2019 Hobie Outback vs. 2017 Outback vs. Pro Angler 14

[@MPromnitz]

Great review! There are a couple of things mentioned that I'd like to provide some insight in to after using the 2019 Outback for some time. The seat bottom frame is the same size in length, the big difference is the front end of the older Outback seat mesh is straight and the front end of the new Outback seat mesh is cut out in the shape of a half moon. This was done as an improvement to allow for more clearance to the underside of the thigh, so when a pedal stroke is made there is less chance of someones thigh contacting with the seat bottom mesh. This is great for people with larger thighs and will not affect support and comfort of the seat. The rear end of the kayak and the way the rudder and keel come together was one of those unavoidable things. If the stern of the kayak were shaped like a Pro Angler, it would be a completely different boat. The front end would require a lot more buoyancy, the boat would be significantly heavier, and you'd lose a lot of the tracking and glide. The Outback loader is a solution to allow the boat to be loaded like a PA, but function well as a "kayak". It has pros and cons, but with a few different techniques for loading and portaging we found this design to be a lot more beneficial. The rudder will hang up on a tail gate and dig in to soft sand when dragging, so I load my kayak into the bed of the truck nose first using the loader and drag is stern first using the larger rear handle. This eliminates any contact of the rudder with the tailgate or the ground. Hope this helps to provide a couple of solutions to those points. This was a fantastic review and I look forward to seeing your review of the 2019 Outback on the water.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Great points all around! On the water review coming soon!

[@emtp1013]

One of the best comparisons of these kayaks out there, great video.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thank you!

[@johnsodm0696]

Yep, good comparison for sure! I had to decide that getting some water over the bow was better than having my nose up against the wind when paddling super shallow. I don't generally do very large waves. Tested it out with boat wakes - definitely wetter, but not bad.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Good input, I will find out soon enough. It gets pretty rough where we go at times

[@johnsodm0696]

@@SouthernReelsFishing Low profile = good for me, on shallow flats alot. Rough water, no doubt, your high nose and sides seem the way to go. Enjoy both!

[@lestergarabito608]

Great video! Thanks for sharing the differences. I Was also set on getting the PA but you brought up some good points to where now I’m leaning more towards the the 2019 outback lol

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

You will love the Outback

[@OfficeofthePacific]

Great video! Thanks. I'm ready to buy the 2020 Outback, but a buddy of mine swears the 2017 Outback is better because of the hull design. We only fish in the ocean, sometimes in not ideal conditions. I heard water dumps into the 2019 and 2020 models pretty severely? What's been your experience on lake water chop? Thanks

[@raxxyyakgear1286]

Thanks for the detailed review. I have visited my Hobie dealer at least 6 times in the last month to stare the 2019 Outback down, procrastinating what to do, everything is saying go....EXCEPT the WET water ride! I sold my brand new 2017 Camo Outback after 3 weeks because it was a wetter ride than my Vibe SG130 and cramped legroom when taking your feet off the pedals. I can't see giving up my Predator PDL which cuts through the waves (2-3 footers)-NOT chop and keeps me so dry as compared to what I have seen and heard for the 2019 Outback. Final decision - wait another year or so, perhaps they will come out with a newly designed PA 12 that fits right in! Thanks again!

[@robertcronin6714]

Thanks for the side by side look at both Outbacks. I have a 2018 Outback and now that I have seen the differences I don't feel any great need to change. I fish in similar conditions as you although not in quite so open waters. I believe you are correct in your assessment that there will be design changes before long.

[@aladdin757]

Nice idea to line the seats up! I look forward to see how it is rigged when finished.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Yes I think they will chance the rudder for sure, but will probably take a couple years at least...

[@scubajeeper1]

Very well done, honest review. I have to agree with every thing you said. I was wanting the 19 really bad until I saw the vids with the water breaking over the bow. I'm sticking with my 2017. Thanks for posting. I sure hope you enjoy your new ride. Subscribed

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks and I am keeping my 17 Outback as well, will be selling the Pro Angler. The 17 is actually my wifes kayak, and I kinda took it over after I tried it one time lol. Hardly been in the PA since.

[@kernlkajun1]

Agreed. Upon seeing this new one I put my 2018 up for sale. May have to take it down after seeing this informative review. While space is superb and there is improved stability, tracking and speed, it will be more of a challenge launching and landing in the surf, and moving in a minimum of 2 ft seas. That said, this 2019 s/b great for fishing the s/w flats, ponds, and lakes. Still tempting!

[@mccurjm]

This was a great video and is very helpful as I'm considering buying a 2019 Outback, especially actually measuring all the dimensions so that I can compare them to my current Pescador Pilot pedal kayak. Thanks!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Your welcome! Glad it helped

[@drakeburdette1153]

Great video Jessie. Detailed comparison, a lot of things to consider. I have a compass, not too pleased with it. I’m going to purchase a new Outback. You’ve helped me with my decision. The low bow is a concern. I’ll be sure to watch when you get it out there and see how it does.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks and I'm eager to try it out. I'll throw it in the open bay and see how it does...

[@JagThaFreshman]

Great video🤟🏾💯 appreciate the depth up the info. I honestly love my 2018 Outback. I don’t even really have a desire to upgrade🤷🏾‍♂️💯

[@suhwateezea.214]

Dang man that garden hose shield on your blue kayak took one heck of a beating!!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Better that than the kayak !

[@joescarpadventures]

Good, thorough comparison between the two most recent models (and, in some cases, the Pro Angler 14). Well done, and good luck with the new boat!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks my friend!

[@twotoneusmc]

Thank you sir. Been waiting to see you do a side by side review. Well done

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

THanks for watching and commenting

[@Jake-ky9ed]

I have never sat in a hobie yak but have a 19 hobie outback coming. Leap of faith but it's a hobie? Wanted hands free as makes trolling easier. Heard about the water over the bow but it's yak fishing!!? Water goes right out. Catching up on your vids but been sub'd for awhile. Good stuff, tight lines always J

[@WereAllThatBored]

Awesome review! I think for me the upgraded cockpit agree is all about standing, and storage. I do like the longer nose because that equals a bigger fish bag. My only thought about the rudder design is maybe its to decrease the turning radius? I dont own a PA, but I do own the 19 so I cant compare. Does the PA turn on a dime like the 19? I’m definitely going to make a wave breaker for mine.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

No the Pro Angler turns like a boat lol

[@WereAllThatBored]

Southern Reels Fishing I’m thinking that might be the reason for that design

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Makes sense, I am putting the new OB in the water this weekend, can't wait!

[@TridentDriver]

Fished the Morehead city port wall today with my 5 year old paddle ocean kayak. Worked great No fancy drive needed.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

NIce man! nothing against paddle kayaks!

[@ezye361slezzyne8]

Ocean kayaks are tanks. I still am rocking an 03 model prowler 15. Though I think an outback is gonna be added to the fleet soon

[@Tohoku09]

I need to stop watching all y'alls vids and get to my local shop for demos HAHA, nice vid man, Tight LInes!!!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Go for it! Thanks!

[@jeffcarter341]

Jesse, Now that you have had the 2019 outback for several months, can you appraise the performance? Given your experience with the older version and the PA14, any insight would be appreciated. I pick up my 2019 outback this Sunday.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I love it! Would definitely be my pick out of the 3. It does take more water over the front than the older Outback, but hasn't caused any problems yet. Everything else about it is better by far.

[@tunaon296]

Great review . Well ,, now you have three Hobies . congratulations . See you out there soon .

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Not for long, the Pro Angler will be history soon

[@hestela6793]

Hi sir! I would like to see the comparison of OB17 and 19, in rough conditions, I think the previous model is much better on the front for that type of condition, excellent video!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Will do soon enough

[@hestela6793]

Thanks

[@andrewmconrad]

Great review, really enjoyed it. Are you able to give me the dimensions of the rear cargo area in the 2019 outback? Thanks

[@FaizHedzir]

what material you used for the black side thing on the 17 outback? i love the idea and plan to implement it to my kayak. do you have the video how you DIY it?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Water hose and duck tape lol... No video yet but will do one when I put in on the 19

[@SargesAdventures]

Great Vid... thanks for posting. Good info, trying to decide myself on a new 2018 a dealer said he would let go for $2300 or throw down the $2799 for the 2019 .

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

They are both great and you really cant go wrong

[@neilhunter1484]

Great review. Regarding your concern about the 2019 riding lower and being a wetter ride......have you had a chance to test the 2019 in rougher water, and if so what do you think? How did it perform?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Yes, it does take more water over the front but no issues with water getting into the hull. Not too big of a concern for me

[@johnradomskijr9252]

Was wondering if you have done or if you would consider doing a video on the rub rail you have installed on your outback .

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I have done one, look back in my videos

[@Walt1119]

Thanks for another great video! Looking forward to your on the water review..

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Me too! Will be nice to get in in the water finally

[@georgewhite5688]

Great job Brother..... And just when I had my heart and mind set on a Pro Angler.... LOL At least I have plenty of time and patients and not enough money to rush a decision. Thanks again and keep up the Great work.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks for the nice comment, and the Outback isn't for everyone. The PA is nice and more of a freshwater yak in my opinion. Somewhere where you would be standing a lot.

[@smokeydabeecharlescoleman8365]

Just a thought. Would it be possible to place a bow guard / shield on the nose. That would deflect water down, and lift the nose in a chop. Making for a better, and dryer ride.As far as the rudder goes, they can just allow for a greater recess in the molding.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Good points! I added hull protection around the perimeter of my Outback, which consist of water hose and duct tape. And the hose protruding on the nose of the kayak seems like it would add some defense against water so easily washing over the nose. I am already thinking about adding another small 1 inch high deflector to the top of the nose of the yak running a foot or so back on each side to redirect any water that gets over off to the side...

[@smokeydabeecharlescoleman8365]

I was thinking more like a light weight Shield. Something that reaches out over the bow and is elevated. Picture a manta ray wing mounted behind the nose, but elevated to catch and or divide water. If it seals to the deck it would stop water flow, and keep the nose from diving.Almost a hood scoop if you will, but with open sides as to not drive the craft backwards.

[@dewaynewebb3467]

Awesome comparison video. I’ve heard that the cockpit on the old outback versus the new outback is a bit shorter where guys like me would have the pedal setting on 5 on the new it would be a 7 . Can you let me know please. And have you noticed a big difference on the wetter ride? Thanks

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Havent notice the shorter cockpit, but the pedals do sit a tad higher in relation to the seat on the new outback. Wetter ride not an issue for me.

[@alanjohnson8396]

Excellent and straight up review. I agree with your assessment on the rudder. That is not a good design and the Compass has a similar malady but I do think Hobie will address the issue in the future without admitting that this design was an "Oh S**t" moment.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Lol yeah I feel the same way, be my luck they will fix it next year

[@MudDuckFishing]

Awesome review. I just ordered mine and was wondering how you like the boonedox on your 17 outback and if you are doing the same on the 19. I’ve had boonedox on all of my kayaks and had to use larger backing plates on the coosa fd’s to avoid flex. How good are the backing plates/position on the outback as far as flex in the plastic goes. I’ve never owned a Hobie only peddled them. Thanks, love the videos.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I love it and yes I already have it sitting waiting to be installed. I'm planning to do an install video of it next week. No issues with flex on the PA or the Outback, the hulls are very thick where the system mounts.

[@MudDuckFishing]

Southern Reels Fishing Awesome, I’m gonna go ahead and have them add one to my order. You’ll have to shoot me a comment or message next time you plan on being in Swansboro. On your pogies tournament video I live on the waters edge there about 10 houses down to the right of the ramp.

[@danoh5677]

I weighed the idea of buying a 2020 or 2017 and I couldn’t justify the price difference. I purchased a lightly used 2017 Outback with a Lowrance, upgraded cart, paddle, leash and all the upgraded hatch liners for about $1400.00 less than a new unit. I has the 180 drive with reverse. I checked the hull and with the exception-of a very few scratches from beaching it, it’s nearly perfect. The gentleman I purchased it from built a custom wall rack with foam deck to store it. Since I don’t fish, I think this turned out to be a good decision and this video helped me make my decision. Is there any chance you might make a video on seasonal drive maintenance?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I haven't thought of that, its a good idea

[@timrussell89]

Nice review, if someone was interested in purchasing a fishing kayak how would you say the pedal drive system performs when fishing around bridge pilings and stuff? I understand it has cables to switch forward and reverse. Didn't know if that might be a pain when compared to the pedal drives that operate like a bicycle where you just pedal back and forth. I don't currently have a kayak, just doing my research on them. Also just curious if you prefer the outback over the pro angler and why? Sorry for the questions just wondering the opinion of someone who has experience with these things.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

The CBBT Piling fishing is the only time I think the Prop drive might outperform the Hobie Drives. Shifting is a pain and instant reverse and braking would make it easier to stay in position. But it is still possible with the Hobie Drives. Other than that I can't think of any other time that the Prop drives are better. I like the Outback because of the reduced weight and handling abilities. Makes a world of difference when there isn't a boat ramp to launch with.

[@timrussell89]

@@SouthernReelsFishing thanks so much for the reply!

[@al-pz5nh]

Which Kayak do you like the most among them in terms of handling rough current?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Honestly the Older Outback that I owned, a 2017 model

[@al-pz5nh]

Southern Reels Fishing Thank you :)

[@andrewkelly1082]

Great review I have the 2017 outback with at 403c torqueedo and love it ,will you put the 403 on the new outback

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Not sure yet, i still have it, not sure if I want the complexity of it on the new yak... Sometimes simpler is better

[@jayssckayakfishing1]

Thanks man this was just the video i needed i have the same old outback and im thinking about getting the new one

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

For 90 percent of fisherman it is the perfect kayak

[@aladdin757]

Do you have anything different planned when rigging the new one vs. what you did to the old one?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Not really, gonna go with Boonedox landing gear for sure, gonna use the water hose hull protection setup, and a Helix 5 SI G2 Sonar. I did go with the better sonar since it had the retractable sonar plate to protect the transducer.

[@suhwateezea.214]

Hello Southern Reels. Thank you so much for taking your time to make these videos and post them online so your viewers can make better informed decisions when buying one of these top of the line kayaks.. My mom actually moved to Kiptopeke and I have been putting around in a 18'bayliner, but have sold it because it was loud, reeked like gasoline, and a pain in the ass to launch and load solo. I have around $3,500 I could spend on a quality kayak. Which Hobie model would you recommend for fishing around kipto/barrier islands?? I am 6'1" 185 pounds and 25 years old. I transport with a pickup truck

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

An Outback is a great kayak, I like that it is lighter. The Pro Anglers are nice, but I would only get a 12 if you go that route. The PA 14 is just to heavy I think. Hard to handle in current as well

[@suhwateezea.214]

@@SouthernReelsFishing Thank you!!! Hope to run into you on the water one day. You have been an inspiration

[@emadsinno3614]

Thank you for all the nice videos you put out for the public to learn from. I have never been on a fishing kayak. Which kayak do you recommend considering stability and weight as most important?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Outback from Hobie is hard to beat...

[@684adventures]

Good job I'm looking for my first pedal drive kayak coming from a cuda14 all the info I can get would be great

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I love the Hobies, but others are nice too. The Jackson kayaks would be my second choice most likely, I like how their drive system is setup, but I dont like how they steer...

[@yakzen4120]

Really great comparisons, sizes & measurements - always gets my attention since I’m in a Hobie Sport ;-) (which I love). I’m not sure about your OS moment surmise though, and I also doubt Hobie will be redesigning the Outback anytime soon, as in years. I wish to heck they would have renamed it though, its not really an Outback in any classic sense anymore. Outback GT or something... Outback 13... anyway that’s my personal issue... but they COULD keep both HOBIE if you’re LISTENING. Eg; 2020 Outback Classic... I digress; I think the new Outback is seriously cool but its going to excel in fresh water, including big fresh water and pretty shallow water, tournament angler boat. The classic is going to excel in rivers creeks and salt, especially surf from what I’m seeing.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

THat would be cool if they still offered both. I agree the new Outback will excel in calm water fishing...

[@poandasan]

Question, I have a chance on purchasing a 18 outback or a 2019 compass with md180 and turbo fins. I plan to fish bass and also open waters here in the Virginia Beach area. Which one would you go for?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I would take the Outback over the compass, it has more storage options and is better suited for fishing in my opinion.

[@poandasan]

Southern Reels Fishing thank you for the quick reply! Keep making these awesome videos! Very entertaining and informative!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks and I will as long as I can lol

[@ThatsSoKyle]

Which would you recommends for fishing the CBBT?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Outback

[@randyprovost8426]

Congrats on the new 19 OB. Where did you purchase it from? My father-in-law saved my Native Manta Ray Propel from the storm so it's safe and in Raleigh.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Got it from Appotmattox in Hampton

[@pauldenniss8433]

Excellent reveiw. Thanks for that.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

For sure!

[@jppestana1]

Super solid review.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks!

[@Recon9143]

May I ask why do you upgrade kayaks so much (Other then it feels nice to have a new one)? I'm pretty new to kayaking and want to splurge on a PA 14 but I can't upgrade that much, will they last say 10 years?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I have actually only upgraded once, from the PA 14 to the new outback. The blue Outback it actually my wifes. I only fished out of it early this summer because my PA was down for repair. I realized I really liked the Outback, more so than the PA. So I decided to sell my PA and get a new 2019 Outback. They will last for 10 years yes, if you take care of them. Cables will have to be replaced and scratches and dents filled over time. Other than that sure it will last. And yes it does feel nice to have a new one, but more so for me it was finding the one that fits my size and needs the best...

[@chuon75]

Why do you have so many kayaks?

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Started out the PA14, which I have sold. Bought the Blue Outback for my wife, ended up liking it myself. Then they put out the new Outback and fixed all my complaints, so I bought it. Only have 2 now

[@aarynj]

A guy almost sunk in a 2019 outback in rough conditions due to the amount of water coming over the bow and hobie having the worst sealing front hatch in the industry. He was fishing the rigs off Florida. Can’t find the link but the scary offshore review is on KZbin.

[@fredflinstone1093]

Excellent video.

[@morriscat11]

I have a KC Kayak it just not stable enough for me i need a wider kayak that can hold 500 to 800 pounds total

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

The PA 14 has 600 lb capacity, not sure about any that are higher honestly.

[@drgrubenhiemer]

800 pounds? What on earth are you putting in there?

[@native_man7215]

I totally disagree with your opinion on the way the 2019 Outback rides in the water. The new Outback cuts through the chop and yes the water can and does come over the top of the kayak but it drains into the Mirage Drive Well, not a wetter ride at all. There is no hull slap at all on the new Outback, which is a huge improvement. As far as the rudder goes, its the same or very similar to the rudder on the Hobie Compass. I did buy a Compass when they first came on the market and I can tell you the rudder in the stowed position did hit the ground when loading. Hobie did not want this issue with the new Outback. The loading cassette is not an after thought, its a well thought out method to solve the issue of the stowed rudder hitting the ground when being loaded onto the vehicle. The loading cassette is brilliant and has made loading the 2019 Outback incredibly easy. I have owned all models of the Hobie Fishing Kayaks except the Sport and the Adventurer, this includes the two sizes in the Pro Anglers, my opinion is that the 2019 Outback is by far the easiest Hobie to transport on roof racks than any other model they have ever produced. Furthermore the 2019 Outback has ticked the boxes, Hobie have made the Outback great again and they are going to sell plenty with this new design. I can't wait to get out for another fish in it, its just brilliance on water!

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

At this point on some level I have to agree with you. When I made this video I hadn't even had the new Outback in the water yet personally. Since then I have logged 15 trips out in it in various water conditions. I do have to say that compared to the older Outbacks it definitely takes more water over the bow than the previous models did. But I don't see this as a real problem because as you stated it just all flow right out the pedal drive hole very quickly. Now it does seem that for some reason some of the Outbacks released had an issue with water getting into the hull through the front hatch, an issue I have not had. Maybe it was user error or something, I'm not sure but I have had mine out in rough water several times with no issues. But you definitely take more water on your feet and into the outer hull than before, and that's what I meant by the wetter ride. The loading adapter is junk in my opinion, and quickly remedied by adding Boonedox landing gear, emphasis on "My Opinion". Anyway I love my new Outback and it will definitely be my go to fishing machine as far as kayaks go for the foreseeable future...

[@maynardbp]

Hey Jessie - If you’re looking to install a Boonedox on your 2019 yak I have a 2018 long legs I am selling. I’m in VA Beach. Peace!

[@maynardbp]

norfolk.craigslist.org/bpo/6692708537.html

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

I appreciate it but I already have a new kit

[@joerodriguez5013]

What’s the weight limit on them? I’m 6-5” 300 lbs and wondering if they are capable of big guy like me

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

600 on the PA 14, 400 on the 18 and earlier Outbacks, and 460 I think on the new Outback

[@MPromnitz]

Hi Joe, a guy of your size will be much more comfortable in a Pro Angler 14. Best thing to do is visit your local Hobie dealer and try them on the water.

[@Leo249ful]

Outback 2019 !

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Yes Sir!

[@northwindl]

that was excellent.

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks!

[@skorpathefearless5736]

Like , Subbed

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

Thanks!

[@billghorban8411]

Y wood a letal guy like U care so much about the size off this kayaks hahaha sorry dude letal joke don't hert tank U for Ur good useful video

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

CUz theyz heavy

[@billghorban8411]

Lolol best reply to my comment hahaha

[@miketorres1157]

Boo boo boo

[@SouthernReelsFishing]

You scared me lol