I finally pulled the trigger and bought the 13 Revo that “Baitball” had for sale. The 4th weekend I did my first hands free weekend on Stoney Creek catching a ton of perch. I was in paddle mode quite often as well & this kayak moves compared to what I have been using for the last 4 years. This past Sat (7/9) I took it out on the Patapsco and trolled for the first time. I learned a few things, and have some questions for you Hobie guys.
- I need to re-think what rods to use for trolling because what I used worked, but it was difficult. I like the longer butt end, but even with the bigger reel it was difficult. Granted I was trolling a Captain John metal umbrella rig so it had some weight. I need to experiment, but the rock wouldn’t leave the umbrella alone.
- The Revo is narrow….but I still like the weight, size, set up with it. I did drop my multi-use tool overboard so lesson learned about leashing everything. You get kind of cocky doing too many things at once with your hands free. I was able to speed over to breaking fish twice like Baitball described in his experience. I didn't have to beat the competition to them because the only other folks out were crabbing except for one other boat.
- My creek fishing the week before resulted in a slightly sore foot after peddling around barefoot. I kept my crocs on this time. However, my right knee was on fire by the end of the trip. I’m thinking I twisted it, didn’t stay straight on the pedal because the footwear wouldn’t fit under the straps. I will keep experimenting, but any other Hobie yakers ever strain a knee? Any suggestions? I did not do any adjustments to the mirage drive yet. That is going to be my next experiment.
As for the fishing. I did get 3 over 20 out of 2 dozen rock over a 4+ hr trip. Tons of fun with hands free. Thanks, Dave
sat 7.9 yak.jpg
- I need to re-think what rods to use for trolling because what I used worked, but it was difficult. I like the longer butt end, but even with the bigger reel it was difficult. Granted I was trolling a Captain John metal umbrella rig so it had some weight. I need to experiment, but the rock wouldn’t leave the umbrella alone.
- The Revo is narrow….but I still like the weight, size, set up with it. I did drop my multi-use tool overboard so lesson learned about leashing everything. You get kind of cocky doing too many things at once with your hands free. I was able to speed over to breaking fish twice like Baitball described in his experience. I didn't have to beat the competition to them because the only other folks out were crabbing except for one other boat.
- My creek fishing the week before resulted in a slightly sore foot after peddling around barefoot. I kept my crocs on this time. However, my right knee was on fire by the end of the trip. I’m thinking I twisted it, didn’t stay straight on the pedal because the footwear wouldn’t fit under the straps. I will keep experimenting, but any other Hobie yakers ever strain a knee? Any suggestions? I did not do any adjustments to the mirage drive yet. That is going to be my next experiment.
As for the fishing. I did get 3 over 20 out of 2 dozen rock over a 4+ hr trip. Tons of fun with hands free. Thanks, Dave
sat 7.9 yak.jpg
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