The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 Kayak is an angling platform that has an abundance of features that rivals only the best fishing kayaks. This kayak features Hobie’s world-famous mirage drive system which assists those that wish to pedal instead of paddling all the time.
As such the Mirage Pro Angler 12 is a comfortable, stable and luxurious kayak for those that wish to spend a lot of weekends and holidays out on the water.
Thus, if you are interested in looking to purchase a pedal kayak and potentially the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 then please take a look at our all-inclusive review on what we think about this premium kayak.
Before buying an Angler Kayak
Before purchasing an angler kayak it is worth taking into account a few considerations and criteria for which making your final decision easier. As such identifying key areas for which are important to you when it comes to kayak is recommended.
Thus, please identify how much storage you require, what kind of features you need to be included on the kayak and whether you prefer paddling or pedaling. These are all key questions that you must consider prior to purchase as they will dictate both the type and potentially the brand for which will be the best fit for you.
As such if you are after a kayak which contains a large number of features, tons of storage and both the ability to pedal and paddle then look no further than the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12. Below you will find our review of the features, advantages, and disadvantages of the boat plus a summary of its overall performance on the water.
Specification of the Hobie Pro Angler 12 Kayak
Length: 12 feet
Width: 36 inches
Weight: 128 pounds
The capacity of Kayak: 500 pounds
User/s: Single
Type: Angler Sit-on-top
Top Features of the Hobie Pro Angler Kayak
The Hobie Pro Mirage Angler Kayak 12 is a boat that is packed full of features as standard options.
Mirage System
However, the most important of all is the mirage pedal system. This allows for users to pedal instead of paddle their kayak conserving arm strength for the important casts and reeling in catches. As such, the propeller system is doesn’t use a traditional rotational pedal system but instead and push and pull. This gives the user more control over the kayak while finding it easier to conserve energy while out on the water. This style of system gives the user a smooth and comfortable ride whereby the Hobie Mirage pedal system does the majority of the work for you. The rudder system is controllable from the seated position but is also retractable if needed if you do choose to paddle.
Comfortable Seat
As with every other feature on the Hobie, it is usually the top of the range and this does change with the Vantage CT seat. Made from 3D mesh material and high-density plastic the seat is lightweight and keeps you high in the kayak. It weighs in at just 6lbs and is fully adjustable to help relieve pressure points in the lower and upper back. The seat has 4 points at which can be changed, back, forward, seat bottom up or down and increase or decreased lumbar support.
We found this seat to be are number one choice though out all the kayaks we have tested, the adjustability, lightweight and comfortable design do not rival anything we have tried before.
Fishing Features
Hobie prides itself on providing yaks with plenty of fishing features and this one does not disappoint. There are gear mounting rails on both sides of the kayak which are perfect for swivel rod holders and go-pro mounts. There is also a large rectangular hatch that comes with a pivoting tackle management system. The kayak also has the option to mount a fish finder to which there is also an area to store the electronics and the transducer needed. Hobie also included an area for which you can mount a cutting board for a slice and dice your fish. Finally, there are rubberized vertical rod holders which are the perfect place to keep your rod while detaching a catch.
Storage Options of the Hobie Pro Mirage Angler 12 Kayak
This starts with a vast amount of storage options available to the user on the kayak.
The Pro Angler comes with storage for up to six rods via horizontal space this keeps them out with harms while traveling to the fishing location and potentially while in transit. There is also dedicated storage for 3 Plano tackle boxes which are easily accessible from the seated position or when standing on the deck.
Speaking of the deck it is a large surface area that allows the user to stand or sit while fishing as the due to the wide hull the kayak is super stability no matter what position you are in. However, if you wish to sit only then this frees up the deck to be used as a storage space for fishing gear or potentially an overnight bag.
Alongside the already aforementioned storage areas there are three in-hull storage compartments all of which are waterproofed via a rubberized seal. The hatch is lockable preventing the contents to fall out if you do capsize for whatever reason.
Finally, there is a large tank well at the stern of the kayak this area is an absolute monster capable of storing anything you throw at it. The tank well is adaptable in size thanks to the strategically placed bungee cords and as such coolers, sleeping bags and tents will all happily fit in the area. It also has the benefit of scupper holes to empty out any excess water which might find its way into the tank well.
All in all, the storage option available on this kayak is vast if you are after a yak which has an endless amount of storage then please look into the Hobie Pro Mirage Angler Kayak 12 you won’t be disappointed.