Pro Angler 12 or 14?

[HobieScot]

Thanks for the info guys.

I was leaning towards the 12 because it would be easier to transport in the back of my Avalanche. I can put my outback in the bed and transport it without having to use a bed extender. Plus I'm not a large guy at 5.9/165 so the 12 just seemed easier for me to deal with.

But now I'm seriously thinking about the 14.

Since I'm looking at used PA's because I can get a lot more bang for my buck and end up with some of the accessories I would still need to buy if I bought new I do have a question about the differences between the years.

I really like the idea of the H-rail system. What years does that come on? I tried to get the info off the hobie website but they only provide the current model info.

What are the other main differences between the model years that I need to know before I buy?

[flemdogg]

2012 - PA 12 introduced with the vantage seat and Lowrance ready, PA 14 still has the older seat/center hatch

2013 - PA 12/PA 14 both have vantage seats, Lowrance ready, and flat deck center hatch

2014 - Same stuff with the addition of rudder tension control

2015 - Addition of Skeg, H-rail, and Glide Technology Mirage Drive

Probably missed a few minor additions and subtractions, but those are the major ticket items.

[jorluivil]

I like the PA14 because of the roomyness that it has and the fact that I can sleep on it while fishing.

[HobieScot]

Originally Posted by flemdogg

2012 - PA 12 introduced with the vantage seat and Lowrance ready, PA 14 still has the older seat/center hatch

2013 - PA 12/PA 14 both have vantage seats, Lowrance ready, and flat deck center hatch

2014 - Same stuff with the addition of rudder tension control

2015 - Addition of Skeg, H-rail, and Glide Technology Mirage Drive

Probably missed a few minor additions and subtractions, but those are the major ticket items.

Thanks flemdogg that's exactly what I was looking for

The two features I really like on the 15 are the skegg and the h-rail system. But with all the add ons it will be close to a $4k yak when I'm done!

I already had Andy do the mirage upgrade on my drive. I just don't know if it would fit on the newer PA's. I have the first gen original drive that came with the Hank Parker edition so I don't think it would fit.

I believe all PA's have the ability to control the rudder from either side. Is that correct? That is a huge plus. Having to switch hands with the rod to use my left hand to make a minor correction while I'm fishing is a pain. So being able to control the rudder with my right hand and continue fishing will be a welcome change.

[JohnMckroidJr]

Originally Posted by HobieScot

I believe all PA's have the ability to control the rudder from either side. Is that correct?

I have the 2014 PA14, and yeah, it has ruddar control on both sides...but had to buy a larger steering lever for the right control station. The 2014 version has a more comfortable vantage chair than the previous models.

[Goose1993]

14 foot

[HobieScot]

Originally Posted by JohnMckroidJr

I have the 2014 PA14, and yeah, it has ruddar control on both sides...but had to buy a larger steering lever for the right control station. The 2014 version has a more comfortable vantage chair than the previous models.

I just watched a hobie video and it showed both the little stubby secondary steering nub and the larger primary one. They are interchangeable and can be placed on either side. Since I hold my pole in my left I will put the primary on the right.

I wish this was a feature on all hobies

[HobieScot]

I have another question. What length of rod can fit in the rod holders that run along the side of the kayak on the 12 and the 14? I can't seem to find that info on the hobie site. It just says the 12 holds 4 and the 14 holds 6. But to it doesn't give lengths.

[ful-rac]

As long as you want...it'll just stick out the back

[JohnMckroidJr]

Originally Posted by HobieScot

I have another question. What length of rod can fit in the rod holders that run along the side of the kayak on the 12 and the 14? I can't seem to find that info on the hobie site. It just says the 12 holds 4 and the 14 holds 6. But to it doesn't give lengths.

The PA14 comfortably holds rods up to 8ft, you can go longer, but they start sticking out behind the seat, which might interfere with other stuff on your kayak.

Another thing to consider is that the rod holder tubes are hard on the rod guides. Not uncommon to bend and knock the inner rings out of ceramic type guides. Fortunately, I wrap my own rods... have started using solid ring guides that have a center post to avoid knocking the rings off.

[jpp9565]

I carry my xfactor in my Avalanche with no problems and its a bit over 14'

[HobieScot]

Originally Posted by jpp9565

I carry my xfactor in my Avalanche with no problems and its a bit over 14'

Do you put the mid gate down so you have the full 8 foot bed or do you leave it up so you still have use of the back seat?


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[Rufus]

If you can find a legacy PA14 with the sofa seat, go for it.

I've tried my son's 14 with the newer style seat...no thanks. I can hang mt legs off either side with the old style seat, slide in and out easily, etc.

Dont need all the new fancy rails, center board and crap. Just costs more money, doesn't catch any more fish, only fishermen.

Sometimes simpler is better.

[jpp9565]

I put it down to avoid needing to support the portion hanging out

[HobieScot]

Originally Posted by jpp9565

I put it down to avoid needing to support the portion hanging out

Thanks jpp9565

It looks like I'll have to start doing that if I go with the 14


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