We’ve always been outdoor lovers—hiking, exploring, paddling—you name it. Our love for kayaking started years ago when Lisa and I took a trip to Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park. Paddling through sea caves, spotting sea lions, and feeling the Pacific spray… that day hooked us.
It took five years of dreaming and saving, but we finally pulled the trigger and bought two Hobie Mirage Outback kayaks. Hands down, it’s one of the best gear investments we’ve ever made for our RVing lifestyle.
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Why We Chose Hobie Kayaks
We looked at dozens of kayaks before settling on the Hobie Mirage Outback. The pedal drive system was a game changer. Being able to use your legs to power the kayak frees up your hands—for fishing, taking photos, or just relaxing.
As someone who loves to fish, the idea of pedaling while casting, trolling, or rigging tackle was a huge draw. And for both of us, the stability and comfort sealed the deal.
Hobie Mirage Outback Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 12′ 9″ (3.89 m) |
| Width | 34″ (0.86 m) |
| Capacity | 425 lbs (192.78 kg) |
| Fitted Hull Weight | 85 lbs (38.56 kg) |
| Fully Rigged Weight | 103 lbs (46.72 kg) |
| Hull Material | Rotomolded Polyethylene |
Key Features That Stand Out
✅ Spacious Deck & Storage
You’ve got everything within arm’s reach. The dual H-Track Deluxes with H-Rail make mounting accessories a breeze. There’s plenty of room to store tackle, gear, snacks—and yes, it even has a built-in bottle opener.
✅ Redesigned Bow
The piercing-style bow slices through chop like a knife through butter. Bonus: The reflective graphics add safety in low light. And the massive bow hatch? Perfect for storing dry bags, extra gear, or lunch.
✅ Guardian Transducer Shield
If you’re running a fish finder, this is gold. The retractable shield protects your transducer from damage and allows for side-scanning sonar. Pre-installed thru-hull plugs mean you won’t have to drill a thing.
✅ Kick-Up Rudder System
The rudder deploys when you need it and retracts if it hits something—a lifesaver in rocky shallows. The stern also features a Power-Pole mount and GoPro-ready handle.
The Mirage Drive: The Real Magic
The MirageDrive 180 V2 is Hobie’s flagship pedal system. It uses side-to-side fin propulsion, mimicking a penguin’s movement underwater. It’s smooth, efficient, and powerful.
With Glide Technology bearings, pedaling feels almost effortless. And unlike most pedal drives, this one has full forward and reverse capabilities. You can reposition, fight fish, and even troll—all hands-free.
Why It’s Perfect for Fishing
I can’t say enough good things about fishing from this kayak. Here’s what makes the Hobie Outback a beast on the water:
- Fish while pedaling—no need to drop your rod.
- Stay in place in the current or the wind.
- Troll effectively without needing a motor.
- Operate your electronics on the go.
- Stand up to cast or sight fish, thanks to the ultra-stable hull.
If kayak fishing is your thing—or if you’ve been curious about trying it—the Mirage Outback sets the bar high.
Stability & Hull Design
This boat is rock-solid. At 34 inches wide, it provides a stable platform whether you’re seated or standing. I’ve comfortably stood up and cast in calm waters without feeling like I was going to flip.
The hull supports up to 425 lbs, which is more than enough for me, my gear, and then some. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, the Outback’s stability is confidence-inspiring.
Color Choices
We added a little personal flair here.
Lisa went with the bold Papaya Orange, and I picked the earthy Seagrass Green. Other available colors include Dune (Grey), Hibiscus (Red), and Slate (Blue). Choose your vibe.
Hobie Accessories We Use
To make the most of our kayaking adventures, we’ve added a few key accessories:
- Mirage Drive Leash Kit – Keeps your drive safe during transport and launch.
- Hobie Safety Flag – Stay visible on open water
- Anchor Trolley Kit – Adjust your anchor point for better positioning.
- Fold and Stow Cart – Makes solo launches a breeze.
Looking for more kayak accessories? Check out our favorites here »
Final Thoughts: Is the Hobie Outback Worth It?
The Hobie Mirage Outback is a premium kayak, no doubt. But after spending countless hours on lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, I can say it’s worth every penny.
It’s stable, fast, incredibly functional, and just plain fun to paddle (or pedal). If you’ve tried other kayaks and haven’t found “the one,” give the Mirage Outback a test ride. I think you’ll be just as hooked as we were.
Join the Conversation
Have questions about the Hobie Outback or pedal kayaks in general?
Tried one out yourself?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from fellow paddlers and RV adventurers!
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