Hobie Livewell pimpin'

I got the Hobie livewell a ways back and the plan was to use it as a livewell and also a tackle box since it fit well in the back and secured tight. I've used it for a while now and really like it so thought I'd share.

First thing was the livewell fit nicely but wasn't really secured as tightly as I wanted so I added two more support straps. I popped the hatch on top got to sewing two new straps and installed them. They're the ones w/ the red buckles.


Since I didn't want the livewell to flood while I was using it as a tackle box I made a few plugs from a pool noodle to block the intake and outtake. I'm looking for some rubber stoppers to make a nice tight seal but haven't found anything right yet. 


Then I added my downrigger on top and in this position it works pretty well. The Scotty Laketroller wouldn't work well with it mounted here but the Depthmaster has a brake lever that lowers it so one hand behind the back and it's all good.


Lastly added a little bungee to hold a spool of leader.


Solid and simple.
Z

great tip.  nicely done.
currently i am considering to get a hobie revo.  i have been speculating what kind of tackle box will fit nicely in the tank well area.  now i know the livewell can be used as a tackle box. 
2-in-1 livewell...cool
thanks for sharing

3 in 1    You forgot the downrigger!  Thanks for sharing Z.

NICE!

4 in 1, pole holders too, very cool!

Looks good Z. I want one!

Since I didn't want the livewell to flood while I was using it as a tackle box I made a few plugs from a pool noodle to block the intake and outtake. I'm looking for some rubber stoppers to make a nice tight seal but haven't found anything right yet. 

Either rubber stoppers or maybe those rubber end-caps for chair legs (I use those rubber end-caps on the underside of my Scotty flush-mount bases).

Either rubber stoppers or maybe those rubber end-caps for chair legs (I use those rubber end-caps on the underside of my Scotty flush-mount bases).

Since I first posted I found some good stoppers at a restaurant supply store. Science supply websites have similar ones. http://www.indigo.com/science-supplies/gph-science-supply/rubber-stopper.html

Z

 

  Nice, clean set up!  I have one concern regarding the DR placed on the hatch?  Are you sure the hatch mounting is secure enough handle the added torque and stresses the DR will impose on it?  2 points of contact in the back and the hatch lock down up front?  I hope the hatch doesn't get ripped out if the weight snag's something.  That would suck!

Nice, clean set up!  I have one concern regarding the DR placed on the hatch?  Are you sure the hatch mounting is secure enough handle the added torque and stresses the DR will impose on it?  2 points of contact in the back and the hatch lock down up front?  I hope the hatch doesn't get ripped out if the weight snag's something. 

Thanks guys.

It has actually has four bolts securing the DR base. I've been using this DR setup with a 6# ball trolling 60'-150' w/ current for the last 6 months and haven't noticed any wear. I actually have snagged the DR ball once and it tips the kayak way before putting any stress on the tank.

Z

Either rubber stoppers or maybe those rubber end-caps for chair legs (I use those rubber end-caps on the underside of my Scotty flush-mount bases).

Since I first posted I found some good stoppers at a restaurant supply store. Science supply websites have similar ones. http://www.indigo.com/science-supplies/gph-science-supply/rubber-stopper.html

Z

Check your local ACE hardware store, they carry the rubber stoppers as well (at least ours in Forest Grove, Or does).

if one Ace hardware store carries it, all other Ace stores should have it in stock.

i was told that Hobie upgraded the drain pipe because of clogging problem.  how exactly did they upgrade it?  any pics of before and after?

Kakkoiiyo!    My Outback is suffering from kayak envy, Zee!