The Phoenix 160 is a high performance fishing kayak from Hurricane Kayaks

The Phoenix 160 is a high performance fishing kayak from Hurricane Kayaks. At 15’10” in length and 28 inches wide the Phoenix 160 tips the scales at 55 pounds. After paddling this kayak for the long outings it will enable you to take, you’ll appreciate the light weight when it comes to lifting it on your vehicle.
Part of this kayak that distinguishes it from other kayaks is the softer chine used in the hull. This kayak has a lot more rolling action from side to side than other kayaks which helps it when edging but does not give up stability. Leaning onto the edge of the Phoenix 160 will probably make a paddler feel like they’re going swimming. But the secondary stability grabs the kayak and keeps you from going in. You can lean over enough to bury the handle underwater and still not feel like the kayak was going to slip out from underneath you. With practice and a little getting used to the Phoenix 160 shows that it can be one used for standing and poling the flats while searching for redfish.

There is a lot of volume in the Phoenix 160. It creates a bigger footprint in the water as the volume is distributed over a great area and will allow the kayak to slide easily over 4 or 5 inches of water. Inside the kayak is plenty of room for stowing rods, camping gear, and dry bags. The pipes from the Venturi do not take up much room and can be worked around.

The kayak paddles noticeably faster and it really shines in windy weather. I have put it through 35mph winds and choppy water several times. The bow easily rises over swells and keeps waves from breaking over into the cockpit.
 I tested out the glide (without the rudder deployed) and it held its course for 10 to 18 seconds before stopping or straying. Those times were the shortest and longest out of ten tries. This is really beneficial when trying to sneak up on a skittish drum or trout. 

Lacking in the cockpit is a console that extends down between the footwells. The open area at the bottom of the footwell is a good place for keeping small items like anchors, pliers, and tackle boxes out of the way. No more laying them under or on top of your feet and legs. The flat rails are very comfortable against my legs and did not cut into them. You won’t get the feeling that your legs are falling asleep as in some other kayaks.

The kayak uses the Venturi system instead of regular scuppers. The system works and it works VERY well. When in motion it will draw any water out of the footwell by creating suction. That is, if you have any water in the footwell. The kayak is a completely dry ride with me and my gear aboard. You can feel and hear the difference in drag and noise with this system versus regular scuppers.

Hurricane Kayaks uses a material called Trylon for making their kayaks. Trylon is a blend of ABS and Acrylic plastics that help Hurricane achieve light weight. Trylon also has a long fade life. It takes 20 years for Trylon to fade or break down in the sun unlike 2 to 4 in a rotomolded kayak. It will hold up better to oyster beds and resists “oil canning” as well.
Check one out today and see what all the hype is about. Check out Hurricane’s website at HurricaneAquasports.com for a dealer locater.

Ashley aka "Druminator"
Hurricane Kayaks Pro Angler
Werner Paddles Fishing Team