After extensive research, reading a ton of reviews, set ups, etc... I was very excited and finally bit the bullet on a new-to-me PA14 (2012 model). I wasn't able to buy a new model as I can barely fit in the new Advantage seat (VERY uncomfortable for me) so I chose to find an older model. I'm 6'4" and all of 390lbs, so kayak choices are very limited for me- and I have owned just about every 'big guy' kayak available, including Ocean Big Game 2 (joke), X-Factor, Nucanoe F12, and Jackson Big Rig (most amazing big-guy kayak I've ever owned). I decided to give the PA a shot as I was sold on the prospect of being able to fish 'hands-free', the ability to troll without paddling, and, most importantly, the weight capacity.
Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to 'try-before-buy', and I truly wish I could have. I probably would not have purchased it. My main concern is the fact that I'm sitting in a puddle- maybe not literally, but my whole front cockpit has water in it thanks to water coming in from the drive hole/scuppers. And that's without ANY gear in it. Just me. Now I have to wonder what I'll be facing the moment I add even just a few pieces of gear.
To say I'm disappointed is an understatement... I would have thought that with this thing having a 600# capacity I wouldn't be sitting in water. I understand the whole 'effective capacity' concept'; however, I never had this issue with my Big Rig, Nucanoe, or X-Factor, even when geared down (I did not have to use scupper plugs on any of them). And I guess scupper plugs would be useless considering the big gaping hole for the drive. Overall, I'd give my PA ownership a B-. I love the ability to pedal a kayak (great exercise, fun for trolling, and easy to cover distance), the stability is excellent, and it is an excellent fishing platform. On the negative, sitting in water, loading/unloading the heavy beast, and the cockpit can feel a bit claustrophobic over time. I built a stand with PVC bunks to store it, and my hull now has some very bad pitting in the groves where the PVC contacts the hull. I have no idea how that even happened??? I was fortunate to have bought my loaded PA for very good deal, so getting my money back will not be an issue. But before I head back to a Jackson Big Rig, I'd at least like to apply for temporary Hobie PA membership.
