cape Fear Kayaks tournament event at Ft. Fisher. (Six boats might not be statistically valid.) I gave that pedal-drive some thought as I was trying to power my way back to the put-in point against a wind that was trying to point me at about 2:00 relative to the direction I wanted to go...

Most of the boats were Tarpons, there was a Cobra and my Liquid Logic...
Kevin

 

[sinker man]

Backlash, I didn't mean to sound quite so negative abut the west coast boats but what I told you is something that I think should be taken into account If you plan on fishing any of the bigger sounds and reservoirs. AL

 

[backlash]

Sinkerman- I understood your point. I'm not necessarily in the market for a new yak, but I would consider a Hobie because of the layout. I can see how they would allow you to effectively organize your gear.

 

[buzzbait]

I just bought a hobie outback. Sofar I think its a good choice. The down sides i have found is it a little awkard and bulky to paddle, tracking while paddle leaves a little to be desired, and there is always water in the deck were the mirage drive is installed. As with any boat there is always compromises. For a novice like myself I gained speed, stabily, hands free to fish, and at 270lbs I still do not have to worry about overloading. hope this helps.

 

[backlash]

The fact that water will always be in the hull is why I like the Quest models. I just like the way that the boats are already laid out with fishing in mind.

 

[landlockednow]

I have a "west coast" Malibu X-Factor and could not be more pleased with it. I am a "big guy" and needed the capacity, but I have found nothing on east coast that made me regret the Malibu, at all.

I have two friends with Hobies. They are great for deeper water, but on more shallow flats and if you decide to do any river fishing, just pull the pedals from the start. They both really like their boats. We fish mostly, unfortunately, fresh water lakes, and they can really "motor" along in the deep water.

The Heritage line is really getting a lot of run down in Florida. They have become extremely popular.

 

[NCangler]

Guys, just a note that I moved this thread to the "Saltwater Kayaking" forum instead of "Saltwater Flyfishing" cause it seemed more appropriate.

 

[Big Osh]

I have quick question? Where might I find this Fly Shop. I have a Heritage Yak. I am looking to put a dry storage hatch in front of my seat. I have looked at them on line, I would like to look at one in person. The nearest Yak store that I know of is up in Greensburo.Thanks for your time and help

 

[lefty]

BigOsh
Great Outdoor Provision Company carries quite a few yaks, including Hobies... they've got locations in Raleigh, Greenville, Wilmington, in addition to Greensboro, if any of them are more convenient for ya.

 

[backlash]

Big Osh- It's called Tarheel Fish & Game. Located on Raeford Road next to the Harris Teeter. I understand that they're expanding already.

 

[Big Osh]

Hey thanks for the help! I will checking them out in the next couple of days.