Hi! I freshwater fish local calm reservoirs almost exclusively. I truly love my 2012 Outback (the second one I have owned), and took some photos today after 6 hours on the water (great fun with the smallies today!). Here are the mods I have made, hope some are of use to others or provide fodder for thoughts for improvement!
My Outback:
Fishfinder Mount: waterproof bulkhead connector with ball mount makes it easy to remove and store. I can reach and view it easily, and I still have access to the rod holder.
The battery and transducer are located under the front hatch. I used the transducer well supplied with the Humminbird unit. Just fill it with Marine goop and press it in. As long as you're careful not to create goop bubbles it will work fine. The battery cable quick disconnects with a locking 12V waterproof plug and the battery never needs to leave the bag. Just click and go. The charger now has the same connector so that is easy too. I also keep another dry bag under the hatch with tools, first aid, etc.
I didn't like the hatch closure bungee method, so I swapped the cleat for a loop padeye and fashioned my own clip. Much easier to open/close. I also velcroed a 1"x3" piece of aluminum sheet under the hatch. I use it to prop the hatch open when I need access there.
I've mounted a loop inside the hull just behind the mid hatch. I attached some 2' bungees that I use inside the hull to make it easy to retrieve items such as my yellow dry box (for keys, wallet, camera, etc.) and occaisionally some fishing tackle boxes.
I noticed that I never need to lift my boat straight up. I usually need to tip it on its side to access the wheel scuppers. Because of that, I mounted
two handles behind the seat. This makes it real easy to handle the kayak the way I need to.
The rod holder turned out to be a real handy addition. If you mount one of these,
do not mount the tip protector first as instructed. Plan the location of the rod handle first, then mount the tip protector last to match the rod length. It does make a difference in comfort when you store it and go to reach for it.
The anchor trolley is mounted under the paddle. I don't use it often but glad I have it. I use a Cuban yoyo for the anchor ala Roadrunner (many thanks for that tip
)
I transport my Outback and sometimes my wifes new Revo 11 on my Honda Civic with J hooks. The ratcheting pulleys and straps that came with the Thule J hooks perform double duty by securing the boats to the garage roof for storage. Nice and tidy and out of the way:
I still want to add rod holders yet, but am pretty happy with this setup. Many thanks to Hobie and the folks on this forum for providing most of my inspirations!
-Tim
Baltimore MD