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Hi everyone, I am thinking to get a Hobie kayak for bass fishing. Does anyone had the experience how the mirage drive works in heavy weeded area? I know the blades can be retracted close to bottom surface of the kayak, will they still catch weeds? Any opinion or advise is appreciated.
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This will depend on the type of vegetation you are travelling through.
You will cut through most vegetation that has a "snot" like consistency. The long spindly type vegetation will get caught up between the yak and top portion of the mirage drive. You will still be able to propel yourself but it will build up over time if you travel through a lot.
When I approach a weed patch I will push one peddle all the way forward. then just use your ankles and "flutter" the mirage drive. The fins will hold tight to the bottom of the hull and still give you forward propulsion.
A quick fix... pop the mirage drive up through the hull. Doing this will strip most of the weeds as it comes through the mirage well.
Tight lines and enjoy the Hobie. Best kayaks in my opinion, you wont regret it!
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If the weeds are up top not going to work, if you have a foot or so you can manage your way through, also you can pull up the drive and paddle that will work. Check out page 2 if you are looking for a hobie kayak.
This post has been edited by spoonplugger on Jul 27, 2020 - 08:33 am
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QUOTE (spoonplugger @ Jul 27, 2020 - 10:28 am)
If the weeds are up top not going to work, if you have a foot or so you can manage your way through, also you can pull up the drive and paddle that will work. Check out page 2 if you are looking for a hobie kayak.
What kind of mirage drive do you have? Never had em catch the drive when pushed tight to the hull... maybe I go through some different weed patches.
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Thanks for your advise and opinions.
I was thinking the drive can get me to the spot faster and cover more areas without tiring my arms. For heavy weeded areas, the drive can be pulled out and use paddle instead, if it does not require too much effort.
For storage, is it okay to leave the kayak outdoor for winter (drive and seat removed)?
Group: Members
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Some do keep them outside over the winter. I personally don't. I pay a lot for mine, i just wont take any chances with $20,000 in kayaks. If you have no choice, maybe wrap it in some blankets and a tarp to keep moisture off. Its the freezing and thawing that does em in.
How Hobe performs in heavy weeded area
