NEW KAYAK - HOBIE PRO ANGLER

Hobie 'Pro Angler' specifications :

Length: 13' 8 " 4.17 m
Width: 38" 0.97 m
Hull Weight: 88 lbs. 39.9 kg
Fully Rigged Weight: 138 lbs. 62.6 kg
Capacity: 600 lbs. 272 kg
Volume of forward Hatch Liner: 16 gal. 60.6 l
Volume of the center Hatch Bucket: 2.9 gal. 11 l
Rear Cargo Area: 5.1 ft2 0.47 m2

This will definately be my next kayak, due to the features and freshwater stable it so badly wants to be housed in. This will be ultimately suited to my Trout fishing expeditions in the cooler months on the Alpine lakes and will be teamed with a Scotty Downrigger to acheive presentation depth. While I have not had the pleasure of pedaling this terrific looking kayak yet there are plenty of reviews online showcasing the 'Pro Angler' in all its glory. The team at my favourite online read, Kayakfishingmagazine.net, have recently reviwed the craft and have nothing but praise. Keep a look out for the addition to my growing quiver!

http://www.kayakfishingmagazine.net/17/Hobie_Pro_Angler_Review.html

"Ever wanted to gain access to the next new honey-hole but just couldn’t quite figure out how to get there? How about seeing that sweet spot back through the woods, brush or shallows that you couldn’t reach with a traditional boat? Better yet, what about that area that you’ve been dying to get down to, but there was no launch ramp or road leading down to the waters edge? Even worse, how about that absolutely perfect spot that has been closed off to traditional motorized boats?".

Visit www.hobiecat.com.au for more information.

THE 'TEAM DAIWA ADVANTAGE' SERIES

"Light and Tough" and built to last,

Just thought I would add a feature on KFA of my favourite rods and reels to use from the yak, the Team Daiwa Advantage series. I am lucky enough to own many rods and reels from Daiwa in various sizes, along with more expensive brands. They are my preferred option when fishing for native’s species like Golden Perch or heading offshore and trolling for Snapper. With the new Team Daiwa Advantage 3 series rods being made up of multiple pieces they are perfect for travelling and pack away in purpose built rod tubes in my luggage or the car.

Team Daiwa Advantage 3 :

The TDA match up of namesake products delivers a great performance. With fast and medium actions the rods are perfect for larger bodied fish that fight deep rather than take to the air, add to that the spin range in a length of 7' 0" you have a match made in heaven. The high modulus make up featuring the "Light and Tough" design is coupled with high quality Fuji components and EVA grips. With everything from Bream to Barra in mind these are smart, travelling alternatives to similar one piece models with light, medium light, medium and medium heavy line ratings available. Used exclusively by the Hobie State Fishing Team members, you can be sure they work well under stress and have shown great face in the tough competition market.

"The latest generation spin and baitcasters reels from Daiwa the TD Advantage need the latest range of matching balanced rods with tried and tested blanks. The new generation TD Advantage rods are built on a re-designed version of the world famous “Light and Tough” blanks. Built for ultimate performance and designed to withstand the demands of today’s angling requirements, the TD Advantage rods are perfect choice for the serious angler. With such a diverse range of reel sizes and models available the Advantage range of rods can be easily matched and balanced, no matter what the fishing situation. One thing for sure if you want the angling advantage you need the Team Daiwa Advantage".

Super performance “Light and Tough” high modulus carbon blanks, Fuji CYSG and CLSG new concept chrome silicone carbide guides, Daiwa’s ergonomic reel seats, Ultra hard EVA grips, Technique specific actions, Matched perfectly to the TD Advantage spinning and baitcaster reels.

Team Daiwa Advantage reels :

Having owned a 2500 TDA and a TDA 153HST since their inception I can only report good things come in cheaper packages. The spinning version at first glance seems to lack some of the key features rated so highly in the SOL series, however once the handle is spun and the drag enforced the comparison narrows to almost non existent. Blindfold me and test me on this one, I can pretty much guarantee I wont be able to tell the difference ( Apart from my SOL needing a good service ) its that good. Caught many personal bests using the 2500 and never felt undergunned, even on light line and a 7 kilo + Snapper pulling hard.

"The name TD Advantage has been around for years and has built an enviable reputation for outstanding quality, in 2007 the new Advantage is now available. TD Advantage reels put a winning combination of strength, durability and ultra smooth performance on your side. Six ball bearings inc. 2 CRBB, plus a rugged computer die-cast aluminium construction make these reels ideal for both freshwater and saltwater use. The long cast X-treme ABS system will let you reach the distant spots with even the lightest lures. And when you do hook up, you can count on the super consistent sealed drag to provide reliable fish stopping power. The new TD Advantage reels deserve the best rods and in spring 2007, the new TD Advantage rod range is available".

Real four concept , Aluminium body and sideplate, Braid friendly AirBail, Silent cross wrap oscillation, Infinite anti-reverse, Digigear II drive system, Hyper tournament waterproof drag, Machined aluminium handle, 6 stainless steel ball bearings inc.2 CRBB bearings, Twistbuster II, ABS aluminium spool with titanium nitride ring, Washable construction, Micro precision click adjustable drag, Spare spool and a 5 year warranty.

http://www.daiwafishing.com.au/

HOBIE CAT COMPANY / NEAH POWER SYSTEMS

HOBIE CAT COMPANY ENTERS INTO AGREEMENT WITH NEAH POWER SYSTEMS

Oceanside, California – April 14, 2009 – Hobie Cat Company, a leading manufacturer of sail and fishing boats as well as kayaks, today announced that it has signed a technology license agreement with NEAH Power Systems, Inc., (OTCBB:NPWS) of Bothell, Washington to jointly explore using NEAH’s patented, silicon-based fuel cells to power Hobie Cat boats. NEAH’s fuel cells use renewable methanol, a cost-efficient, sustainable and “green” mode of energy. The announcement was made by Doug Skidmore, president of Hobie Cat Company.

NEAH Power Systems, Inc. is known for the development of fuel cells for the military and portable electronic devices. Dr. Chris D’Couto, NEAH’s President and Chief Executive Officer, noted that NEAH fuel cells operate in both aerobic and anaerobic manners, which directly apply to Hobie’s water environment. “Our micro fuel cells may eventually replace batteries for most uses,” D’Couto said, “meaning that cost-efficient and “green” technology is at hand to not only preserve the environment, but to provide nearly perpetual power to the military, to manufacturers of almost any product that requires an energy source, and to the millions of consumers who require energy on-the-go.”

Skidmore went on to say that “when NEAH’s fuel cells become operational in Hobie products, it will open up new business opportunities both inside and outside of our current product offering.” Hobie Cat products are sold all over the world by a large network of subsidiaries and distributors.

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks, fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.

http://www.hobiecat.com/, http://www.neahpower.com/

NEW FEATURES ON KAYAK FISHING ADVENTURES

Everything old is new again,

A well needed revamp to the older KFA system has finally provided the ability to include additional information such as news, reviews, interviews and all things kayak fishing ( Apart from just trip reports ). Over the coming weeks you will notice a change of web address via blog redirection, new designs and features throughout the site. I thought long and hard about building a better, more dedicated website but due to solo contributions and my activity in the published media realm I found tweaking the existing layout satisfying.

Currently under the old address Google fails to rate anything but a search on 'Paffoh', bypassing the 'Kayak Fishing Adventures' moniker being used here for the past three years. Given the success of well known user websites ( Yakabout.com.au for one ) I felt it was time for a change. Older content is still archived for viewing but it’s the newer posts I hope will inform potential readers a little better. You can see the trip report section is healthier than ever, you may also notice that all text and images herein are now deemed copyright.

What KFA is all about is the need to source information and provide hints, tips and shared information I gather through my life whilst fishing from my kayak. It will also house traditional fishing method reports due to extensive trips taken without a yak on the racks ( So to speak ). Fishing is a passion that has no boundaries and I know many others feel the same way, no matter what method used. Many other avenues both personal and within this site will be realised soon enough, rest assured they will be discussed and typified heavily.

The final layout is not complete and fiddling with code is not really my forte. Comments are still restricted to users with a Google account and possible future contributors may also be added to the site. The last year has been a whirlwind experience that I wouldn’t change for the world, I have learned a lot, realised a few dreams and toured the East Coast of Australia chasing the first ever ABT Kayak series. I couldn’t have done it without the support of Hobiecat Australasia, Uglyfish Eyewear, AKFF, close friends, family and my partner Claire.

Thanks a million guys, I wont let you down...

Derek 'Paffoh' Steele

NSW - Jindabyne (Kalkite) 23/5/09

A new species PB from the kayak,

I had some unfinished business at Jindabyne and needed it taken care of ASAP; having a relaxing, non fishing weekend spent at home was on the cards initially. Doesn’t take long for me to agree with my mate Squidders Troutin’ ideals, killing two birds with one stone was far too tempting to refuse (as long as it’s a late start, ok?). Alarm went off at 5:15am, so much for that Mr Sleepy head… Rise and shine!

The drive from Canberra to Cooma is as boring as hell and quite dangerous in low light, Kangaroo’s mingle on the roads edge threatening to jump out at any stage. Cooma to Jindabyne is much easier; it’s something about the first glimpse of water when you meander down to the Kalkite boat ramp that just plays over and over in your mind (Even before you get there), makes passing the startled roo’s effortless.

Very Trouty looking conditions, overcast, still, drizzly and cool and to top that off, over a dozen rises spotted easily before I had even jumped out of the car. My orange Juice from I misplaced after purchasing from Cooma McDonalds was eventually found on my bumper bar, still there 70kms or so later. Surely this was the work of God, signalling for a great day on the water (And that luck was on my side).

We headed out and tried some new techniques, or more specifically focused on some cast and retrieve staples. Our persistence started paying off early; Jason nailed a few Rainbow Trout on soft plastics with finesse work while I slugged away with my hard bodies. Being of cunning mind (Or pretending to be) I switched lures to a Rebel Crawdad and tried suspending my presentation with some added split shot weight.

First cast and I came up tight, fishing in shallow drew the Trout into spasmodic mode prematurely as it had no real place to go. It got confused and took to the air multiple times before thrashing the surface area like an over balanced washing machine. A nice, hefty Brown appeared and was in desperate need of a lemon detox diet, my 1kg Heartland strained under pressure but came out of the scrap better for the experience.

Measuring a Gatesy stretch under 55cm it was a sure fire contender for 1st place in the AKFF hall of fame (And a new PB off the kayak). Not to be outdone Squidder then hooked something even greater, taking 50m of line on its first run and evoking thought provoking foresight. Jason did well but was up against it from the start, soft mouths and little hook sets spell disaster for even the most experienced (Equalling lost fish).

We were both gutted, the fish would have been gutted too (Literally). Somehow this entire solemn fishing quandary had appeased the Jindabyne lords, the god of predicament threw its weather change like a predicted forecast and the winds grew stronger. This somehow drew our lure bight to an end; even trolling amongst the rises brought no fish undone. I spied our infamous Powerbait bank and headed over for some shelter.

With an ENE direction the wind was manageable but dirty all the same, causing bank erosion and muddy wind lanes. The usual suspects were deployed with a couple of slabby Rainbows turning up for a chew on the gum. Lime Twist, Chunky Cheese and Sherbert Burst the stand out colours / flavours, Scrub Worms once again did not receive a touch. I found a bubble float on a snag with a massive Yabby foul hooked in the line, I released it after some fiddling (Probably been suspending there for weeks).

A quick bank side siesta (Using a rock as a pillow) was rudely interrupted with a massive crunch; some idiots in a boat had decided to sneak into the parched creek arm. Quickly retreating they turned our way and commenced throwing lures to within 3m of our four lines out. A golf clap and some quick words later and they moved off, these guys were absolute idiots with no etiquette (No fish by the look of their skills).

The wind died enough for us to commence back to whence we came, stopping at the newly termed ‘Rainbow Rubber’ bay. Jason dropped three more before landing a similar model to the morning’s efforts; I won’t even try and explain his technique but it works well with any stick bait or wacky worm / tube bait. My T tailed minnow skills and Squidgy Fish were ignored all the way back to the ramp (Such is life Cousins).

Bumped into Rokko / Rory back at the ramp for a quick chat, seems like his day was ruined before he even got up (Much like my Friday was). Home style Shepherds Pie was on the menu so the 2hr drive home was fairly easy with an empty stomach. All in all the weather was brilliant, sour and unpredictable (Just the way I like it).

Keep a look out for the next ‘Yak Fisher’ magazine for more tips and tricks of the trade.

NSW - Jindabyne (Kalkite) 2/5/09

Good day on one of the cold lakes, awesome even.

Perfect day with very little wind, overcast mid morning and still warm to boot. Water temps around 12 degrees and 10 in the shadows, fish still rising and taking interest even at 11am. Trolled all the way up to the Snowy arm from Kalkite on the east bank, took awhile but had one hit, one landed, one lost and one follow on a plastic all from the same weed bed. Sighted some good fish around the banks, ideal polaroiding weather but the water level is dropping pretty fast.

By the time I caught up with the others they had retired to the bank for some playdo / worm bashing. Using some new techniques and educating Luke to the random Powerbait game was fun, with eight rods out between four of us only a chosen couple won the lottery ( Jazman and Victor excluded ). Lemon Twist and Scrub worms took out the day and I was seriously smoked by an unstopable, called it for an Atlantic or big brown who took me to dissapointment town ( Population, me ).

Luke had a lucky Scrubby which commenced to hook and land two fish in 10 minutes while I was running out fingers to count on my rod was getting hit so much. Got busted off again on 6lb braid ( Think snag rub type stuff ) before landing a nice 51cm Brown and another Rainbow, biggest Bow went 42cm on the troll. Such an unpredictable place that runs hot or cold for various anglers, almost bagging out and losing a fish of a lifetime is just viewed as the norm here.

Looking forward to returning, the Brown was completely full of tiny Shrimp and the Bows had small Yabbies and some green stuff ( Daphnia? ). All fish on lures on Predatek Min Min in Perch and Brown Trout pattern, Jazman even caught some on olive flickbait Powerbait plastics chucked at the trees ( 2 x Bows ). Didnt see many boats all day but after Lynnie mentioned East Jindy I reckon I saw him return to ramp as I hit the point, did you come straight out of the Snowy Arm to the ramp? ( Hard to tell from Kayak level ).