Revo or Outback

Have you tried the new "dragonfly" fins for fluttering?



Just kidding! This is a composite showing how the fins operate under the boat when "fluttering". As you can see, you can get pretty shallow and still operate -- about down to 8" with the Revo and 10" in the Outback if you're careful. You'll also notice the 2" additional length of the Turbofins are inconsequential as to how shallow you can go. The old wife's tale about Turbos not being able to go shallow was apparently dreamed up by someone who doesn't know much about the Drive and how it functions.

The ST are nothing to sneeze at though. They are almost as easy as the standard fins to operate and run almost as fast as the Turbos; they cost less and are simpler to install -- can be swapped back and forth with standard fins with no mast change (for oyster bars for example where extreme abrasion resistance is desirable).

This brings out one of the great attributes of the large rudder. The slower the speed, the greater the difference. The large rudder gives directional control almost down to 0 MPH -- a great asset when fluttering or holding position in a current, tide or crosswind while fishing -- even while drifting. This applies to all the Hobie kayaks. Under normal operations (non sailing), both the Revo and Outback get by OK with the standard rudder (IMO). For me though, the first upgrade on all my Hobies is the large rudder. It gives maximum authority in all situations, any emergencies, and is much more hands free (less re-trimming). Can't beat it for the price! Too long in skinny water? Likely not, but if so, just lop off the bottom inch or two and it will do the same great job!

Some excellent points have been brought out about both the Outback and Revo. What works best for you probably depends on 1) how much gear do you like sitting around. The Outback trays are hard to beat in that regard. 2) What kind of water do you fish in? The Revo is faster, quieter, handles wind, chop and large wakes better. This makes it a better choice in active water like the ocean or when maximizing range is important.

The boats feel and handle quite differently and each excels in its preferred environment. Yet, both are competent in large variety of circumstances. That makes it almost impossible to make a bad choice. Whatever you end up with I think you'll be very pleased!

sammy925, thanks for the decal info. I'll try to find them at the local shops.

Thanks guys for all the info. Roadrunner, I'm glad you spelled things out. I will definitely purchase the large rudder & ST fins when I pick up the yak. Will keep the standard fins onboard as a backup. Still not sure which one I'll get this weekend. My main yak that I fish out of is the Malibu Stealth 12, but I use the Malibu mini alot if I go out after work to a small lake or stream. I'm thinking the longer Revo would be nice for longer trips & going to the saltwater. But then again, most of my fishing now is freshwater, so I like the Outback for that. If I get the Outback I will sell the Stealth 12 & replace it with a Malibu X-13 (boy the wife ain't gonna like that!) or just keep the Stealth 12 & get the Revo. Either way, you all have been a great help & I appericate all the input. Look forward to maybe meeting up with you guys out on the water. I'll be taking whatever I buy down to the Anclote river over New Years. Thanks again!!!!

The sailing rudder is not needed unless you are going to sail but I will say this ... It is worth every cent and yes it makes a big difference in steering. I have a revo with the sailing rudder and one without and there is a big difference comparing side by side. I spin circles round my wife with the standard rudder. Get it at purchase if you can cause you will upgrade later when you want to sail (and you will) anyway.

Revo

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I would rather be kayaking and think about work than to be at work thinking about kayaking.
A Thrill Ride is being dragged around in your kayak for 40 minutes by an extremely large fish.

Well I picked up my new Hobie today!!! I got the revo. It was a tough decision, but I figured since my Malibu is a 12 footer that I would get one a little longer. Looking forward to taking it out tomorrow so I can figure out how I want to rig it. Thanks again for all the input, it was a tough decision, but I think either way I'll be happy with it.

Between the Outback and the Revo I enjoy the Revo better and found plenty of mounting space for everything. I also never found a need for the larger rudder. The Revolution is an excellent fishing craft, fresh or salt, and can handle variety of conditions quite well.

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Roger
http://www.aldenofsunapee.com/
http://www.NEKF.com/

I wanted to add another note on the Revolution but not being experienced with the Outback I cannot speak for its performance. Pedaling the revolution in wind chop is a dream. I have paddled several yaks and into the wind it can be a bear but not so with the revolution (even my wife commented on the ease). Pedaling and paddling into the wind is quite easy and the sleek hull just pushes through the wind chop easily. When I used to paddle my Malibu kayak and the wind kicked up I wore myself out getting back to the house. I was kayak fishing on the lake behind my house Sunday and the wind kicked up to 15mph with higher gusts. I just kept on pedaling (trolling) and paddling (backwards dragging live bait & bobbers along) and had a productive day on the water for about 6 hours. Anchor pinned only twice for an hour total and rest of the time pedaling or paddling. The wind added hardly any more effort than without. My neighbor in a paddle yak was wearing out.

The revolution is a great pedal or paddle!

revo

_________________
I would rather be kayaking and think about work than to be at work thinking about kayaking.
A Thrill Ride is being dragged around in your kayak for 40 minutes by an extremely large fish.