Newbie Pro Angler 14 / Outback questions

I am getting ready to purchase and would appreciate any help and feedback
I am 5"8 180 lbs and will be fishing the flats in the Tampa Bay area in Florida. I currently have a old town predator 13 and want to purchase a PA 14 or Outback. I will be buying a trailer regardless. I do not have the opportunity to test both kayaks out before purchasing however I'm wondering regarding my height, if the Outback would be easier to pedal than the Pro Angler. Are the pedals closer to the seat on the Outback? I can only afford one kayak to purchase and I don't want to have any regrets wishing I would have bought this one or bought that one.
For all of you owners out there that own both can you honestly give me your feedback which one you would rather have if you could only own one and I will try and base my decision on happy hobie customers

My first Hobie was a 2010 Outback and then in 2013 I bought a PA-14......I am 5' 11" tall with a 31" inseam, 172 pounds......I believe the Outback pedals are slightly closer to the seat, but the pedal arms are adjustable, so reaching the pedals on a PA-14 should be a non-issue once adjusted.
The PA-14 is heavier than the Outback, but I have no issue moving the PA as it comes standard with Turbo fins and the upgraded drive has lower friction.
Lastly, you do not need to pedal a "full stroke" because it can induce "hull slap" by the fits hitting the hull.....not good!

I went to the PA-14 based on the extra room for tackle, gear and stability, and I already had a trailer to carry and store it on......the Outback is a really good fishing platform, but IMHO the PA-14 is better yet.

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Dr.SteelheadCatcher
Warrenton, OR

Thank you for your input. With the hull shape, can you get in more shallow with the PA14 or Outback? Or is it about the same?

I don't think the draft is much different between the Outback and the PA14. To me the two advantages the Outback has is that it is lighter and cost less for a new one. The Outback would also be better suited for river floats as it's not as wide and easier to use a double paddle with if you need to paddle versus peddle depending on conditions.

I'm on my 3rd PA14. I thought about getting the new Outback with the Vantage seat so I would have the best of both worlds (A PA14 with a Vantage seat and an Outback with a Vantage seat). But I bought a 2015 PA14 instead of the Outback. My personal reasons were:

The Vantage seat is far better on the PA.

The Hobie H-Rail system is awesome and offers unlimited flexibility in mounting everything without drilling any holes. You just configure what you need for the type of fishing you are doing. If I'm anchored with shiners out on floats for bass, I just move my rod holders to the side needed and I'm all set.

While they did flatten the Outback floor more in the front, the PA front floor area gives you plenty of room for standing and turning around if needed.

The skeg on the PA does help with tracking and keeping the wind from blowing you around.

Lastly, I wanted the Livewell XL and it only fits a PA...not the Outback.

Good luck with your decision. You will not be disappointed with either.

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Steve Stubbs
USAF (retired)

SeaDek Fishing Team
Unfair Lures Pro Staff
Ziptailz Ambassador

2015 Pro Angler 14 - Papaya
2018 Compass - Sea Grass

do you stand while fishing? If so the PA is more steady.