Inflatable

I have been thinking about buying an inflatable kayak to keep on the East Coast at a condo to fish Chesapeake Bay around Patuxent River and the confluence of the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. It needs to be easily transported by various rental cars. I'm looking at the Hobies and was wondering what the experience on the board was with inflatables with Mirage drive. Anyone have experience with either the i9S or i12S? I will definite try before I buy.

I rented an i9 last summer in Friday Harbor. Pedaled it around a lake on San Juan Island fishing for bass. I was amazed how easily it powered through thick water lily pads with standard fins. It was very fun and stabile. I'd love to have one to stick in the trunk or RV. I considered the i12 but for small lakes the little guy is fine. Not sure how it would be for bigger water with high current, swells or wind.

I have ample experience with the I9, I12 and I14T. These boats are incredible and by far one of my favourite vessels. My father and his wife downsized their home from a house to a small condo. He now has two I9's in his storage room. They are amazingly stable on the water and fold up into a surprisingly small bag that will fit anywhere you can put your travel luggage. In theory you could check it as extra baggage on a flight to Maui or another coastal destination. The hull is sail ready and can be outfitted with rod holder and an anchor trolley for fishing. All in all any hobie is a great purchase no matter your needs.

Had an I9 for small water use. Travel extensively and it was perfect for spur of the moment trips. Honestly it took some getting used to the mirage drive and setting it up properly but it felt like I was on a large pillow compared to my old reliable T15. Surprise, the little sucker has a capacity of around 400lbs.

Spent almost the entire year of 2012 in the Charleston/Mt. Pleasant SC area supporting our delivery efforts. Days off, fished ICW, Sullivans Island, Rat Island, and Isle of Palms areas from the bank just generally fishing. Didn't have the I9 anymore and would have killed to have it back for use in the channels and creeks, though getting off the beach into the Atlantic, I think a I12 or 14 would have been the better bet.

But, if you're headed in to Chessie Bay and the surrounding waters, go with the I12. Larger waters, washing machine conditions at times... the 12 would be the better boat than the I9. Plenty of space, just remember it's a wetter than normal ride, and pack gear accordingly.

Sounds like heresy to the Hobie fans, but also check out the Sea Eagle Fishcat. sure it's a pontoon, but the stability is fantastic and there's the fun of higher capacity for a having a 2nd angler aboard and ability to mount an electric motor if you desire to. 

I have an i12 and have used it in Resurrection Bay and Katchemak Bay -- very satisfactory. With the Mirage drive, it handles windy conditions better than I'd expected for as high a profile as it has. Travels very easily and makes for a nice and versatile extra boat.

I think the i12s is the right size for what I need and I'm trying to get a test ride. I can see the Sea Eagle being useful, but it looks more complicated to set up and sitting higher in the wind doesn't appeal to me. I'm already thinking about a custom crate and fish finder rigging. Thanks for the replies.