Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 17T

Size and Weight

With an overall length of 17’ (518 cm) and a width of 43.5” (110 cm), the Pro Angler 17T is designed to accommodate anglers of all sizes. It can also carry a decent load of fishing gear for long, extended trips and fishing tournaments. Moreover, the kayak allows both users to stand, even at the same time.

As you might expect, the kayak weighs quite a bit more than most other models. Its fitted-hull weight is 206.5 lbs (94 kg) and fully-rigged weight is noted as 244 lbs (111 kg).

Capacity

Hobie went to great lengths to ensure that the Pro Angler 17T would be able to handle users of all shapes and sizes, as well as the additional weight of typical professional angler gear and electronics, etc. The capacity is rated as 900 lbs (408 kg) which is more than enough for most anglers and allows single-users to load their kayak down with a considerable amount of gear.

Features

When it comes to the features of the Pro Angler 17T, there are seemingly endless numbers of bells and whistles that make it one of the most appealing kayaks on the market for anyone seeking a truly premium fishing vessel.

The Pro Angler 17T is powered by two MirageDrive 180 foot pedal units that feature Kick-Up fins. The fins retract in the event of encountering a solid underwater object that would normally damage them. The new Kick-Up Turbo fins provide an added boost in speed.

RELATED: 15 Best Pedal Kayaks for 2021: Reviewed and Rated + Buying Guide

The large front bow hatch features a removable liner and is perfect for storing just about any gear item. The bow also features brass inserts that allow for easy installation of an anchor trolley system.

The Vantage XT seats are said to be the most comfortable seats on the market. The seat features a sturdy aluminum frame that offers plenty of padding and a surprising level of adjustability. The Vantage XT seat also quickly and easily folds up to provide more standing room.

The Pro Angler 17T also features the Guardian Retractable Transducer Shield which allows for easy installation of electronic equipment and sidescan sonar. Electronic equipment and other items like rod holders, tackle bins, and more can be mounted to the H-Rail system. With the H-Rail system, users can also store up to a dozen rods.

Both users will be able to stand up without any obstacles thanks to the reinforced standing platform decks that are located in each cockpit area. A rectangular hatch in front of each seat features a mesh storage pocket and pivoting storage for two medium sized Plano tackle boxes, which are included with the kayak.

The Pro Angler 17T offers more storage capabilities than most anglers would ever need, from the oversized bow hatch to the side pockets and plenty of space under each Vantage XT seat. This kayak is equipped for long, multi-day journeys.

The kayak also offers a battery storage platform that can house a standard 12V trolling motor or a small cooler or crate for added storage.

The front seat can also be removed and repositioned at the bow to face the stern and provide more area for each angler to walk back and forth on. The front user can flip their MirageDrive 180 pedal system around and still propel the kayak in a forward motion. One seat can also be placed in the center of the kayak to create a solo-user mode that offers a truly unique experience.

Performance

The Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 17T has nearly unmatched performance on the water when compared to other fishing kayaks. The kayak’s stability is among the best of any on the market in 2023. Both users are able to stand and walk around the kayak, even in rough water conditions, without the fear of flipping or falling in.

The Pro Angler 17T also stands out in terms of speed and tracking. Users can reach steady speed with very little effort thanks to the MirageDrive180 system. The kayak’s hull design lends itself to provide excellent tracking, which is improved when the rudder system is deployed. Users report that the Pro Angler 17T has a very tight turn radius even when the rudder system is lifted.