For many fishing enthusiasts, a fishing kayak is an ultimate accessory. And when looking for one of the best of them, the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 should be at the top of your list. It is fairly new on the market and is one of the best sit on kayaks out there.
Not only is it the ultimate fishing kayak, it offers so many extras that make it even more impressive on the water. That said, it’s not a cheap kayak. So bear that in mind.
This is a one person kayak so if you plan to bring a buddy, I suggest checking out a tandem fishing kayak instead.
Standout features
There are two things that you will notice immediately about the Pro Angler 12. The first is in plain sight right away. And that’s the seat. Mirage calls it the Vantage seating system and you will immediately notice that it gives you a sitting position that is fairly high above the kayak itself. That gives you not only a great view of your surroundings but it means you have the extra clearance when casting, something other fishing kayaks don’t afford. Even when sitting up so high, this kayak is extremely stable.
The second thing you will notice is that the Pro Angler 12 doesn’t even need a paddle. That’s right, it uses a pedal drive system called the Mirage Drive. Now you easily maneuver your kayak around on the water without having to pull up your lines. That’s a massive advantage over its competitors.
Also, this kayak has so much storage it’s crazy. You will be able to bring most of your fishing gear out on the water with you and have easy access to it while you are on the water.
So is this angler kayak easy to haul to your favourite fishing spot with one person?
Ok, listen. Although it looks like a small kayak, the Pro Angler 12 comes in at 12’ foot long and at its widest point is 36 inches across. But it’s not that light. In fact, it weighs close to 130 pounds. So moving it around is not that simple with one person although it does have various handles and grips to make your job a little easier.
The fact that it is so sturdy does give it a major advantage though. And that’s because its weight capacity is 500 pounds. So that’s you and plenty of your fishing gear. You could even use it for an overnight fishing trip as well.
I bet its sluggish in the water for kayak fishing…
For such a heavy kayak, the Pro Angler 12 actually has some impressive performance. That’s thanks to it’s class of kayak – pedal drive system. If you want to beef it up a little, you could even put on bigger fins. A retractable rudder helps you steer with ease, while a skeg, which can also be retracted will keep you going straight and true.
So performance is not too bad but let’s be honest, this is made for fishing, not something to try to take on some rapids. It won’t let you down in choppy water, however, and you could even use it out on the ocean.
What extras does this fishing kayak come with?
Well, we have already discussed the impressive seat but there are plenty more. What about two dry storage areas, pop-up tackle boxes, rail mounts, rod holders and a place to keep your drink. It really has everything that a small fishing vessel needs and more. Also, these storage areas are all easy to access while out on the water.
The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12 is easily the best kayak for fishing. Sure it costs a pretty penny but it’s all worth it in the long run. Especially if you are a serious angler.
