Pedal Kayaks · Fishing
The Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight is the lightest pedal-driven fishing platform Hobie has ever made. The fitted hull weighs about 20 pounds, and fully rigged with the MirageDrive GT you are looking at 36 to 37 pounds.
The Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight is the lightest pedal-driven fishing platform Hobie has ever made. The fitted hull weighs about 20 pounds, and fully rigged with the MirageDrive GT you are looking at 36 to 37 pounds. If portability has ever kept you off the water, this kayak changes the math.
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Who This Kayak Is For
This is for the angler who has no trailer, no roof rack, and no garage space. Apartment dwellers, travelers, and anyone who flies to fish will love this: it packs into a rolling bag and fits in a trunk or closet. It is also a strong pick for small ponds, lakes, and bays where you want pedal power without the weight.
Stability and Handling
The iTrek 9 is a hybrid: an inflatable hull with drop-stitch floors and a pedal drive. At 40 inches wide with a flat-bottomed, drop-stitch construction, it is a stable little platform. Standing is possible on calm water thanks to the EVA standing pads, though it is not as planted as a hard-shell fishing kayak. The flat bottom catches crosswinds more than a conventional hull, so pick your weather.
MirageDrive Performance
The MirageDrive GT with Kick-Up Fins is the heart of this boat. The fins retract on impact, which is great for shallow water and rocky launches. Pedaling is efficient and quiet, and the hands-free drive lets you fish while you move. Note that the GT drive does not have reverse, so plan your approaches accordingly. A SUP paddle is included for shallow water and tight spots.
Hobie’s fin drive also has a meaningful edge over the propeller-style pedal drives most other brands use, and it shows up in shallow water. A propeller typically sticks down a foot or slightly more below the hull and needs a foot of depth or more to spin freely — run skinny and you are either dragging it through the bottom or pulling the whole drive up. Hobie’s fins do not have that problem. They can lay almost flat against the underside of the hull and still flutter enough to keep you moving. You can pedal through water so shallow a propeller drive would be stuck in it.
Comfort and Setup
The elevated breathable seat keeps you off the floor and comfortable for long sessions. Setup takes about 5 minutes with the included hand pump and electric pump: inflate, drop in the drive and seat, attach the rudder, and go. The removable rudder helps with tracking, and everything stows in the included rolling storage bag.
Honest Drawbacks
Hobie was bought out by Bass Pro Shops in 2026. There has been a period here in 2026 where parts have been scarce for pedal drives during the transition period. This has prevented many from purchasing. However, some dealers are starting to get parts in stock. Before purchasing in 2026 verify that you can find parts like replacement mirage drive fins. In 2027 we imagine parts will be much more accessible. We have spoken with the company on this topic. We are very confident in the brand.
There is no reverse on the GT drive, which takes some planning around docks and structure. Built-in fishing storage is minimal: there are rod holders and some mounting points, but you will be adding crates and track-mounted accessories yourself. The flat inflatable hull can be pushed around by wind, and like all inflatables it needs care to avoid punctures, though Hobie builds these tough. Also, at this price, you could buy a fully rigged hard-shell pedal kayak, so you are paying for the portability.
Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 9 ft 5 in |
| Width | 40 in |
| Fitted hull weight | 20 lbs |
| Fully rigged weight | 36-37 lbs |
| Capacity | 350 lbs |
| Drive type | Pedal (MirageDrive GT with Kick-Up Fins) |
| Style | Inflatable |
Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight Inflatable Fishing Kayak FAQ
How long does setup take?
About 5 minutes with the included hand pump and electric pump. The drive, seat, and rudder drop in quickly.
Does it have reverse?
No. The MirageDrive GT does not have reverse, so plan your dock and structure approaches accordingly.
Can you stand and fish from it?
Yes, on calm water. The drop-stitch floor and EVA standing pads make it possible, though it is not as planted as a hard-shell.
Is it durable?
The drop-stitch construction is tough for an inflatable, but like all inflatables it benefits from care: rinse after saltwater use, avoid dragging on sharp rocks, and store dry.
Where to Buy
If the Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight Inflatable Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
Also check out our reviews of the Hobie Mirage iTrek Angler 12 Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Hobie Mirage iTrek 14 Duo Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Hobie Mirage iTrek Angler 10 Inflatable Fishing Kayak, Hobie Mirage Outback Fishing Kayak, and Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14 Fishing Kayak.
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official Hobie website for the Hobie Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight.
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