Newbie buying Hobie Adventure - what else should I get right away?

Can't stand to wait any longer: I am going to order a Hobie Adventure. I will ask for the fisherman kit and the enhanced drive, rudder, and paddle, plus the sail kit and daggerboard.

I am going to start with some freshwater trips but look forward to some saltwater when I feel comfortable, in shape, etc. I will be doing some freediving and lots of fishing.

What else should I get from the Hobie dealer?

From whom should I buy the boat?

Thanks for the advice.

Ohhh I am jealous Don, I really like that boat.

The closest dealer I am aware of to you is probably California Canoe and Kayak in Oakland, Jack London Square to be exact.

Hobie does a good job giving you everything you need kayak wise. A few things you will want to think about getting soon:

PFD
Fish Finder
GPS
Compass (on kayak or handheld)

Those are my "must haves" depending on your personal prefs the fish finder might not be on the list. Also a small first aid kit and a few flares might be a good idea.

Other than that it usual boils down to going out and fishing a bit to tweak your setup. Things like additional rod holders, placement of them etc are usually pretty personal and only get worked out with experience.

Congrats again, that is a nice kayak!

Don, I think from your screen name you're in my area. Be sure to post when you are going out and I'll do my best to get on the water with you.

-Brian G

besides what has already been mentioned, get a paddle leash.
If you go out on the ocean it is definitely worth the investment to get a waterproof handheld VHF radio.

pfd
whistle
flares
mirror
compass
first aid kit
space blanket
spare paddel

waterproof box for: cell phone, wallet

waterproof VHS radio

"water shoes"

?bilge pump?

map
tide table
fishing license and above-waist holder

[Will the boat still float?]

BrianG I will get in touch.  The boat is still in negotiations with the dealer but I think in a week or two I will be trying to figure ut how to store it in my garage.

Anything else?

Thanks.

Instead of a box you could get a dry bag. If you plan on hitting the ocean proper a wetsuit would be a good investment. I love the NRS farmer johns, super comfy.

I don't think you need to worry about the extra paddle, your already have peddle power and the paddle is backup for that. The extra paddle for you is overkill IMHO.

CALIFORNIA CANOE & KAYAK IS ALSO IN FOLSOM AT NIMBUS. THATS WHERE WIFE PICKED UP HERS.

I ran into this awesome list.  Check it.  comments?

Instead of a box you could get a dry bag. If you plan on hitting the ocean proper a wetsuit would be a good investment. I love the NRS farmer johns, super comfy.

I don't think you need to worry about the extra paddle, your already have peddle power and the paddle is backup for that. The extra paddle for you is overkill IMHO.

I paddle both the Hobie Adventure and the Outback and I love that pedal power. But once you reach about three feet of water , going out or coming in those fins need to come up and you'll need to start paddling. Also your paddle is your reverse and there's been time where I needed it quick. My paddle is always across my lap I still carry two paddles. a storm about three feet long and a Inuit about 230cm (whatever) both greenland style. Yes you can leash your paddle thats a bit more secure but you can also break your paddle . Paddle just one mile or come back through a rough surf with half a paddle and the call it overkill Bill.