Outback modifications

I edited the post because I am pretty sure I now want to get into an Outback. I loved my PA 12, but it just got to be too much and I downsized from an Altima to a four door Civic. I also want a kayak that I can paddle if need be as I got caught in a shallow area with my PA and had to paddle two miles into an incoming tide and against the wind to get back into deeper water. I am going to keep it really simple this time around and will minimize both gear and tackle on all trips.

1. I want to see how you guys keep your push pole on an Outback? Do you simply leash it into the other side opposite your paddle?

2. For those that have done the mods to a square hatch, did you get additional foam blocks to give the floor more support when you stand around that area? It seems like that would be a good idea.... because I stand a lot.

3. Give me feedback about why you would upgrade to the larger rudder in the back?

1. The most convenient means of carrying a push pole, without making modifications to your kayak, would be to bungee it into the paddle holder opposite the side you carry your paddle on. We also have screw-in paddle clips that can be gunnel mounted, part #71118001. I may even suggest mounting two to hold the push pole if you go that route.

2. For modifying your Outback with a rectangular center hatch: Be aware that cracking/deck damage related to the deck modification for the rectangular hatch won't be fully covered by warranty. As for the foam deck reinforcements...that is raw material and can't be sold by Hobie Cat. You may use pool noodles to construct your own deck supports.

3. Upgrading to the larger rudder puts more rudder in the water, improving tracking and allowing for a tighter turning radius.

_________________
Howie Strech
Parts & Accessories Product Manager
Hobie Cat USA

Well, I guess I won't be doing that modification..... I am not going to sacrifice a warranty by making modifications that are potentially going to void it. I pretty much sit down only to travel to individual spots and fish at most times standing. I find it hard to believe that you would not supply the identical foam pieces to add further functional support to those that do stand in that area. The square hatch and the tackle management system is just so much better than the round hatch. I guess I will have to find a way to make a custom rod rack with some tackle storage built in. Thanks so much for your help, I will definitely look at that part to secure my park n pole. I like the system that boats have with the 3 rubber hooks that use the poles elasticity to hold it in place and was wondering if I could do something similar with the park n pole.

The sailing rudder upgrade is most useful if you down rig fish......the extra drag of the weight and lure on the side its deployed can/will cause the Outback to not track where you expect it to go.
I upgraded my original 2010 Outback with the sailing rudder and the down rig tacking difference was "uuuge".

For fast turning of your kayak...especially at low speed, use quick-rapid-short-pedal strokes.....the rudder will answer the helm/tiller input "right now".

_________________
Dr.SteelheadCatcher
Warrenton, OR