The purpose of this post is not to belabor a well-known fact: that the Hobie Angler Pro 14 is one of the most capable, and best-equipped, fishing kayaks in the industry. Let that self-evident tidbit speak for itself.
Rather, it is to take a closer look at the heart and soul of the design, which is Hobie’s award-winning MirageDrive 360, an impressive refinement of the original MirageDrive system that was born more than twenty years ago.
So let’s take a closer look.
All About the MirageDrive 360
The MirageDrive is an upgraded version of the original MirageDrive system, and is a powerful, pedal-driven system that uses fins to power the Hobie Angler Pro 14 (and other Hobie Kayaks) in both forward and reverse.
Let’s start there. Unlike some pedal drives, which are only capable of producing power in one direction (forward) the MirageDrive 360 can not only deliver full power in reverse, but in every direction – this takes handling and control of the vessel to hitherto unprecedented heights, and exceeds the maneuverability of other small craft.
It also makes vessels equipped with the MirageDrive 360 (only available in the Hobie Angler Pro 12 and 14) capable of navigating tight spots alongside docks, seawalls, jetties, and other structures. They can literally turn on a dime.
In addition to the fact that the MirageDrive 360 offers incredible control and handling, it is also equipped with kick-up turbo fins that automatically retract on contact with obstacles such as rocks or logs.
This is game-changing technology. Up to this point, when pedaling in shallow water, you had to be particularly careful not to hit anything, or you might damage the masts of the drive system’s fins.
That’s no longer the case, thanks to the kick-up fins of the MD 360 drive unit.
The fins themselves, though not exclusive to this specific drive unit (other MirageDrive systems are also equipped with fins) are a selling point. They perform better in shallow, weed-choked water than propeller drive systems because they resist snagging and do not easily tangle in debris – keeping clear so you can keep on pedaling.
Feathering the fins – pressing one pedal forward while keeping the other back – raises both fins, making it a snap to lessen the draft of the vessel, not only for clearing obstacles but for landing.
On top of all that, the MirageDrive 360 system can be easily removed from the kayak and is fairly low maintenance, making it perfect for both fresh and saltwater ventures.
Sold on This Drive System? It’s Only Available in the Hobie Angler Pro 14 and 12 Models
Thinking this game-changing drive system might make the difference you need to navigate shallow, weedy water in pursuit of bass?
It might be, but you’ll only find it in two select models, the Hobie Angler Pro 12 and the Hobie Angler Pro 14 360 Series. You can learn more about both of these online at No Bad Days Kayak – if you have any questions, they’ll be happy to answer them.
