In the spring of 2013 we decided it was time to upgrade the 2008 Hobie Outfitter. This vessel had knocked up 1000’s of hours on the water, countless quality captures and only ever needed a replacement seat buckle and a few mirage drive components thanks to some low light and submerged boulders, a true testament to the quality Hobie produces.
OLD WITH THE OLD AND INTO AN OASIS
After shopping around for a few weeks it was a tough choice between replacing the Hobie Mirage Outfitter with a newer model which featured a few minor changes or stepping into the newly designed (as of 2011) Hobie Oasis Mirage Tandom (2014 model). Knowing the capabilities of the Outfitter we had always enjoyed the benefits of two rod holders at both back and front and the in hull storage for camping gear when doing multiple night trips had always been sufficient.
On inspection of the two vessels side by side the size of the Oasis compared to the Outfitter was the first obvious difference. Just under a foot longer she was able to carry an extra 50kg compared to the Outfitter plus it had a new storage compartment in the front.
After talking to the boys at Wetspot Watersports in Fyshwick I was strongly recommended the Oasis and am stocked to have followed their guidance. This new craft has picked up from the outfitter and lifted the bar on tandom kayaks for fishing. Add to that the 2015 model including the trademark Hobie Vantage seat and they are well worth a look.
A few of our favourite features include –
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Front Storage Compartment – Whether it be sleeping bags, lures, food or your trusty DSLR, this compartment offers a solid storage compartment that was a envied feature of the Outback and ProAngler models. Although significantly smaller then the other models it offers access inside the hull for overnight trips to store sleeping bags and and roll mats or even a spare 1 piece rod which has always been difficult through the 8 inch access holes in previous models.
Double Rudder Control – FINALLY the fisherman in the back of the Hobie isn’t the only one that can control the position of the kayak. When fighting a big fish it was always a struggle if the driver hooked up and the front person had to reach back if the Hobie needed to change direction. Having a rudder control for both anglers has eliminated this issue. We also feel as though the double rudder system allows both fishermen to fish more effectively which will be further discussed in a future column.
Seat Lock in System – Gone are the days of having to hammer the seats into the Hobie with the butt of the paddle or handle of your lip grips only to have the seat pop out when you would put to much pressure on the back rest. The Twist-Lock seat system allows you to simply insert and twist the peg underneath the seat into the receiver and your away.
Mirage Drive Lock in System – Been around for a few seasons now, this system is superior to the old ‘twist/lock’ system’ All of a sudden all the guess work when installing the mirage drive is removed. Just a tip, always make sure the steel rod through the mirage drive is evenly dispersed each side as it may not lock in correctly otherwise.
Side Hull Handles– At first glance we were not sure of the practicality of these handles but it didn’t take long for them to prove their worth. Especially when lifting the Hobie over rocks or other shallow water hazards. The fact they are on the side of the kayak allows easy access and a thin padded layer allows for a comfortable lift.
Lumbar Support/I-Comfort – the latest seats have also knocked it up a gear comfort wise (before the introduced the Vantage seat anyway). Adjustable lumbar support and the optional extra of the I-Comfort seat have made the ride even more comfortable. Add to that the fact that I-comfort doesn’t absorb water as readily as the standard seat which is much appreciated on those freezing cold mornings.
NEXT TIME – PUTTING A LEASH ON IT