Hobie Mirage Pro Angler Kayak Review

Hobie Mirage 180 Pro Angler 12 Kayak Camo

4.7/5

high performance great features

  • Price = 3.5/5
  • Design = 5/5
  • Stability = 5/5
  • Features = 5/5
  • Quality = 5/5
Welcome to our examination of the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler Kayak.

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler Kayak was designed by Hobie specifically for the fisherman and is one of the most feature-filled fishing kayaks available.

MirageDrive

The first feature of the Pro Angler that should be highlighted is the propulsion system of the boat. While most fishing kayaks are paddle driven, the Pro Angler features Hobie’s pedal drive system, otherwise known as MirageDrive. The system works similar to that of a propeller whereby with each pedal stroke, two fins move side by side to propel the boat through the water.

To use MirageDrive, you simple place the unit into the well and start pedaling. The fins will kick in and effortlessly propel you forward. The MirageDrive system was designed based on the way a Penguin uses its fins to move through the water. The result is effort-free and quiet power.

For steering, the Pro Angler incorporates a unique rudder system. Usually, rudders are located at the back of the boat. But to accommodate bass fisherman, the Pro Angler positions the rudder underneath the boat. This can be extremely useful when fighting a fish that takes the line towards the back of the boat. With the rudder located under the kayak, there is no chance of the line getting tangled. The rudder is fully retractable and can be released or retracted with the simple pull of a handle.

To steer the boat, the Pro Angler makes use a fingertip controlled rudder steering mechanism which is located just to the left of the adjustable seat. The fingertip control requires almost no effort to operate and allows you turn the boat on a dime -- in its own length -- all while keeping your hands free. For shallow water fishing, the flippers can be retracted by pushing one foot petal forward. You may select the best fishing kayak here.

Horizontal Rod Storage

Another incredibly useful and unique feature of the Pro Angler for fisherman is its horizontal rod storage system. The Pro Angler allows for up to 6 rods to be stored horizontally on either side of the boat in a very compact and efficient package.

Extensive Storage

Anglers need areas to store gear and the Pro Angler does not disappoint. The front of the boat features an extra large hatch with removable liner that can be used to carry the catch of the day, ice for a cooler, or simply dry storage items. The rear of the kayak features even additional storage included molded vertical rod holders, a large rear cargo area with bungee tie downs, and an 8” twist and seal hatch. The boat includes 4 molded in trays for tackle boxes and tool storage providing enough space to store up to 13 tackle boxes.

Cool Ride Adjustable Seat

The Adjustable Cool-Ride seat on the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler is constructed with fisherman in mind. Breathable, it features a mesh lining that allow for hours of comfortable and relaxed fishing. Fully adjustable, it can be fixed to meet the comfort needs of any angler.

Superior Stability

Even with the Cool Ride seat, there are times that fishermen want to stand. The Pro Angler offers extreme stability is designed to allow fisherman to easily stand for casting, fly fishing, or simply to stretch the old legs.

The Pro Angler has weight capacity of a whopping 600 pounds. It measures 13”8’ in length, 38” in width, and weighs 88 pounds.

Additional features include front and rear carrying handles, an accessory mount, two mounting boards that function as work areas and allow the attachment of optional accessories, two anti slip floor mats, center hatch with a removable cutting board, and two heavy-duty mid-boat grab rails with retractable bungee gear keepers and an 18” ruler.

Hobie Pro Angler Specifications

  • Length:  13ft. 8in.
  • Width:  38 in.
  • Weight: 88 lbs.
  • Material: Super Linear Polyethylene II
  • Weight Capacity:  600 lbs

Hobie Pro Angler Features

  • Hobie MirageDrive
  • Adjustable Cool-Ride Seat
  • Retractable Rudder
  • Six Rod Horizontal Storage
  • Front Hatch with removable Liner
  • Work Area with Cutting Board
  • Center Hatch w/removable Tackle Box
  • 8 inch Twist Rear Hatch and Gear Bucket
  • 2 Mesh Storage Pockets
  • Equipment Mounting Boards
  • Mid-Boat Grab Rails with 18 inch Ruler
  • Bow and stern handles
  • Built-in Replaceable transom skids
  • Two-piece Paddle
  • Drink Holder
  • Dry Bag

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler is a superior fishing machine and perfect for anglers looking for a top-of-the-line alternative to the traditional gas-powered boat. The Pro Angler will allow you access to sweet spots that you would never consider in a traditional bass boat.

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About Julian Thompson

cb787c59d2808e1f609076e790ca977e?s=90&d=mm&r=gCertifications: Certified Kayaking Instructor (AKA)
Education: American Kayak Association
Lives In: Denver Colorado

I am a kayaking expert/instructor who has been fishing for over 15 years. Fishing is my passion, but kayaking keeps me on the water. I love to share my knowledge of techniques and tips with others. I live in Colorado with my wife and two kids and own a small kayak rental business On Grand Lake where I rent and instruct.