Hobie Cat Introduces Two Tandem Kayaks to Arsenal of Fishing Boats

From Hobie:

*Oceanside, California – November 2010 *– Hobie® is introducing two tandem kayaks to its arsenal of fishing boats, available yet this fall. The Hobie Mirage Oasis is powered by Hobie’s patented MirageDrive® while the Hobie Odyssey is designed for those who enjoy paddling to get to their favorite fishing spot. The ample storage, built-in rod holders, roomy cockpits, rear trunk area for Hobie’s livewell, a tackle box or extra gear, and flat rails for mounting accessories make these boats a dream to fish from. Both models let users share the kayak fishing experience with another person while still functioning equally well with just one.

HOBIE MIRAGE OASIS: Stable and fast describe the Mirage Oasis. It offers performance-minded qualities such as quick acceleration and an impressive hull speed without sacrificing utility or hauling capacity.

Its defining feature is Hobie’s patented MirageDrive. The self-centering padded pedals are connected to two underwater flippers, much like penguin wings; and are locked and unlocked from the kayak with the Click and Go system. Steering is controlled via a fingertip-controlled rudder system, making it easy to cast, hook, and land fish while maneuvering at that secret spot. The rudder can be controlled from either seat and rotated out of the way for slicing through weeds in very shallow water and for transport or storage.

Rudder steering lines are made from Spectra, the world’s strongest fiber, up to 15 times stronger than quality steel of the same size. The combination of the MirageDrive rudder system and the hull design ensures a stable ride and enables anglers to cover long distances with little or no fatigue, even against the current or in windy conditions.

*HOBIE ODYSSEY:*For those who enjoy paddling to get to their favorite fishing spot, the new Hobie Odyssey will fit the bill. It is a family-oriented, go-anywhere, do-anything boat. While the new hull is designed to accommodate two, it is easily adaptable for one using the molded-in center-seat position. The center-seat area can also be used to tote along a junior angler, extra fishing gear or Fido.

*CONSTRUCTION:*Both boats are constructed of recyclable and seamless, polyethylene, both boats have a closed-deck design with self-draining scuppers that keep cockpit seats dry. Twist and Seal lid hatches stay with the boats, open and close effortlessly with a simple turn of the handle, are highly water resistant, feature a smooth nonskid surface, and have a compression O-ring. Deluxe Padded Seatbacks feature inflatable lumbar supports. Stainless padeyes and carrying handles on each end make transport easy from parking lot to beach or from a boat deck down to the water. An optional cart is recommended for transporting on land. And of course they both meet the National Marine Manufacturers Association certification requirements for flotation.

Each model is offered in fishing-friendly colors including Golden Papaya and Ivory Dune. The Oasis also comes in the new Olive. All have molded-in hull graphics. (Note: Both models are also available in two additional colors including Red Hibiscus and Caribbean Blue.)

*FISHING FRIENDLY ACCESSORIES:*A series of fishing-friendly accessories make it possible for anglers to customize and to fit their own preferences. The Hobie Livewell with a high-flow, self-priming Attwood pump, a six volt sealed gel cell battery, adjustable drain, and the capability of holding up to eight gallons of water. A Plug-In Hobie Trax Cart with pneumatic wheels provides for easy rolling of heavy loads over rough terrain or soft sand. The Turbo Fins can increase boat speed by over ten percent and an inflatable Sidekick Ama Kit (think Hawaiian Outrigger) provides extra stability while standing. Fish Finders, Rod Holders and Stake-Out Poles are only a sampling of what else is available.

HOBIE MIRAGE OASIS SPECIFICATIONS:

Length: 14’ 6” Width: 33” Hull Weight: 75 lbs
Mirage Drive Weight: Two at 6.6 lbs each. Capacity: 550 lbs.
Additional Standard Features: Dual control steering system from both seat positions. Three eight-inch “Twist and Seal” hatches. “Twist and Stow” rudder that can lie flat on deck. Forward and rear cargo areas. Four molded-in rod holders with caps. New deluxe padded seatbacks with inflatable lumbar support. Two-each two-piece paddles with fiberglass shafts and on-hull storage. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for optional sail mat, dive flag, etc. Mid-ship carrying handles on both sides. Dry Bag. Gear Bucket. Molded-in cup holders.
MSRP: USD $2699

HOBIE ODYSSEY SPECIFICATIONS:

Length: 14’ Width: 33” Hull Weight: 69 lbs. Capacity: 540 lbs.
Base Model Features: Large cargo area. Stackable hull for easy storage and transporting. Molded-in easy access storage trays. Molded-in mid-boat carrying grip. Scuppers that accept optional Plug-in Kayak Cart.
Deluxe Package Additions: Two new deluxe padded seatbacks with lumbar support. Two each two-piece paddles with fiberglass shafts and on-hull storage. Three each eight-inch “Twist and Seal” storage hatches. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. Scuppers that accept optional Plug-in Kayak Cart. Bungee® tie-downs. Water bottle. Gear bucket. Dry bag.
MSRP: USD $849/Base Model MSRP: UDS $1199/Deluxe Package

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of eco-friendly watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats; pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks; fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.