If you’ve ever been fishing in Orlando on a Hobie Mirage Pro Angler (12-foot version or 14-foot version), you know what it means to be in a stable boat. It’s really one of the most remarkably balanced boats I’ve ever been in. But if you haven't, let me tell you...

...for that reason and many others, this boat is like a Rolls Royce of fishing kayaks, unmatched by anything I’ve yet seen. 

I think you could literally have a party on the deck and wouldn’t come close to tipping the thing over into the water. It’s so durable it can support 500 pounds of weight. In part, it’s because it’s so heavy, but also because of the hull construction that allows more water on the underbody of the boat to keep it sturdy. 

The MirageDrive system is such a cool feature for the boat, too, helping you continue to move by pumping the pedals rather than needing to use a paddle. And to make sure that when you pedal it goes in the direction you want, there is a lever on either side of your chair (so you can use whichever one is more handy) to change the direction of the rudder. 

Added to that, the retractable skeg helps fantastically when you’re trying to maintain maximum amount of momentum. 

And then there’s the gear. Buckle up, because the accessories for this boat are unparalleled:

There are, first and foremost, an incredible amount of rod holders—for all those people who need to catch a half-dozen fish at the same time. There are also numerous mounting plates and grooves for all kinds of fun accessories (including more rod holders if you're feeling crazy). And besides holding your rods, don't forget the cup holder for your favorite beverage. 

But now let’s get down to businesses. This boat has two tackle boxes built in. They’re even actually right in front of the chair in a bin. When you pull up the lid, the boxes are on a hinge that folds up into your reach. It’s pretty ingenious. 

And the seat! This this is like one part lawn chair, one part Silicon Valley. The lounge-ability of the thing is next level. To change the height and back angle, you actually turn the arm rests. It’s a great innovation that helps you make minor alterations without distracting from the task at hand. To begin, you simply pull out the arm rest away from you and then you're able to rotate each of them one way or the other.

One more thing I’d like to mention is an accessory that’s available for purchase. They sell a livewell that fits seamlessly behind the chair and it is so cool—enabling you to keep your fish (or your bait) alive as long as you’re out on the water. My dad used to use a metal basket that hung off the side of the boat into the water, but if the lid came off, the fish were gone. This accessory is seriously worth your consideration. 

Honestly, I could go on. But if you’re a fisherman, you have just got to find a way to try the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler out. It is amazing. I'm sure Travel Counry will let you take it on one of the Central Florida lakes if you ask nicely.

Specs
Length: 12 ft.
Width: 36 in.
Weight: 105 lbs.
Capacity: 500 lbs.