Outback capacity

Looking for my first kayak, and more specifically one that I can ocean fish on. It's a toss-up right now between the pro angler and an outback. Due to shoulder injury, the mirage drive is a mandatory option, but I am somewhat put off by the difficulty of paddling the PA in an emergency. However I am 300#, and I am concerned with the outbacks weight limit after all the gear and livewell are added. This weekend I had two different vendors tell me that this years (2011) model actually has a 50# higher capacity after a change to the hull design.....any confirmation of that?

Hi there,

The weight capacity on the Outback is 400lbs, and it has had that same weight capacity for some time. It has not changed for the 2011 model. With that in mind, I highly recommend the Pro Angler. It has a 600lb capacity and will be much better suited for you with a Hobie livewell and all of your fishing gear. With the MirageDrive you should hardly ever have to paddle the Pro Angler, and when you do it is quite paddle friendly when you convert the two piece paddle in to a T-handle single paddle. My advice to you is to get out on the water and try both models out. That way you will see for yourself that the Pro Angler is going to be better suited for your needs.

One word of advice about paddling the Hobies is the placement of add-ons. Be careful to where you add rod holders, DFers, etc... You don't want to have to reach extra far over stuff to paddle when you are in an emergency, or just having to paddle due to mirage drive failure and then the tide changes direction on you. Good Luck!!

If I were fishing in the ocean, I would perfer a PA!!!