The Evolution of the Hydrus – From Early Models to the H7
When I first set out to design the Hydrus, my goal was simple: to create an inflatable boat designed by an angler, with anglers in mind. Most inflatables on the market started life as basic yacht tenders, not fishing platforms. That meant they weren’t built to handle the demands of sea anglers who need strength, stability, and reliability in all conditions.
It’s been a huge learning curve for me.
Over the years, the Hydrus has gone through several iterations, and with each model I’ve made key upgrades based on customer feedback, my own testing, and lessons learned from the earlier boats.
We’re now on the Hydrus H7, which has seen huge improvements compared to the earlier models.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important upgrades since those early versions:
1. Tubes and Materials
Earlier models used a more standard PVC that was fine for lighter use.
Today’s H7 uses thicker, higher-grade PVC with reinforced seams using heat welding methods.
Extra protection added to high-wear areas to prevent rubbing and abrasion and more importantly protection from fish spines, fishing hooks & knives
2. Transom Upgrade
Early Hydrus boats had standard wooden transoms.
The H7 now comes with a FRP (Fibre Reinforced Plastic) coated transom, which is much stronger, longer-lasting, and resistant to rot and water damage.
3. Deck Systems
Original air decks were good but not built for the rigours of heavy fishing gear.
The H7 features reinforced air decks and upgraded aluminium (Ally) deck options, giving anglers stability and durability when moving around the boat.
4. Seating
Early boats used simple wooden benches.
Now, the H7 includes aluminium seating with sliding rails, giving anglers flexibility to set up the boat how they want.
5. Fittings & Accessories
On earlier models, glued-on accessories could sometimes be a weak point.
On the H7, fittings have been redesigned, reinforced, and repositioned for strength and function.
Custom upgrades include rod holder mounts, fish measuring chart fittings, and accessory mounts built in as standard on the Pro versions.
6. Handles and Carry Points
All handles and carry points on the H7 are now applied using higher quality adhesives, ensuring a stronger bond and longer-lasting durability.
7. Floor Support & Stability
Floor support rails have been improved for added stability and better handling in rougher conditions.
8. D-rings and Straps
Early Hydrus models had limited fittings.
The H7 includes six reinforced D-rings placed in optimal positions for securing gear, plus fuel tank straps and bow bag buckles on the Pro models.
9. Warranty and Support
Now, every H7 comes with a 3-year tube warranty and 1-year warranty on all fixings, reflecting the confidence I have in the upgrades and build quality.
10. The Next Generation – Hydrus H8
The journey doesn’t stop at the H7. I’m already working on the Hydrus H8, the next generation in the range.
The H8 will include even more refinements, such as neoprene handles, seatbelt reinforcements wherever possible, wider tubes for extra stability, and further structural upgrades to make it the toughest, most angler-focused Hydrus yet.
Every new model builds on the last – and the H8 is designed to take all the lessons from previous models and push the Hydrus once again to the next level.
Earlier models had the basics.
Designed by an Angler, Evolved by the Community
The Hydrus has been and always will be a work in progress. Every generation improves on the last, shaped by the real-world experiences of the anglers who use them. I take that feedback seriously and use it to make each version stronger, safer, and more suited to the demands of fishing.
That’s why the Hydrus H7 isn’t just another inflatable boat. It’s the result of years of testing, listening, and refining – a fishing platform built to handle what anglers actually need out on the water.
And remember, even the top, well established brands started at the beginning and had to make similar improvements. I’d like to think even from the H1 this is what gave me a head start.
Finally, I want to thank everyone who has purchased a Hydrus over the years. Your support and feedback have directly contributed to its evolution – helping to make it the best inflatable boat for fishing out there today.