Hobie Cat is expanding its inflatable boat line in 2016 with the Mirage i11s, a fishing kayak that looks more like a paddle board. Its rigid, double-walled inflatable hull is equipped with a pedal propulsion system (removable), the Mirage Drive. This system, which is one of Hobie Cat's particularities, allows you to keep your hands free for fishing.
The Mirage Drive propulsion system consists of a pedal board and flexible fins that act like engine blades that move the boat forward with each pedal stroke.
However, a paddle is provided with the paddle and attached on the side. When you are not fishing, you can use it to paddle, in kayak mode or as a paddle in paddle mode (you have to remove the seat).
In 2016, Hobie Cat decided to change the seats on its inflatable models to Vantage CTi seats. More ergonomic and comfortable, they are dressed in a breathable mesh fabric and can be used as a beach seat. On the opposite side is the helm control that makes it easy to set the course. A daggerboard is provided to help on long trips.
Behind the seat is a large storage area for equipment, which is held in place by tensioners. The "H-Crate" storage box, for example, can also be installed here to store fishing accessories and equipment as well as rods.
At the rear of the board, the retractable "Twist and Stow" rudder is easily raised or lowered. Simply pull a T-handle to engage or disengage the rudder system. It is easily operated by hand.
This new kayak is light and easy to transport. It inflates in 5 minutes with a double body pump (supplied) and when deflated, it can be carried in its carry bag. Stable, it is perfect for inland fishing. The Mirage i11s is not approved for sea fishing (it can be used up to 300 m from the coast), but it has good potential for fly fishing for example.
Technical specifications
| Crew | 1 |
| Length | 3,4 m / 11'3" |
| Width | 1 m / 39" |
| Capacity | 181.4 kg |
| Fitted hull weight | 16,1 kg |
| Total rigged weight | 29.3 kg (including transport bag and pump) |
| Size of the bag | 91 x 64 x 30 cm / 36" x 25" x 12" |
| Hull material | PVC 1000 Denier |
| Price | 2640 euros |
