- Editor Rating
- Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14
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- Build Quality
- Storage Capacity
- Comfort
- Stability
- Maneuverability
Many fishing kayaks do one or two things well, but most have significant weaknesses. Some are fast, long and packed with storage space, yet fail to provide the kind of stability anglers need, while others are lightweight and easy to carry, yet suffer from poor tracking and slow speed.
However, there are a few kayaks, such as Hobie’s Mirage Pro Angler 14, which excel in virtually every way imaginable. The Mirage Pro Angler 14 is fast and maneuverable, while still providing the kind of storage space and stability anglers expect in a premium kayak. It isn’t cheap, but for those with the resources to afford it, it is one of the best choices available.
Pros
- Included rudder and skeg provide maneuverability and the ability to maintain a straight heading
- Plenty of storage space provided
- H-rail system allows you to add any equipment you like
Cons
- No skid plate is included
- Very heavy craft, which will require you to solicit help during loading, landing and launching
- No thigh pads included
Build Quality
Like most Hobie kayaks, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 is a well-built craft. Made from rotomolded polyethylene, the Pro Angler 14 is rigid, durable and extremely buoyant, allowing it to outperform most other vessels on the water.
The craft measures 13 feet and 8 inches in length and an incredible 38-inch-wide beam, so it is capable of hauling 600 pounds worth of angler and equipment. The Mirage Pro Angler 14 is available in three colors: Camo, Papaya Orange and Ivory Dune.
Storage Capacity
You’d be hard-pressed to find a kayak that offers more storage space than the Mirage Pro Angler 14 does. Equipped with three different storage compartments, including a twist-seal hatch in the stern, and two flip-top compartments (one in the cockpit, one at the bow), the Mirage Pro Angler 14 provides several places to store tackle and gear.
It also includes a mesh pocket on each side of the cockpit, two flush-mount rod holders and a four-rod horizontal holder. It also comes with the Hobie H-Rail accessory system, which will allow you to mount just about any type of gear you’d like on the kayak. A flat, bungee-equipped cargo deck is also included, to give you a place to store coolers, live wells and other items. A drink holder is also included as well.
Comfort
The Mirage Pro Angler 14 provides a very comfortable ride. The cockpit is roomy enough for most anglers, and even tall riders will likely find it has all the legroom they require. The included Vantage CT Seat can be adjusted in four different ways to provide a comfortable ride, whether you are pedaling, paddling or fishing.
The mesh seat back will also keep your back cool and dry during long trips. The seat can even be raised an additional 5 inches when necessary, to provide a superior fishing position and give you a better view of the water.
Stability
If you are looking for a rock-solid kayak that is stable enough to permit standing, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 is the vessel for you. You’ll never worry about flipping over while seated, and thanks to the roomy standing platform provided, you will surely feel confident and comfortable while standing. You’ll also find that battling fish is a breeze, and you can even sit sideways if you like, thanks to the vessel’s stability.
Maneuverability
The Mirage Pro Angler 14 comes equipped with a twist-and-stow rudder and a fold-up tracking skeg. This means that you’ll not only be able to twist and turn on a dime, but you’ll be able to maintain a straight heading when covering long distances.
Unlike many other kayaks, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 provides two different rudder controls, so that you can pilot the craft with either hand. At 144 pounds, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 is a heavy craft, but thanks to the included handles (located at the bow, stern and cockpit) you’ll find that it is very easy to carry with a little help.
Summary
Simply put, the Mirage Pro Angler 14 is an excellent kayak, which will serve most anglers well. It is stable enough to accommodate novice paddlers, yet performs well enough to please advanced kayakers, who want a high-performance vessel.
It provides an abundance of storage space and a comfortable ride, and it comes equipped with a rudder and skeg to allow you to pilot the craft with precision. It is heavy rather pricey, but it otherwise leaves little to be desired.
Brand | Hobie |
Model | Mirage Pro Angler 14 |
Price | Check on Amazon |
Type | sit-on-top |
Color(s) | yellow, dune, camo |
Length (ft / cm) | 13' 8" / 417cm |
Width (in / cm) | 38" / 97cm |
Height (in / cm) | N/A |
Kayak Weight (lbs / kg) | 120.5 lbs / 55kg |
Weight Capacity (lbs / kg) | 600 lbs / 272kg |
Cockpit Size (in / cm) | N/A |
Hull Material | Rotomolded Polyethylene |
Transducer Compatible | Yes |
Number of People | 1 |
Inflatable | No |
Salt Water Friendly | Yes |
Peddles | Yes |
Tracking Enhancement | Rudder |
Adjustable Seat | Yes |
Rod Holders | 8 |
Adjustable Foot Braces | Yes |
Paddles Included | Yes |
Other Included Items | None |