Dumpcast
02-23-2006, 01:02 PM
Any Reel-timer opinions on the Hobie Quest fishing kayak? I've found stuff about this 13-foot SOT on other sites, but the RT archives have no references. Because I often dolly my 16-foot SIK to Ipswich Bay from the Lanesville section of Gloucester (10-minute sidewalk haul, then a 100-yard drag across beach), the Quest's no-hassle plug-in cart (standard) and relatively light weight (57 pounds) are attractive features. For speed, comfort, and dry ride, it compares favorably (on paper, at least) with the WS Tarpon 14, the Prowler, and similar boats, and the price is right. Off the rack, it's very angler-friendly, with two flush-mounted rod holders behind the seat, a swivel mount up front, and an accessible forward hatch large enough to fit the cart. This boat is touted as easy to paddle, but several Reel-timers have expressed doubts about other Hobie kayaks. Any thoughts on this one?