Top Tips for Rigging Your Own Kayak
Terrell’s Top 3 Tips for Rigging Your Own Kayak
Are you getting started with kayak fishing and wondering how to set your rig? Or preparing for a kayak tournament series and fine-tuning your setup?
Whether you are a new fisherman, pro or somewhere in between, what connects us all is a love for the sport and a desire to have the gear that best suits our needs.
Here are my top three tips for rigging your own kayak:
1. Function over form
Everything you install on your kayak should have purpose. Start small and build on it. There’s nothing wrong with being a gear junkie, as long as it works. Speaking of…
2. Find what works for you
What works for one angler may not work for another. There are a ton of accessories out there that can really enhance your fishing experience and even help put you in a better situation to catch more fish. When you are rigging your kayak, make sure it complements you and your style of fishing.
3. Field test it
Put every piece of gear to the test. Get out on the water as often as possible and test the masterpiece created in your garage. If it doesn’t work as designed, change it up and give it another shot.
Hopefully you found these tips useful, as they are what help keep me afloat! Hope to see you on the water!
-Terrell (@kboutdoors)
Greg’s Top 3 Tips for Rigging Your Yak
1. Paddle your kayak to see what the boat needs before making any modifications
In my opinion this does a couple of things. First, it lets you appreciate the benefit that mod is giving you, and second it allows you to verify that you needed it in the first place. Once you've had a little seat time you'll realize what bungees, rod holders, or pad eyes are really needed. That will help you avoid unnecessary accessories and rigging that rarely gets used.
2. After deciding what you want, do some mock-ups and see if it'll behave like you think it should
One of the best things about track mounted accessories is the flexibility it provides. If that fish finder you mounted catches your rod while skipping docks, move it to the other side. If you don't have the option for a track mount and have to drill, at least set it in place and go through several functions of the boat before making anything permanent.
You don't want to mount an anchor wizard out of reach but you don't want it in the way of your paddle stroke either. A few minutes of laying things out and going through the motions can save you from having to drill extra holes or patch old ones.
3. Use the resources you have available
With so many kayak Facebook groups, YouTube channels, and blogs at your fingertips, you can often find the best way to accomplish your goal without going through all of the R&D yourself. One of the best things about the kayak fishing community is we are all willing to help with pictures, replies, and even videos if needed to help you get your rigging figured out and share lessons learned.
Ultimately you need to make sure you rig your kayak for you. Just like fishing, we all do it a little different.
- Greg (Backwater Kayak Fishing)
Eron's Top Tips for Rigging Your Kayak
1. Base your rigging on the type of fishing and water you like.
Based on the type of fishing you generally do, and the type of water you fish on you can begin to decide what rigging is required to suit your needs.
2. Research the kayak rigging companies.
Research different kayak rigging companies to explore every option on the market. You will discover new rigging ideas for your kayak as your knowledge increases.
3. Choose a rigging company that suits your needs, budget and style.
This gives your kayak a clean, matching look. Yakattack, Railblaza and Scotty are top companies with quality products. I always choose Yakattack. Exclusively on both my rigs.
4. Research installation videos
Preferably from the manufacturer you have chosen your gear from. Plan and layout all accessories and add-ons before drilling or mounting. Get in, sit in it and make sure everything is laid out properly and within reach. Custom fit for you!
5. Carefully measure, mark and double check all areas to be drilled.
Use a drill bit one size smaller than the accessory installation bolt and it will thread in the plastic leaving no need for 'goop.' Always use the provided hardware and never over-tighten the bolts.
Get out on the water and enjoy your 'rigged' fishing kayak!
- Eron (Ottawa Valley Kayak Bass Fishing)
Thanks to Terrell, Greg and Eron for these tips!
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