Not a Fisherman: What Kayak?

I have previously paddled 16’ Carbon Kevlar (Current Designs) Sea Kayak, but I sold that, as it was not working well for me. I like the Sit On Top style, which Hobie does a lot of. I don’t fish. I am looking for a Kayak to explore with. I love attachment points, and being able to carry some gear. Paddle Camping I love. I am looking at the Outback, but wondering what other models I should be considering. I am looking at getting something with a Mirage 180 drive, but also trying to learn about the differences in all the years. Any advice for someone that wants to use the kayak not to fish, but to explore? In the past I have always “paddled”, but the mirage drive is intriguing. Even though I don’t fish, the though of being able to paddle while I take pictures, or use binoculars, or do any number of things, sounds very cool.

What year/models should I be considering?

Welcome to the forum. This depends on a few factors, such as distance you want to travel, water you're kayaking in (ocean, lake, river, etc.) and tranaport limitations. I like the Revo 16 for speed, sea worthiness and comfort in rough water. The Revo 13 is a great all around boat and may be easier to transport. both are good sailers if you decide to try it. The Outback has a high payload capacity, but is pretty slow in comparison, especially in wind and chop.

I pedal and paddle; as a paddler, you might want to as well. If so, the Revo 16 and 13 will work out best. You cannot edge the 16, but can with the 13 (small point).

As to year, anything newer than 2009 has the current Drive latch mechanism and is best. Chair style seats started in 2015; most people find them more comfortable (and drier), but some prefer the slightly lower center of gravity of the older seat insert.

If you want the MD 180, you want the 2017 and newer models, but since you're not fishing, the previous "GT" or "V-2" fins shouldn't be avoided unless you want to go backwards often! If so, the V-2s came out with the 2009 and the GT in 2015 I think. Personally, I like the GTs best for power and durability. V-2s can be converted to GT but at a cost. In any event, I recommend Turbofins for best performance and a large rudder for best handling. Both of these will up your experience significantly. A cart or set of wheels makes things a lot easier. When looking at a used model, see what accessories are included in the price, as well as the condition of the boat. Learn how to locate and read the serial # so you can verify the manufacturing date, not what the seller tells you. IMO, condition is more important then year though, provided it has those items you want.

Good luck with your search!

I think the Oasis is the line designed for your needs.
https://www.hobie.com/au/en/kayaks/mirage-oasis/

I think this would be true if the OP takes along a guest. For solo trips not so much unless the other end of the kayak is loaded with a good amount of gear/weight to balance out the kayak. Even so the Oasis may not be a good choice for paddling.

For paddling yep the revo line is best. You might look at the Compass. It's a stable kayak with a good capacity but is still relatively light which makes it a decent paddle kayak for when you want to paddle. The Outback is a great kayak and has the larger center hatch which may be helpful to you.

My advice is to take some gear with you and go test out a couple different Hobie kayaks. Spend a couple of hours in each one on the water.