Hobie Mirage Lynx - On The Water Review "The Good The Bad And The Ugly"
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- Опубликовано: 9 ноя 2021
- This is an on the water review of the new Hobie Mirage Lynx which I purchased a few weeks ago. I talk about the good, the bad and the ugly of this kayak. All in all it is a great, but with a few downsides. If you are thinking of purchasing the Hobie Lynx, then definitely watch this video.
Hobie Mirage Lynx Website www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-l...
Navarre Kayak Fishing - Seat Risers for Hobie Lynx navarrekayakfishing.com/shop/... 
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I am in the process of exploring different kayak options. This video is extremely important to me and very well done!!! THANK YOU VERY MUCH for your excellent critique
Glad it helped you
Thank you very much, your comments to help me decide to buy this Lynx this spring.
Very accurate review and mimic my experiences. Keep it away from oysters
Just subscribed. Even though I'm not a kayaker. I really enjoy the quality and detail of your videos. Well done 👍🏿
Thanks for the support. I spend way too much time editing video 😊
Thank you for the review. I’m picking mine up this week. The weight savings sold me on the Lynx, despite the loss of a features compared to bigger boats.
Hope you are enjoying it as much as I do mine!
Absolutely the best and most versatile kayak I've every owned, love it.
I am loving mine as well!
Very informative !!!! Great video - thank you 😊
Best kayak I bought. I love it. All set up for bass fishing
I agree!
Hobie is now including the Lowrance transducer mount hardware with the 2023 models. Glad to hear they listened.
That's a super nice kayak, thank you for the info.
Thank you for the insight 👍
The weight is what sold me on the thing.
You also get hull slap from wavelettes if you are drifting or anchored. Another gripe I have is the difficulty I have unhooking the front seat strap. The recess it goes into is too deep and short.
It would also be nice if there was a way to install an anchor trolley. I wish Hobie had desined for that in addition to designing for installing a $600 stake-out system.
The weight was a big reason I bought it but also the the big roomy deck and the stability while standing. Hope you catch a lot of good fish on it. Tight lines..
Excellent !!!
Thanks. I've got the OldTown 120 Auto but looking for a lighter Grab and Go options. I'm leaning more towards the Compass. Light yet still durable. I have nothing but oyster over here. No sand really all rough rock and oyster. Think this and the mangroves would be too rough on the Lynx material. I've got scratches and gouges on my 120 but it's so think I don't worry.
Steve, if your Old Town is pretty scratched up and has some deeper gouges then it sounds like the Compass is a better option. I still have my 2021 Compass and I used to have an Old Town Sportsman 106 PDL. The Compass will be tougher and more durable than the Lynx but not as rugged as the Old Town. The Old Town's have a thick skin and can take quite a bit of abuse. You will find the plastic on the Compass to be thinner than the OT, which is why it is lighter. I loved the OT 106 but wanted something lighter, plus the Hobie mirage drive with the kick up fins is much better for the shallow waters I fish in, which have both grass and oyster beds. I highly recommend you demo the Compass if you can as it will feel different than the OT. For me, I feel that the cockpit of the Compass is a bit cramped compared to the OT. I raised the seat on the Compass around 1 1/2 inches, and put a kayak kushion on the seat as well, to get to a suitable comfort level for my long legs. I am not knocking the Compass, it is a good yak with a big fan base and performs very well in the water, just saying to test one out if you haven't already. Good luck.
Enjoyed this so much that I subbed. Would love to see your rigging on the fish finder. Which Lowrance do you use on the Lynx? Mine’s on order, can’t wait for it to come in. Thanks
Thanks Allyson. I use a Hook Reveal 5. I hope to have time to do a rigging video soon. Holidays have been keeping me busy🙂
I love my Lynx -- older guy so the weight is important, it is stable and moves through the water easily.
Totally agree. Thanks for the comment.
Luar biasa..
Thank sharing bro👍
Oz what the lure cover on what looks like a crankbait behind you. Easy way to keep the rods ready to go and store in the truck. I love my Lynx, by the way. Highly recommend it for all the reasons you said. The weight and maneuverability are key. Great Video.
Thanks Robert. The cover is a Lure Wrap. I use them mostly on hard baits with treble hooks to protect myself. I have purchased a couple different sizes and have found the longer ones to work best, like these amzn.to/49AQ6gr
Nice one 👍
It's near perfect but I'm not convinced about the long term durability? A lot more care in handling it. It's pricing is almost on par with other Hobie options. That's just my opinion. Thanks for the review.
hey, i like all your reviews. thanks for posting. so, this kayak doesn't come with t 2 built in rod holder sockets drilled flush? for 3 grand? geesh. i like it though. also, what do you mean it is unsinkable?? isn't the hull hollow? thanks for the review and your time
Hobie's are expensive kayaks no doubt. The lynx does not have any hollow areas, no place where water could flood in like a traditional kayak with an interior hollowed out hull. It has a solid foam core center with several layers of fberglass and plastic wrapped around it to make a rigid yet lightweight platform. It does have some scupper holes, one used for installing a fish finder, and the rest to let water drain but other than that it is one solid piece. I am guessing that they could have put rod tubes in the plastic for rod holders but they didn't. I don't mind not having them and setting up rod holders that suit me best, but of course that means spending more money to make the kayak fishable. I like how much easier it is to manage when launching and loading compared to heavier kayaks. But it is priced so high that a lot of people just can't afford it. Thanks for tuning in.
@@FishingwiththeOz thanks for the info! great channel!
Awesome review, are you using the gopro mic?
Thank you! I run two GoPro Hero 8's. One of them has a Go Pro Media Mod that I use in conjunction with a Bietrun Wireless Microphone system. It is similar to a Rode Wireless Mic set but less expensive and can be found on Amazon. During the summer months the GoPro's will overheat and shut themselves down to cool off so I am already thinking about how I might be able to resolve or minimize that when those 90 degree days roll around later this year.
Being new to kayaking, I'm trying to decide between the Compass or the Lynx. I know you have both and would appreciate your thoughts for a first kayak. Weight is a big part of my concerns.
Rick, with weight being a big part of your concerns the Lynx is most likely going to be the better kayak for you. The lighter weight of the Lynx makes it so much easier to car top, or to launch and load on to a trailer or place on top of a kayak cart and roll it around as needed. Some of the positives of the Compass is that it a bit faster and quieter in the water and will handle wind and chop a little better. But I usually don't go out in wind and chop. And if there is some wind and chop, like I encountered today, the Lynx still does well enough. Although the Compass is a foot longer than the Lynx it is 2 inches narrower. I feel more confined and cramped in the Compass and it is more difficult for me to stand and feel comfortable while standing. I love that I can stand and balance myself fairly easily in the Lynx. The 36 inch wide flat deck feels open and spacious compared to the Compass and offers better lateral stability. Some may argue that the Compass's internal compartment is a plus, but I would disagree. The internal compartment is small and you wont put anything in there other than a fish finder battery. Even if you modify the compass with the larger rectangular front hatch, and move the round hatch to the front, your still not getting that much internal storage space. The Lynx has no internal storage but between my kayak crate, that sits behind me, and a plastic box that I place under the seat with my soft plastics and some jig heads, that's all the storage I need for a good day of fishing. In my kayak crate is my fish finder batery, another smaller battery that runs one of my GoPro's, a small tackle box that holds a few hard baits, my foldable measuring board and a few other odds and ends. My krate is never full so when its cold in the morning and warmer in the afternoon and I need to shed a layer or two of clothing, there is always room in the Krate to store those extra layers. I also carry a very small cooler behind me, between the krate and seat (did the same thing on the Compass). A bigger cooler would certainly fit at the front of the Lynx and some guys will put a fish bag up front. I have found that it's best not to over pack your kayak with a lot of things you don't need or wont' use as every little thing adds weight. To make the Lynx fishable you will need a few things: One is a kayak crate with at least 2 rod holders. 4 rod holders is best so you can stick a net in a rod holder and have the option to carry 3 rods with you. I usually take 2 or 3 rods at the most and my 4th rod tube is where my camera boom goes. The Hobie H Crate is a good option and there are other options (I use a Flambeau Tuff Krate). I feel that the Hobie Lynx H Rail Kit is also a must have for the Lynx. The H rails seem to be out of stock everywhere right now but eventually there will be supply and they are definitely a useful add on. I have my fish finder on the H rail as well as one of my camera mounts. I also mount two Yak Attack Omego Pro Rod Holders on the H rails. One in front of me for trolling and one on the other side slightly behind me to shove my rod in when I need to make adjustments to my baits or after I catch a fish. If you watch my most recent video you will see what I mean. I also have some tie down eyelets on the H rails that I clip my stake out pole to. The H rails can also act like handles when needed, as the handles that come on the sides of the Lynx are not user friendly. If possible, you should Demo both the Compass and the Lynx and try to lift and move them around a bit. And if you have a Facebook account you should join the Hobie Lynx Group and the Compass group where there is a ton of useful info on both kayaks. One final note; since getting the Lynx, I have not been out on the Compass. I will take it out sooner or later just to change things up, but it is basically my guest kayak for the time being. If you have any other questions feel free to ask.
Tons of great information. Should have a chance to demo a lynx next week and that should seal the deal. Thank You very much.@@FishingwiththeOz
Thanks for asking this question - I’m between the same two as well!
Those blemishes almost look like the plastic top sheet was discolored by heat, in spots, during thermoforming onto the hull. My Lynx is blue and spots wouldn't worry me. I'm looking at the Lynx hull like a fiberglass surf board (same foam build) or my fiberglass Hobie Eclipse. It is beautiful new but can easily be fiberglass and epoxy patched if you don't care about it staying beautiful. I carry mine into the water or set it on grass so hull is scratch free so far. On the water, it'll get the same treatment as that WWII Captain that said, "Know all who serve this ship/kayak, I plan on taking it into harms way."
Congrats on the new kayak, It looks good in blue. I hope it gives you as much, or more, enjoyment as mine has provided me. Check out my two videos regarding Hull Protection, if you haven't already done so.
Thanks for sharing. I have limited time for fishing so i looking for pedal drive system thats grab and go inside the harbor and docks and pilings and lakes as well. Would you think this would be ok?
My one concern would be dock pilings. If you plan to bump and nudge right up against them you may do more damage to the Lynx then you would a traditional roto molded kayak. If you don't plan to make contact with dock pilings then this would be a great grab and go kayak. Just add a little underhull protection if you will be scraping against concrete or the bed of a pick up truck. Find a local Hobie dealer and ask for a demo of the Lynx and any other Hobie that interests you. Good Luck!
@@FishingwiththeOz thanks for recommendations will do
I am considering a Hobie Kayak for offshore fishing in Puerto Rico. Which would you recommend from the Hobie lineup wih the exception of the PA12 and PA14 Kayaks? Also, I am 64 years old and do not want a Hobie Pro Angler because they are just TOO HEAVY! Your advise would be appreciated. Thank you.
James I do not fish offshore so I am not a good resource, however the Lynx would not be a good option as it is not designed for rougher water. Perhaps the article in the link below can help. You might also look into adding outriggers for greater stability. For example, a Hobie Compass with the Hobie AMA outriggers would perform well in rougher water. kayakanglermag.com/boats/kayaks/hobie-fishing-kayak/
@@FishingwiththeOz Thank you. 👍
Would be interested in seeing what type of protection you add to the bottom. I'd like to do the same.
This is what I did to help with launching and landing at boat ramps. ruclips.net/video/KV--U5WyU78/видео.html
Thanks! I use a cart on mine, which I put on and take off with it in the water, so that helps avoid most of the nicks and dings. I also carry a mat to set the keel on-- kind of a pain. The PVC piece might work.
@@johnnybb9866 you can try making a keel guard out of PVC or Kydex or look for a pre made option like the BerleyPro Bumper Bro or the One Objective Kayak Keel Protector which looks like it would work well, although I have never tried that specific product. www.oneobjectivebf.com/store/p1/kayakkeelprotector.html#/
Super Interesting and very Helpful. You need to start th "OZ Fishing School" Stay well old friend
What Hobie kayak do you like better, almost 2yrs into it. The Lynx or the Compass?
The Lynx is best for my needs and the areas I fish. It is lighter, more comfortable, very stable and easier to stand on with a wide open deck that I like. I actually sold my Compass and bought a second (used) Lynx to to use with friends and family. The one area where the Compass is better is in off shore fishing or in real sloppy conditions as the Compass has that long sleek bow that helps it slice through waves and it tracks better.
What forums do you recommend for information on this yak?
When I mentioned forums I really meant this Facebook Group. facebook.com/groups/489448705843504/?ref=share
How tall are you? I have 38/40 inch inseam. Dobyou think I would fit on the Lynx as far as legroom and pedaling?
Todd I am 6’2 with 34 inch inseam. I don’t know if you would fit or not. With your height you need to demo a Lynx to see if it would work for you. Also, try going on the Facebook Hobie Lynx Group and ask this question there. Good luck.
I’m moving to Hawaii, would the be good for salt-water fishing?
You are going to have to find someone with Hawaii kayak fishing experience to help you. I suggest calling this Hawaii Hobie Dealer to further discuss www.windwardboats.com/kayaks
How does it handle squalls and 10+ mph winds?
I was out recently with wind gusts around 15-mph and it was fine but I typically don't go out when the wind is any stronger than that. Since the kayak is so light, it will get blown around easier than a heavier traditional shaped kayak. You may want to check out some of Nick Lytle's videos and ask him the same question as he uses the Lynx in the Gulf of Mexico - here is one link ruclips.net/video/XC5oEHXV9KA/видео.html
Great review 👍
I thought about the lynx too but I love the Pro Angler too much 😆👍
I think you need both :-) I sold the Old Town and kept the Compass as my back up kayak. The Old Town was more comfortable but the Compass is a little lighter and the mirage drive allows me to get into a little shallower and grassy water.
I have a Lynx. Totally love it but it makes a sound like a motor is running. Took it back in store they said they couldn’t hear it. 🤨. But yet when I’m kayaking with someone they can hear it from there kayak. I’m annoyed
Perhaps the noise is coming from the drive. I would take a video of the kayak when it is making the noise, upload it to RUclips and share it with your dealer or with someone at Hobie customer service.
I was gonna go with this but went with the outback instead lol
The Outback is a great yak. Enjoy!
so after 2 years whats your thoughts and how well does it hold up
It's been a great kayak for my needs and the type of fishing I do. I average about 65 days per year on the kayak and it has a few minor scratches and scrapes but nothing major. After the first year I had to replace the nylon cord that raises and lowers the rudder, and then last summer a cable broke in my steering handle and the replacement for that is the entire steering and rudder component. And recently I needed to replace the spine on the mirage drive which was starting to fail. Fortunately with Hobie's 3 year warranty along with the help of my local dealer, all parts were replaced at no cost to me. I just had to wait a couple weeks for parts to come in. Owning a Hobie kayak is going to cost you more in the long run but for me it is worth it. The Lynx is a very stable and comfortable fishing platform. If you want a good all round fishing kayak that is durable and low maintenance I would sugget the Old Town line of kayaks. I used to have an Old Town 106 pdl and really enjoyed it, but it was just a bit too heavy for me to easily manage. Plus I fish a lot in very shallow and oyster fillled waters and the Hobie Mirage Drive is better for that. In the Hobie I can lift the fins of the drive in the upward position and flutter kick through shallow water whereas in the Old Town I used to have to lift the drive up and paddle through shallow water. Hope this info helps and wishing you tight lines.
Ive owned many hobies in my time so im not worried about cost just wanted to know mainly about all around build and i cant stand oldtown plus everyone and there month has a oldtown
Is it Manatee proof😂
Just don’t see the justification for the price on this kayak. $600.00 more than the Compass and $500.00 less than the Outback. The only advantage I see is the weight but as you’ve noted, the construction isn’t as good as other Hobie kayaks. It should be priced less than the Compass IMHO. Thanks for the video.
It's not really all that delicate, but yes, if weight is not important to you (it is to me) it might be more logical to go with the Compass or Outback.
Should make it 10' and 40" wide....
I understand that it’s wet as water comes over bow
Every fishing kayak can have water come over the bow in rough conditions and then water drains out through the scupper holes. I usually don’t fish in very rough waters nor do I go offshore and have not noticed added water in the Lynx vs my previous Old Town Sportsman or my Hobie Compass. Any water that does splash in drains out quickly. I think water drains better on the Lynx and there is no internal hull for water to leak into. Here is a video that might be of interest. ruclips.net/video/XC5oEHXV9KA/видео.html
What I should have asked is " does your gear sit in water or is a dry bag required?" My PA didn't require a dry bag as mostly dry
@@plague6079 I don't use a dry bag. I keep a few things in a crate behind me, and in the back seat pocket, also have a BerleyPro Side Bro on one side of the kayak where I keep a pliers, a fish grippers and a small 3600 size tackle tray. Nothing sits on the deck of the kayak, other than the kayak crate and the battery to my Texas Power Paddle motor, which is enclosed in a water tight case. I do not consider the Lynx to be a wet ride at all, unless I am in rough, choppy. windy conditions, which is rare that I would be out in those conditions regardless. If you watch some of my fishing videos you will see that the only time I am getting wet is when I am putting a netted fish between my legs. Hope this helps.
Thanks for taking the time to clarify and giving me some idea's! May I ask how you store and transport?
@@plague6079 I transport on a kayak trailer and it stays on the trailer, in the garage. I have a friend with one and he stores his on a hoist, lifted above his car in the garage. Other Lynx owners may have a different experience than I do, especially if they are using it in different conditions. Here are some two links to other sites dedicated to the Hobie Lynx with lots of information.
www.hobie.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=146
facebook.com/groups/489448705843504
$3000 for a paddle board and a seat?! Lol
I'm surprised that you never mentioned that the kayak doesn't get full of water if you flip it in the middle of a lake. I did that last year on my pro angler. It was a REAL drag!! Great video, though! I am going to buy one and sell the PA.
Cheers
The ugly. 3k price.
Good point!