The Best Fishing Kayak Accessories

Having the best fishing kayak is just the first step to take if you’re a novice angler. But if you want the best fishing trip, you’ll also want the best fishing kayak accessories along with you. After all, if you’ve already spent time and money planning your fishing trip, what’s a little more to greatly boost your ease and comfort?

There are lots of fishing kayak accessories out there, from paddles to fish finders and life jackets. Here’s my list of the best fishing kayak accessories you should have with you on a trip.

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Best Fishing Kayak Accessories Reviewed In This Guide

Best Fishing Kayak Paddles

Paddles are very important fishing kayak accessories, unfortunately, they can be hit or miss, especially those that come pre-packed with a fishing kayak. I myself tend to find that those paddles are always just a smidge too long or too short. To solve this problem, I simply bring my own paddle – one that’s just the right length and is easy to handle so I don’t tire myself out by rowing.

Best Budget Fishing Kayak Paddle

 attwood 11768-2 Asymmetrical 2-Piece Heavy Duty Paddle

Attwood 11768-2 Asymmetrical 2-Piece Heavy-Duty Kayak Paddle with Comfort Grips, 7 Feet

Pros

  • 2-piece construction for easy storage and transport
  • Asymmetrical design increases paddle stroke efficiency while reducing blade flutter
  • Drip rings for added comfort
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Requires manual assembly
  • Interlocking parts aren’t as tight as they could be

The attwood 11768-2 Asymmetrical 2-Piece Heavy Duty Paddle is incredibly lightweight thanks to its aluminum and plastic construction, yet offers great performance.

As its name suggests, this paddle comes in two pieces, which makes for easy storage and transport, but also making it require manual assembly. As some customers have noted, the interlocking parts aren’t as tight as they could be, so expect some looseness with this paddle.

In spite of that, this paddle still performs great thanks to its asymmetrical design, which improves your paddling efficiency while reducing blade flutter. It also comes with several drip rings which will prevent you from getting wet.

Bottomline: The attwood 11768-2 Asymmetrical 2-Piece Heavy Duty Paddle is a solid choice for a budget paddle – it’s light, it’s durable, and it gets the job done.

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Best Budget 4 Part Fishing Kayak Paddle

Advanced Elements PackLite 4 Part Paddle

Advanced Elements 4-Part Packlite Paddle

Pros

  • Asymmetric blade for better rowing efficiency
  • Nylon and aluminum alloy construction for durability
  • 4 part design makes this paddle easy to break down, store, and transport

Cons

  • Can be quite heavy

The Advanced Elements Packliste 4 Part Paddle is my pick for the best budget 4 part paddle available today.

This paddle features an asymmetrical blade, which improves rowing efficiency. It’s made of nylon and aluminum alloy, which are both durable components. However, users have noted that in spite of this lightweight construction, this paddle is still quite hefty, weighing in at 40 pounds.

This paddle also features a 4 part design, allowing it to be broken apart and reassembled as needed – making this paddle a great companion on trips where space is tight.

Bottomline: This paddle does exactly what it promises, and it certainly helps that the Advanced Elements PackLite 4 Part Paddle is on the cheaper end of 4 part paddles!

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Best Premium Fishing Kayak Paddle

Werner Camano Fiberglass Straight Shaft Kayak Paddle

Werner Camano Fiberglass Straight Shaft Kayak Paddle-GradientAbyss-230cm

Pros

  • Fiberglass blades for maximum rowing power
  • Advanced dihedral power face
  • Lightweight and durable

Cons

  • Pricey

The Werner Camano Fiberglass Straight Shaft Kayak Paddle is touted as the most popular paddle of the Werner lineup, and it’s not hard to see why.

The paddle is incredibly lightweight thanks to its fiberglass material, yet is strong and durable enough to combat both wind and waves. Its advanced dihedral power face allows you to make smooth, powerful cuts into the water, making each paddle stroke bring you much further.

While the price is undoubtedly high, the Werner Camano Fiberglass Straight Shaft Kayak Paddle really is an example of getting exactly what you pay for.

Bottomline: If you want to get what you pay for, get a Werner Camano Fiberglass Straight Shaft Kayak Paddle. While pricey, this paddle will make you question why you never shelled out money for a premium paddle in the first place.

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FAQs About Kayak Paddles

Does a kayak paddle really make a difference?

In a word, yes. In practice, it’s much harder to describe. The right paddle will both improve your rowing efficiency and reduce your stamina use, leading to a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

How long should a kayak paddle be?

The length of a kayak paddle depends on two things – your height and the width of your boat. Always check the website of the paddle brand you’re planning to get as they usually have a chart containing ideal measurements.

What are the rings on a kayak paddle for?

These are called drip rings, and as their name might suggest, they catch water that trickles down the paddle, protecting you from getting wet. If you’re averse to getting water on your clothes and body, always look out for these drip rings.


Best Waterproof Bags for Kayak Fishing

A little water can damage sensitive electronics and gadgets, so it’s paramount that these items be protected by a waterproof bag.

Best Strap Design Waterproof Bag

Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag

Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Dry Compression Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing with Waterproof Phone Case

Pros

  • Comes with a dedicated phone case
  • 500D PVC water-resistant material
  • Comes in 10 – 55 liter models

Cons

  • Not machine washable

The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is a strap-carry bag that’s meant to be slung over your shoulder.

This hardy bag is made of 500D PVC water-resistant rubberized material, ensuring that your stuff stays dry. It comes in different sizes, from 10 to 55 liters, which is perfect for customers looking for a bag that’s not just for kayaking, but also for hiking and camping. The bigger sizes come with double straps and can be worn as a backpack.

One of the best features the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag has is its dedicated phone case. Happy customers have reported that yes, you can even use the phone while it’s protected in the case.

Bottomline: This waterproof bag is simple, yet effective. It’s a solid choice for those looking to bring just a few things with them on a fishing trip.

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Best Duffel Bag Design Waterproof Bag for Kayak Fishing

Lew’s Speed Boat Bag

Lew's Speed Boat Bag 18"x12"x12"

Pros

  • Made of heavy-duty water-resistant tarpaulin
  • Molded waterproof bottom with baseplate to protect contents

Cons

  • Can still take on water during heavy rain

Lew’s Speed Boat Bag looks and feels durable. And indeed it is – this bag is made of very thick and tough stuff. Most of it is heavy-duty water-resistant tarpaulin. Its handles are coated with EVA foam, making them comfortable and easy to handle, and the duffel bag design allows this bag to store heavier items.

The bottom bears special mention as it uses a molded baseplate that lifts and seals the bottom of the bag, meaning that this bag is perfectly insulated against water from the bottom of your kayak.

That said, some customers have reported that it’s not a 100% dry bag – though that may be because of severe rain conditions. Regardless, this bag is still definitely worth the price.

Bottomline: If you want tough, you can’t go wrong with Lew’s Speed Boat Bag.

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Best Premium Waterproof Bag for Kayak Fishing

EGO Kryptek TPU Tactical Dry Bag

EGO Kryptek TPU Tactical Dry Bag, Fishing Backpack with Camo Tech, Waterproof with Welded Seams, Resistant Coating, 3 Sizes Available

Pros

  • High performance TPU fabric construction
  • Welded seams for complete protection against water
  • Water-resistant coating for even further protection

Cons

  • Pricey

If you really want to get your money’s worth, get the EGO Kryptek TPU Tactical Dry Bag.

Its high performance TPU fabric offers even better protection than the usual PVC material used for waterproof bags. This bag also boasts welded seams and water-resistant coating that guarantees your stuff stays perfectly safe and dry, no matter what comes.

Bottomline: You can’t go wrong with the EGO Kryptek TPU Tactical Dry Bag – this piece of kit, while pricey, will definitely last you a very long time.

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FAQs About Waterproof Bags

Can I swim with a waterproof bag?

Waterproof bags are waterproof under normal circumstances. As such, it’s best not to push their limits – a small puncture or another minor malfunction can spell the end for your items inside!

Which is better waterproof bag material: PVC or TPU?

Both of these are water-resistant materials, but TPU is generally stronger and tougher than PVC.

Can I waterproof a bag?

Yes, you can! There are waterproofing sprays available on the market that will give your bags a reasonable amount of protection against water. However, do note that there’s no substitute for a bag that’s made to be waterproof from the get-go; don’t just spray your regular backpacks and call it a day.


Best Fishing Kayak Life Jackets

To call a life jacket a fishing kayak accessory is probably a disservice – these jackets may not look like much, but they can be the difference between life and death where it really counts.

Best Comfortable Fishing Kayak Life Jacket

Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket

Onyx Movevent Dynamic Vest-Orange-M/L (122200-200-040-14)

Pros

  • Various size options
  • Super light floating foam
  • Comfortable yet durable nylon fabric

Cons

  • Back mesh lace looks tacky

The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket does everything a life jacket does – it fits most people regardless of height or weight, and it’s got super light floating foam that buoys wearers upwards in the water.

What sets this life jacket apart is its comfortable nylon fabric. This ultra-light life jacket barely feels like anything, even when securely strapped on, and has all the necessary addons (whistle, air flow back patch) without compromising the user’s comfort.

Bottomline: As far as life jackets go, the Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket is actually quite comfortable to wear – which makes it one of the best in my book.

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Best Budget Fishing Kayak Life Jacket

Airhead Type II Keyhole Life Jacket

Airhead Adult Universal Type 2 USCG Approved Life Jacket, Orange

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Designed to turn wearers face-up in water

Cons

  • Uncomfortable keyhole design

Sometimes you just need a simple life jacket for emergencies. In that case, the Airhead Type II Keyhole Life Jacket has you covered.

This bright orange jacket is specifically made to turn wearers face-up in calm waters, which will come in especially handy in case of major accidents. The buoyancy on this life jacket is just right, and it’s also super affordable.

This practicality does come with its own cost – this life jacket uses the uncomfortable keyhole design. It’ll keep you safe and alive, not comfy.

Bottomline: This life jacket has no bells and whistles to speak of – but it’ll keep you afloat in the water, and in the end, that’s really all you need.

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Best Secure Fishing Kayak Life Jacket

STEARNS Adult Classic Series Universal Life Vest

Stearns Adult Classic Series Vest, 3000004475, Blue, Universal

Pros

  • Three buckle design that wraps snugly yet comfortably around body
  • Nylon fabric material

Cons

  • No zippers

If you’re the kind of person who double and triple checks everything to be sure it’s safe, then STEARNS Adult Classic Series Universal Life Vest is right up your alley.

This super secure yet comfortable nylon life jacket wraps snugly around your body, thanks to its three buckle design. This life jacket’s universal design also makes it a great choice for virtually anybody.

Bottomline: If you want to make sure all your corners are covered when it comes to water safety, this life jacket is your best bet.

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FAQs about Life Jackets

What’s the difference between a life jacket, a life vest, and a PFD?

They’re all the same thing – a device meant to keep your head above the water. To stop confusion between these different names, the word PFD was made, which stands for personal flotation device.

How can I be sure that a life jacket will work?

Life jackets need to pass strenuous tests to ensure that they can actually save lives. Those that make it receive the United States Coast Guard Stamp of Approval – don’t get a life jacket without this.

Do life jackets expire?

They do not expire, but any life jacket that has to be repaired or altered should be considered to be non-functional.


Best Fishing Kayak Fish Finders

Part of the fun of fishing is finding what spot in the water the fish like – but for those who don’t have the luxury of time, fish finders are one of the best fishing kayak accessories you can get!

Best Budget Fish Finder for Fishing Kayaks

LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder

LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder Water Handheld Fish Finder Sonar Castable Kayak Boat Fishfinder Transducer Fishing LCD Display FFC1108

Pros

  • 3 – 328 feet depth detection range when submerged in water
  • Fish school alarm
  • Also displays rocks and plant life

Cons

  • Strong battery consumption

The LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder is a great choice for anyone trying out a fish finder for the first time.

This fish finder is highly portable as its small design allows it to not only be attached to the hull of your kayak, but can also be worn around your neck or kept in your pocket when not in use. With a depth detection range of 3 – 328 feet as well as rock and plant life display, helping you scry the waves has never been easier.

While this is a great starter and budget fish finder, customers have reported that it eats through batteries very quickly.

Bottomline: If you’re looking for something cheap or just want to get your feet wet with fish finders, the LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder is a solid choice.

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Best GPS Fish Finder for Fishing Kayaks

Garmin Striker Vivid 4cv Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer

Garmin Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02550-00)

Pros

  • Full color fishfinder with color palettes to distinguish between fish and geography
  • Comes with a high-sensitivity GPS
  • Utilizes a GT20 sonar transducer

Cons

  • CHIRP technology doesn’t work in 2D mode, only in ClearVu

The Garmin Striker Vivid 4cv Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer is a great multitool to have with you when you’re out in the water.

Not only does this fish finder come with a full color screen with palettes to help you quickly identify fish, but it also has a fully functional GPS that can help you map routes and get your speed in the water. Finding fish and chasing them down will definitely be a breeze with this fish finder at your side.

While this fish finder does come with Garmin’s GT20 sonic transducer chip, customers have reported that it only works in ClearVu mode, not in 2D mode, so you’ll need some practice to get the most out of this fish finder.

Bottomline: If you’d like to save space and get a powerful fish finder and GPS all in one, the Garmin 4cv is right up your alley.

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Best Premium Fish Finder for Fishing Kayaks

Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 Fish Finder

Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7x SplitShot - 7-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, GPS Plotter

Pros

  • FishReveal technology that utilizes Lowrance’s CHIRP technology for high-res images
  • Autotuning sonar that adjusts itself to match your fishing conditions
  • Splitshot transducer for imaging in any area around your kayak

Cons

  • Easily confused for the 7x version, which has less mapping capabilities

The Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 Fish Finder is my pick for the best premium fish finder – it just ticks off every box. High-resolution images to make fish easier to find and catch? Check. GPS for easy tracking and mapping? It has that. Autotuning sonar to save you time? Yup! Splitshot imaging to see around your boat? You bet!

About the only gripe I have with this fish finder is that it’s really easy to confuse it for the Lowrance Hook Reveal 7x, which has less mapping capabilities in that you have to make your own maps. Be sure you’re getting the 7, not the 7x!

Bottomline: The Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 Fish Finder really has it all, and is definitely well worth your money.

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FAQs about Fish Finders

How does a fish finder work?

Fish finders use sonar to detect objects beneath the water. By releasing sound waves and waiting for those to return, a fish finder can paint a rough image of what’s beneath the waves.

Is a fish finder worth it?

That depends. For seasoned anglers who know the patterns of fish in their favorite bodies of water, a fish finder probably won’t do much. But beginners who want to learn better fishing techniques or want to adapt to the habits of the fish in the area, a fish finder is definitely worth it.

What is CHIRP on a fish finder?

CHIRP stands for compressed high intensity radar pulse. A CHIRP sonar is more thorough and effective than a regular 2D fish finder sonar. If you can get a CHIRP fish finder, do so.


Best Fishing Kayak Rod Holders

Rod holders are one of the most overlooked fishing kayak accessories, but they’re very important in keeping your hand (and fishing power) in optimal shape throughout a fishing trip.

Best Versatile Fishing Kayak Rod Holder

Scotty #282-BK Baitcaster Rod Holder

Scotty #282-BK Baitcaster Rod Holder w/Gearhead & Track (Black)

Pros

  • High-strength composite design
  • Soft latching strap allows for both baitcaster or spinning reels
  • Can also accommodate trigger grips

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with screws

The Scotty #282-BK Baitcaster Rod Holder is a great pick for those looking for a versatile rod holder.

Made of high-strength plastic composite, this rod holder features a soft latching strap that can accommodate either baitcasters or spinning reels. An open bottom design also allows this rod holder to seat trigger grips.

Bottomline: This rod holder is a great pick for anyone looking to hold a large variety of fishing rods. If you’re not sure which rod holder to get, this one is a great choice.

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Best Secure Fishing Kayak Rod Holder

YakAttack Zooka II Rod Holder

YakAttack Zooka II Rod Holder for Spinning and Casting Rods with LockNLoad Mounting Base

Pros

  • Sturdy polymer construction
  • Unrivaled track security for your rods so they won’t slip and fall
  • Comes with mounting base

Cons

  • Can be hard to remove rod after a fish bites

YakAttack prides itself on creating quality, problem-solving products, and the Zooka II Rod Holder embodies that approach.

This rod holder comes with YakAttack’s trademark LockNLoad mounting system that gives your rods unrivaled track security. No matter how fast you go or how fierce the waves, your rods will never fall into the water. With three modes – locked, adjustment, and removal – your fishing rod will always be ready for any situation.

Bottomline: The YakAttack Zooka II Rod Holder offers one of the best locking systems for rod holders, which is perfect for those with expensive or beloved fishing rods.

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FAQs about Rod Holders

Why are rod holders important?

Rod holders are important not only for making sure that your hands don’t overexert themselves, but also because they allow trolling, especially during bad weather.

What is the best material for a rod holder?

That depends on where you’re planning to fish. For fierce, choppy waters, metal rod holders made of stainless steel or brass are a better choice. For calm lakes, you can get cheaper plastic or fiberglass rod holders.

What size is a rod holder?

Most rod holders are 1 5/8 and 1 7/8-inch (inside) or 2 and 2 1/4-inches (outside). Don’t worry though as there are rod holders that can accommodate any size of rod – it’s just a matter of looking carefully.


Best Fishing Kayak Scupper Plug

Scupper plugs are one of the best fishing kayak accessories simply because they prevent things from falling through your kayak’s scuppers. As we rely on a lot of expensive handheld devices, it’s always best to take any measures we can to protect our valuable and sensitive equipment.

Best Budget Scupper Plug

Universal Kayak Scupper Plug Kit

Essential Marine Products Universal Scupper Plug Kit (4)

Pros

  • Affordable

Cons

  • Doesn’t fit all scuppers

A scupper plug is defined by its sole function – to plug up scuppers – and nothing else. Since that’s the case, the best scupper plug available is one that gets the job done for as many kayaks as possible. With that in mind, this Universal Kayak Scupper Plug does the job well.

Bottomline: These rubber scupper plugs fit almost any kayak scupper, and they come as a set of 4 for better efficiency.

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FAQs about Scupper Plugs

Do all kayaks come with scuppers?

No, not all kayaks come with scuppers. Have a look at your kayak first and check if it has any scuppers (holes through which water can exit) before you buy a scupper plug.

Can I kayak even without a scupper plug?

Yes, you can. Water that enters your kayak is automatically bailed out via the scuppers – scupper plugs are just there to exit them. However, if you’re entering choppy or deep water, some of it can get in via the scuppers, and that’s what the plugs are for.

Do I need to have a scupper plug on my kayak?

Strictly speaking, you don’t need scupper plugs. However, you may want to cover up your kayak’s scuppers to avoid anything falling through.


Best Fishing Kayak Trolleys

Barring the inflatable ones (and not even all of them), kayaks are heavy things. That’s why kayak trolleys are one of the best fishing kayak accessories. Nothing quite beats the ease of just transporting your kayak straight to the water’s edge without the effort of lifting and dragging it – and potentially damaging your kayak.

Best Budget Kayak Trolley

TMS CANOE/KAYAK Trolley

TMS CART-CANOE/KAYAK-KY001 Boat Kayak Canoe Carrier Tote Trolley

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact aluminum frame that can be broken down
  • Stable support tires for transport on any terrain
  • Support stand features a spring-loaded mechanism for independent propping up

Cons

  • Tires are sensitive

The TMS Kayak Trolley is a rugged piece of equipment. With a weight capabity of 150 pounds, this kayak trolley is capable of transporting most kayaks on the market today – plus extra.

A solid aluminum frame guarantees that this trolley will hold up any weight placed on it, while foam bumpers on either arm protect your precious cargo from impact. This frame is also collapsible and breakable, making for easy storage and transport.

While this kayak trolley is a great buy, wary customers should keep an eye out on this trolley’s tires. The tires have a suggested pressure of 30 psi, however, many reports indicate that this is overpressurization, causing the tires to suddenly explode.

Bottomline: It’s tough, it’s affordable, and it gets the job done. However, watch out for those tires!

RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak Trolley – Best Premium Kayak Trolley

Pros

  • Tool-free easy assembly
  • High-grip, puncture-resistant rubber tread wheels
  • 300 pounds loading limit

Cons

  • Can be heavy

The RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak Trolley is an excellent fishing kayak accessory. With its combination of great performance, high durability, and fantastic loading limit, this is my recommendation for the best premium kayak trolley.

This trolley’s simple design belies its high functionality. RAILBLAZA’s C-Tug design incorporates polymers with stainless steel to create a trolley that can hold a whopping 300 pounds worth of gear. Assembly and attachment is easy, too – just snap it on to the middle of your kayak and you’re ready to pull it along with you.

Bottomline: At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the C-Tug Kayak Trolley really is a product where you get exactly what you pay for. With its unrivaled durability and practical design, this is a kayak trolley you definitely don’t want to miss.

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Best Hassle-Free Fishing Kayak Trolley

Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart

Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart, Black, 27" x 13" (22-0044)

Pros

  • Powder-coated aluminum frame with stainless steel foundation
  • Durable rubber pads for extra protection
  • Airless tires that will never go flat

Cons

  • Relatively lower carry weight than other trolleys

If you’d like to minimize the maintenance you do on your own kayak trolley, say hello to the Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart.

This kayak trolley is a sturdy piece of kit. Its powder-coated aluminum and stainless steel frame ensures that your kayak stays secure, while durable rubber pads offer extra protection against bumps and shocks. Most importantly, this kayak trolley features airless tires that won’t pop or go flat, minimizing both maintenance on the trolley itself and reducing the chance of accidents happening to your kayak!

Bottomline: The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart is an all-around great trolley cart, even giving the RAILBLAZA C-Tug a run for its money for some users. But the best part is really the airless wheels!

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FAQs about Kayak Trolleys

Should I load my kayak upside-down on my kayak trolley?

That depends on what your kayak is made of. If it’s made of composite materials, upside-down transportation is a good idea. If it’s made of plastic though, you can use any orientation you want.

How do you load a kayak onto a kayak trolley?

Position your trolley near the center of your kayak at an angle. Afterwards, gently lift the kayak and let its middle rest on your trolley. Once this is done, secure your kayak with the trolley’s safety featuers, if any.

How high should a trolley raise a kayak?

Anything above 6 inches should do.


Best Roof Rack for Fishing Kayaks

Roof racks are another fishing kayak accessory that’s often overlooked. It’s not enough to just get your kayak to your destination and bring it to the shore – you’ll also need to transport it safely via car.

Best Overall Roof Rack for Fishing Kayaks

TMS J-Bar Kayak Roof Rack

TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier Canoe Boat Surf Ski Roof Top Mounted on Car SUV Crossbar

Pros

  • On/off hardware for fast installation and removal
  • Steel design with more padding for extra protection
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Included straps don’t work very well

Just like scupper plugs, a roof rack doesn’t need many extra features. It just needs to be tough, well-protected, and secure – and the TMS J-Bar Kayak Roof Rack checks all those boxes.

A sturdy steel frame guarantees that your precious kayak will stay safe and secure on your car’s roof. The frame also comes with a lot of extra padding to increase protection further. However, customers have noted that the included straps aren’t worth much and suggest replacing them with different ones as soon as possible.

Bottomline: Safety is paramount when transporting your kayak, and this roof rack offers that in spades.

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FAQs about Roof Racks

What else is a roof rack for?

Aside from kayaks, roof racks can also be used to carry anything that won’t fit inside your vehicle – whether that’s sports gear or camping gear.

Can you put a roof rack on any vehicle?

In most cases, yes. However, you’ll need specialized parts for some racks and some vehicles, so be on the lookout for those.

Will a roof rack damage my car?

When properly installed, a roof rack will do no damage to your car.


Best Fishing Kayak Anchor System

Kayaks usually don’t come with their own anchors, making an external anchor system one of the best fishing kayak accessories. With an anchor system, you can avoid the need to constantly take measurements and fix your position, which is doubly important when using other accessories like a fish finder.

Best Overall Fishing Kayak Anchor System

Airhead Complete Grapnel Anchor System

Airhead Complete Grapnel Anchor System , Black , 3.5 LBS, 25' ROPE, A-2

Pros

  • 3 1/3 pound, 4-fluke folding anchor that locks on to sand, gravel, and rock
  • 25 foot long rope
  • Durable nylon case for extra protection

Cons

  • Doesn’t anchor well in sand

Gone are the days of heavy metal anchors being required to tether water vehicles, as the Airhead Complete Grapnel Anchor System shows.

This light yet dependable anchor system utilizes a 4-fluke design that easily latches on to sand, gravel, and rock. A 25-foot long marine rope gives this anchor system great reach and lets you safely park in lakes and rivers.

However, customers have noted that this anchor system’s performance in pure sand environments leaves something to be desired.

Bottomline: The Airhead Complete Grapnel Anchor System is a great companion to any fishing trip. With its balance of performance and affordability, you’ll ask yourself why you didn’t get this anchor system sooner.

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FAQs about Anchor Systems

How heavy of an anchor do I need for a kayak?

Light kayaks in calm water usually use 3 pound anchors. If you’re planning to fish in deeper, choppier waters, you’ll want at least a 5 pound anchor.

Do I need an anchor system for my kayak?

Strictly speaking, you don’t. But they do offer a lot of convenience, especially for fishing as you won’t find yourself drifting about.

Is anchoring a kayak dangerous?

Yes, it is. Anchoring a kayak is one of the trickiest tasks to do, and I definitely recommend you get some practice in safer waters or from an experienced angler.


Best Fishing Kayak Seats

Comfortable kayak seats can make or break a fishing trip all on their own. If you’re going to be sitting in a kayak all day, you have to have a comfortable, yet spacious enough seat. Here’s my list of the best kayak seats that you can get online.

Best Universal Design Fishing Kayak Seat

OceanMotion Ultra Thick Ergo-Fit Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat

Ultra Thick OceanMotion Ergo-Fit sit on top Kayak seat w/Storage Bag

Pros

  • Designed to attach to virtually any sit-on-top kayak
  • Comes with a detachable storage bag
  • Rigid design

Cons

  • Attachment points not included

The OceanMotion Ultra Thick Ergo-Fit Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat is a great all-around seat that fits with virtually all sit-on-top kayaks on the market today.

The seat features a rigid design, which offers great support for long days on the water. An additional detachable storage bag allows the seat to pull double duty as a storage compartment.

One thing that customers should note, however, is that attachment points such as pad eyes and D-rings are not included in this package. If in doubt, ask your seller to demonstrate how to attach this seat to your kayak.

Bottomline: In terms of sheer design, this seat wins out due to being compatible with a massive range of kayaks on the market.

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Best Fishing Kayak Seat for Back Support

GTS Sport Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat

GTS Sport Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat, Universal Sit On Top Kayak Seat, Surf To Summit Kayak Seat, Kayak Seat Cushion

Pros

  • Provides sturdy lower back support
  • Built-in zipper pack
  • Adjustable front and rear straps for extra security
  • Thermoformed foam panels conform to sitter’s body

Cons

  • Not good for tall people

Let’s face it: some of us aren’t as young and srpy as we used to be. Luckily for our backs, the GTS Sport Sit-On-Top Kayak Seat is here to save the day.

This generous 12.5’’ sit-on-top kayak seat offers fantastic back support for those long days fishing in the sun. It’s also got incredibly comfortable thermoformed foam panels, which adjust themselves to match the sitter’s body. Those alone would be enough to sell this seat, but it’s also got a built-in zipper pack for extra storage and adjustable straps for more security.

Bottomline: This sit-on-top kayak seat is a fantastic pick for those looking for back support, or those who want the unmatched comfort that only thermoformed foam can give.

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Best Premium Fishing Kayak Seat

Surf To Summit Drifter Elevated Fishing Seat

Surf To Summit Drifter Elevated Fishing Kayak Sit-On-Top Seat

Pros

  • Superb materials and design
  • Thermal foam
  • Detachable storage or tackle pack

Cons

  • Needs to be secured very tightly on some kayak designs

The Surf To Summit Drifter Elevated Fishing Seat is beloved by customers for its ability to keep your seat dry while remaining firm and steady on the waves.

With thermal molded foam and a channeled seat pad, this small yet sturdy seat will keep you dry and comfortable on your fishing trip. This seat also comes with a detachable storage or tackle pack for additional space on your travels.

However, customers have noted that while the seat itself is super secure, users need to learn how to fasten it tightly onto their kayaks.

Bottomline: The Surf To Summit Drifter Elevated Fishing Seat is my top pick for fishing seats simply because of its high-quality materials and superb performance.

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FAQs About Kayak Seats

What are the advantages of a kayak seat?

You may have noticed that virtually all kayak seats for sale use a sit-on-top design. By using a sit-on-top kayak seat, you’ll be able to enjoy the better stability and control that a sit-on-top kayak offers. These seats are also excellent choices for warm, summer waters.

Why should I use a kayak seat?

Depending on the kayak you have, you may want a seat that offers more space or a better view of your surroundings. In particular, sit-on-top kayak seats not only offer better control over the kayak, but also gives the user more space. This is especially great for people with long legs, large bodies, or limited flexibility.

Are kayak seats good for bad backs?

Yes, they are good for bad backs. If your primary concern is relieving back pain, look for stiff seats with extra padding.

Enjoy Your Fishing Kayak Accessories

With so many fishing kayak accessories, the world is quite literally your oyster. I hope you found something in this guide to help you on your next fishing trip. Until then, happy angling!