Learning to do your own kayak mods takes time, patience, and research. If you started with the process we discussed in Choosing Your Perfect Kayak Mods you’ve already decided what is truly necessary to perfect your basic kayak. You’ve figured out what mods would be helpful, but aren’t necessarily imperative. It’s also likely you’ve already experimented with a few of the Easy Mods we recommended.
Now that you’re ready to step up your game we’ve put together a few mods you could easily add to your kayak. Rest assured, you’re still not going to have to cut massive holes in your hull. You still won’t need to cause irreparable harm to your source of freedom on the water. But you will want to collect a few tools before you begin the projects.
Set Up Your Tool Box
Power Drill with a basic drill bit set.
At this stage of your kayak modification process, you’ll primarily need small bits suitable for pilot holes. Only a few projects would be suitable for larger holes that will require more specialized drill bits. Most of these projects are simple holes that are easy to repair if misjudged, so don’t worry too much.
Screw Drivers
You’ll almost always use Phillips screwdrivers, but the flatheads will, occasionally, help make installations smoother.
Tape Measure
Most people “eyeball” their setups when choosing where to place their modifications. AJ and I tend to prefer being more conscientious about our placement. We both prefer a symmetry to our setups so we measure our layouts before drilling any holes.
Painters Tape
The tape sticks relatively easy to kayaks without leaving sticky residue and is easy to draw on when marking out our modification layouts.
Electrical Tape
If your project requires electrical wiring, you’re always going to want electrical tape handy. It also doesn’t hurt to have wire cutters and wire strippers.
Silicone Sealant
If you accidentally drill a pilot hole in the wrong location or use a drill bit too large for your screw, you’ll want sealant to help seal up the potential leak.
Now that your tools are collected, you’re ready to start choosing your mods
1. Tracks & Rail Mounts
Adding tracks to your kayak gives you attachment points for a variety of projects:
- Rod holders
- Cleats
- Transom mount Poles
- Camera mounts
- Lights
The added tracks can even be used for some motor mounts and other reinforcements.
2. Anchoring Systems
Be it name brand (like YakAttack) anchor trollies that you attach to the side of your kayak…
Anchor Locks (from Scotty or other manufacturers) that guide your line without having to get out of your seat…
or newer inventions (like the Anchor Wizard) that put the complete anchoring system at your fingertips…
Most kayakers will opt to install an anchoring system of one type or another after spending some time on the water.
3. Skeg & Rudder Systems
Steering is always a point of contention for kayakers. As modifications are added to your kayak, you may find a slight variance in weight distribution can affect your tracking significantly. A skeg (a stationary fin secured to the stern of the kayak) can help regulate a kayaks tracking but will not allow for steering. A rudder will help control your kayaks tracking but also influence your steering. If you’re paddling you’ll want an independent rudder. If you have a trolling motor, an attachment secured to your trolling motor could be all you need. Your choice will depend on the water you typically kayak in, the way you use your kayak, and your personal preferences.
4. New foot pegs
Most kayaks come with footpegs of one type or another. Some are stationary while others are on tracks that allow for height adjustment. Inevitably, they will end up breaking. Whether it’s that you need to replace one or you simply want a different style, replacing the foot pegs can be a very simple mod. Most kayak manufacturers sell replacement tracks and pegs. Other options are available from a variety of manufacturers.
5. Flush-mounted rod holder
Flush mount rod holders provide solutions to a variety of kayaking dilemmas. They are obviously used for fishing rods and nets. But what about other uses? Bimini tops, rolling carts, motor mounts, light holders, and much more.
6. Navigation light
A disclaimer is of utmost importance for this potential modification: If your jurisdiction requires navigation lights of any kind, ensure that you are using USCG approved lights. If your jurisdiction regulates what types of lights you are allowed or required to use, ensure you choose lights that fall under these regulations. Your local gaming agency can provide you with a good starting point for learning these regulations.
There are a variety of options out there for you to explore. Surf the web, Amazon, and YouTube to learn about your options. 360 anchor lights are typically required when out on the water. Navigational lights are frequently restricted to motorized vessels only.
7. Power Poles
An alternative to anchors is the power pole. There are a variety of options on the market today and even more options for the DIY process.
8. Trolling Motor
The more extras that come on your trolling motor, the heavier it will be. While these motors will be limited to the kayaks rated for more weight, they can provide a variety of benefits to your modifications.
Newport, Minnkota, and other manufacturers have been building trolling motors for a rather long time. While they were originally intended for boats, their use for kayaks has become common place.
Bixpy has designed a compact trolling motor that can be placed in a variety of locations, used with a wide range of kayaks, and often powers kayaks significantly better than the traditional motors.
9. Power Mounts
There are a variety of power mounts available for kayaking modifications. GoPros and cameras can be mounted on solid arms for better angles while supplying longer power supplies than the standard internal batteries. Other mounts are set up to supply power for cell phones, tablets, fish finders, and other electronics.
10. Modified Steering
A common mod popular with DIYers is hand steering for your kayak. YouTube is full of steering setups. Products are being created every year to make the modification process more obtainable.
11. Fish Finders
There are a variety of fish finders on the market these days. Some are small, lightweight, and designed for kayaks. Others are larger, require more intentional installation, and were originally intended for boats. Just about every fish finder on today’s market can be modified to accommodate a kayak setup. Remember that your setup will require a mounting system such as the one designed by RailBlaza.
12. Peddle System
Many DIYers have endeavored to create modifications that would allow them to add peddle systems to their previously unintended kayaks.
13. Solar battery charger
If you’re going to add electronics to your kayak, you will want to ensure you have enough power to make it through your day. Solar battery chargers are a popular means of protecting your kayaks power.
Solar Panels have a variety of options. Some fold down so they can be stored away when not needed. They weigh very little. And more importantly, they have a variety of power supply options that can help power just about any type of battery you will use for your kayak mods.
14. Pet Platform
A growing trend in the kayak world is to take your pet with you out on the water. Some kayaks have a natural landing pad for your furry sidekick. Others will need a bit of modification to accommodate your companion. For the most part, you are still restricted to two options: Modify a pre-made platform or completely build your own product from scratch.
15. Motor Mount
Most of the kayaks on the current market are designed with designated areas reinforced for your trolling motor. Some kayaks will be designed with the intention of the motor being placed in the bow or the stern. Others have been designed with the option to place a motor in the center of the hull, just in front of the captain’s chair.
Remember our discussions about weight restrictions and balanced loads when choosing your ideal location for a motor mount. Side mounts can make access easier, but steering will cause a drastic shift in balance and weight will influence buoyancy. Always use caution when choosing and experimenting with these modifications.
But what options do you have when a predesignated position isn’t available? What if you don’t like the location specified in your owner’s manual?
Motor mounts like this can be placed directly behind the seat allowing the trolling motor to be located within normal arms reach. The thing to remember though is that your motor is sitting beside your kayak which can dramatically alter your weight distribution.
One Size fits most transom mounts can be purchased to bolt onto your kayak in a few different positions. It allows you to ensure the mount is reinforced and maintains a very lightweight yet durable alternative to the soft plastic molded mounting plates.
Whether you’re buying a manufactured mount or building your own setup, there are many different setups to consider. Small platforms can work on small mounting surfaces. Pressure can be distributed using various plates and brackets.
16. Under Seat Storage
No kayak comes with “enough” storage for everyone. If you’re one of those anglers or campers who is always looking for more storage on your kayak, think about the space under your seat. Storage racks can be purchased to house your tackle boxes and other waterproof containers. Tracks can be installed to allow for slideout trays. Mesh bags can be attached to the seat frame. Let your imagination run wild with this one.
