Hobie Continues Tradition

[PerryC]

HOBIE CONTINUES TRADITION OF INNOVATION
Two New Models Added to Growing Arsenal of Hobie's Innovative and High Tech Fishing Boat Line.

Oceanside, California -March 2006 - It will not take anglers long to appreciate the feature-packed Hobie Mirage Adventure Fish® solo and Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish® tandem kayaks, the newest boats in a targeted fleet of Hobie watercraft designed specifically for fishing. Hobie Cat, the world-renowned manufacturer of sailboats, kayaks, and fishing boats, continues to innovate and provide the fishing market with new technology and options for new ways to fish. Seven models in the line, including the two new boats, are built around Hobie's patented MirageDrive® system that lets anglers pedal, leaving their hands free for casting, hooking, and landing fish while maneuvering to that special spot.

Returning favorites include Hank Parker's Limited Edition MirageDrive signature models, the Hobie Mirage® Outback Fish and Hobie Mirage Sport Fish as well as the Hobie Quest Fish for those who prefer to paddle. Two other boats in the collection include the rugged hull, lightweight, and noninflatable Hobie Float Cat 75 Expedition and Hobie Float Cat 60 compact personal float boats. All seven fishing boats provide easy-to-use, stable, and efficient alternatives to traditional fishing boats. They enhance the fishing experience with elevated seating and speed to get to the best spots quickly; they maneuver easily on shallow flats, rivers, and lakes, and they are easy to transport and store.

Hands-Free Fishing Boats
Hobie's four MirageDrive models are unique pedal-driven, sit-on-top boats designed to be stable for all types of fresh- or saltwater fishing. Hank Parker, well known and respected in the world of fishing, enthusiastically endorses them as a “new way to fish.” He believes that Hobie's pedal-driven boats are “waking up” fishing and that they “will take you to places where fish have never seen a lure.”

Hobie's patented MirageDrive pedal mechanism is connected to two underwater flippers, much like penguin wings. Anglers will enjoy the fact that they can propel themselves faster and with less effort using the pedals rather than a traditional paddle. (The Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish tandem comes with two MirageDrive mechanisms for increased speed and fun.) Steering is controlled via a left side, fingertip-controlled rudder system. The rudder can be rotated out of the way for chopping through weeds in very shallow water and for transport or storage. Rudder steering lines are made from Spectra, the world's strongest fiber, up to 15 times stronger than quality steel. The combination of the MirageDrive rudder system and the hull design ensures a stable ride and enables pedalers to cover long distances with little or no fatigue, even against the current or in windy conditions.

The Hobie Mirage Adventure Fish is a 16' fishing machine, the fastest solo fishing boat in the fleet with the most legroom. Hobie predicts that this boat will win over a wide range of fishing enthusiasts with its combination of comfort, speed, stability, and looks. With a large storage capability, it can carry all the gear necessary for extended fishing trips or overnight camping. At 12' 8”, the Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish adds a short and light tandem MirageDrive boat to the fishing line. Both models feature the new, patent-pending, Twist and Stow rudder that can be lifted and turned to lay flat on deck when not in use, whether in the water, on top of the car, or in storage. New patent-pending Twist and Seal hatches, open and close effortlessly with a simple turn of the handle, are highly water resistant, feature a smooth nonskid surface, and seal with a compression O-ring.

The ultra lightweight Hobie Mirage Sport Fish is designed with a unique adjustable seat, which accommodates a wide range of users from four-foot youths to six-foot adults. As the seat is moved forward, the adjustable pedals move backward shortening the distance for smaller paddlers and vice versa for taller paddlers. The Hobie Mirage Outback Fish is longer and faster for those who want to carry more and get to their fishing destination of choice in a hurry. Both boats are easily transportable in the back of a pickup truck or on a roof rack, eliminating the bother of hauling a trailer.

NFL Hall of Famer, Jackie Smith, is an avid proponent of Hobie's MirageDrive boats. “I have fished all my life, and these boats, with their innovative design, are in category of their own. They not only give anglers unique advantages, they also bring back the essence of the fishing experience. I encourage all who love 'fishing like it 'oughta be” to just get in one. You'll understand!” For anyone questioning the stability of a fishing kayak, 6'4” Jackie added that, “I've used my Hobie kayaks behind barges on the Mississippi and on a flooded Illinois river and stayed dry, so I can personally attest to their stability.”

For Those Who Prefer to Paddle
Those anglers who prefer to paddle their kayak to get to their favorite fishing spots will enjoy the abundant storage capacity of the Hobie Quest. It is fast and efficient enough to get to the fish quickly but with plenty of stability for a stress-free, relaxed-pace outing. Fishing-friendly features include a new “Twist and Seal” eight-inch hatch and a large oversized forward Easy Open hinged hatch with access to a large storage area, a front-mounted swivel rod holder, two rear molded-in rod holders, and a console with a utility tray and flat area available to customize with additional equipment. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets provide easy-access storage for tackle and tools. Cup holders ensure that thirst can be easily quenched, whatever the flavor. Foot braces can be customized for different size paddlers and can be attached to the optional rudder.

MODEL SPECIFICATIONS

All Hobie kayaks are constructed of seamless rotomolded Super-Linear II polyethylene hulls and are designed with an open-deck construction and angler-friendly features including molded-in utility trays, rod holders with caps, and room for tackle, and ample storage. Deluxe two-piece paddles and deluxe back-support seatbacks are included with every model.

Hobie Mirage Adventure Fish - New for 2006
Length: 16'
Width: 27.5”
Hull Weight: 59 lbs
Mirage Drive Weight: 7.2 lbs
Capacity: 350 lbs
Additional Standard Features: Oversize forward hatch. Two eight-inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatches. New for 2006 Twist and Stow rudder that can lie flat on the deck. Two molded-in rod holders with caps and a swivel mounted rod holder. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. Stainless steel plug-in cart. Anchor system. Cooler. Daggerboard well for sailing option with plug to fill hole when not needed. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Rear cargo area.
MSRP: $1819
Optional Gear: Sail Package that includes a two-piece mast, line, and sail (furls by hand). Choice of new for 2006 sail colors including Red/Gray, Turquoise/Gray, and Yellow/Gray. New for 2006 bimini and oversize sailing rudder. Daggerboard.

Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish - (Tandem) - New for 2006
Length: 12' 8”
Width: 34”
Hull Weight: 69 lbs
Mirage Drive Weight: 7.2 lbs
Capacity: 450 lbs
Additional Standard Features: Two eight-inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatches. New for 2006 Twist and Stow rudder that can lie flat on the deck. Forward and rear cargo areas. Four molded-in rod holders with caps and a swivel mounted rod holder. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. Stainless steel plug-in cart. Anchor system. Cooler. On-deck receptacle with cap for sail mat, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. Mid-ship carrying handles on both sides.
MSRP: $2269
Optional Gear: Sail Package that includes a two-piece mast, line, and sail (furls by hand). Choice of new for 2006 sail colors including Red/Gray, Turquoise/Gray, and Yellow/Gray. New for 2006 bimini and oversize sailing rudders.

Hobie Quest Fish
Length: 13'/13' 6” with rudder
Width: 28.5”
Hull Weight: 57 lbs.
Capacity: 350 lbs.
Deluxe Package Features: “Easy Open” hinged hatch with access to large storage area. One eight inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatch conveniently located in front of the seat. Aft room for second eight inch optional hatch for additional storage. Adjustable foot braces for paddling leverage. Two molded-in rod holders with caps and a swivel mounted rod holder.. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Stainless steel plug-in cart. Anchor system. Cooler.
Options: Fully retractable rudder system with foot steering. Bimini.
MSRP: $969/Deluxe package. $1199 with rudder.

Hobie Mirage Outback Fish
Length: 12' 1”
Width: 33”
Hull Weight: 62 lbs.
Mirage Drive Weight: 7.2 lbs.
Capacity: 400 lbs.
Additional Standard Gear: New for 2006 oversize hinged hatch in bow with access to large storage area. New for 2006 Twist and Seal eight-inch hatch located just forward of the seat. Six-inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatch. Four molded-in rod holders with caps and a swivel mounted rod holder.. Molded in utility trays. Molded-in dive tank well. On-deck receptacle for sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. New for 2006 mesh-covered stowage pockets. Mid-boat carrying handle. Stainless steel plug-in cart. Anchor system. Cooler.
MSRP: $1669
Optional Gear: Sail Package that includes a two-piece mast, line, and sail (furls by hand). Choice of new for 2006 sail colors including Red/Gray, Turquoise/Gray, and Yellow/Gray. New for 2006 bimini.

Hobie Mirage Sport Fish
Length: 9' 7”
Width: 29.5”
Hull Weight: 48 lbs.
Mirage Drive Weight: 7.2 lbs.
Capacity: 245 lbs.
Additional Standard Features: Deck layout featuring storage trays. Six-inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatch with a storage bag. Eight-inch new for 2006 Twist and Seal hatch. Two molded-in rod holders with caps and a swivel mounted rod holder., plus flat areas to accommodate an optional rod holders, GPS, or other equipment. Oversize rear cargo area to accommodate a cooler, milk crate, or bucket. Mid-hull padded carrying handle. Built-in mast receptacle for optional sail package that goes easily to windward for all levels of sailors. Stainless steel plug-in cart. Anchor system. Cooler.
MSRP: $1469
Optional Gear: Sail Package that includes a two-piece mast, line, and sail (furls by hand). Choice of new for 2006 sail colors including Red/Gray, Turquoise/Gray, and Yellow/Gray. New for 2006 bimini.

HOBIE FLOAT CAT 60 AND HOBIE FLOAT CAT 75 EXPEDITION
Available in 60-inch and 75-inch lengths, these lightweight and rigid hollow-hull catamarans eliminate the need for a pump and alleviate the fear of leaks. Twin polyethylene hulls are seamless and extra-rigid for altercations with rocks or sharp sticks. The V-shape design creates enough displacement and stability to balance an increase in weight or pressure. Rowing is easy, and elevated seating provides clear visibility for easy casting. Optional stripping aprons, complete with ample accessory pockets, easily flip over the head for simple entry and exit. Both models are easy to lift and will fit in the back of a truck or SUV, on a car roof rack, or can be disassembled in a matter of minutes to fit in the trunk.

The Hobie Float Cat 75 Expedition is designed for fishing in rivers, lakes, ponds, and creeks. Its pontoons are designed for the quick-turn maneuverability and speed needed to navigate larger bodies of water. Seating includes a footrest that is out of the water, keeping feet and legs dry and warm. Oars and cargo rack complete the package. An optional motor mount allows attachment of a small trolling motor for ultimate convenience. The shorter, lighter Hobie Float Cat 60 is agile and designed for hard-to-get-into and out-of-the-way fishing spots. Propulsion is accomplished with the use of flippers or just plain kicking. Optional rowing and backpacking kits expand its versatility. The Hobie Float Cat 60 is a fun boat for relaxed fishing that can easily be put in water anywhere.

Hobie Float Cat 60 Specifications:
Length: 5'
Width: 43”
Weight: 21 lbs.
Capacity: 250 lbs.
Material: Polyethylene
Color: Green granite
Standard Gear: Crossbars. Mesh seat bottom. Seat pad. Adjustable seat back.
Optional Accessories: Stripping apron with or without pockets. Rowing system with oars and footrest. Rod holder. Backpack system. Travel bag. Seat pack. Gear bag.
MSRP: $399

Hobie Float Cat 75 Expedition Specifications:
Length: 6' 3”
Width: 46.25”
Weight: 43 lbs.
Capacity: 350 lbs.
Material: Polyethylene
Colors: Green granite
Standard Gear: Crossbars. Mesh seat bottom. Seat pad. Adjustable seatback. Rowing system with oars and footrest. Cargo rack. Rod holder.
Optional Accessories: Stripping apron with or without pockets. Motor mount that attaches to cargo rack. Travel bag. Seat pack. Gear bag. Side bag. Anchor system.
MSRP: $799

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks, fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.

Thanks Ingrid for the information about your products.
PerryC.