How Much Water Below Decks is "OK"?

I spent last Saturday fishing in the Southwind Kayaks Newport Beach Tournament. After 5 hours on the water, I pumped out about 32 oz. or so from the belowdecks area. I assume the water is seeping in around the rudder cable openings. Is this a normal amount of water? The water was calm, and I didn't take any water over the sides from wave action. I weigh about 185 and was carrying about twenty pounds of gear aboard my Sport Fisherman.

That seems like a fair amount of water but does not sound like enough to worry about in my humble opinion. If you are real concerned keep an eye on it and contact your local dealer if things get worse etc
-kepnutz-

I go out of Dana Point, just south of Newport.
I also stay out for 5 hours or so and weigh 200lbs.
The weather is usually calm, but the wake from the large power boats at the harbor entrance have washed over my bow and stern on numerous occasions.
I have never had more then a few ounces of water done below in my OB.
I think you may have a small crack or leak some where.

When I had that much water below deck I found a small split in the hull just in front of the pedal well. It was very hard to see.

Aside from a possible Drive Well issue, 32 oz? That is a just Big Gulp soda... not that much water really for 5 hours at sea. I suspect the steering line tubes. We are working on some techniques at sealing the tubes. Some users have squirted a little silicone into them. The aft of the kayak gets submerged in waves and can suck in a little each time. Be sure the tubes are supported up inside the hull. That way less water will drain...in.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

After another day where I ended up with in excess of 2 qts of water below decks, I took it back to my dealer, Dana Point Jet Ski. We filled the boat with water (below decks) and after some time and sloshing, found a small seapage in the starboard skupper tube. After submitting a warranty action request, Hobie agreed to replace the hull. I decided to upgrade to the Outback at that time and will take delivery of my new 07 Outback on Saturday! Hobie is great!