Hobie Mirage Passport 12 Pedal Drive Kayak with MirageDrive GT Kick-Up Drive Review

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Every kayak fisherman dreams of having a reliable, durable, and performance-oriented fishing kayak, and the Hobie Mirage Passport 12 ticks all these boxes and more. This impressive watercraft promises an exhilarating fishing experience that not only meets but exceeds expectations. From beginners to seasoned veterans, this kayak delivers on all fronts. But don't just take my word for it; let's explore what makes this kayak truly special.

MirageDrive with Glide Technology and Kick-Up Fins

The Hobie Mirage Passport 12 is propelled by the innovative MirageDrive with Glide Technology, a remarkable system that represents a leap forward in kayak propulsion. Rather than relying on the traditional method of paddling, this technology converts the power of your legs into a smooth and efficient forward motion.

The secret to the MirageDrive lies in its design, inspired by the undulating movement of a penguin's flippers. It uses two underwater fins that drive the kayak forward with every pedal stroke. This motion is easier and more efficient than traditional paddling, allowing you to cover greater distances and maintain speed with less fatigue.

The Glide Technology further enhances the efficiency of the MirageDrive system by reducing friction within the pedal drive shaft, leading to an even smoother and quieter ride. The system's overall design is robust, ensuring a reliable performance in various water conditions.

The Kick-Up Fins feature is the icing on the cake. These fins automatically retract when they come into contact with underwater obstacles, protecting your kayak's drive system from potential damage. They instantly redeploy when clear of the obstacle, ensuring an uninterrupted journey. This feature allows you to navigate through shallow areas or over submerged objects with peace of mind.

Pros

  • Innovative MirageDrive with Kick-Up Fins.
  • Fishfinder compatibility for improved fishing efficiency.
  • Comfortable and safe EVA Padded Standing Platform.

Cons

  • Heavier than some other models at 73 lbs, potentially affecting portability.
  • May be slightly intimidating for beginners due to the wealth of features.
  • Price point might be higher compared to simpler models.

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Fishfinder Ready

One of the Hobie Mirage Passport 12's most practical features is its compatibility with modern fishfinder technology. For the uninitiated, a fishfinder is a device that uses sonar signals to locate and display underwater information on a screen, essentially giving you a window into the water beneath your kayak.

Fishfinders provide invaluable information such as the depth of the water, the presence and location of fish, and the structure of the lake or sea bed. This information can drastically improve your fishing efficiency by allowing you to target the most promising areas and avoid the barren ones.

The Hobie Mirage Passport 12 is designed with a transducer mount area and pre-installed cable plugs. This makes it extremely easy to install the fishfinder of your choice and keep the wiring tidy and out of the way. Being fishfinder ready, the Passport 12 allows you to embrace modern fishing technology to its fullest.

EVA Padded Standing Platform

The EVA Padded Standing Platform on the Hobie Mirage Passport 12 is another feature that distinguishes this kayak from its counterparts. The soft, cushioned standing area provides excellent comfort, allowing you to stand and fish for extended periods without fatigue.

Moreover, the EVA padding offers an anti-slip surface to ensure your safety. It gives you the confidence to stand up while fishing, knowing that you have a secure footing, even when the kayak is wet. This is particularly important when you're reeling in a big catch or casting your line in choppy waters.

Standing while fishing provides several advantages. It gives you a better vantage point, allowing you to spot fish and structure more effectively. It also enables a more accurate casting and improves the leverage and control when you're fighting a fish. The EVA Padded Standing Platform on the Mirage Passport 12 takes your kayak fishing experience to a whole new level.

Rod Holders and Accessory Mounting Tracks

The Hobie Mirage Passport 12 comes equipped with two molded-in rod holders, a practical feature that every angler will appreciate. These holders securely store your rods, enabling you to go hands-free when you're navigating, rigging, or just taking a break. They are located conveniently behind the seat for easy access.

Additionally, the kayak features accessory mounting tracks that allow you to customize your fishing rig. These tracks accommodate a variety of attachments, from additional rod holders to GPS devices, fishfinders, and action cameras. The beauty of these tracks lies in their versatility, allowing you to create a setup that suits your specific fishing style and needs.

Storage and Power-Pole® Micro Install

Storage space is often a premium in a kayak, but the Hobie Mirage Passport 12 excels in this aspect. It features an 8" twist-n-seal hatch for storing your belongings and equipment, keeping them dry and secure. For larger gear such as tackle boxes and dry bags, there's the bow storage area equipped with a Bungee® tie-down system. This ensures your gear stays put even in rough conditions.

The mounting pad for Power-Pole® Micro Install is another thoughtful addition. A Power-Pole® gives you the ability to anchor your kayak at the push of a button, holding it steady in currents, tides, or wind. It provides you the stability to focus on your fishing, instead of worrying about maintaining your position. It's an optional upgrade, but for those who've experienced its convenience, it's worth every penny.

The Hobie Mirage Passport 12 is not just a fishing kayak, but a well-rounded fishing platform. Its thoughtful design and range of features promise an unparalleled experience on the water. Regardless of your fishing style or experience level, this kayak has something to offer for everyone.

Conclusion

The Hobie Mirage Passport 12 Fishing Kayak is a testament to Hobie's commitment to quality and innovation. Its array of advanced features, comfort and safety considerations, and customization options truly set it apart. Whether you're a beginner looking to step into the world of kayak fishing or a seasoned pro wanting to upgrade your watercraft, this kayak deserves serious consideration. Remember, a good fisherman knows the importance of his gear. So make the right choice, invest in the Hobie Mirage Passport 12, and let your fishing adventures truly take flight.