Outback or PA

I can't decide on whether to get the Outback or the PA.  The cost doesn't really matter much and the weight difference isn't an issue.  But which is better for the Bay Area and Ocean for fishing?  Any PA or Outback fishermen, please share your thoughts.  Thanks

Myself I would say Outback!  The 19 I have has met every fishing need I have thrown at it !
Plus way easier  to transport!
Good Luck  on ur decision!

Scotty

outback is more than enough boat for everything around here.

For the ocean, definitely Outback.

Wow, three votes for Hobie Outback.  I like the Outback too but thought maybe the 360 option was enticing.  Thanks for all the feedbacks.

Wow, three votes for Hobie Outback.

Yeah, well Steve and Brian kill it with them, but the PA is kinda like:
 

Another for Outback. Got mine this year and it has been a pleasure to fish. I decided on an OB because deck/rail layout, weight and price,...in that order. I’ve been able to set it up perfectly for my fishing needs and it is super easy to maneuver confidently. I do not fish the salt, but quite happy how it performs in large wind chop and deals with power boat wake. You’re gonna have fun with whichever you choose!

I am not an expert by any stretch of the imagination, but do have experience on the 360 flavor ...

If you are navigating tight spots like docks, weeds, lily pads, and sunken stumps then the 360 has an advantage, but only because you have that extra level of maneuverability the motor thrust offers.

Ocean fishing has none of that - as you're threading your way through tramp steamers, squillion dollar yachts, and the Exxon Valdez, whose oil slick is visible many miles away - and therefore not much of the navigational hazard.

I would think the larger boats (greater than 14') would also make a more stable platform for the salt.

I own a PA and love it - except when I have to carry the lead arsed beast into the water or out of it. Builds muscle - and character ... but doesn't help you fishing.

When I guide people on PA's we have The Talk first - I explain that if their drive fails and wind, current and/or swells keep them from effectively paddling the beast, they may have to anchor it up and hop on my kayak to get back to shore.

Outback = the state of the art for the sport at this point. 

PA is too big.

Good luck~

Not a lot of support for the PA.  I see two used Outbacks (2019 and 2020) for sale online.  They come pre-rigged with some nice fish finder, (9” lower ace elite Ti2 & other one comes HELIX 10 G3N Fish Finder), wheel cart, rod holders and other gears.  But they’re $4k and $5k.  I guess with all the accessories they could add up fast.  The question is do I want to buy new and rig every the way I like it or buy it used and just get in the water to fish 😃

Instinct suggests that if you're spending four of five grand, the resultant boat had better be to your liking, as that's a lot of cheddar to drop to find out you should've bought something else.

You don't need all the bells and whistles to fish, you need the stuff necessary to make you fish safely and efficiently, and the Cappuccino maker with the frothing foam attachment can wait for later.

I bought new and am learning the capabilities of the boat, it's hull and propulsion, before adding anything additional. Each subsystem tends to have its own quirks, and I've found that learning the basics, before buying the fancy stuff, gives additional wisdom and insight .

You don't need an anchor trolley to learn how to rig or free a snagged anchor, you simply need the experience of flipping your craft when you pull too dang hard in frustration.

... Cappuccino maker with the frothing foam attachment can wait for later.

Yes, but the microwave is essential.

Personally, I'd go for new or bare-bones used, as rigging it just the way you like to is part of the fun.

When I guide people on PA's we have The Talk first - I explain that if their drive fails and wind, current and/or swells keep them from effectively paddling the beast, they may have to anchor it up and hop on my kayak to get back to shore.

Outback = the state of the art for the sport at this point. 

PA is too big.

Good luck~

PA - waaayyy too big and heavy.

Outback. But then again I keep threatening to sell my outback and go back to a revo or maybe even a stealth….

In all seriousness the outback works really well for everything. If I were solely a freshwater bass guy and I only launched at nice boat launches I would go with the pro angler. If I only did remote launches in random places I would go revo (strictly talking Hobie here). The outback is a nice middle road. It paddles okay, it’s heavy but somewhat manageable, and you can stand in it.

Not a lot of support for the PA.  I see two used Outbacks (2019 and 2020) for sale online.  They come pre-rigged with some nice fish finder, (9” lower ace elite Ti2 & other one comes HELIX 10 G3N Fish Finder), wheel cart, rod holders and other gears.  But they’re $4k and $5k.  I guess with all the accessories they could add up fast.  The question is do I want to buy new and rig every the way I like it or buy it used and just get in the water to fish 😃

Another thing to consider is can you find a new one...
I was talking to Billy@ WindToys and he can’t keep em in stock, you’ll have to wait for some time till  it’s delivered...
$4-5k is alot of $$$ but addd on’s do add up
Meaning $303 for wheels, $300-500 for fish finder,plus whatever other goodies you add.
The outback does have alot of bells and whistles built in  which is also why I Love it!

Scotty