2023 Hobie Mirage Outback Pedal Kayak

Hobie is known for making the world’s top fishing pedal kayaks – and they’ve certainly earned their renown.

Hobie’s entire fleet of kayaks are pedal kayaks, and they’re actually the home of the original pedal kayak. So if you’re looking for a pedal kayak, we wouldn’t suggest any other brand.

Every year, Hobie updates its models to outfit their pedal kayaks with the latest and greatest features.

Enter: The 2023 Hobie Mirage Outback pedal kayak.

Image courtesy of Action Water Sports

The Mirage Outback has been around for a few years now, and it’s only improving with time. Come along with us as we break down the 2023 Hobie Mirage Outback pedal kayak and why it should be your next pedal kayak.

Hobie Mirage Outback 2023 pedal kayak overview

Hobie is known for its fishing kayaks, and the Mirage Outback is no exception. But before we get into the state-of-the-art features that will turn you into a pro fisherman, let’s break down the basic specs.

The Mirage Outback kayak allows for a crew of one, with a capacity of 425 lbs and a seating capacity of 275 lbs. It’s 12’9”, which makes it a middle-of-the-pack kayak in terms of length.

Made out of rotomolded polyethylene, it’s super lightweight and can outpace other kayaks in terms of speed and design. Polyethylene also makes it nearly indestructible, so if you’re kayaking in extreme environments, this is definitely something to consider.

Featuring the MirageDrive180 KU Turbo propulsion system, the kayak’s powerful pedals and fins will have you cutting through water like butter.

If you’re interested in style, the Mirage Outback comes in five colorway options: Ivory Dune, Papaya Orange, Seagrass Green, Camo, and Sunrise Camo.

Now that we’ve covered the specs of the Mirage Outback, let’s dive into the awesome features that make Hobie the best brand for pedal kayaks.

Mirage Outback pedal kayak features

The Mirage Outback pedal kayak is known for being a fisherman’s dream kayak thanks to its fishing-focused features. In our 2020 Mirage Outback review, we explained that its features put the Mirage Outback far above the competition in almost every category.

And we’re here to say the same in 2023.

Standing and seating options

This pedal kayak features an extra-wide standing deck as well as a top-of-the-line Vantage CTW seat. So, choose whether you want to stand and cast or relax and troll while you fish.

If you choose to stand, the EVA deck pads will give you a better grip and improved stability.

Speed

Due to the lightweight design and sleek bow, I would argue the Hobie Mirage Outback is the fastest Hobie pedal kayak yet. It cuts through water like you wouldn’t believe, while also being sturdy enough to operate on rough days on the lake.

Transducer shield

Hobie is known for including retractable shields over their transducers to give you protection when necessary and the option to retract the shield when you don’t need it.

The transducer will help you find fish, and the shield will keep your transducer safe.

Dual rudder control

With dual rudder control, you can control your steering from either side of your kayak. This is another reason why the Mirage Outback is so fast.

Optimal control and steering will help you move with speed and efficiency in your pedal kayak.

MirageDrive 180 with Kick Up Turbo fins

Hobie created their world-renowned MirageDrive propulsion system to redesign how kayaks move.

The MirageDrive is a pedal kayak drive that enables you to increase your speed with little effort. Given that the 2023 Mirage Outback has the upgraded 180KU turbo system, you can increase your speed even higher than before with little effort.

With the reverse pedal system, going backward is as simple as flipping a switch and continuing your pedaling as normal.

Paddle and sails

You may be thinking, “Why would I need a paddle and sails for a pedal kayak?” That’s a good question with an easy answer: Hobie includes them because they’re committed to making their kayaks the best.

A backup paddle may come in handy when you least expect it, and the sails are a cool bonus.

Sure, you might not use these on every excursion, but when you need them, you’ll be thankful the paddle and sails are there.

Space and storage

Imagine you catch your once-in-a-lifetime fish – and your kayak doesn’t have enough space or storage for you to bring it back. You won’t have that issue with the Mirage Outback pedal kayak.

Hobie ensures that all their kayaks have an abundance of space and storage for your accessories, tackle, lunch, and whatever else you may need room for.

Utilize the large bow hatch, the middle of the kayak’s vertical rectangular hatch, utility trays, H-Rail mounts, four rod holders, H-Track deluxe, and the large rear cargo area to store all your supplies and gear.

Pedal kayak pricing and availability

Hobie’s pedal kayaks are not your average recreational kayak. These are thoughtfully designed pedal kayaks meant to transform your kayak fishing experience. This is important to keep in mind when thinking about pricing.

When purchasing a Hobie pedal kayak like the Mirage Outback, you’re paying a premium for a top-of-the-line sport fishing kayak. And whether this is your first Hobie pedal kayak or you’re looking for an upgrade, the Mirage Outback is likely the kayak for you.

Hobie lists the Mirage Outback at USD $3,649.00. For Hobie, it’s actually one of their mid-range kayaks in terms of pricing, which we think is a great deal for this fantastic pedal kayak.

You can find a Hobie dealer through their website, but you can find much lower prices directly through places like Amazon.

Takeaway

If you’re looking to improve your kayak fishing game, going with anything other than a Hobie pedal kayak would be a mistake.

Hobie delivers excellent pedal kayaks year after year, and the Mirage Outback is no exception.

We believe the comfort, advanced features, safety, stability, and accessories make the Mirage Outback worth the investment.

It’s time for a pedal kayak upgrade – it’s time for a Hobie!

See you on the water!

Robert Walker has been a Kayak enthusiast for over a decade. He's owned several different Kayak's, but only recently got into Pedal Kayaks in the last few years. This website is Robert's way of sharing his passion for Pedal Kayak's with the world.