PA and Revo

[bus kid]

So being between kayaks sucks. I have decided on going to the darkside that was simple what I cant decide is between a revo and a PA. I have taken both out over the last few weeks and still cant decide. The revo is faster and more maneuverable, the PA is Stable as hell, even more so then I imagined. Help a brother out in making a decision, post up some pics of how you have rigged yours up, and what you like best about it.
Thanks in advance :cheers1:
David

[467echo]

just sold my Revo and getting in a PA. I have peddled around with friends and the PA seems just as fast. Where will you be fishing the most?

[bus kid]

just sold my Revo and getting in a PA. I have peddled around with friends and the PA seems just as fast. Where will you be fishing the most?

yeah I saw your ad and the fact that it was Wahoos I almost pulled the trigger but I was going out on a friends PA the following day. I fish everywhere open water up to 8 miles out, bays, and lakes. That's what making it hard. I heard wispers of a smaller PA due out later this year, but no proof of that. Having sold my kayak last month I have been borrowing friends kayaks and Riding as a boat HO yesterday so I need to get my own ride asap.

[467echo]

easy choice, if you can afford a PA, get it!

[PapaDave]

If you can afford to, go with a PA, I'm glad I did. Stable, lots of room and VERY comfortable for those day long trips.

[blitzburgh]

A beast to lug around but its been over a year and a half with my PA and I wouldn't go any other way! Like PapaDCh said, SUPER stable and I can stay on it ALL day comfortably.

[hook1fred]

I really like my PA but I'd love the ease of a smaller PA..... It's a beast to transport (unless your have a truck) heavy as all hell wheeling that beast up a hill kills me. It is extremely stable and fishes great. As far as speed its quick for what it is

[bus kid]

yeah the weight is kind of a issue for me, I will be storing it on a talic rack up high above our 5 bikes. I have a truck so moving it is not a problem. Where do you guys have the FF and the transducer mounted?

[sandydiego]

easy choice, if you can afford a PA, get it!

Second that!

[sandydiego]

yeah the weight is kind of a issue for me, I will be storing it on a talic rack up high above our 5 bikes. I have a truck so moving it is not a problem. Where do you guys have the FF and the transducer mounted?

Wet mount in the hull left of the center tackle hatch.

Cheers

Steve

[sandydiego]

If you can afford to, go with a PA, I'm glad I did. Stable, lots of room and VERY comfortable for those day long trips.

I have been on the water for 12 hours straight in my PA.

[PapaDave]

I used to have the transducer mounted inside but the summer heat popped the seal so now the transucer hangs over the side on one of those mounts for that. Works fairly well. The unit is to my right side on the black platform up towards where I sit as far as I could get it.

[romspacenut]

On my PA, I have my FF mounted on a MAD FROG GEAR DELUXE PRO ANGLER BOARD and the transducer a Mad Frog The Liberator.


yeah the weight is kind of a issue for me, I will be storing it on a talic rack up high above our 5 bikes. I have a truck so moving it is not a problem. Where do you guys have the FF and the transducer mounted?

[bus kid]

so no love for the Revo? thanks everyone for the input.:cheers1:

[Kailolo]

Used to have a Cobra FnD, so I know about stable and big but heavy. Loved that boat, but sold it for a Revo.

PA was too heavy to load onto my SUV roof, too heavy to carry by the handles for short excursions, and likely would have been a real bear even with Wheelez at the end of a long day. PA was also TOO WIDE, as I could not straddle with my feet in the water, which I like to do when landing a fish or just to cool off or enjoy the water.

The Revo is a breeze to put on/off the roof, can carry it over rocks, etc., okay to Wheelez around, etc. Easily straddled.

Stability should not be an issue once you have some experience (unless you must stand to cast). Used to have a Cobra Tourer--even narrower, but you learn quickly to move with the swell.

Most Revo owners adjust to the reduced space. I did. But I've still had 5 rods plus a large net and (homemade) fish tank on the Revo. I put about 7-8 Plano tackle boxes in the hull via the center hatch, so have carried a wide variety of baits for bass tourneys.

For the ocean, I've reduced to 3-4 rods, plus gaff, and a bait tube instead of a tank, so the rear tankwell is open for a big fish and to carry my Wheelez if needed.

Battery stores inside, and FF and two rod holders mounted on a gunnells.

A bit tight with a big fish--but who'd complain then!

In either event I suggest ordering a paddle with much bigger blades to make surf launch/entry easier and more controllable. Although some owners peddle all the way in--I don't have faith that the fins, even when bungied up, would not catch a rock in the surf.

So in summary, while I would like to stand to cast (like I used to for Pro-Am BASS tourneys on 250 HP bass boats), the lightness and slimness of the Revo won out over the PA.

[driftwood]

the PA is built for comfort. you won't have any regrets getting the the PA. The huge handles in the back and front make it easy to Handle. Make sure you get the Wheels.

with a truck and kayak wheels the PA is sweeeeeet! Its fast too! Got mine about a month and half ago and i LOVE IT! And one more thing... the PA can do a full circle on its own length.

[sandydiego]

so no love for the Revo? thanks everyone for the input.:cheers1:
The Revo is a great ride as well. There are many reasons why more guys are going to the PA.

[Monovasia]

I do not think yo can go wrong with either boat....I fish a Revo, love it...fast, tracks well, stable and stuff capacity is fine with me...that being said the PA is an outstanding boat...

The only area I can think of where the Revo has an advantage beyond weight is if the drive breaks down....Sunday was blowing stink in the afternoon...if for any reason you were offshore in a PA with a bad mirage drive, paddling home would be an exercise in V-TAC...I never would have made it and I am in reasonable shape. I did paddle my Revo back to the harbor and am still stiff today, but I did it...

[TCS]

What's the skinny on the new model PA?
What is different?
When will we see it?

[WahooUSMA]

PA!!!!!!

[bus kid]

PA!!!!!!

Easy to say when your 6"10 and can bench a Cadillac. :notworthy:
if you do decide to sell yours now that there's a PB...

[THE DARKHORSE]

.
.
.
.
.
.
Just kidding! :D
.
.
.
.
.
The gentlemen who spoke of the issue about the possibility of a Mirage Drive failure---in the wrong location and conditions, with the Pro Angler---hit the nail on the head! Well done. This is always my concern when clients inquire about what boat to get.

I suppose it really depends on where you fish, but if you fish where, at times, there's heavy current and wind, remember: the Pro Angler is not a kayak intended for paddling. While possible to paddle, obviously, it's not efficient enough to fight heavy winds and current without the Mirage Drive. It would be like a truck without any gas, so to speak.

When I fish La Jolla on a Pro Angler, I never, ever, fish without a spare Mirage Drive. If you're past the corner and the current is ripping South, when something goes wrong with the drive---you better know alternate landing spots (one of 30 surf spots and reefs in La Jolla) or have your Mexican license with you. :sifone:


That said, I absolutely Love the Hobie Pro Angler. It can do anything other kayaks can do, but no other kayak can do what the Pro Angler can. While I realize some guys have the fantasy of a smaller Pro Angler, and we'll quite possible see one from demand, I can say with confidence that it won't be a better kayak. The Pro Angler is absolutely perfect just the way it is.

For me, the Pro Angler is for sight-fishing. Yes, standing up in the thing for hours on end, spotting fish. While, yes, it's also the most comfortable kayak on the market: due to the lawn-chair that you sit in...or couch as I refer to it. That's not the reason why I love this kayak. It's all about the ability to sight, hook, fight and land Yellowtail---while standing up! You think hooking Yellowtail, on the surface-iron, is cool sitting down? Well, that will always be cool, but it's a whole 'nother level standing up! This simply won't be possible with a smaller version of the Pro Angler. I find it highly unlikely a smaller version will have the same kind of stability. In my opinion, It's perfect just the way it is.

In answer to the original post: If you're not targeting Yellowtail as your main quarry, I wouldn't rule out the Outback. The Outback has similar speed to the Revo, but a bone dry seat. Which I love. You will not have a dry seat on a Revo if there's any wind (like La Jolla does everyday!). The only reason I go with a Revo over an Outback (even though the wet seat is annoying at times) is due to the bow splash of the Outback. The bow-splash of the Outback is a deal killer, if I'm constantly targeting Yellowtail, due to the noise. That bow-splash will keep you from hearing things; things that you should be listening for. Personally, I'd rather have a wet seat than miss an acre of foaming Yellowtail behind me! :doh:

[bus kid]

Thanks to the DarkHorse for making a hard decision harder, and adding another option. As for the outback if I'm going with a fat chick I'm going all the way and a PA is the fattest. I get wet regardless, and wont be using the stock hobie seat if I do go with the revo so hopefully that helps with the saggy arse at the end of the day. While out I didn't notice it as it was calm that day. I can stand on the revo in open water but not a comfortably or stable as the PA, I did sit when I hooked up though. How noticeable is the hull slap on the PA?

[StinkyMatt]

You can STAND on the Revo?

Damn Cirque De Solei acrobat!

I want to see a photo.:D

[THE DARKHORSE]

Thanks to the DarkHorse for making a hard decision harder, and adding another option. As for the outback if I'm going with a fat chick I'm going all the way and a PA is the fattest. I get wet regardless, and wont be using the stock hobie seat if I do go with the revo so hopefully that helps with the saggy arse at the end of the day. While out I didn't notice it as it was calm that day. I can stand on the revo in open water but not a comfortably or stable as the PA, I did sit when I hooked up though. How noticeable is the hull slap on the PA?
.
.
.
.
.

Wow. Now that's impressive. You're either 5' 2" and weigh 100 lbs wet, or you've got the best balance in the history of man. In addition to that, even with the best balance of all time, that would only be possible in sheet glass conditions with zero surface texture. Not to mention, only possible for mere seconds at best. Not exactly a realistic observation tower with $1,000 worth of rods and reels on deck! Not for me anyway.

The Revo is what it is: the Ferrari of kayaks. A Revo with a brand new Mirage Drive cuts through wind and chop like butter. I'm a little biased when it comes to the decision of used vs. new (nothing will trump the feeling of new). I'd strongly suggest going new when making the move to the darkside. The Revo's an amazing, efficient, piece of machinery. It makes long trips filled with miles and miles of blind trolling, for lack of a better word, fun. For what it's made for, it's hard to beat. Just like the Pro Angler.

In answer to your question: there's pretty much no hull slap on the Pro Angler. Look at it. The bow design looks just like an aircraft carrier. It, too, cuts through chop like butter...for it's size. In choppy conditions, it's a pleasure to ride in compared to the Outback.

I neglected to mention the benefits of fishing at night on this craft. If in the event, of a large Shark encounter, that bump bump in the night...I'll just say the choice is clear. For night fishing, Pro Angler all the way! Not only would it be less likely that you get ejected in the first place, but there's tons of plastic between you and The Wrong Kind. :eek:

[driftwood]

Very good info Josh! Your advice is based on a boat load of experience and endless hours on the water using all three hobies. But i have to admit, My main reason i got the PA is for the simple reason. I feel much safer with a FAT lady under me.

Especially when the wales are in La Jolla and fishing does late dark nights.
I've never seen any Great Whites swimming next to me. but if i ever do, my fat girl friend makes me feel a little safer.

[monkyak]

The PA needs bow facing oars attachment on the side rails if the mirage drive fails. Anybody handy enuf to make them?

btw that's not me in the pic
file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/pmirand/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.pngfile:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/pmirand/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-1.png

[hook1fred]

The PA needs bow facing oars attachment on the side rails if the mirage drive fails. Anybody handy enuf to make them?

btw that's not me in the pic
file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/pmirand/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.pngfile:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/pmirand/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-1.png

I really concidered that.... I've got a good friend that owns a machine shop and he said it would take all of 30 minutes to make a set of oar clamps to connect to the side handles

[mtnbykr2]

I do not think yo can go wrong with either boat....I fish a Revo, love it...fast, tracks well, stable and stuff capacity is fine with me...that being said the PA is an outstanding boat...

The only area I can think of where the Revo has an advantage beyond weight is if the drive breaks down....Sunday was blowing stink in the afternoon...if for any reason you were offshore in a PA with a bad mirage drive, paddling home would be an exercise in V-TAC...I never would have made it and I am in reasonable shape. I did paddle my Revo back to the harbor and am still stiff today, but I did it...
yeah welcome to the addiction, I agree about a failed mirage drive or steering in a PA,
I lost the steering about 5 miles out, in my Outback and it is a definate work out to paddle back a tupperware bowl...but you gotta love those PAs:reel:

[monkyak]

I really concidered that.... I've got a good friend that owns a machine shop and he said it would take all of 30 minutes to make a set of oar clamps to connect to the side handles


thats cool. now i can take out the mirage drive and have some room for my sweetie pie to sit down while i row her around the harbor. let me know if you do it.

Lots of options with a PA over the revo. Just get a truck to haul it around and really good heavy duty cart wheels

[bus kid]

You can STAND on the Revo?

Damn Cirque De Solei acrobat!

I want to see a photo.:D

Wow. Now that's impressive. You're either 5' 2" and weigh 100 lbs wet,

1st yak was a maui, I started standing on it in the bays then moved up to a quest in 08, I have been standing in open water on it since I sold it last month. I didnt even think twice when I took a Revo out off Seal Beach and fished off the oil rig standing and sitting all day. Next time I take a revo out I will take a photo for Matt.

6"00 160 wet with PFD on. I didn't think about things that go bump in the night, once again testament to the experience of the Dark Horse. I'm warming up to the PA...

[lbsurf2ca]

If you get the PA and break down. I'll tow you in. But it will cost you whatever fish you caught and a 12 pack.

You guys may also want to invest in Sea Tow for the PA :)

[Monovasia]

Thanks for the welcome, a great site for sure....I actually came within a minute of two of losing my drive...caught it just in time as the one f the turbo flippers was about to jettison...I always carry my paddle...but I do see some guys who don't...

You really would need vessel assist if she threw a fin

[driftwood]

Bus Kid, Let me help you make the right decision. Do you own truck? If you don't, don't buy the PA. (simple)

Now, if you do own a truck buy the PA. After 6 month if you decide you don't like the PA you could sell it fast for almost what you paid for it and buy the ouback. Its almost a win-win situation.

That was my plan before i bought a Hobie. I still plan to keep the PA for a loooong time!

[hook1fred]

When I first purchased my PA I thought I'd roof rack it on my lifted tahoe..... That wasn't gonna happen. I decided to purchase a foldable trailer for 300 bucks and it works ok. Easy off and on without busting my back, although it does make parking in LJ interesting

[sandydiego]

You can STAND on the Revo?

Damn Cirque De Solei acrobat!

I want to see a photo.:D

My 8 year old can stand on the center hatch.....

In our pool.

On the water, it would eventually pitch him.

[sandydiego]

What? The PA a FAT LADY? I liken it to a kayak AR15. The current ultimate fishing weapon. You do need to keep your weapon in proper working order.

First, If you don't check your drive every time you go out, you are setting your self up for a eventual failure. I can hear the guys on the water with their drives out of adjustment. Bet the fish hear it as well...... It takes 5 minutes to adjust your drive before you go out and you get a nice quiet drive.

Second. Stand up paddle rocks. I picked up a SUP after watching Kurtfish and how fast you can get the PA going. If you do have a drive issue, the combo of a kayak paddle and standup paddle will get you back with minimal hassle. Yes - It aint no Mirage Drive.

I have been on a PA now for a year and a half, I would not even consider anything else right now. Why are the so many more PA's in LJ? Stop! Ha.

Cheers

Steve

[TCS]

Reading these posts on the computer I actually started thinking about an upgrade. Then I took out the adventure for a nice long session yesterday and remembered why I like it so much.

At 16 feet with a pointed bow and stern it really slices through the water. Although not an issue yesterday, this hull design also handles great in surf entries and exits, and handles a folloiwing swell really well.

Its narrow. It's low. And that's good. I'm a surfer and I'm used to being close to the water. I can drop my legs over the side easily for a break or fighing the odd fish. Comfort? I can peddle for 8 hours with no pain. Stability? it seems a little tippy at first but terminal stability is awesome.

I've been out at night quite a bit. Bump in the night? I really don't think that's a big safety concern although you do think about it...

Point is, this thread makes is sound like the PA is the only good option. I'm sure its an awesome option, but if I had one I would keep the adventure too because there are definitely some things I like better about it.


Downside of the adventure? Wet butt gets old, particularly in winter. Accessing the front hatch on the water is really hard and requires removing the mirage drive. When I had 3 40lb wsb on it one niight this year the stern was completely under water, and that was with two of the fish under my lap. The adventure does NOT turn in it's own radius and would be a pain for lobster fishing.

Also, I'm sure there are just as many or more pro-revo people out there who didn't post.

[467echo]

Yesterday was my first day on the PA, I recently upgraded from the revo. For all the reasons previously stated, I LIKEY! You really do feel like you are the captain of a battleship. One of the best parts is having the dry love seat.

Another thing I like about it is the angle of the seat to the peddles. On my revo after peddling long distances my legs would start to get a little tingly. I'm not sure if its because of the angle or the fact that I got up and stretched yesterday. It could just be my beer not getting proper flow to my legs.:confused: Either way it was all good yesterday. You also gain a few clicks on the mirage drive. i went from a 6 on the revo to a 3 in the PA. On my revo, if you use a mast mount FF then you are almost kicking into your FF.

For my first day standing on it I could do everything but cast an iron. Still need some balancing practice, or try before the beers:D I did notice I could throw the iron alot further just sitting down and being able to get my body into it.

As for the surf, I wish it would have challenged me a little more. But with the capability of taking your reels off and putting them in a dry bag and stowing your rods it could ease your stomach a little when you are coming in from that wide open WSB spring night with 4 foot sets to your back in the dark.

The rudder on the PA is nice because kelp wont get hung up on it, which is also nice for launchings and landings.

These are just a few of my first good impressions, hope to get some blood on it soon!:cheers1:

[driftwood]

Did you try pissing standing up on the PA? Thats what i like about the PA... you don't need special waders to pee. you could stand military style and pee. A TEN HUT!! :gnorsi:

[467echo]

Yep, just have to practice not whizzing all over the boat!

[PapaDave]

There is the hole for the drive...

[467echo]

There is the hole for the drive...

Might as well piss on my FF too:doh:

[sandydiego]

Yep, just have to practice not whizzing all over the boat!

Already marking the boat up. Didn't take long. Ha. I'll be sure to stay up wind from you.