Confused on what kayak is the best for you? At Fastlane, we've been using and selling Hobie kayaks for over 25 years. With decades of experience helping customers find the perfect kayak, we've compiled answers to the most common questions we ask to guide you toward a Hobie kayak with the best fit for you.
What's Your Game Plan?
The best way to start narrowing down your kayak options is to evaluate your goals. Are you looking to explore new waters or gearing up to catch your next big fish? Defining what you want out of your kayaking experience is key to choosing the model that will help you achieve your goals. For die-hard anglers, models like the Hobie Pro Angler series or the Outback are top choices. Their open deck layouts, built-in tackle storage, and extensive accessory mounting options make them perfect for serious fishing trips. If you're more of an explorer who enjoys the La Jolla caves or cruising along San Diego's coastline or bays, the Hobie Compass or Passport might be a better fit. Their lightweight design, simple rigging, and efficient hull shapes offer smooth, easy handling for recreational adventures. No matter your goals, understanding how you'll use your kayak ensures you pick a model that matches you and maximizes your time on the water.
Where Are You Heading?
The conditions widely vary based on where you are kayaking in San Diego. The bays and lakes are often calm and large swell is not a problem, but the open ocean often has swell and the conditions are more unstable. Being comfortable out on the water not only makes kayaking more fun, but you'll end up getting out on the water more as a result. All of the kayaks we have are capable of going practically anywhere here in SoCal, but models with a bit more stability and internal storage like the Pro Angler and Outback are more suited to excel in rough ocean conditions. At the end of the day, we've taken all of the Hobie models we have in stock to the ocean, bays, and lakes here in San Diego and beyond, and have had a blast every time.
How Much Kayak Can You Handle?
Weight is a crucial factor that can make or break your kayak fishing experience. Hobie kayaks offer a range of options to suit different lifting abilities, from the ultra-lightweight Lynx at just 47 pounds to the more substantial Pro Angler 14 at 120 pounds. While models like the Pro Angler might seem heavy to lift onto a roof rack, Hobie's innovative design includes skid plates or additional loaders on the bottom of each hull, allowing you to lift one end at a time. This means you're only handling about half the kayak's weight during loading and unloading!
For example, even with our heavier models, you'll never lift the entire weight of the kayak. While all our kayaks feature convenient grab handles, it's important to be realistic about your lifting capabilities. Once you get the kayak out of your car, getting it down to the water is simple. All you have to do is plug in your Hobie Kayak cart and you can wheel your kayak down for a fast and easy launch. Remember, you'll be lifting your kayak not just at launch, but also during transportation and storage, so choosing a weight you're comfortable with ensures a more enjoyable experience overall. No matter your lifting comfort we have a model that will allow you to get on and off the water easily.
How do I get my kayak to the water?
There are several ways to transport your Hobie kayak to and from the water. Roof racks are a popular choice, offering versatility for most vehicle types from compact cars to SUVs. Just ensure your rack system meets your kayak's weight requirements. If your car doesn't have a crossbar system installed, no worries! We are a Thule and Yakima dealer and can order and install the crossbars for you. Truck beds provide another excellent option. Truck beds are low to the ground, so it makes loading a kayak extra easy. Worried if your truck bed is long enough to fit a long kayak? We have truck bed extenders that allow even long kayaks like the Pro Angler 14 to fit easily! For those who plan on frequently transporting multiple kayaks at once, a kayak trailer might be your best investment. Trailers make loading and unloading multiple kayaks easy and quick.
The Yakima Easy Rider is our go-to pick when it comes to trailers. It has independent suspension, adaptable Yakima crossbars, and enough room to store up to three full-sized kayaks. Whichever method you choose, proper securing is crucial - always use high-quality cam tie-down straps to ensure your kayak stays firmly in place during transport. We can help you select the right transportation setup based on your vehicle and specific needs.
Where Will Your Hobie Live When You're Not on the Water?
Once you get your kayak on and off the water, your storage setup is a huge factor in picking your model. If you don't have a place to leave your kayak when it's not in use, most consider using the Hobie iTrek inflatable series. They pack up small, and you can show up, blow up, and be on the water in around 5 minutes. They are stable, fast, nimble, and very comfortable.
"I've been using the iTreks for a few years now and they've been a blast. I store them under my bed in my dorm room and it allows me to get out on the water while not dealing with finding storage for a boat."
-Logan Downing
If you have room to store a rigid kayak, we recommend storing your kayak out of the sun on a flat, even surface. This will reduce point loading, which can stress your kayak's hull if left over an extended period of time. If your only option is to store the kayak outside, using a cover to keep your hull protected is a crucial step to make sure your kayak stays in tip-top shape.
Next Steps?
#1 - Call Us!
After going through these questions, give us a call with your answers and we'll help you decide what kayak is best for you.
#2 - Try One!
If your debating between a couple models or need more convincing, we do free demos and can throw the model of your choice in the water! Once you decide on a model, we'll give you a tutorial on the kayak and help you load it up on your car.
Hope to see you soon!
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