Angler looking to buy a Hobie, options, options, options....

Hey all! I was hoping to get some input from you all on my situation.

I do a lot of bass, surf, trout fishing. I’m currently selling my old bass boat, looking to get on more types of fisheries, not just the local lake.

Was considering a compass, right in my price range, however the Outback looks like the way to go for me and what I’ll be doing.

There’s an local selling a 2016 Outback with turbo fins, wall rack, a hitch rack, claims he used it once, $2000 which is my max budget.

So, all that being said, what would I be losing by not getting a brand new Outback? I’ve read all the opinions on the front hatch and I’ve heard the compass is a bit more stable.

Since this is a craigslist deal I might not be able to test the boat out before buying, and obviously no returns. If all checks out and the boats in good shape is it worth getting over the compass? Or do I bite the bullet and buy a brand new Outback?

Thanks in advance for the help.

Hi Nick and welcome to the forum. In reading your information, your decision seems pretty clear.

1. Your priority is fishing.
2. The Outback will best meet your needs.
3. You have $2000 to spend.

A new Outback will cost you an additional $1500 with tax and similar accessories, won't get you to the fishing grounds any faster and won't help you catch more fish. Any features you're not getting don't have anything to do with your ability to fish, but the budget breaking price may have something to do with your financial well being or at least your ability to purchase accessories and more fishing gear. A new Compass will be $1000 less when all is said and done, but doesn't have all the goodies the Outback has. Your used boat option would appear to be the boat you want for the price you want.

Having said this, it's important that you have demoed the models under consideration and are confident in your choice. When buying a used boat, inspect it closely, looking for clues as to how it was cared for. Lots of scratches on the bottom, corrosion, stiffness or sand (gritty feel) in the Drive would indicate less than pristine condition and should be considered in any price negotiations.

I am not trying to talk you out of buying a new boat, but if $2000 is your allowable budget, don't worry about what you're missing, rather concentrate on what will best meet your fishing needs. This won't be your last boat, but will be a great introduction to Hobie kayak fishing!

I have been looking for used Hobie boats for a friend and his wife. The Outback you describe sounds like a pretty good deal. You will really enjoy it!

Update: Got a sweet deal from a local dealer on a 2019 Outback in Seagrass (My desired color). Roadrunner. Thanks for your input, really brought up all the good points as take in account what accessories you want, etc. I could not pass up all the features on the 2019, completely different beast. However, I might have chosen the 2016 outback over the 2019 compass.

Cheers!

Awesome! You made a good choice. You should be able to get many years of use out of that boat